The Case for Energy Healing
By Luke Allis
The Santa Cruz Mountains are no stranger to alternative health practices. The connection between energy healing and physical health has been widely studied and is well documented. You can find numerous peer-reviewed studies that show that spiritual and meditative practices can lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, which can lead to improved physical health and decrease the risk of chronic diseases. Energy healing needn’t be tied to any religion, rather it involves having a sense of purpose and meaning in life and a connection to something larger than oneself.
What is energy healing?
Energy healing is the practice of restoring balance and harmony within the body’s energy systems. It is based on the belief that the human body has an inherent energy flow, and imbalances or blockages in this energy can lead to physical, emotional, and spiritual ailments. Energy healing techniques involve the manipulation, channeling, or balancing of this energy to facilitate healing, promote relaxation, and support the body’s natural ability to heal itself. It encompasses a wide range of practices and modalities, each with its own methods and philosophies, all working towards the goal of enhancing overall well-being and promoting optimal health.
Types of energy healing
Some of the most well-known types of energy healing include Acupuncture, Acupressure, Chakra healing, and Reiki. Acupuncture and Acupressure involve the use of needles or pressure points to stimulate the body’s energy flow. Chakra healing focuses on balancing the body’s seven chakras, or energy centers. Reiki involves channeling energy through the practitioner’s hands by either placing their hands on the recipient’s body or hovering their hands above the body to restore balance to the energy systems and Chakras. Reiki is often used for those sensitive or uncomfortable with physical touch because it can be performed without contact or even from a distance. Reiki has been widely used to support hospice patients in their end-of-life journey. In fact, it has been found to be more effective than a placebo at easing anxiety, pain, and depression and at boosting the quality of life and self-esteem in people with long-term health conditions. Some alternative health practitioners also use sound healing, crystal healing, and other methods during their healing sessions.
The universal nature of energy healing
Each method of energy healing or a combination of methods will resonate differently with each individual. The concept of energy healing transcends specific religious and belief systems. It has been found to be incorporated and utilized in various spiritual and cultural traditions throughout history, from ancient practices like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine to modern modalities. The concept of harnessing and directing healing energy is found in Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Indigenous spirituality, and many other faith traditions. Energy healing techniques align with the fundamental understanding that humans are interconnected beings with subtle energy fields. This widespread integration of energy healing demonstrates its universal nature and its ability to complement and support various religious and belief systems. Energy healing today is often combined with modern medicine and treatments to holistically treat patients. If you’re interested in experiencing energy healing for yourself there are numerous energy healing practitioners in the Santa Cruz Mountains, each with their own focus and methods. Remember, energy healing should not replace regular visits with your doctor.
Always be sure to vet any energy healing practitioners by ensuring they have the proper training and align with your values.
Luke Allis resides in Boulder Creek. He is a writer, instructional designer, LGBTQIA advocate, and Reiki Master at Redwood Mountain Reiki. He is the proud pet parent of two dogs, three cats, and three chickens. reikicowboy.com
Featured image by Okan Caliskan
