Recognizing the Role of Energy in Healing
Energy is what makes your body, mind, and spirit connect. This energy is a vital life force that is known by different names in different cultures; in traditional Chinese medicine it is known as qi (or chi), in Japanese it is known as ki, and in Ayurvedic medicine it is referred to as dosha. These are all derived from ancient practices and nontraditional medicines used for healing that involve energy flow and self-care guidelines that help a person stay healthy and feel good. Generally these practices recognize that we are all individuals with a unique mind and body. We react differently to our everyday life. It takes a tremendous amount of energy for cells to rejuvenate after radiation and chemotherapy treatments. Looking to these nontraditional methods for help in recovering from cancer treatments has brought these ancient practices into the field of modern medicine.
In His Own Words
One specific thing I did for Julie was I went and bought blank cards and went to my friends and coworkers and had them sign the cards with nice and encouraging things. I believe that kindness is powerful and the kindness of strangers can be even more so. It was nice for me also since I saw how many people that never even met my sister were willing to write a little something for her. I also try to keep the mood light for her. As serious as I know the situation is, I believe it's important and helpful to remember that life is too important to be taken too seriously. Remember to breathe, to relax, and to smile. And laugh. As much as you can. It's good for you.
— Justin, sister of Julie, 28, 2-month survivor
There are two kinds of energy, one that can be measured and one that has not yet been measured. The measurable energy comprises much of the diagnostic testing that is used in breast cancer diagnosis, such as electromagnetic fields using magnetic resonance imaging and radiation therapy. Others are ultraviolet light for treating psoriasis and light therapy for the depression precipitated by the changing seasons and lack of natural light. The energy that has not yet been measured involve the use of complementary therapies such as reiki, yoga, healing touch, acupuncture, meditation, and prayer. This energy medicine is gaining popularity and has begun to be studied for its effects on reducing stress and promoting relaxation. These will be discussed further in Chapter 11.
Often, people define what it means to be happy, healthy, and in balance, as feeling full of energy and life. Maximizing this energy is the goal of energy medicine. It is the life-force energy that makes you feel happy and alive. Ayurveda and Chinese philosophy are about combining wellness, harmony, and spiritual growth. One question that is often asked is, how do you live in balance and maintain an energy flow while going through cancer treatment? Living in balance teaches each of us that we are unique, from the foods we eat, to how we deal with stress and the things we enjoy. Breast cancer treatment zaps much of this energy, but you still have the ability to promote balance, conserve your energy, center yourself in the world, and become a warrior grounded in the earth. It is a process of being at peace with your breast cancer and taking a self-guided approach to achieving a state of health, which often is equated with energy and a feeling of wellness. Energy work can help position you as a mountain unable to be moved, and focus you on the prize of getting through your cancer treatments. Open your heart and mind to energy work and allow it to provide you with a sense of empowerment in the midst of the feelings of helplessness that often go along with breast cancer treatment.
