First developed in the early 1970s, Therapeutic Touch is an innovative and accessible approach to whole-body healing that has been demonstrated to induce relaxation, relieve pain and accelerate the body's natural healing process. Although Therapeutic Touch has been used by tens of thousands of nurses and other health practitioners, this book brings together, for the first time, the studies and research that support the validity of this treatment when used as an adjunct to regular medical care. Therapeutic Touch is a contemporary interpretation of several ancient healing practices and this clear-sighted guide shows how, and why, it can strengthen the immune system, relieve chronic pain, and detect illness; treat asthma, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiac problems, endocrine imbalances, and headaches; promote healing of fractures and infections; relieve symptoms associated with cancer, AIDS, and other serious illnesses; enhance relaxation to reduce anxiety and depression, especially as they are related to chronic or terminal conditions; and be used effectively with premature infants and geriatric patients. Read Less