Alternative Healthcare Glossary: R to Z

Reflexology: Reflexologists claim the body is connected through its nervous system to certain "reflex points" in the hands, feet, and ears. Organs or body parts are stimulated by applying pressure to the corresponding points on the hand or foot, and health problems are diagnosed by finding sensitive or sore spots on the hands or feet. For example, the underside tips of the toes represent the sinuses, so if the patient has a sinus infection, putting pressure on these areas is thought to help stimulate the sinuses. The method is used for diagnoses and treatment of most types of health problems.

Reiki: Dr. Mikao Usui, a Buddhist who was born in Japan in 1865, "discovered" this healing technique after a meditation practice. Reiki practitioners believe that there is a field of energy surrounding the body, which they call the life force or aura. Negative thoughts or feelings can block the flow of aura around the body, which in turn can disrupt the functions of vital organs. The aim of Reiki treatment is to heal the body by clearing, straightening, or unblocking the aura. The treatment consists of the practitioner placing their hands on or near the fully clothed patient in a series of hand positions, in this way transferring healing energy from the practitioner to the patient.

Tai Chi: While not literally a therapy, people of all ages follow this exercise to maintain physical fitness and strength without harmful strain to the body. Tai Chi stems from the Taoist philosophies of sages like Lao Tsu, who instructed people to "yield and overcome" and was first developed in China around 220 CE by a physician named Hua-tu'o. The series of poses created by Hua-tu'o follow the "movements of the five creatures" (tiger, deer, bear, ape, and bird) and are said to help the body with circulation and digestion.

Therapeutic Touch: Similar to Reiki (though with some philosophical differences), this technique was developed by Dolores Krieger, PhD, RN, and Dora Van Gelder Kunz, a natural healer, in the early 1970s. This form of therapy is based on the premise that the human body is surrounded by a dynamic energy field and that the energy can be disrupted by emotional or physical problems. The practitioner realigns the energy by placing their hands either on the patient or by positioning their hands near the patient.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): The philosophy purports that the body's qi, chi, or "vital energy" runs through 14 channels in the body, which join vital organs with "acupoints" on the skin. The other prime philosophy is that everything consists of two opposing elements: yin and yang (cold and hot, wet and dry, inner and outer, and body and mind). People become ill when yin and yang are unbalanced. Practitioners focus on the spiritual, mental, and physical wellness of the patient. The methodology also uses herbal and animal-based medicines, which are believed to help restore the body's balance of yin and yang energies. (Also see acupuncture and acupressure.)

Yoga: While not literally a therapy, the purpose of yoga is to maintain health by increasing strength, flexibility, and relaxation. There are many forms of yoga, but the basis of the exercise is a combination of poses (done while standing, sitting, and lying) with a focus on deep breathing and clearing the mind. The earliest evidence of yoga dates back around 5,000 years to ancient Mehrgarh (now known as Afghanistan). The modern form of yoga helps people to escape from hectic schedules, while developing physical fitness and flexibility.