Healing isn’t just Skin Deep, Welcome Reiki, Reflexology and Holistic Practices

Modern day hocus pocus or not? As Western medicine looks eastwardly, reiki, reflexology and other holistic practices nudge their way into the mainstream.

First, what is Reiki and why try it?

Reiki, is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered in two ways. One is by a person actually laying their hands on another person. The second is hand placement above someone and even in some cases by sending virtual energy towards someone who has requested Reiki. The belief relies on a life force energy (aka KI or CHI) which flows through everyone. Reiki is intended to balance others’ energy and is normally administered by a fully certified Reiki master. At some hospitals, the treatment is even administered to patients in recovery for ailments. The practice is intended to promote peacefulness and harmony. While some smirk at this practice, it assists with inner alignment. Let’s not forget, yoga was once frowned upon and is today a very popular pastime for those seeking to meditate and reduce stress.

Reflexology, Massage or?

Next, we’ll move to reflexology. Popular in many spas, Reflexology also known as zone therapy, is an alternative medicine. It involves the application of pressure to the feet and hands with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion. Deeper than a foot massage, reflexology pinpoints certain specific reflex points on the foot to induce a healing response in corresponding organs. For example, specific pressure to the middle of the bottom of the foot might clear your sinus or cure a headache. It opens up energy channels within the body and stimulates detoxification.

Holistic what?

Lastly, let’s delve into holistic remedies. Today, more and more Chinese medicine doctors are popping up around the corner. Insurances are even starting to cover consultations. The interesting aspect of this practice is that it basically makes available natural herbs that are no longer part of our diet. As civilization has evolved, fast food and frankenfood are on the rise. Today, we eat foods we normally would never have been exposed to but are also not eating foods that normally would have been bioavailable to us. Chinese medicines have been used to treat a slew of ailments such as stress, anxiety, fertility and even headaches.