Embracing the Alternative

Naturopathic medical school was an eye-opening experience for Dr. Nishida. Besides traditional science and medical classes, courses were also given in natural therapies, such as botanical medicine, homeopathy, hydrotherapies, and even electives in body work and energy healing, such as massage and Reiki.

Initially Dr. Nishida took no interest in the elective coursework. It seemed supplementary, not necessary for medical care. However, her view changed completely when she suffered a bad whiplash injury from a car accident. A classmate gave Dr. Nishida a Reiki treatment to help release the physical and emotional shock of the accident and reduce the resulting inflammation in the body.

One Reiki treatment was more effective at easing her neck and back pain than a week of anti-inflammatory medication. She realized how important healing of the energetic body is for the recovery of the physical body. Impressed, she decided to take Reiki Level I, her first step into the vast world of spiritual healing. She proceeded to take every elective class available for bodywork and energy healing.