1. February 15, 2012
S. Nalzaro
HOLISTIC & COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES
Holism (Matzo)- focuses on unity, mutuality, meaning, & the interrelationship of all beings, events, &
things
- Heal & health- haelan- to be or become whole
Holistic care- believes that people can grow & learn from health, illness, and dying
- Promotes ct’s active participation in their own health care, wellness & healing
- Uses appropriate interventions in the context of the ct.’s total needs
- Works to alleviate ct’s physical signs and symptoms
Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM)- “individualized diagnosis and treatment of patients; an
emphasis on maximizing the body’s inherent healing ability; & treatment of the whole person by
addressing their physical, mental, & spiritual attributes rather than focusing on a specific pathogenic
progress
- The physician never ask about them
- The respondents did not know they should
- There was not enough time during the office visit
- They do not think the doctor knows the topic
- The doctor was dismissive or has told them not to do it
Healing & Dying modalities:
1. Centering- quieting mind
- Every week, 30mins-1hr
2. Relaxation- benefits: decrease BP and HR, increase temp
- Decreases anxiety associated with painful situations, easing of muscle tension pain
(contractures)
- A general sense of intense calmness
- Decreases symptoms of depression & stress
3. Imagery- art therapy
4. Meditation- a better understanding of the self & increased receptivity to insights arising from one’s
deeper...
5. Sense therapies
a. Music therapy- has a power that cannot be expressed in verbal language
- Music thanatology

2. b. Aromatherapy
6. Reminiscence & life review- use open ended questions
- Ask about life history
- Have a summary session
7. Journal writing
8. Touch- acupressure, body therapy, reflexology, Reiki, massage
9. Herbology- phytotherapy or phytomedicine
10. Homeopathy- using herbs to treat, cure & prevent illness
11. Prayer
Benefits of CAM:
- Strengthen the body’s defences & healing abilities
- Empowerment
- Safer & gentler than conventional therapies