HOLISTIC HEALING

Holistic healing is based on the theory of holism: that living matter or reality is made up of organic or unified wholes that are greater than the simple sum of their parts; it's the care of the entire person in all aspects. Holistic healing modalities emphasize the importance of the whole and interdependence of its parts.

Communication is the key. As it states in A Course in Miracles, "Healing is the result of using the body solely for communication." When holistic modalities are engaged, practitioners don't single out the liver, for example, as the only organ needing assistance after years of excessive alcohol intake. Certainly, the liver may be the first body part to show signs of wear and tear in this situation, but the entire bodymind is affected. Holistic healing's focus would be to link back up or connect communication between the liver and other affected body parts. Not only would the liver be benefited, but the person's overall health.

The Greek term "holos" means whole or complete. Holistic healing practitioners work with the the whole person: body, mind, spirit.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

The modalities that I work with fall in the realm of alternative medicine. In Western culture, such practices include energy healing, chiropractic, acupuncture, massage, Ayurveda, nutrition-based therapies, homeopathy, and so much more.

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is a United States governmental agency under the auspices of the National Institutes of Health within the Department of Health and Human Services. Established in 1991, the NCCAM is "dedicated to exploring complementary and alternative healing practices in the context of rigorous science; training complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) researchers; and disseminating authoritative information to the public and professionals."

As more and more people turn to alternative medicine, it is incumbent on those of us in the field to adhere to standards of professionalism that will encourage wider use of these modalities that bring great relief and are complementary to conventional medicine. To that end, the Holistic Chamber of Commerce is growing throughout the United States. The Austin chapter is currently being formed.

Maria K Benning | 10300 Jollyville Rd | Austin TX 78759 | 512-340-0082