Traditional Healing Often in the Healing Arts Essay

Traditional Healing

Often in the healing arts them most simple and obvious cures lie right in front of us, exposed and waiting to be utilized. The purpose of this literature review is to examine the specific ailment of anxiety and review the traditional sources of knowledge that can specifically apply to the treatment of this condition. The use of the individual's own psycho-spiritual faculties will be highlighted as the method in which these sources remedy the effects of anxiety and its sometimes debilitating symptoms.

The Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon includes the many esoteric human tools such as mood, idea and spirit as important aspects of health and immunity from disease. This collection is the earliest and most important written work of traditional Chinese healing arts. The narrative of the story reveals the secrets of keeping a clear and sound mind and hence eliminating the anxious behavior that so often rises. Through simple dialogue, emphasis is placed on the ability to let the mental energies become focused and harmonized with the environment. Traditional terms Yin and Yang are also used as tools to help prevent anxiety by demonstrating the importance of incorporating polarizing thought patterns into a synergized body.

In other cases material medicines can be used to help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and the many burdens this state of mind forces on the backs of its sufferers. Culpepper's Herbal reference book is another method of helping solve this problem. This traditional collection of knowledge lists many herbs that are useful for many different conditions. There are several that are well suited for the treatment of anxiety or nervousness. Chamomile is described as useful for "agues" which are synonymous for many of the symptoms of anxiety. Culpepper gives directions on preparing the chamomile flower to best consume the herb. The many herbs described to treat anxiety are also given with a proper time and place of the year to help align the astrological significances and strengths of the herb. For instance St. John's Wort is best taken in the summer and should not be taken past August if it is expected to be effective in the treatment of anxiety, or many of the other ailments this herb provides.

The Bible, although much aligned in many circles, also provides adequate healing knowledge for the individual if taken in the proper context. The traditional knowledge contained in the Bible still provides much…