Recent technological developments have made things easier for many of us for various reasons; things are easily accessible now and getting in touch with people via phone calls, video calls etc., have become a norm, especially since the COVID- 19 pandemic hit us. Although, there has been a surge in modern technological advancements, one feature exclusive to living creatures can never be replaced, that is the literal feeling of being felt, the sense of touch!
The other day, I came across a hoarding that read, “ we will be able to hug again, soon”, this phrase made me realise, how impactful a loved ones’ hug, touch can be in one’s pursuit of a healthy happy life. The definition of touch in a dictionary is to “bring a bodily part into contact with specially to perceive through the tactile sense.” Touch is one of those sensory reflexes which enhances all other sense organs a human being has.
Feel to heal
The ritual of laying hands is a technique that is believed to revitalize the body of human beings by different focal points by the spiritual healers and also seen as a religious belief around the world. The method on the spiritual lines follows the scientific principle of utilizing the patient’s latent energy and the power that is stored in dedication, devotion, and meditations. Spiritual healers assert that if blood flow is correctly channelled through a balanced and stable system then the means of propulsion of that energy will enhance the energy of the weak organs. The spiritual healers thus direct the blood to the affected area of the individual and heal the pain.
Reiki- a form of laying of hands therapies commonly known as energy healing.
It emerged in Japan in the late 1800s and is believed to encompass the transfer of universal energy from the practitioner’s palms to their patient. It is a treatment used by people as an alternative and accompaniment to Western medicine. Reiki has increased in recognition over the past decade.
Do we have any evidence-backed by modern science?
Reiki has been known to mankind for over a thousand years but unfortunately, the many scientific studies which aimed to acquire quality evidence around the topic of reiki are underfunded. However, few studies so far suggest that Reiki affects the parasympathetic nervous system when applied to health care professionals with burnout symptoms, there is scientific evidence that proves that reiki could be helpful in community mental health settings for the mental health of the practitioners and also shown to be an effective approach in relieving the pain.
As I end this narrative, I am reminded of a poem written by the famous Canadian poet Margaret Atwood, “Touch comes from sight before speech. It is the first language, and the last, and it always tells the truth”
Stay tuned for our next blog post where you can read all about the benefits of therapeutic touch in children!
To keep you entertained and intrigued on this topic till then I recommend you all to watch “The Healing Touch”, it is a 38-minute short documentary about 7 students coming from different backgrounds to become licenced massage therapists.
Love, Anusha
Comments