Lets’s Take a Look at Complementary and Alternative Medicine

An Overview

Definition of Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Complementary and Alternative Medicine usually known as CAM is any practice that is put forward as having the healing effects of medicine but is not based on evidence gathered using the scientific method.

Why a Different ApproachThe myriad of alternative and complementary

therapies all share an approach to healing that aims to harness the innate healing power of the body, the body heals itself, when given what it needs to be healthy.

The Different Therapies of CAM

When you think of alternative healing what comes to mind?

There are many different modalities in the world of Complimentary and Alternative Medicine.

There is a large demand by many people in this world to be healthy, to prevent disease and enhance wellness.

Modalities of CAM• Mind – Body – Spirit • Energy Medicine• Massage • Touch Therapies• Humor• Chiropractic• Reflexology• Shiatsu• Herbalism

• Aromatherapy• Homeopathy• Nutrition &

Hydration• Acupuncture• Ayureveda• Traditional

Ethnomedical Systems

EthnomedicineEthnomedicine is a study or comparison of the traditional medicine practiced by various ethnic groups, and especially by indigenous peoples. The word ethnomedicine is sometimes used as a synonym for traditional medicine.

YogaThe practice of

yoga has spread across the world, starting in India. Many people understand yoga to be a spiritual posturing and breathing technique that is meant to induce relaxation.

Tai chiTai chi is an ancient Chinese tradition

practiced as a graceful form of exercise. It involves a series of movements performed in a slowly and in a focused manner, accompanied by deep breathing. Tai chi has many different styles. Each style has its own subtle emphasis on various tai chi principles and methods. There are also variations within each style. Some may focus on health maintenance, while others focus on the martial arts aspect of tai chi.

QigongQigong Pronounced (Chi Kung) is an ancient Chinese

health care system that integrates physical postures, breathing techniques and focused intention. As in the power point there are many ways to implement mental fitness, Qigong is a great way to stay focused and keep one healthy. Qigong works with the life energy, learning how to control the flow of distribution of qi to improve the health and harmony of mind and body. The qi system of healing has been documented as far back as 4000 to 5000 years ago. There are actually two foundational forms of Qigong the first would be dynamic or active; this involves visible movement of the body. The second form would be meditative or passive positions that involve inner movement of the diaphragm – breathing.

CAMCAM is a multifaceted modality that

helps to heal the body and relieve stress. Positive emotion may be a skill which can be achieved with training similar to learning and practice. Don’t you think its time you looked into a CAM Therapy?

Integral Health“To transform health and life we must

shift our gaze inward, where we will find the ever-present source of exceptional health and healing”

~Elliott S. Dacher~

ReferenceMicozzi, M. ((2011). Fundamentals of

Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Fourth Edition. Saunders Elsevier. St. Louis, MO.

Free Medical Dictionary. (2013). Definition of Ethnomedicine. http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Ethnomedical