Veritable energies are physically measurable energies within the body. The therapies listed here have had more scientifically measurable results than those listed on the subtle energy page. While they tap into measurable energies, they may also effect subtle energy pathways in the body.
Acupressure/Acupuncture
Acupressure and Acupuncture originated in China. Acupressure was first mentioned in Chinese medical text in 300 B.C. and acupuncture was not far behind. Both are based on the concept of meridians or energy pathways which run through the body to specific organs. Acupressure uses pressure on specific points of the body to release blockages in the flow of energy known in traditional practice as chi, qi, or ki, and by modern medicine as bio-electric currents. Acupuncture uses needles on the same meridian points to improve or correct improper energy flow. (It is a good idea to work with a practitioner who uses disposable needles.)
Acupressure has influenced or become part of other practices such as massage, shiatsu, and reflexology. Acupuncture was considered first by modern medicine in 18th century England, but did not gain favor until the 19th century in France. Now it is accepted as a scientifically viable pain reducer, though the traditional concept of chi, and medical benefits other than pain reduction are still under investigation.
Chiropractic
Chiropractic care as we know it today was started by Daniel Palmer in 1895. Despite the long-standing differences between Western medicine and chiropractic, more and more people are becoming aware of the benefits offered by this practice. There is considerable research to support chiropractic care. How much is accepted research I will leave to the medical experts to decide. Nevertheless, chiropractic care has reached a high level of public acceptance because many people have experienced health benefits from qualified chiropractic doctors. I have been exposed to chiropractors since I was a toddler, when my mom first discovered and started seeing chiropractors for severe back pain and other symptoms. She was helped so much that wherever our family moved she would find a new practitioner to help her when needed and I would always tag along. My first memory of having a chiropractor work on me was at the age of thirteen. I have experienced a variety of techniques from twist and shout to very mild spinal manipulations. I keep a regular chiropractor, whom I visit several times a year, for basic spinal maintenance. Around 2003, I incurred whiplash after being rear-ended by a teen driver. I found a chiropractor who combined chiropractic with what I consider to be physical therapy techniques who got me back in shape. I have also experienced the Torque Release Technique which assists in releasing emotions which may be bound up within the spine. According to one journal article, "It is appropriate to first discuss research that suggests the spine may be an anatomical extension of the limbic system. The limbic system is the site where feelings are mediated. These feelings are expressed through the reward cascade model as first proposed by Blum and Kozlowski (1990). We now know many naturally occurring brain and spinal cord substances play a role in both emotions and pain reduction, leading to an increased sense of well-being." Finding the right chiropractor is essential to having a productive experience with chiropractic and any of the variety of techniques associated with this modality.
Cranialsacral Therapy and SomatoEmotional Release
Cranialsacral therapy was started by William G. Sutherland in the 1930's. CST was further developed by others, including John E. Upledger, who also added SomatoEmotional Release to the practice of Cranialsacral therapy. SomatoEmitional Release adds a psychotherapudic element to cranialsacral practices. The science behind cranialsacral therapy is in question by some medical practitioners (as are most alternative therapies). The first premise behind this therapy is that humans have a craniosacral rhythm of cerebrospinal fluid, and that improper flow impairs health. The existence of the fluid and the rhythm is scientifically substantiated. The second premise is that the rhythm of the cerebrospinal fluid can be manipulated with pressure and adjustment to cranial bones. From what I have read, the second premise has not been medically substantiated. However, many people have had wonderful results with this therapy.
Foot & Body Detox
Iridology
Iridology is another controversial alternative practice. The link provided is a good resource regarding the history, philosophy, and the positives and negatives of this practice. Remember iriodogy is only as good as the practitioner reading the iris. Reading the eyes for signs of health or degeneration in body systems can be beneficial if used in conjunction with other therapies. Specifically iridology may have complementary purposes when connected to modern medical practices which can confirm, or deny, the the findings of an iridology reading. According to Kevin Du-Val, an iridologist in Australia, some iridologist have found medical problems undiscovered by doctors which needed medical attention. If you have symptoms that are unaccounted for you may in frustration turn to an iridologist in an attempt to gather more information about your situation. Caution should be used when you have no problems and an iridologist says there is a problem. Do not create needless worry for yourself. They may be detecting a tendency toward a problem which you can avoid with an awareness of your possible weaknesses.
Massage
In my book massage is a must have maintenance for overall health and well-being.
Modern Medical Practices
Meridian Therapy
Natural Childbirth/Birthing Centers
Naturopathic Medicine
Percussion Therapies
Reflexology and Zoning
I haven't found a decent explanation of the difference between reflexology and foot zoning. So until I do, I will just say that they are essentially the same. Reflexology can effect all parts of the body as pressure points on the feet, hands, and ears are massaged. Reflexology started out as Zoning developed by Dr. William Fitzgerald in the early 1900's when he wrote the book "Zone Therapy, or Relieving Pain at Home". Eunice Ingham improved upon his work by mapping the reflex points on the hands and feet. They are known as the father and mother of reflexology. Currently, there is a return to the former name Zoning along with some claimed improvements. (One area which may be new is face zoning.) I will have to experience the difference for myself.