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Energy therapies consist of interventions that are designed to interact with the biofield of a person. The concept of the biofield is based on the assumption that all living things have a natural flow of energy that is integral to their basic composition. [1-4] This principle stems from the inte r change ability of energy and matter (E = mc^sup 2^). [5] The biofield of a person is part of the body, and it extends beyond the physical body in the form of energy. The concept of energy flowing through and around the physical body has a long-standing history and is the basis for various ancient healing practices and many complementary and alternative therapies. [1-4]
The biofield is often referred to, both historically and in the current literature, as chi, ki, qi, aura, prana, mana, and human energy field, among other terms. [1,3, 6-9 ] Ki-energy, or the biofield, is described as "invisible psychophysical energy"[7] and "energy, force, vitality, and strength."[6] The biofield is noted to be an integral part of human beings and nature. Healthcare modalities commonly utilized in Asian countries often interact with the biofield,[6,10] as the biofield is believed to influence both physical and mental health.[3,6,7,10] In Eastern tradition, the biofield is viewed from a holistic perspective rather than the mind-body dichotomy of Western tradition. [7,10]
Energy therapies/interventions are common practice for many cultural groups, including, but not limited to, Africans, [11] Chinese, [10, 12] Japanese, [7] Koreans, [6] Vietnamese, [13] and Native Americans. [14] Integration of energy therapies with other complementary therapies is increasing in Western cultures as well. [15-19] Complementary and alternative therapies that interact with the biofield include Healing Touch, Therapeutic Touch, Reiki, qi gong, acupuncture, acupressure, and others. [14]
HOW DO THEY WORK?
The energy therapies are based on the assumption that physical, mental, emotional, and/or spiritual illness or injury will manifest in both the physical body and the biofield. The intent of energy therapies is to restore the balance of energy to the biofield, thus promoting health, healing, and general well-being. [14] Energy therapies such as Healing Touch, Reiki, and Therapeutic Touch are practitioner-dependent. The therapist seeks to restore balance to the biofield by using his or her hands, with or without light touch on/over the...