Hands that soothe and cure

Be it Feng-shui, Reiki, yoga or Pranic healing, it is the flow of invisible energy in nature that is being affected. Prana is a Sanskrit term translated as life-force, comparable to the Chinese term "chi" or the Greek word "pneuma".

A seminar on the basic principles and techniques of Pranic healing will be held over the next two Fridays, beginning tomorrow and continuing on May 11. The course is being conducted by Sriram Rajagopal, the general manager of the World Pranic Healing Foundation, India.

Pranic healing is an ancient approach of utilising the subtle energy fields or auras surrounding us to enhance the body's overall well-being. It is a non-religious, comprehensive and holistic healthcare system based on making non-invasive movements with the hand to get energy around the body to flow better.

Rajagopal explains that Pranic healing may be applied for simple complaints like aches and colds to more serious problems like arthritis, asthma and heart ailments. The technique not only works on physical conditions but can also improve the overall quality of life. It helps reduce stress, improves interpersonal relationships and sharpens the mind to develop better concentration and problem-solving abilities.

"Our aim is not to replace medical treatment, but work as a complementary system by improving energy on three levels – physical, emotional and mental," he says.

How does Pranic healing differ from Reiki, another alternative healthcare system based on energy force? According to Daniel Gorgonia, a visiting master practitioner from the Philippines, Pranic healing does not involve touching. The healer plays an active part in the process by using certain techniques such as scanning and cleansing. Describing the system as an art and science, Gorgonia says "Pranic healing is an art because it requires the healer to develop certain skills, and a science because we follow a cookbook approach."

One of the strengths of Pranic healing lies in the uniformity of its teachings. It follows a step-by-step method that is universally followed and practised. Anyone with an open mind and interest can learn.

The workshops in Dubai will include information on energy, Pranic breathing methods, meditation of twin hearts, self-healing and distant healing techniques. For more information, call Prakash on 050-656 6547.