The “new” Energy Psychology: The body, mind and spirit connection.

The “new” Energy Psychology: The body, mind and spirit connection. There is a “new” player in the western world when it comes to Psychological and Physiological healing practices. More than five thousand years ago ancient peoples in the Eastern world (and elsewhere) were practicing healing techniques that had nothing in common (except maybe the placebo effect) with modern day western medical practices. They believed that the mind and body are interconnected by a series of energy pathways and energy centers. There is an energy force, Qi (chi) that flows through the body and mind that regulates and keeps us healthy. The practices of acupuncture and acupressure were healing techniques used to regulate and balance this energy flow; and meditation, yoga, healing oils, herbs, mantras, and other practices were also used. These healing techniques are still common in the Eastern world today, plus are beginning to be recognized in the West. Proponents claim these are very effective in curing many ailments, including some that the western medical establishment is unable to cure. These techniques have now been “proved” effective in clinical trials and properly controlled studies. Doctors are using these in conjunction with regular medical treatments and as stand-alone procedures. Energy healing techniques have some significant advantages: 1-- They heal the mind, body and spirit: as one, connected, integrated whole. 2-- Side effects are more likely to be beneficial, rather that harmful. 3-- The techniques are non-invasive, and they do no harm. 4-- They are comparatively low cost, even free. 5-- Most procedures can be performed by the individual himself, on himself. In the following posts we will examine the bona fides, and the pros and cons of some of these techniques.