Energywork Research from Pubmed

Energy healing and the placebo effect. An anthropological perspective on the placebo effect.

Anthropol Med. 2012 Jan 31;

Authors: Ostenfeld-Rosenthal AM

Abstract
The paper deals with a classical anthropological issue, the working mechanisms of rituals and the relation between healing rituals and the placebo effect. The point of departure of the paper is MUS (medically unexplained symptoms) patients' experiences of Danish healing rituals. The aim of the paper is to develop an understanding of how bodily experienced images of body and self work to transform the patient during a healing ritual. It is argued that a bodily founded symbolic re-editing of body- and self-image is an essential skill in healing rituals. In conclusion, it is argued that the placebo is nothing but the effectiveness of bodily experienced symbols.

PMID: 22292568 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Energy therapies in oncology nursing.

Semin Oncol Nurs. 2012 Feb;28(1):55-63

Authors: Coakley AB, Barron AM

Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To review the published research related to the interventions of Reiki, Therapeutic Touch, and Healing Touch representing energy therapies in relation to oncology nursing.
DATA SOURCES: Peer-reviewed literature.
CONCLUSION: There is growing evidence that energy therapies have a positive effect on symptoms associated with cancer. While there is need for further research, it is clear that an appreciation for the value of research methods beyond the randomized control trial is important.
IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Energy therapies offer additional strategies for oncology nurses providing integrated nursing care to alleviate suffering and symptom distress of patients with cancer.

PMID: 22281310 [PubMed - in process]