A biannual publication of the
School of Nursing and Health Care Practices,
Southern Cross University,
in association with the
Australian College of Holistic Nurses Inc.
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A biannual publication of the School of Nursing and Health Care Practices, Southern Cross University, in association with the Australian College of Holistic Nurses Inc. |
|
12(2): 35-42 Feature Article
Using Bowen Technique in a health service workplace to improve the physical and mental wellbeing of staff
Anna Dicker
Anna’s 6-week Bowen program benefited Community Health staff in many ways.Abstract: A six week program using Bowen Technique treated 31 Hospital and Community Health Service staff in a group setting providing an innovative way to reduce stress and improve physical health. Quantitative and qualitative data indicated that Bowen Technique was successful in reducing pain, improving mobility, reducing stress, and improving energy, well being and sleep.
12(1): 31-35
Occasional
Article
Bowen Technique – Its use in work
related injuries
Anna Dicker RN, RM,
BHSc(Nursing), Diploma Bowen Technique
Abstract: A program in Byron Shire in 2002 offered Health Service staff treatments with Bowen Technique. The program was evaluated after 9 months. The evaluation explored the effect of the treatment on work related injuries. The responses indicated that the provision of Bowen Therapy for staff might be an effective way of reducing Workcover claims.
Keywords: NRAHS, Bowen Therapy, Workplace morale, Bowen clinic
12(1): 41-42
Practioners’ Forum
HypnoBirthing
Julie Phillips-Moore MSc(Behav.Hlth), BA(Psych), DipCH,
DipHomMed, Dip.Nut.
Introduction: When I first walked into a Sydney hospital and introduced myself as a HypnoBirthing practitioner I was greeted with a blank stare. Now, the greeting is different as more and more midwives are seeing for themselves how calm and relaxed the mothers I work with are as they birth their baby, and how much shorter and less painful the labour is.
HypnoBirthing really started to take off in Australia with the training of the first group of hypnotherapists and midwives by Marie Mongan (the founder of HypnoBirthing) during her visit here in 2001. Since then, more and more mothers-to-be have learnt the technique (with great success) and are telling their friends and families – it’s wonderful to hear positive birth stories for a change!
11(2): 35-40
Occasional Article
Pranic Healing
Dr Hazel Wardha PhD, MA, BA(Hons), DipAcupuncture, CHom.
Hazel’s overview
of Pranic healing and documented
healing outcomes challenges us to consider
this modality within
an holistic framework.
Abstract: Pranic healing is a science and art of healing that treats the energy body, which interpenetrates and controls the physical body, mind and emotions. When Pranic healing is applied the molecular structure of liquid and dense states of matter can be altered significantly to create positive outcomes, as revealed through research.
11(1):16-24 Feature Article
Hope: Metaphorically speaking
de Sales Turner, RN, Ba, BEd, MN, PhD, FRCNA
Professor Helen Cox RN, DipEd, BAppSci, MNS, PhD. FRCNA
de Sales and Helen found that photographs, taken by the participants themselves, became a catalysis that enabled a full and deep expression of innermost thoughts on the theme ‘hope’.Abstract: In a recent Gadamerian hermeneutic study, photography and in-depth interviews were used as key methods to explicate the phenomenon of hope. Whilst using photography within qualitative research has become increasingly popular over the last decade, little has been written about how to introduce photographs as conversation enhancers or how photographs have the capacity to unleash both conceptual and linguistic metaphors. This article gives insights into the experience of using photographs to illuminate the phenomenon of hope and identifies metaphors that were revealed through the participants’ photographs.
Key words: Hope, Phenomenon, Phenomenology, Gadamer, Hermeneutics, Gadamerian hermeneutic phenomenology, Photography, Photographs, Metaphor, Metaphors.
Introduction
This paper reports the experience of using photography and in-depth interviews as the main data collection methods for a recent study that explored the phenomenon of hope, from the perspective of 10 Australian youth (Turner 2003). From the outset of this Gadamerian hermeneutic phenomenological study, it was believed that it may be difficult for the participants to articulate their ideas about hope, an idea that was reinforced through the literature, most notably by Hall (1990: 179), who indicated that hope is ‘…so integral to humanness it is difficult to describe in words’. Therefore, this study used photography, as well as openly dialogical in-depth interviews, as a means of prompting the participants’ revelations about hope.
11(1): 25-32 Occasional Article
The use of cranial osteopathy in the treatment of infants with breast feeding problems or sucking dysfunction
Nancy Wescott RN, RM, BHealthSc (Nursing)
Nancy provides us with an in-depth introduction to the role craniosacral therapy can play in assisting with breastfeeding problems, and why further research is warranted.Abstract: Cranial osteopathy is gaining recognition as a successful treatment for a range of conditions, and has shown to be especially useful when dealing with instances of breastfeeding problems resulting from birth trauma. This paper explores the therapy in detail, its relationship to breastfeeding problems, raises suggestions as to how it could be applied to clinical practice, and outlines the need for further research.
Introduction
Cranial osteopathy or craniosacral therapy (CST) is a recent advance in osteopathic practice (McCabe 1997: 75) and has only recently been recognised as a mode of treatment for breast feeding difficulties or sucking dysfunction (Turney 2002). Little 'scientific' evidence has been carried out to assess the effectiveness of CST (Vickers & Zollman 1999). Many of the core concepts of osteopathy are not universally accepted or understood, even by the therapists who carry out the treatment (Ferguson, McPartland, Upledger, Collins, Lever 1998), as, along with many other natural therapies, CST does not fit into the framework of medical science which believes only that which can be proven by 'observation, measurement, analysis and predictability' (McCabe 1997). However, despite this lack of scientific validification, and despite the fact that the cost of the treatment is not funded by Medicare (and is therefore an additional health care cost to the individual), the use of alternative therapies, including CST, is common and increasing (Kemper 2001: 273).
4(2): 42
Jan Murphy
Laser Therapy for Wound and Ulcer Healing
3(2): 39-42
Non-Refereed Occasional
Paper
William Callan
"Biocircuits" A Phenomenal
Psychic/Bio-Energy Technique
for Holistic Health
This article outlines
the Eeman Technique and the healing
experience of a volunteer group
Abstract This article outlines a self diagnostic and self healing technique for holistic practitioners. Three pieces of copper wire connect the opposite polarities of the body. The patient then concentrates on whatever arises in his/her calmed mind and follows backwards in history his/her own bodily record of illness, injury, trauma or psychologically significant issues.
Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicines
10(1):
55
BOOK
REVIEW
Hecker, HU, Steveling A, Peuker E, & Liebchen, K 2001
Color Atlas of Acupuncture
Stuttgart: Thieme.Rubach A 2001
Principles of Ear Acupuncture: Microsystem of the Auricle
Stuttgart: Thieme.Sagar SM 2001
Restored Harmony: An Evidence Based Approach for Integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine into Complementary Cancer Care
Hamilton, Ontario: Dreaming DragonFly Communications.
4(1): 36-40
Non-Refereed
Occasional Paper
Mary Boyce
Traditional Chinese Medicine in an Abattoir
In this paper Mary discusses her experience of TCM in her role as an Occupational Health Nurse
Abstract This paper discusses the legitimisation of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) using various examples, ranging from personal workplace experience, and recent research and clinical trials conducted in Australia and overseas. The results of these have been summarised in discussions on the effectiveness in treating a variety of health related problems including chronic diseases.
Abstract A case study of a 69 year old woman with a two year history of medically treated skin problems. Details of treatment are given.
6(2):
35-38
Non-Refereed Occasional Paper
Viv Griffiths
Eastern & Western paradigms: The holistic nature of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Viv’s paper discusses the practice of holism based upon differing Eastern and Western world view belief systems.
Abstract This paper discusses the practice of holism based upon differing Eastern and Western worldview belief systems. The practice of authentic holistic healing and caring is, according to the author, highly dependent upon which paradigm(s) the nurse lives within, given the constraints of modern Western science and its linear thinking, theoretical laws and objectivity towards the practice of healing and health care. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, healing and health are based upon circular thinking, observation, subjectivity and feeling, which reflects a differing holistic approach to human beings.
7(1): 42-43
Practitioners
Forum
Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Case of Dysmenorrhoea
This case study provides us with an insight into the application of knowledge and understandings of the Fundamental Substances’, Qi and BloodIntroduction Chinese Medicine is based upon a knowledge and understanding of certain phenomena referred to as the ‘Fundamental Substances’. These substances are called Qi, Jing, Shen, Blood and Body Fluids. For the sake of this case study, which evolves around an 18 year old female student experiencing dysmenorrhoea, the concepts of Qi and Blood are relevant and therefore will be described briefly.
7(2): 39-44
Non-Refereed Occasional
Paper
A bunch of needles: Conflicts and commonalities between East and West
Tina addresses the issues of ignorance and prejudice which have underpined the view of Traditional Chinese Medicine as outdated and intellectually immature.Abstract There are fundamental differences between Eastern and Western views of healthcare including the interpretation of ‘health’ and ‘illness’, ways in which the human system is perceived, and how diagnoses and treatment are carried out by respective physicians. These concepts are explored in relation to the use of Traditional Chinese Medicines and present nursing theories and practices.
1(1):
28-33
Non-Refereed Occasional Paper
Aromatherapy in Labour: What midwives should know
Easing the burden for women in labour
Abstract This paper explores reasons why natural therapies are being reintroduced for complementary care, specifically in labour, and describes those women who may benefit from it. The key issues to be noted when producing a policy on aromatherapy in labour are discussed. There is a variety of ways to apply essential oils, and some suggestions are made. The importance of understanding chemical constituents and variations of plant origins is emphasised in relation to the possible interactions and adverse effects they may produce. Midwives have a responsibility to educate themselves regarding any new therapies being introduced. While aromatherapy is considered safe, midwives are not competent to practise aromatherapy independently, without gaining appropriate training, or being under close guidance and supervision from qualified aromatherapists.
3(2): 35-38
Non-Refereed
Occasional Paper
Margaret Meyer
Enhancing Well-being Through Aromatherapy: A Model of Service
Margaret outlines the use of massage and aromatherapy and the positive results achieved
Abstract This paper describes the Aromatherapy In-Care Programme which is a voluntary service offered by professional aromatherapists to patients in nursing homes and hospitals. Massage and aromatherapy form a dynamic combination which has brought about very positive results — especially an enhanced sense of wellbeing. The success of this programme underlines the effectiveness of aromatherapy as an adjunct to orthodox medicine.
4(1): 41-44
Non-Refereed
Occasional
Paper
Janette Mills
Aromatherapy on the Ward: The whiff of ‘de-stress’
Janette discusses the implementation of aromatherapy into a busy and stressful environment and the positive outcomes that were achieved
Abstract Aromatherapy, as identified by the Burton Goldberg Group (1994), is a natural therapy which utilises the medicinal properties found in the essential oils of various plants. Through a process of steam distillation or cold-pressing the constituents of the plants oil (its essence) are extracted from its flowers, leaves, branches, or roots (Burton Goldberg Group, 1994). My challenge was whether a therapy, such as aromatherapy, could be implemented into a busy, stressful orthopaedic ward and have a positive effect in relieving some of the stress in that environment.
4(1):
26
Practitioners Forum
Susan Jones
Natural healing in Gerontic care
Abstract Aromatherapy has been successful for individual treatment and for changing the overall atmosphere and odour at a 56 bed nursing home. Two case studies are detailed.
5(2): 47-49
Non-Refereed
Occasional
Paper
Susan MacMahon, Dr Stephen Kermode
A clinical trial of the effect of aromatherapy on motivational behaviour in a dementia care setting using a single design subject.
This paper describes the significant improvement in motivational behaviour associated with the use of aromatherapy.
Abstract An n=1 clinical trial of the effectiveness of aromatherapy on motivational behaviour in a dementia care setting was undertaken using an AB design. Baseline data were recorded for two months, followed by two months of treatment data. Findings showed a statistically significant improvement in motivational behaviour associated with the use of aromatherapy.
5(2): 50
Practitioners Forum
Rose Osborne
Aromatherapy in practice: Creative nursing — Daw House Hospice.
A description of the successful use of aromatherapy in a palliative care setting.
Abstract In Daw House Hospice essential oils have been used as an integral part of patient care since 1990.
6(1): 32-38
Refereed Feature Article
Deborah Clarke
Advancing my health care practice in aromatherapy.
Deborah describes her research to examine the effect of aromatherapy on stress reduction in a haemodialysis unit.
Abstract This paper describe a clinical trial to examine the effects of aromatherapy on stress reduction in haemodialysis patients. The author used a social readjustment rating scale (SRRS), health assessment questionnaire and reflective journal in the collection and analysis of data.
8(1): 14-22
Refereed Feature Article
L
Campbell
A Pollard
C Roeton
The development of clinical practice guidelines for the use of aromatherapy in a cancer setting
Insight into the research behind guidelines now in place at Peter McCullum Cancer Institute
Abstract The need to develop guidelines for the use of aromatherapy was identified to ensure safe and appropriate use in clinical practice. Therapeutic actions and safety data were reviewed along with literature relating to nurses’ use of aromatherapy. A policy was developed with the needs of the oncology patient being the foremost consideration. Methods of administration and dosage of essential oils were stipulated to address safety issues.
12(1): 35-41 Occasional Article
Could homeopathic medicine be utilised as a treatment for teething?
Linlee Jordan RN, MHScEd, DipHom, DipNut.
Linlee explores perceptions and practices related to teething and calls for greater utilisation of a homeopathic approach.Abstract: Despite much debate, teething is commonly believed to include a cluster of distressing symptoms. Over the centuries various treatments have been used and fallen into disrepute. Homeopathy has a track record of consistent and effective management of teething, treating the whole child regardless of the source of the distress. This article explores the literature on teething and calls for more research to be directed towards homeopathy’s holistic approach towards managing teething symptoms.
11(2): 41-43
Connections
Alternative Medicine and Community-Building
Alan Jacques AdvDipHlthSci(Homoeopathy), BEd.
Introduction: Alan dreams of community and runs of his not-for-profit Homeopathy clinic subsidised by his employment as a teacher.‘Accessible Alternatives’ is a not-for-profit Homoeopathy clinic in Brisbane which provides alternative medicine, on a part time basis, to low wage earners, the unemployed and students. Clients set their own treatment rates according to how much each individual feels they can afford. The clinic started while I was studying teaching and didn’t have time to run a practice but couldn’t not do Homoeopathy. I was lucky enough to be getting Austudy at the time and used to joke that it was the first government sponsored Homoeopathy clinic in the world. Now that I’m working as a teacher, my other great passion, I continue to fund it the difference between the clinic’s costs and its income from my wages (still government money!), basically because the experience continues to be good for me.
10(2): 44
Book Review
The homœopathic conversation: The art of case taking by Brian Kaplan.
Reviewed by Ian Howden B Com (Melb), ARoH
(Extract)…The holistic health professional of the early 21st century sees the human being as a complex synthesis of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual influences. Contemporary practitioners are aware that the symptoms collected from the patient need to form an accurate picture of the totality of the patient’s dis-ease. Consequently, a rapidly increasing number of students and practitioners of holistic health are today paying more attention to the art of how to take the patient’s case—to the collection of accurate information concerning the health of the patient.
This book will be a valuable ally for all natural therapy practitioners and will assist greatly in teaching case-taking to students. Unfortunately the title The Homœopathic Conversation, although it will catch the eye of most serious homœopathy students, will miss a much wider audience of students of naturopathy, nursing, medicine, herbalism etc. The modern health professions cover a multitude of modalities..
4(2): 39-41
Non-Refereed
Occasional Paper
Lesley Meredith
A Journey into Homeopathy
This article describes the writer's successful attempt to move into a healing modality that sees the individual as an integrated whole and some of the principles of that modality
Abstract This article describes a shift in beliefs – moving away from an allopathic perspective in nursing practice, to the study and practice of classical homoeopathy – a modality that sees the individual as an integrated whole.
7(1): 31-35
Non-Refereed Occasional Paper
The complex ‘whole’: Exploring homoeopathic and spiritual considerations
Fiona focuses on developing a deeper understanding of the nature and role of holistic health care through an exploration of homeopathy and spiritual considerations.
Abstract Unlike the biomedical model, holistic health care takes a much broader view of what constitutes health and the responsibility for helping restore an individual’s health. Homeopathy addresses the physical, mental and emotional aspects of the whole individual, while alternative practices such as yoga, hypnotherapy and meditation can be described as ‘functional’ spiritual practices which demonstrate the taking of personal responsibility for health care to the individual.
2(1)
Book Review
Lyn Ramsay reviews Achterberg J, Dossey B, Kolkmeier 1994 Rituals of healing: Using imagery for health and wellness USA: Bantam Books (Review) 2(1):
7(1): 36-40
Non-Refereed Occasional
Paper
Guided imagery: A strategy for improving therapeutic relationships and human interaction
Guided imagery is an age old practice which can provide relief far beyond anxiety related to illness and unfamiliar healthcare interventions. Shelley reviews recent literature
Abstract Guided imagery, rather than being a revolutionary complementary or alternative therapy, has been utilised for centuries to alleviate suffering and promote wellness. Its efficacy has been studied and documented in physical, psychological and spiritual dis-ease. This article reviews relevant literature supporting the premise that guided imagery is a strategy that can be used for improving therapeutic relationships and is an example of holistic healthcare.
11(1): 37-44 Occasional Article
Implementing reflexology into midwifery practice
Lyndall Mollart RN, RM, CHFHC, BHScNurs, GradDipMid, DipReflexology
Lyndall’s study adds to the body of literature on midwives observations and perceptions of a complementary therapy such as reflexology and its integration into clinical practice.Abstract\: This paper reports on a small quantitative study of midwives who had undertaken a midwifery reflexology course in NSW, Australia. In particular, it examines some of the barriers and influences which affect implementing knowledge into practice.
Introduction
Midwifery embraces the wellness model of caring by providing care and support of women during the normal progression of pregnancy and childbirth. However sometimes the physical discomforts of pregnant can interfere with the joy of this profound life experience. In the majority of cases women are unable to take medications during pregnancy, so many midwives endeavour to decrease the symptoms for these women by incorporating complementary therapies such as reflexology within their holistic model of midwifery care.
Many midwives are excited and enthusiastic in learning reflexology. But what happens after they have completed a reflexology course? Do they use reflexology within their holistic care of midwifery? Or does the pressure of work limit their usage of reflexology? What factors influence their use of reflexology at work?
3(2): 44
Practitioners
Forum
Sue Cechner
Treating acne from the feet up
Abstract Recently I have been consulted by a number of young people with acne. As with the majority of my clients I endeavour to treat the cause of the disease, not the symptom.
3(2):
45
Practitioners Forum
Joy Ford
The satisfaction of working with the elderly
Abstract In this case study of ‘James’, reflexology and massage are used to treat a client with multiple medical problems
8(1): 38-42
Non-Refereed Occasional
Paper
Anna Dicker
Using Bowen Therapy to improve
staff health
Abstract Positive results from the administration of Bowen Therapy to staff while at work has prompted an innovative project addressing the lowering of stress levels and preventing burn-out for all staff, in and beyond nursing.
5(2): 20-26
Refereed
Feature Article
Catherine Brennan, John Stevens
A grounded theory approach towards understanding the self perceived effects of meditation on people being treated for cancer.
An evaluation on the use of meditation in an oncology clinic for stress and pain relief.
Abstract The activities undertaken by people suffering cancer and receiving oncology treatment are known to cause high levels of anxiety. In an oncology clinic in rural Australia, nurses and volunteers promoted the use of meditation to reduce the stress caused by the terminally associated illness and its treatments. The use and self-perceived effects of meditation by cancer sufferers and their partners was explored using a grounded theory approach. Data were gathered and analysed from a series of semi-structured interviews and the findings used to generate theory regarding the use of meditation within the oncology domain. A number of theories were generated by this data and they are discussed in relation to current nursing practice and future research.
6(2): 47
Connections
Geoff Meers (Dr): A personal introduction to Vipassana Meditiation
8(1): 4-13
Refereed Feature Article
Joan
Yalden
Loretta Chung
Tai Chi: Towards an exercise program for the older person
To improve wellbeing, exercise programs need to be innovative to accommodate the abilities of frail elderly people and capture their interest
Abstract In the changing demographic and health care contexts of aged care, the creation of health promoting exercise programs for frail elderly people to improve wellbeing and quality of care is a common objective in community and residential aged care. This article describes the background to the development of a gentle exercise program that has therapeutic value and the potential to improve wellbeing and quality of care.
10(2): 19-25
REFEREED FEATURE ARTICLECarole-Lynne LeNavenec RN, PhD
Outi H. McEachern RN, MN, CPMHN(C)
Marcia Epstein PhDAn introduction to music and sound approaches for health professionals: Overview of an undergraduate web-based nursing course
We are introduced to a new and innovative online course which allows students to explore the theory and implementation possibilities of music in health care practice.
Abstract: Nursing educators have been constantly striving to develop a curriculum which enhances holistic patient care. In this article, a descriptive overview is given of a senior level, 3 credit, nursing course designed to provide nurses and other health professionals with a background in the uses of music and the importance of auditory environments for patient care and well-being. This course, which was developed by LeNavenec and Epstein, has been available via the internet since Spring 2003.
Ocular Light Therapy & Phototherapy
10(2): 39-43
PRACTITIONERS' FORUMAdolf H Deppe DLitt.et Phil.
Simone’s Knees: Phototherapy and pain
Adolf challenges us to consider the role of light in the physical healing process while working with a young, dedicated ballet dancer.
….unexplained phenomena of light persisted. It took courage to look at them carefully, but those who dared ultimately were rewarded beyond their greatest expectations. (Arthur Zajonc 1993: 156).
(Extract)…As a psychologist I am interested in psychotherapy, not in medical applications, but when Simone presented with extreme pain in the knees which was not alleviated in visits to her GP and physiotherapist, I suggested we try phototherapy. I explained to her that I lacked medical training and that the procedure was largely experimental, but she nonetheless made the decision to proceed.
6(2): 42-44
Adolf Deppe
Light relief: The case for Ocular Light Therapy.
Adolf explains how he uses Ocular Light Therapy.
Abstract The historical lineage of practitioners involved in the use of coloured light in therapy can be traced from the early Egyptians, who reputedly suspended dyed cloth over wall openings to bathe the patient in colour. Other renowned practitioners include Pythagoras, Goethe and Rudolph Steiner. Coloured light therapy is now being practised by many clinician/scientists, mainly optometrists, and also by psychologists, educationalists, general medical practitioners, psychiatrists and chiropractors
7(1): 41
Practitioners Forum
Ocular Light Therapy: A
Case Study Adolf is
currently exploring the remarkable capability
of coloured light
to effect change at psychological and psychosomatic
levels.Adolf
Deppe
Introduction My own experience with coloured light effects began when I worked with stained glass and became aware of the way in which the coloured light affected my own mood states. Using Ocular Light Therapy, rapid therapeutic change has occurred in clients, and I have moved from initial scepticism to the firm conviction that the practice of coloured light therapy has the potential to become a major tool in psychotherapy.
9(2):
32-40
Refereed Feature Article
Patricia
Sherwood PhD,
GradDip(SpEd), BA, GradDipArts(Counselling),
AdvDip(Philophonetics)
Yehuda Tagar BA(EdTheatre),
PGDipSocSci(Counselling), BA(Theatre)
Philophonetics counselling for prevention of burnout in nurses
Trish and Yehuda provide further insight into ways in which philophonetics counselling is assisting nurses to deal with stress and burnout.
Abstract: Nurses who have self-reported burnout rate their experiences prior to and after the intervention to reveal significant reductions in their burnout experience on all items. Philophonetics counselling interventions address feelings of victimisation, disorientation, loss of decision making power, lack of interpersonal boundaries and disconnection from one’s inner being and one’s internal resources.
7(1): 15-20
Patricia Sherwood
Yehuda Tagar
Experience awareness tools for preventing burnout in nurses
Trish and Yehuda introduce us to Philophonetics Counselling: dealing with nurse burnout through personal empowerment
Abstract Philophonetics counselling is a radically new method of coping with stress through the development of individually tailored self-controlling emotional and cognitive strategies. This paper proposes that philophonetics counselling provides an innovative holistic approach of dealing with burnout in the nursing profession.
7(2): 45-47
Practitioners Forum
Patricia Sherwood
Yehuda Tagar
Self-care tools for creating resistance to burnout: A case study in philophonetics counselling
Our introduction to philophonetics counselling in our previous issue is further illustrated with this case study
Introduction The more intense, demanding and complicated the pressures of today’s working environments are, the more effective the tools need to be with which to monitor, access and protect our inner system. The range of non-verbal modes of awareness and of expression exemplified by philophonetics counselling, can become a significant contribution for the empowerment, maintenance and self care of nurses. The following case study of a philophonetics counselling session with Mary illustrates the application of this process.
Therapeutic Touch & Healing Touch
11(1): 33-36 Ocassional Article
Therapeutic Touch: The conventional verses the alternative
Tse Yan Alexander Lee BHlthSci
Alexander asks us to consider the role Therapeutic Touch could play in the management of pain.Abstract: Pain is a complex personal, subjective and unpleasant experience involving many sensations and perceptions and it has a profound impact on the well being of an individual, both physically and psychologically. With an increasing costs and pharmacological implications, many patients are beginning to look at alternative methods of pain relief. This paper reviews some issues in the use of Therapeutic Touch on pain management.
Introduction
Pain, the most irritating sensation known to mankind, is a form of biofeedback that is essential for life. Without feeling pain, an individual may not survive various injuries and illnesses. Pain is the most reported symptom and individuals will pay a fortune just to stay free of it (Brasseur 1997; Freund & McGuire 1991; Hinze 1988). Despite advanced pharmaceutical and scientific researches, humankind is still confronted by pain from birth to death. According to the World Health Organization, pain is still a major public health problem that is often neglected in both developed and developing countries (Jadad & Brownman 1995).
2(2):
15-25
Refereed Feature
Article
Debbie Smyth
Healing through Nursing: The lived experience of Therapeutic Touch, Part 1
The report on a phenomenological study which explored the nature and meanings of patients' experiences of Therapeutic Touch
Abstract Using a phenomenological perspective for inquiry, this study aimed to understand the nature of the healing relationship during Therapeutic Touch. This research is being presented in two parts. This section contributes to the background of the study of the phenomenon of interest. As the study unfolded, the philosophical context surrounding Therapeutic Touch and, in particular, the healing phenomenon associated with the modality gained increasing relevance. An explanation of the healing phenomenon is explored through quantum physics. Part Two, to be published in the next edition of the Australian Journal of Holistic Nursing, will outline the research in terms of analysis and interpretation, and explore the insights which emerged from the project.
3(1): 18-24
Debbie Smyth
Healing Through Nursing: The Lived Experience of Therapeutic Touch: Part Two.
Debbie provides an in-depth discussion on the philosophy and use of Therapeutic Touch in healing
Abstract This study sought to understand what it means for a patient to experience the healing modality Therapeutic Touch. A phenomenological perspective was used to focus on the exploration and interpretation of information about patients’ lived experience. Along with phenomenological reflection, a hermeneutic process of uncovering hidden, as well as explicit meaning, was used in information analysis. This was guided by two procedural activities of van Manen’s method, phenomenological reflection and phenomenological writing.
4(2): 43
Practitioners Forum
Barbara Rogers
The Power of Love: With healing touch
Abstract One of the goals of Healing Touch is to restore wholeness through harmony and balance and this is done through the centred heart.
6(2): 48
Connections
Clare Gibson
The Healing Touch phenomenon
Excerpt: There is a new healing phenomenon sweeping the world today called Healing Touch. Or maybe it is only the name which is new. The concept of working with the body’s energy system has been used by all the indigenous people on this planet, well before our times. It is perhaps the in-depth understanding of this energy system and how it works that is new about Healing Touch.
Healing Touch is a philosophy, a way of caring, and a sacred art. It is defined as an energy based therapeutic approach to healing. It uses a collection of techniques to treat the human energy system, assisting the client to self heal. Used in combination with modern medicine it can assist recovery and promote wellbeing.
7(2): 20-28
Refereed Feature Article
Elaine Davies
My journey into the literature of Therapeutic Touch and Healing Touch: Part 1
Elaine begins her exploration into Healing Touch by sharing a personal overview of research on Therapeutic Touch from 1971 —1988
Abstract This exploration of the literature is in two parts and follows the progress of Healing Touch from the personal perspective. Part one explores Therapeutic Touch and offers a review of current research. Part two in our next issue, will focus on Healing Touch.
8(1):
31-37
Refereed Feature Article
Elaine Davies
My journey into the literature of Therapeutic Touch and Healing Touch: Part 2
Elaine now focuses on her findings around Healing Touch
Abstract Following on from part one published in the previous issue, research on Healing Touch will be now be reviewed and applied to current nursing theory to support this exciting holistic modality.
2(1):
38-41
Non-Refereed Occasional Paper
Jennellda Harlow
Plant Medicine and Shamanism: The shattered healing arts of the Australian Aborigine
Two hundred years after invasion and colonisation, only fleeting glimpses remain of the Aborigines' truly universal view of health
Abstract Much has been documented on the traditional healing therapies utilised by the Australian Aborigine, including the role of shamanism. This paper briefly examines the uses of traditional medicine before and after colonisation of Australia and the dramatic changes in lifestyle experienced by the Aboriginal people.
3(1):
38-40
Non-Refereed Occasional
Paper
Valerie Parkin
A Legacy from a Shaman: The Cultural Influence of the Canadian Plains Indians.
An essay exploring the cultural and historical factors that have influenced Valerie's approach to health care
Abstract This article will outline the historical factors that have influenced my values and attitudes towards health care and my personal health. It will describe my formative years with my maternal grandfather and the significance of the family’s inherent psychic abilities. It will also address how I was deeply influenced by close contact with the local native Indians. There were deeply spiritual people, still practising the same natural medicine and healing that had been passed down from their forefathers, who taught me to be open to holistic ways of life and living in harmony with nature.
8(1): 43-46
Non-Refereed
Occasional Paper
Julie Ralph-Flint
Cultural Borrowing and Sharing: Aboriginal Bush Medicine in Practice
Working on the boundary between two cultures has shown Julie a new perspective to health care
Abstract Aboriginal people of the Northern Territory continue to approach health related issues by integrating traditional and modern lifestyles and sharing information.