Therapies at the Intstitute

What is energy medicine?

Energy medicine is one of the oldest forms of healing in the world. It is also referred to as Therapeutic Touch, Healing Touch or Reiki. During an energy medicine treatment, the therapist assesses the body's energy field and attempts to correct any imbalances detected by placing his or her hands on the patient.

What is the philosophy behind energy medicine?
The human body generates an electromagnetic field. Measurements of this field are often used in conventional medicine to diagnose illness and disease. Examples of these measurements include Electroencephalograms (EEGs), Electrocardiograms (EKGs) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This electromagnetic field or aura around the body can be detected by a trained therapist. In fact, research at the Institute has shown some individuals are actually able to see beyond the normal visual spectrum and can see this field. An imbalance in the auric field can eventually lead to physical disease. Restoring balance in the field aids in healing of the physical body.

What are the seven chakras?
The aura is created by seven spinning cone-shaped energy centers called chakras located down the center of the body. Their function is to vitalize the physical body. They are associated with physical, mental and emotional interactions. It is said the aura is a reflection of one's soul. There are characteristics associated with each chakra as follows. Chakra 1, Base - Associated with the color red. Located at the between the base of the spine and the pubic bone. Grounding force that allows us to connect to the earth energies and empower our beings; associated with survival and sexuality. Chakra 2, Sacral - Associated with the color orange. Located two inches below the navel. Emotional and creative connection. Chakra 3, Solar Plexus - Associated with the color yellow. Located at the solar plexus. Defines our self-esteem; associated with strong intellect. Chakra 4, Heart - Associated with the color green. Located at the center of the chest. Focus of emotional empowerment; our ability to love and accept love. Chakra 5, Throat - Associated with color blue. Located in the throat and neck region. Center of will; related to honesty and self-expression. Chakra 6, Third Eye - Associated with the color purple. Located in the center of the forehead; the avenue to wisdom and intuition. Chakra 7, Crown - Associated with the color white. Located at the top of the head. Communication with our higher power and spiritual nature.

What conditions can be treated by energy medicine?
Anyone can benefit from receiving energy medicine. Because energy medicine practitioners can sense electromagnetic field imbalances before they affect the physical body, individuals can benefit from energy medicine prior to symptoms of illness.

What happens during treatment?
During an energy medicine treatment, the therapist will first assess the patient's energy field and determine where imbalances occur. He or she will then discuss these imbalances with the patient and have the patient lie down to begin balancing the energy field. The patient may feel a warm sensation and sometimes even a tingling or vibration. It is very common for a patient to feel relaxed, comforted and even fall asleep during a treatment. After the treatment, patients may feel a little disoriented and should rest until they are able to resume normal activities. We suggest drinking lots of water and refraining from strenuous activity and heavy exercise for 6-24 hours following treatment.

What is an energy assessment?
Certain therapists, who have worked in conjunction with our medical directors, conduct an assessment of your energy fields. This is not a medical diagnosis, but may help you understand physical, spiritual and emotional issues in your life.