Types of Holistic Healing Techniques

Holistic healing has gained prevalence in today’s culture and society. Once frowned upon, more people are turning to alternative therapies in place of modern western medical practices. Holistic healing is a total body health plan, analyzing nutrition, environment, emotional states, psychological issues, and life styles. To understand how this type of medical practice would differ from what most Westerners are used to, consider the following example. If a patient came into a family practice clinic with frequent headaches due to stress, they may be prescribed pain relievers. An alternative health center may prescribe massage therapy for relaxation or counseling for stress relief for the same client.

The treatments and techniques of holistic healing vary from patient to patient. Because no two people are alike, no two treatment plans will be the same. That being said, there are several basic fields of holistic healing that can be used in a variety of scenarios.

• Massage therapy. This is a treatment technique that can assist with anything from lowering stress to ailments such as diabetes and carpal tunnel syndrome. Massage therapy uses the manipulation of muscles, tendons and ligaments, and can often be used in place of chemical medications and surgical procedures.

• Acupuncture. Used to align the body’s chi, and working along energy meridians, acupuncture is an ancient Chinese art that utilizes tiny needles inserted in the skin. Acupuncture has been used to help patients control their appetite, to reduce migraine frequency, and to increase energy levels.

• Counseling. The mind is a very powerful tool when it comes to health and recovery. Often illnesses may stem from a psychological or emotional issue. Modern day medicine may be able to treat symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, and lack of energy, but without treating the root cause for these problems a patient may take years to get better, if at all.

• Herbal remedies and nutritional supplements. With the fast pace of the world today, it’s no surprise that many of us do not have a well-balanced diet. A holistic healing practitioner will be able to recommend the appropriate supplements to round out your nutritional intake. It is important to remember to never take an herbal or natural supplement without first consulting your family physician to ensure there will be no reactions with any current medications you may be using.

• Exercise. This is one treatment technique that all medical practitioners can agree upon. Good old fashioned exercise can help improve a person’s health significantly. From boosting your metabolism, to evening out your sleep patterns, to providing you with more energy, exercise is a well-rounded treatment for many ailments.

There was a time not too long ago when people thought alternative medical techniques consisted of mystical and questionable means. While this is certainly not a conclusive list, it is clear to see that holistic healing techniques are not so different than activities we may already independently be involved in. The most important thing to remember is that this branch of medicine takes a look at your whole situation, and because of its inclusive approach is able to treat you, as a person, and not just your illness and symptoms.