Glossary

Acupoints Points along the body where the meridians or life force channels flow.

Acupressure A non-invasive way of encouraging the body to heal itself through stimulation of specific acupoints on the body, using massage. The therapist will use deep, focused finger pressure to manipulate acupuncture points to restore and harmonize energy flow for optimum physical and spiritual health.

Acupuncture Acupuncturists strive to encourage proper circulation of energy, called qi (pronounced "chee") by inserting very fine needles into acupoints on the body's surface in order to influence physiological function of the body. Good health is the result of balanced, freely-flowing qi, while illness results from sluggish, blocked, or over-stimulated qi. As internal harmony is achieved, the body's natural ability to heal itself, relieve pain and stress, and improve internal regulatory systems is engaged.

Apitherapy The therapeutic use of such products of the honeybee as honey, bee pollen, royal jelly, propolis and even bee venom, which has been used to treat conditions of joint inflammation such as arthritis.

Applied Kinesiology A healing system that uses muscle testing as a method of evaluating a patient's structural, chemical and mental aspects. Practitioners of applied kinesiology may use nutrition and exercise, as well as acupressure and other physical manipulation to restore balance to a body.

Alexander Technique This technique teaches people how to release painful muscle tension, improve posture and move with greater ease by demonstrating correct habits of posture, body movement, and neuro-muscular co-ordination. It is based on the concept that self-created tension and poor habits lead to poor health.

Aromatherapy As a supplement to medical care, Aromatherapy is a branch of Herbalism in which essential oils and other natural aromatic substances are used for psychological and physical therapeutic benefit.

Art Therapy The use of art for therapeutic purposes, based on the premise that art reflects the personality of its creator. A therapist will assess a patient and formulate a plan for treatment based on observations made of the materials a patient chooses and his or her behavior in creating a simple art piece.

Aston-Patterning Aston-Patterning is a movement maintenance program to improve balance, increase strength and endurance and reduce fatigue. It may include bodywork and training in posture, movement, ergonomics and fitness.

Auriculotherapy A health care procedure in which stimulation of the auricle of the external ear is utilized to alleviate health conditions in other parts of the body.

Audiology Audiologists are concerned with the assessment and treatment of hearing disorders. Using highly complex instruments and testing devices, the audiologist evaluates hearing functions and designs a program of treatment which may include the selection of a hearing aid, training in speech-reading and listening skills, or referrals to other professionals.

Ayurveda Ayurveda means "complete knowledge of the totality of life." Is is a 5,000 year old tradition based on the Vedic texts of India and is the world¹s most ancient, comprehensive and natural mind/body health care system. Ayurveda uses herbs, aromas, meditation, yoga and diet consulting to address health issues. It offers what many find lacking in Western Medicine: a focus on the root cause, rather than the symptoms; on the person rather than the problem; and on the mind and spirit as well as the body.

Bach Flower Remedies Based on the theory that physical ailments as well as psychological problems arise from emotional states, particular herbs and flowers are given to help people work with their emotions. Like Homeopathic remedies, flower remedies (or flower essences) are liquid concentrates, diluted to such a degree as to work on a level other than biochemical. Practitioners claim the essences contain the energy of the plant which affect the energy field of a person who takes them.

Behaviour Modification A technique to promote changes in behaviour in a positive way.

Biofeedback Based on the premise that people can use their minds to influence the function of their bodies, Biofeedback is a technique used to help people learn to relax and gain control over normally non-voluntary body functions. It allohwc a person to monitor signals from his or her own body (such as brain-waves, blood pressure or muscle tension) through a set of instruments.

Body Work A term to describe the practice of treating ailments, alleviating pain, releasing tension, and promoting relaxation by manipulating the body with massage, exercise, or through lessons in proper posture or motion. Many modalities of bodywork emphasize treatment of the mind as well as the physical body.

Brain Gym® Based on the principle that by moving the body, brain power is naturally enhanced, Brain Gym is a system of quick, targeted physical activities aimed at improving athletic and intellectual skills. It is part of a larger program called Educational Kinesiology (or Edu-K).

C.A. Certified Acupuncturist.

Channels (Meridians) Paths the chi flohwc within the body.

Chi Or qi, the life force or energy that flohwc in the body; "the root of a human being" (Maciocia 37).

C.M.T. Certified Massage Technician.

Chelation Therapy It is a non-surgical procedure for removing toxins, metabolic wastes, and undesirable heavy metals from the body by introducing ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) into the bloodstream. Oftentimes chelation therapy is used to prevent heart attacks or to reverse the problems of degenerative diseases caused by diminished blood circulation.

Chiropractic The nervous system plays a major role in maintaining a state of balance and optimal health. Through manual manipulation of bones and associated muscles and joints (particularly of the spine and extremities) a Doctor of Chiropractic will work to detect and correct subluxations (misalignments of bone, or aberrant joint mechanics), restoring the flow of nerve impulses throughout the body and improving the function of the neuro-musculo-skeletal system.

Colonic Hydrotherapy / Colon Irrigation Therapy A therapeutic process of detoxifying the system by flushing the large intestine (or colon) with filtered water to loosen and remove accumulated, stagnated waste.

CranioSacral Therapy The CranioSacral System is a closed hydraulic physiological system consisting of the brain, spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid, cranial dural membrane, cranial bones and sacrum. A CranioSacral therapist will endeavor to detect and correct subtle imbalances through gentle, hands-on manipulation.

Crystal Therapy The therapeutic use of quartz crystals or gem-stones to promote healing. Like the human body, crystals have electromagnetic energy and they emit vibrations. They are used in various ways to interact with the energy flow in and around the human body to promote better health.

Dipl. Ac. Diplomat of Acupuncture granted by the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncturists.

D.O.M. Doctor of Oriental Medicine.

Deep Tissue Massage A form of bodywork in which the therapist works on tissue layers deep down to release pain and stress. The patient¹s muscle must be profoundly relaxed for the therapist to penetrate to these lower levels. Deep massage can be used to detoxify tissue by removing accumulated lactic acid and other waste products from the muscles.

Doula A Doula is trained to provide emotional and physical support to women before, during, and after the birth of their child. This may include providing information about labour and breastfeeding, child care, providing emotional comfort, using massage and other non-pharmacological pain relief measures, or offering assistance with household errands and cleaning.

Ear Candling / Coning A non-invasive therapy for removing wax, toxins, and other debris from the ear canal by inserting a specialized cone-shaped hollow "ear candle" into the entry to the ear canal and igniting the other end. Debris is drawn upwards into the ear candle and discarded.

Electro-Dermal Screening A diagnostic tool for gauging the health of any organ or system by measuring the flow of electrons or energy along the body's meridians at certain acupoints on the hands and feet.

Endodontics An area of dentistry involving the diagnosis and treatment of the nerve supply to the teeth, and may involve root canal.

Energy Balancing / Energy Therapy Based on the premise that the human body contains energy fields, the therapist will endeavor to diagnose and restore blocked or unbalanced energy fields to combat illness.

Equilibrium A state of balance between opposing forces or reactions.

Essential Oil A liquid that is generally distilled (usually by steam) from a plant. Essential oils, contrary to the use of the word "oil," are not really oily at all. Most essential oils are clear, but some oils such as patchouli, orange and lemongrass are amber or yellow in color.

Exercise Exercise may be used to prevent or alter a variety of physical ailments as an alternative to surgery or drugs. As the body is physically taxed, it naturally makes itself stronger and healthier. Even modest stressing of the body can strengthen muscle, lower blood pressure, increase metabolism, burn fat, and lead to a general sense of well-being. An effective exercise program should include a strength training component, a flexibility component, a cardiovascular component and a nutritional component.

Fengshui The ancient Chinese science of placement, which seeks to free the flow of energy (or qi) and create a balance of yin and yang in our surroundings. In many parts of the world, Fengshui (pronounced "fung shway") experts are consulted in the planning of buildings or when someone purchases a new home. A practitioner might recommend moving your furniture, changing the colours with which you surround yourself, or removing clutter.

Five elements, the In nature the five elements are: water, fire, wood, metal, and earth; these five elements of nature are believed to represent how our internal organs work together and determine our physical and metal state.

Gensana / Ginkoba new popular dietary supplements containing ginseng.

Ginseng a root; increases energy and strengthens the body.

Herbal Medicine / Herbalism The practice of using plant material (leaves, stems, roots, bark) for preventing or treating illness, to strengthen the body and assist its natural ability to heal itself. Herbal medicines are sold in liquid or pill form or as teas. Herbs form part of treatment techniques of many branches of Complementary Health, including Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Homeopathy and Naturopathic Medicine.

Homeopathy Based on the principle that "like cures like," a practitioner of Homeopathy will treat a person by using tiny amounts of a substance that, in a healthy person, will produce similar symptoms to the illness that a patient is experiencing. Highly diluted traces of animal, botanical, mineral, and other natural substances are given to trigger the immune system and stimulate the body¹s self-healing abilities. Homeopathic remedies are diluted in a specific way that increases their potential to remedy ailments while at the same time making toxicity impossible.

Hypnotherapy The use of water for therapeutic purposes to stimulate the immune system or detoxify the body. Used typically to relieve pain, improve circulation and respiration, or combat infections, therapies range from internal treatments (such as internal cleansing) to external treatments (such as immersion in a sauna or hot whirlpool, or application of compresses).

Hypnotherapy The use of hypnosis (an altered state of consciousness and awareness that is highly susceptible to suggestion) to treat a wide variety of phobias and other disorders, to increase self-esteem or mental acuity, or to assist in weight loss or overcoming addictions.

Iridology A diagnostic technique based on analysis of the colour, density, and texture of the structures of the iris (the opaque coloured portion of the eye). The premise is that specific areas of the iris correspond to specific body parts, organs, and systems, reflecting changes to their condition.

Kinesiology The study of the principles of mechanics and anatomy related to human movement.

Light Therapy The use of either natural or artificial light to heal. The term encompasses a variety of therapies including Bright Light Therapy, Full-Spectrum Light Therapy, Cold Laser Therapy, and Coloured Light Therapy.

Lymphatic Drainage Used to treat a wide variety of conditions, manual lymphatic drainage is a non-intrusive, gentle therapy which uses massage techniques to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid in a body. The function of the lymph system is to remove toxins, wastes, bacteria, and viruses from the connective tissue.

Macrobiotics While not a specific diet or nutritional program, it is a way of eating and living within the natural physical, biological, emotional, mental, ecological and spiritual order of all things in life. Macrobiotic eating means gaining an understanding of how different foods affect individuals with regard to different circumstances.

Magnetic Therapy Also known as Bio-magnetic Therapy, it is the application of magnetic fields or magnets onto a human body to interact with the body's natural biomagnetic fields for healing purposes. "Magnetic therapy helps the body to regain its self-healing electromagnetic balance naturally because each and every cell of every organ in the body is influenced by electromagnetism" (Ken Wiancko, M.D.). In Magnetic Deficiency Syndrome, Dr. Nakawaga oultined that lack of magnetism may cause stress, mental disorders, insomnia and other degenerative disorders.~ Magnapak

Massage Therapy A systematic, manual manipulation of the soft tissues of the body, including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments, and joints. A registered massage therapist, by working directly on the muscular, nervous and circulatory systems, seeks to reduce tension, improve circulation, relieve pain and promote relaxation for overall better health. Massage can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and improve respiration.

Meditation There are many different methods of meditation, but the aspects they share include deep breathing, relaxation, mental concentration and quiet contemplation. It is a self-help practice, most commonly associated with spiritual development, although its physical benefits are well documented. Meditation can reduce blood pressure, relieve stress and tension, and remove pain.

Midwifery The science of advising, supervising, and assisting a woman before, during, and after the birth of her child. It usually stresses childbirth as a natural experience with as little medical intervention as possible. Midwives assist in the delivery and post-partum care of the infant, and are trained in the detection of abnormal conditions in mother and child. When appropriate, they will refer the patient to a physician. Midwife care includes preventative measures, such as counselling and education of the mother in nutrition and health, and preparation of the mother for birth and for child care.

Meridians (Channels) Paths upon which the chi flohwc throughout the body.

Mitzvah Technique "A postural/movement education method that specifically addresses body use and efficient patterns of movement, based on the work of M-Cohen Nehemia." -- Motus Movement Technologies.

Moxibustion A technique of Traditional Chinese Medicine in which heat is applied by burning dried moxa leaves (and/or other herbs) over specific acupuncture points (either directly on the skin or indirectly above the skin). Moxibustion is most commonly used when there is a requirement to expel Cold and Dampness.

Music Therapy The therapeutic use of musical elements and music-related activities.

Myofascial Release Therapy Fascia is the densely-woven connective tissue that lines and covers muscles, bones, veins, and internal organs. In its normal, healthy state, fascia is relaxed and pliable. As it becomes thicker, tighter, and harder over time, it "binds up" muscles, causing tension, pain, and restriction to range of motion. A therapist will use a variety of hands-on techniques to soften and release the fascia.

Naturopathic Medicine Naturopathic Medicine is a system of diagnosing, treating and preventing health problems in a whole-body manner, without using surgery or drugs. It is a health care system that utilizes natural therapies such as clinical nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy, exercise, counselling, acupuncture, natural childbirth, spinal manipulation, hydrotherapy, and physiotherapy to stimulate the body's self-healing abilities. Considerable attention is paid to a patient's lifestyle, since the goals of naturopathic medicine are to treat underlying causes of disease, rather than merely the symptoms, and to educate patients about maintaining good health.

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (or N.L.P.) The science of how the brain encodes learning and experiences. An N.L.P. practitioner provides exercises to help an individual break through poor habits and patterns.

Nutritional Consulting Taking into account a patient's eating habits, lifestyle, allergies, and intolerances, the therapist assesses the nutritional imbalances in a patient and makes recommendations for treatment, such as the taking of vitamin supplements or specific kinds of foods, or of the removal of specific foods from the diet. The focus remains on the body¹s innate ability to heal itself, aided by the proper fuel.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery A facet of dentistry focusing on simple and complex surgery, such as working on the wisdom teeth.

Organic (food) A term which describes food that is grown without pesticides or other chemicals.

Ostepathic Medicine Osteopathic Medicine (or Osteopathy) is a complete holistic health care system that emphasizes the relationship of body structure to organic function. It includes elements of conventional medicine with a focus on musculo-skeletal disorders (similar to Chiropractic). Doctors of Osteopathy approach treatment of a patient in a whole person or mind-body way, with a hands-on approach. Therapy may include manipulation of the body through massage, stretching, and movement.

Physical Therapy / Physiotherapy A hands-on form of rehabilitative therapy. Treatment may include massage, hydrotherapy, corrective exercise, traction or electrical stimulation to relieve pain, increase strength, and improve range of motion. Physical therapy is key in helping people recover from injury, surgery, or disease.

Psychotherapy The application of psychological knowledge and techniques to effect change in behaviour or mood in a patient. The patient focuses on experiences, recalls forgotten traumatic events or re-experiences mind states which accompanied past traumas in the presence of an attentive listener. There are countless forms of psychotherapy and counselling.

Qigong Qigong (pronounced "chee koong") means "breathing exercise" or "energy cultivation" in Chinese. It involves regulating the body, the mind, and the breathing to balance and strengthen vital energy (Qi) in the body through breathing exercises, movement and meditation.

Reflexology It is based on the principle that there are many key reflex points on the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, and on the head that correspond to every major organ or area of the body. A therapist will use fingers, thumbs, and palms to exert steady pressure on these points to affect the corresponding part of the body. Not only does reflexology improve circulation and reduce stress, it works with subtle energy flohwc to revitalize the body and activate its natural self-healing mechanisms.

Rolf Method® (Rolfing®) Based on the principle that proper alignment improves bodily function, Rolfing is a technique of deeply massaging the muscles and fascia (the connective tissue) to allow the body to fall naturally into proper alignment. Patients are also instructed on how to move their bodies in more effective ways to keep their bodies free of stress.

Rubenfeld Synergy Method® By developing greater awareness of how childhood beliefs and feelings continue to operate in life and in the body, Rubenfeld Synergy creates the possibility of change on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels. Using gentle touch, movement, imagination, active listening and verbal interchange, the Rubenfeld Synergist seeks to open gateways to awareness where conscious choices can be made with yourself, others, and in the world.

Shamanism An ancient form of spiritual-based healing practiced in tribal cultures the world over. It is a form of trance healing in which the practitioner enters an altered state of consciousness. Shamanism sees a strong connection between nature and people, and drahwc healing power from direct connection with the earth, sky, plants, and animals.

Shiatsu The word "shiatsu" is derived from the Japanese words for "finger" and "pressure." Often described as "acupuncture without needles," Shiatsu stimulates the flow of energy along the body¹s network of meridian lines, similar to acupressure. The practitioner uses fingers, knuckles, palms, elbohwc, knees, or feet to apply pressure to points on the body, clearing energy blockages, and promoting health.

Speech-Language Pathology The speech-language pathologist helps individuals to overcome and prevent communication problems in the areas of language, speech, voice and fluency. These difficulties may involve producing sounds, words and sentences; understanding or listening to the speech of others; and the use of reading and writing skills.

Taiqi Originally designed for self-defense, Taiqi is a sequence of rhythmic, slow, continuous, physical exercises which flow one into the next. It combines martial arts, exercise, and meditation. Based on the principles of rhythmic movement, effortless breathing, and equilibrium of body weight, Taiqi is exercise controlled by the mind. The goal is to increase strength and flexibility, relieve stress, and promote the harmonization of yin and yang aspects.

Therapeutic Touch (T.T.) It is based on the premise that energy flohwc freely in a healthy body, and is blocked or depleted in an ill or injured body. A practitioner endeavors to detect and alleviate these blockages by first entering a relaxed, meditative state, and then by moving his or her hands in slow, rhythmic motions a few inches above the patient¹s body with the intention to help or heal.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (T.C.M.) Traditional Chinese Medicine is an ancient system of health care that takes a holistic approach, fashioning remedies to treat a whole person rather than merely its ailing parts. It includes acupuncture, herbology, nutritional counselling, tuina (acupressure and massage) and exercise (Taiqi and qi gong). At its centre is the understanding that sickness results from disturbances to the flow of energy in the body, qi (pronounced "chee"), or from a lack of equilibrium between contrasting aspects of yin and yang.

Tuina From the Traditional Chinese Medicine system, tuina is a form of massage therapy which seeks to balance Qi.

Vegetarianism The beliefs and practices of a person who does not eat meat, poultry, or fish (and in some cases any foods derived from such).

Visualization A technique (also called Imaging or Imagery) that involves consciously creating a mental picture to focus the mind to effect mental, emotional, spiritual or physiological changes. It may be self-directed or therapist directed.

Vitamin Therapy The use of vitamins and minerals, usually in greater amounts than governmental recommended daily allowances, for the prevention and treatment of physical and mental ailments.

Wellness A state of healthy living, achieved by practicing a healthy lifestyle including regular physical activity, proper nutrition, eliminating unhealthy behaviours and maintaining good emotional and spiritual health.

Yin In the context of light, yin represents the shade or darkness.

Yang In the context of light, yang represents the sun or brightness.

Yoga From the Sanskrit word meaning union, yoga is an ancient system of physical, mental, and spiritual development based in the understanding that illness arises when these three elements fall out of harmony. It teaches control over the body and the mind through diet and nutrition, meditation, breathing exercises, body positioning and movement. Good health is achieved by removing the impurities that obstruct the body's normal function to heal itself.