Transformational Changes in Health Status: A Qualitative Exploration of Healing Moments.
Explore (New York, N.Y.) January 1, 2017 Emmylou Rahtz, Sian Bonnell, Sarah Goldingay et al.
Healing moments—sudden or gradual experiences of transformational change—are widely recognized by alternative medicine practitioners but remain underexplored in mainstream health research. In a qualitative study, 69 practitioners who watched a video discussion of healing moments then wrote short stories about their own experiences. Thematic analysis revealed an overarching theme of transformational change, ranging from quasimiraculous shifts to modest improvements in wellbeing. Three subordinate themes emerged: connectivity (intense bonds through touch, empathy, and love, benefiting both healer and client), quiescence (a quiet, calm atmosphere during healing), and control (healers relinquishing control to channel healing, clients seizing control to become empowered). The findings indicate that healing moments are a common, distinct concept among alternative medicine practitioners.