Paul G, (and others)

Looking back at my previous posts, I obviously didn't express myself as clearly as I might have, or probably should have.

To point out that 'physciologic' is not actually a word, is perhaps immaterial. To point out the true medical nature of some of the conditions which you consider as being 'illness' would perhaps be churlish.

I would however like to make a few points:

So far as we can know, throughout history, there have been 'healers,' people have prayed to whatever god(s) they have chosen to place faith in, have consulted the 'wise' and have wished that those close to them would not suffer. Of course there is (at face value)nothing wrong with this, and it is perhaps a fundamental part of human nature.

Over the last 200+ years, average life expectancy has increased dramatically. I do not believe that there has been any great increase in the number of 'healers' or any advance in the number of people thinking 'healing thoughts.' (apart from the overall increase in global population)

There have however been huge medical / scientific advances. These advances are the reason behind increased life expectancy, not positive vibes.

I do not in anyway disagree that love and knowing that people care for a patient, and believe that the patient will get well, may have a positive effect on recovery. Indeed, various studies suggest that 'belief' can play an important part in the likelyhood of conquering various cancers etc. This is not to say that these vibes have had some 'magical' effect, the medical treatment did that bit...

As an analogy: Two guys who are equally qualified and well suited, go for interviews for the same job. The 1st guy's current boss tells him how wonderful he is, how well suited he is for promotion etc. The 2nd guys boss tells him how terrible he is, how he'd be lucky to keep his current position....

Guess who gets the job?

So, what's my problem with 'healing circles?'

On face value, nothing. And they may superficially do some good. However, I believe that they can be very dangerous. Beyond the possibe benefits that I've outlined above, such beliefs are only likely to increase heartache and pain through believing in god or human inspired 'miracles' which never materialise.

Take care, and thanks for listening.

Clare