Chapter 5:Complimentary Health

Practices

Elizabeth LewisFall 2011

What Are Complementary Health Practices?

Often referred to as alternative medicine

Includes both practitioner-administered and self-care treatments

Linked with various remedies

Continuing to grow rapidly

Complimentary Healing Approaches

Herbal Medicine

Botanical and herbal medicines

Currently researching the safety of commonly used herbs

Acupuncture

Traditional Chinese medicine

Used to attract, disperse, or unblock the flow of qi

Use of small needles in various parts of the body

Spinal Adjustment

Osteopathic and chiropractic practices

Bodywork

Physical and bodily manipulation and movement

Massage

Many different types of massage treatment

Relaxes the body and releases muscle tension

Meditative Practices

Meditation

“The intentional paying of attention from moment to moment”

Calming, stress release, and spiritual practice

Yoga

Combination of physical poses and breathing exercises

Used for exercise, help with breathing, or spiritual expression

T’ai Chi

Chinese martial arts

Balances the flow of energy

Relaxation

Progressive relaxation training (PRT)

Visualization

Continued Practices...

Dance and Movement Therapies

Pleasure and relaxation

May have cultural and spiritual aspects

Physical and emotional healing

Spiritual Healing

Has many different meanings

Varies with cultural and beliefs

Energy Healing

Therapeutic touch

Homeopathy

Natural based ingredients; plants, animals, minerals

Which One Is Right For You?

Research through books, online, classes, and talking with others

Consult with a health care provider and request a referral

Determine personal factors including location, support groups, and type of pain

Inspirational Quote

“Health is not merely the absence of disease but a state of well-being in which the body, mind, and spirit are balanced”

Discussion Question?

Do you think people are reluctant to try new forms of medical treatments?

Are there any treatments you would be willing to try or not try?