Washington Institute of Natural Medicine
 
 

DEFINITIONS

 

 

Acupressure/Shiatsu

The study of combining acupuncture points and stretching pressure in a comfortable and non-invasive therapy.

 

Acupuncture

The usage of needles to move energy to weak points or from overly stressed points of the body. Balancing the body’s energy allows it to deal with everyday stress, pressure, and pain.

 

Aqua Ion Chi Detox Foot Bath

The Ion-cleanse foot bath provides a whole body detoxification therapy session. The session removes toxins from the body through the feet. The unit produces positive and negative ions. These ions cause impurities to be eliminated through the pores of the feet. It works through the process of osmosis.

Aromatherapy Raindrop Technique

The usage of scented oils applied to points on the body or released in the air to allow energy balance. As a non-intrusive therapy, it works both on the body and in the air.

Colon Hydrotherapy

The cleansing of the large intestine with temperature regulated, filtered water.

See Also: Holistic Colon Hydrotherapy
True and Original Holistic Colon Hydrotherapy

Herbal Body Wraps

The usage of warm cloths saturated with an herbal solution. This can result in a loss of weight and/or a cleansing of body.

 

Herbology

The usage of medicinal plants (herbs) to balance and heal the human body. They are considered natural drugs treating a variety of complaints. Herbs have the possibility of side effects or drug interaction; however, with the guidance of a natural health practitioner, they can be very effective in treating ailments.

 

Homeopathy

The usage of diluted tinctures made from natural sources to balance the body’s energies. Based on the like cures like theory (as in a vaccination) developed by Hippocrates. This therapy is non-interactive with standard medicines.

 

Iridology

The study of the coloration and discoloration within the iris of the eyes. Known as "windows of the body", the eyes reflect what is happening internally.

 

Lymphatic Drainage

Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is a holistic treatment which promotes a health lymphatic system. The therapy consists of manual pressure and movement over the areas of the lymph nodes. The practitioner uses the fingers and the palms of the hand during a session. The therapy has been reported to reduce swelling, promote tissue cleansing, assist in allergy treatment and stimulate the immune system.

 

Massage

The unbinding of tightened muscles to allow the body’s energies to flow throughout the body. It promotes circulation and reduces stress.

 

Naturopathy

The study of all natural therapies. A Naturopath knows many modalities of healing, can practice many therapies, and is able to give recommendations to other practitioners in the health field.

See also: Traditional Naturopathy
Traditional Naturopathic Exam
Traditional Naturopathy versus Naturopathic Medicine

Reflexology

The study of oriental philosophy that believes the hands and feet can be a single point of relaxing and healing the body based on the end points of the meridians. The practitioner applies pressure to specific points on the hands and feet.

 

Reiki

The study of healing and directing the body’s energy via spiritual or universal energy. The practitioner applies a light touch to the client.

 

Shiatsu/Acupressure

The study of combining acupuncture (without needles) and massage in a comfortable and non-invasive therapy.

 
 
 
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