Alternative medicine refers to medical treatments and practices that are not considered part of mainstream or conventional medicine. This may include practices such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, homoeopathy, meditation, and massage therapy. While some in the medical community often criticised alternative medicine, many people have reported significant benefits from incorporating these practices into their healthcare regimen. In particular, alternative medicine can provide psychological benefits that can improve a person’s overall sense of well-being as under:
How does it help to reduce stress?
One of the primary psychological benefits of alternative medicine is stress reduction. Many alternative practices, such as yoga, meditation, and massage therapy, focus on relaxation and stress reduction. These techniques can help to calm the mind and reduce anxiety, which can have a positive impact on mental health. Moreover, various alternative therapies prioritize enhancing general wellness, leading to a more grounded, centred, and emotionally stable state for individuals.
- Mindfulness. One study found that mindfulness meditation, a form of meditation that emphasises paying attention to the present moment, can have a significant impact on stress reduction. According to the study, individuals who engaged in mindfulness meditation for a period of eight weeks demonstrated a marked decrease in stress levels compared to those who did not meditate. The researchers also found that the participants who practised meditation reported greater feelings of self-compassion and self-acceptance, which are essential components of psychological well-being.
- Improving self-awareness. Another psychological benefit of alternative medicine is improved self-awareness. Many alternative practices, such as mindfulness meditation and yoga, encourage individuals to pay attention to their thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. This increased self-awareness can help individuals to better understand themselves and their triggers, which can lead to improved emotional regulation and a greater sense of self-acceptance.
- Yoga and its many benefits. A 2017 study found that yoga, in particular, can help to improve self-awareness and emotional regulation. According to the study, individuals who practised yoga for eight weeks demonstrated a substantial reduction in negative emotions and an increase in self-awareness, as opposed to the group who did not practice yoga. The researchers suggest that the physical postures and breathing techniques used in yoga may help to improve body awareness and reduce stress, which can lead to improved emotional regulation.
Living better through empowerment
Alternative medicine can also provide a sense of empowerment and control over one’s health. Many people feel disempowered by the conventional medical system, which can be complex, bureaucratic, and difficult to navigate. Alternative medicine, on the other hand, often empowers individuals to take control of their health by providing them with tools and techniques that they can use on their own. This can be especially beneficial for individuals dealing with long-term health conditions, who may feel they have limited influence over their health.
Mitigating chronic pain
A 2018 study found that individuals with chronic pain who participated in a mindfulness-based stress reduction program experienced significant improvements in their sense of control over their pain. The participants also reported improvements in their emotional well-being and overall quality of life. The researchers suggest that mindfulness-based stress reduction may be a valuable tool for individuals with chronic pain who are seeking to improve their psychological well-being and their sense of control over their health.
Sense of belonging and community building
Finally, alternative medicine can provide a sense of community and social support. Many alternative practices, such as yoga and tai chi, are done in group settings, which can give a sense of connection and social support. Additionally, many alternative practitioners take a holistic approach to healthcare, which means that they consider the whole person, including their emotional, spiritual, and social well-being. This can lead to a more personalized and compassionate approach to healthcare, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals who feel that they are not being heard or understood by conventional healthcare providers.
Managing chronic pain
A 2019 study found that individuals with chronic pain who participated in a yoga program that included a supportive community reported significant improvements in their distress and their psychological well-being.
Complementary or alternative medicine can be stratified into mainly five major classes:
- Complete medical systems
- Mind-body practices
- Biologically grounded practices
- Manipulative and body-based therapies
- Energy therapies
Need for alternative medicines
One may ask why people opt for these when they have traditional medicines available to them which are already well-established and backed up by clinical trials and studies. Well, the answer to that can be explained as follows:
- They have already tried traditional procedures and are somewhat dissatisfied with them due to one reason or the other.
- They see alternative medicines as enhancing their choices available and giving them greater control over their course of action.
- The procedures may resonate more with the individual patient’s beliefs, values, or ethos.
Using frequency as a medium
One such practice is done through the use of frequencies. There are various frequencies with which the body and the soul can be aligned. One of these is the 528Hz frequency, also known as the vibration of love. To put it simply, imagine it like tuning a musical instrument. You adjust the device to a particular pitch to get a specific tone. Now apply the same analogy to humans. You try and align – tune in your physical and emotional state and bring it in harmony with the environment and your surroundings. In this way, you can create profound effects not only on the physical body but also on the mind and the spirit.
Benefits of 528 Hz
The healing power of the 528 Hz frequency is truly remarkable, as it has a beneficial effect on our body, mind, and soul. The vibration produced by this frequency resonates with our cells and organs, creating a positive impact that spreads throughout the body. Activating and reinforcing our natural self-healing abilities helps promote our overall well-being.
The Golden frequency, also known as the Love frequency, has been used for healing purposes since ancient times, producing a transformative state within the body, mind, and soul.
Takeaway
Alternative medicine can provide many psychological benefits, including stress reduction, improved self-awareness, a sense of empowerment and control over one’s health, and a sense of community and social support. While alternative medicine may not be appropriate for everyone or for every health condition, it is clear that many people have found it to be a helpful complement to conventional medical treatments. As always, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new therapies into your healthcare regimen.
Jordan Wayne, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
