With the advent of new theories and medical practices, the face of traditional medicine continues to change in today's world. In addition to standard medical practices, many people are discovering that there can be distinct health advantages in spiritual healing practices. But just what is spiritual healing? And how can it help you to take a most holistic approach to overall health care and well-being?
Spiritual healing is, by definition, the use of non-physical means to treat illness or affliction. Sometimes referred to as "faith healing," spiritual healing is a type of treatment generally considered to be classified as "alternative medicine" or non-traditional medicine. Yet the roots of spiritual healing go back for centuries, and some form of this treatment has been shown to exist is almost every culture known to history.
At its core, spiritual healing involves channeling a type of energy from one person, the "healer," to another. Practitioners claim that this energy can help to heal or alleviate physical, mental or spiritual ailments. The healer is generally thought to be a medium for the healing powers that are coming from a higher power, or spirit.
Other forms of spiritual healing include prayer or meditation healing, in which there is not a channeler, or healer, but the energy comes directly to the person asking for the healing.
What makes spiritual healing so unique from modern medicine is that spiritual healing addresses not only issues of the body, but of the mind and spirit as well, treating all three of these human phenomena as one cohesive unit. In fact, spiritual healing is based on the premise that no one can be truly healthy unless their mind, body and psyche are indeed operating in one sympathetic unit. It is not enough to alleviate physical symptoms of illness or injury; to be completely healed one must also address the mental and spiritual symptoms as well. And, conversely, spiritual healers also believe that many physical problems are actually manifestations of illness or disorders within the mind or the spirit. Curing one without addressing the other will be futile and counter-productive, according to these healers.
Many people claim that spiritual healing is a "New Age" phenomenon, but in reality that is not so. Most organized religions invoke some aspect of spiritual healing, through prayer, meditation or special intentions, and praying for the sick is a widely recognized and respected tradition.
There are myriad methods for carrying out spiritual healing. Some use a laying-on of hands to transfer healing energy; others anoint the sick with special oils; for others, special crystals seem to be the conduit through which healing occurs. There are as many methods as there are religious and spiritual interpretations, all with the ultimate goal of bringing healing and wellness in mind, spirit and body.
Spiritual healing takes many forms, including a self-healing regime that has been used in many religions for centuries. And it is becoming increasingly popular outside of organized religion, too. In addition to prayer, many people are turning to meditation, journaling, and other forms of introspection to connect with a higher spiritual power. This connection, they say, enables them to absorb the healing power, become aware of things they can do to help improve their own condition, and ultimately take charge of their own well-being.
In addition to traditional religious healing, there are several other recognized types of healing including Reiki (a type of massage), cranio-sacral therapy, healing touch, and a range of other healing programs. The topic is a popular one for scientific study, and more and more doctors and scientists are beginning to validate that spiritual healing in many of its forms can be an effective tool in creating a healthy and whole human being.
Are you interested in spiritual healing but can't afford to pay for a professional healer or spiritual counselor? You'll be happy to learn that there are many options out there for free spiritual healing, in many forms. By taking advantage of these free sources you can help begin to heal your mind, your body and your spirit into a cohesive and healthy unit.
The most easily accessible free spiritual healing can be found in religious organizations in every town and city. Most organized religions do include some sort of spiritual healing, either through prayer, anointing, laying-on of hands, or other means. Religious ceremonies are generally free and open to the public, although some organizations do ask for free-will donations. Some also have membership restrictions.
The most common of this type of spiritual healing is prayer. Mainstream religions often offer special prayers for the sick, both for their members and for non-members. Visit a local religious facility and ask about their healing policies.
Prayer can also be used as an aid to spiritual healing on an individual level. There are many books and resources available on the subject of prayer and healing. Start by visiting your local public library and reading up on the various types of prayer and meditation healing. Many people report significant, if not nearly miraculous, results from prayer, and many health care providers are also becoming increasingly aware of the power of prayer and meditative reflection to improve healing.
In addition to organized religion and private prayer, there are a number of spiritual healers who offer their services for free. Many professional spiritual counselors have web sites that offer a wealth of information on spiritual healing, what it is, how it works, and how to get started. Some even offer a free personal consultation, designed to determine exactly what you need to begin the healing process.
A good percentage of spiritual healers feel that their power to heal is a direct gift from the divine, and refuse to take payments for what they do. You might be able to locate a healer nearby by talking to your friends and acquaintances in various religious groups and societies.
The Internet has allowed many spiritual healers to heal remotely, a service they call "distance healing" or "distant healing." You can find a number of web sites that offer this service. You simply input your information in the fields provided, and you'll receive instructions on when the healing session will take place and how you should prepare. Some of these healing sites request little more than an e-mail address; others ask for more information. The amount of information you provide is up to you; if you do not feel comfortable giving out your personal information, you will likely be able to find another site that does not request this information. Many also ask if you'd like to be on their e-mail list; be sure to check the appropriate boxes depending on your preference.
Some spiritual counselors also offer their services over the phone, in a one-on-one personal phone call, or in conference-style calls. If you can't find someone in your local calling area, you may want to try one with a toll-free number. The sessions can last anywhere from ten minutes to half an hour, so remember to keep the phone charges in mind when you dial.
If you are truly interested in spiritual healing, it does not have to be a drain on your finances. With all the options available for free healing, counseling and spiritual support, there are several ways to find the help you need at no cost. But do keep in mind that almost all spiritual healers will accept a donation so their can continue their ministry. There is no recommended amount; just give what you can afford so they can continue their healing work.
Many people today are searching for answers to life's important questions, and the answers can often be found in spiritual counseling. Through various types of spiritual counseling, people can achieve both physical and emotional healing to illness and affliction, as well as peace of mind and a greater understanding of the world around them.
So what exactly is spiritual counseling? Some describe it in informal terms, as a way to learn about the world around you, and how you relate to it. Others lean toward a more formal definition; a form a counseling that includes a good deal of exploration and support regarding a person's religious and values beliefs. Most counselors will agree, however, that the aim of spiritual counseling is to increase awareness of the spiritual nature of life, and use that awareness to improve one's situation in life. This improvement is often seen in health and well-being issues including recovery from illness or affliction.
People turn to spiritual counseling for any number of reasons. Some are looking for philosophical answers, while others are seeking relief from the plagues of our society, including stress, anxiety, depression, addiction and other bodily ills. The common thread through the counseling stresses that the mind, the spirit and the body all work in tandem to create a healthy person, and any treatment that neglects one or more of these three things is not a complete therapy. Take for example, the mental issue of depression. Widely thought to be caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain, depression can also manifest in physical aches and pains, as well as serious emotional and spiritual issues like hopelessness and unbearable sadness. Treating just the physical symptoms alone may offer some relieve, but ultimately will not offer a complete holistic treatment.
A spiritual counselor can often help patients dealing with serious physical problems, like depression or serious illnesses like cancer. One of the ways a spiritual counselor can help is by teaching you skills to manage your stress and anxiety about the illness. Not only will you feel better mentally, but the effects of lowered stress on blood pressure, digestion and other bodily functions can be quite dramatic.
Spiritual counselors may hold many titles, including hypnotherapist, imagery counselor, pastoral counselor or Reiki master. There are a number of different types of spiritual counseling; the one that works for you pretty much depends on your value system, your comfort level, and how well you relate to the counselor on a personal level...the latter of which being the most important; there truly needs to be a connection there.
While most earthly religions have an aspect of spirituality, most spiritual counselors are not affiliated with any particular religion. Their services are generally non-denominational and available regardless of your religious background, or lack of one. There are exceptions, of course; many churches and other religious organizations offer pastoral counseling, which is not the same as true spiritual counseling; pastoral counseling is based on the Bible for the most part, and true spiritual counseling requires you to look within yourself for the answers you're seeking.
To find a spiritual counselor, you might want to check with your local religious organizations, and local business directory. You can also find a large number of spiritual counselors online. Many of these counselors are willing to work remotely, either via e-mail or by phone. You can also check several organizations dedicated to spiritual counselors and healers to help you find someone you can work with. To get the most out of your counseling session though, it's important that the person you choose is personable and makes you feel comfortable.
Bob McDowell is a retired mental health professional, and civil, family & divorce mediator, as well as a board-certified expert in the treatment of post traumatic stress disorders with a specific focus in treating childhood sexual trauma and abuse.
He has a background in real estate inspection, sales, and investing. He also has a background as the general manager and part owner of once was what the fourth largest privately-held respiratory care company in the United States.
In 1981, he survived a full-blown near death experience and has had the privledge of working as a grief and Hospice counselor off and on over several years.
Bob works from the comfort of his home in Discovery Bay, California as a self-employed freelance content writer, digital proofreader, and resume consultant.
