Spiritual healing

Spiritual healing Natural Standard Bottom Line Monograph, Copyright © 2009 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. You should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

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Related Terms:

	Absent healing, archaeus, bioenergy healing, bioenergotherapy, chakras, clairsentient readings, distant healing, faith healing, intercessory prayer, laying on of hands, LeShan, magnetic or sympathetic medicine, mental healing, od, odyle, orgone, paranormal healing, pneuma, prani, prayer, psychic healing, reiki, scanning, shamanism, telesomatic reactions, therapeutic touch.
	Note: Researchers apply the term "spiritual healing" somewhat loosely. Some consider all energy-based modalities as forms of spiritual healing, even though they are taught as secular.

	The use of spiritual healing can be traced as far back as the New Testament of the Bible. In modern times, a number of therapeutic techniques involve spiritual aspects, and there is overlap between these different approaches. Individuals and organizations involved with spiritual healing may use many different approaches and styles.
	Some schools offer certification in healing, although official licensure is lacking in this area. In England, there are thousands of practitioners registered in numerous healing organizations. Organizations may require a minimum of 2 to 3 years of training for healers.
	Some of the therapies used in the United States that involve spiritual healing or mind/body medicine include distance healing, therapeutic touch, Ayurveda, prayer, pastoral counseling, supernatural healing sources, metaphysical healing and Reiki. These therapies may be grouped under the concept of holistic care.
	Spiritual healing is often practiced without charge, and many different approaches and durations have been used. Treatments may be given at healing centers, in the medical setting, in hospice programs, in the home, and from a distance. Spiritual healers may also work with patients over the Internet.
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The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.

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Many complementary techniques are practiced by healthcare professionals with formal training, in accordance with the standards of national organizations. However, this is not universally the case, and adverse effects are possible. Due to limited research, in some cases only limited safety information is available.

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The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.