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time, these systems
progressed into independent branches of
learning. Though there were other forms of
medicine being practiced in other parts of
the world, these three are of special
interest to us because they found their way
into India at various stages in time and
affected the progress of traditional healing
methods that are prevalent in the country
today.
These ages – old systems,
based on herbs and diet, offer a powerfully
effective and gentle way to heal, with the
least danger of side effects. Today
allopathic with its powerful drugs often
creates a toxic burden for the body – one
that the liver is unable to eliminate and
which impairs necessary organic
physiological processes. The fallout of this
has been an increased interest in a holistic
approach to health – a return to nature.
Naturopathy seeks to take human beings not
back to nature but back to the fundamentals
of nature. Natural cures are able to cleanse
the system, thus enhancing the body’s power
to cure itself and its ability to defend
itself from germs.
Naturopathy sees health
and disease in holistic terms taking into
account the inherent relationship between
the individual and the cosmic spirit, the
individual and cosmic consciousness, energy
and matter. It views man as a microcosm, a
child of the cosmic forces and the external
environment, the macrocosm. There is nothing
in existence without a unique value in the
cosmos. Life is relational, interdependent,
interconnectivity, a system of mutual
nourishment and care, not only physically,
but also psychologically and spiritually.
It is possible to
maintain and sustain good health by
believing in the curative powers of the life
force, by obeying the laws of nature, and by
maintaining a constructive and healthy
mental attitude.
Since naturopathy is
based on an ancient and traditional system,
some may doubt its very relevance, feeling
that it does not apply in modern society.
But the increasing number of people who are
turning to it, is evidence not only of its
popularity but also of the fact that
naturopathy is a medical – metaphysical
science of healing, the mother of all
healing arts, designed to promote happiness,
health and growth. |
