Energy Medicine

Overview

Energy Medicine is a broad field of practice and study that is based on the premise that humans are comprised of a subtle form of energy, physical and emotional disturbances are a result of imbalances in the energy, and that the proper flow and balance of life energies are essential for optimizing health and well-being.

The use of measurable forms of energy is very well established in the diagnosis and treatment of physical conditions. These include laser surgery, cardiac pacemakers, radiation treatments and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Other methods of measurable energies use magnets for pain relief and music to lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety.

The term “Energy Medicine” also refers to methods designed to activate subtle energy fields in the body that have to date not been easy to measure using conventional means. This form of Energy Medicine is based on the premise, purported by many quantum physicists, that all matter is an expression of energy, including our bodies, emotions, thoughts and beliefs. Einstein’s well-known formula, E=MC2 (Energy=Matter) is the foundation of such thinking.

Although the subtle energies have not been extensively measured, many people across cultures have reported for centuries the ability to see or feel the energies of the body. These subtle energies have gone by a variety of names: life force, chi, meridians, chakras and auras. There are numerous methods designed to influence these energy systems such as acupuncture, yoga, acupressure, Reiki, tai chi and qigoing. Although western science has just begun to demonstrate the existence and efficacy of working with subtle energies, many Eastern cultures have studied these energies and methods for centuries and have successfully applied them to both physical and emotional health (e.g., Deadman et.al., 1998).

Further investigation is being conducted by the National Institute of Health through the research center called The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Their report on Energy Medicine indicated that western science has not validated the 2,000 years of subtle energy practice, but they have cited some promising studies that warrant further investigation. Another example of the increased professional interest in subtle energy is the formation of an organization for psychotherapists, the Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology (ACEP), whose annual conference brings in hundreds of therapists from around the world. Their web site (www.energypsych.org) has up-to-date research articles on the role of such energies in psychotherapy.

Donna Eden is a current leader in the field of Energy Medicine. She has trained over 10,000 people worldwide and has written two successful books, Energy Medicine and Energy Medicine for Women. She sees nine different energy systems of the body that are interactive with each other and when balanced can bring optimal health to the individual. For over 40 years Eden has developed methods that everyone can use to assess and balance the energies, not just those who have the abilities to see and feel energy.

The nine energy systems purported by Eden are the meridians, auras, chakras, 5 elements, Celtic weave, triple warmer, radiant circuits, electrics, and grid. These systems have their roots well established in a variety of cultures from around the world, but it is just recently that they are starting to be integrated in a comprehensive way.

I have been trained in a variety of Energy Medicine and Energy Psychology methods. I’ve particularly appreciated the work of Donna Eden because she is inclusive of the major energies systems and how they interact with each other. She also places a strong emphasis on pre- and post- assessments of all energy interventions to see if they are effective. I have served on her faculty for several years and integrate her work into the assessment and correction of your energies. I have completed all of the requirements for advanced energy work.

Assessing Your Subtle Energies

There is a method to assess where your subtle energies are out of balance. It is a simple procedure where I apply light pressure to an outstretched arm. The degree of firmness you experience indicates whether there is a disruption in the energies. This method has a variety of names such as energy testing, muscle testing, and Applied Kinesiology. It has been used extensively by osteopathic and chiropractic physicians, as well as physical therapists. Psychotherapists started using this assessment tool about 15 years ago. I have received professional training in the use of these techniques which I will be happy to discuss with you upon request.

Balancing Your Energies

There are a variety of methods to bring balance to your energies. Many of these involve teaching you how to move your own energy. Everyone can easily do this with proper instruction. We naturally do this when we reach our hand and cover an area of the body recently injured. The energy from the palm of your hand is activated to facilitate healing to the injured area.

There are specific points on the body that have been used by acupuncturists to bring balance by inserting needles. Energy Medicine methods have been developed to achieve similar results by either holding or tapping the same acupoints. If needed, you will be shown how to hold such points on yourself. There are times when it is beneficial for me to hold certain acupoints on your body. If there are such times, you would remain fully clothed, with perhaps the exception of your shoes. I would always explain ahead of time where I would touch, and you can let me know if you are comfortable with it or not. I will always honor any requests not to touch. Ninety percent of the time, the touch will last only a few seconds, although there may be occasions where it is best for me to hold several points on your body for a longer period, usually about 3-5 minutes.

Our clinical findings indicate that chronic patterns in one’s life can quickly shift when the corresponding energies holding the pattern are modified. These can be physical, emotional, cognitive or behavioral patterns that have been present for years. Although Energy Medicine has the term “medicine” in it, this is not to be construed as the practice of medicine as defined by the State of Ohio. Just as Mind-Body Medicine uses methods such as relaxation, meditation and guided imagery for improving health and well-being, Energy Medicine has the intention to bring flow, balance and resiliency to your body’s vital energies. It is the oldest, safest, most organic, self-applied healing method available. Energy Medicine shows you how to fully participate in your own health and well-being.