BGL writes: “I have come across this system of psychotherapy by Richard C. Schwartz known as IFS [Internal Family Systems]. Do you know what is in involved with this program? It seems to be coming from different religious traditions. I’m concerned that it is being facilitated in Catholic organizations and I’m not sure it is valid for healing as it portrays.”
MCA writes: "I looked for any information about The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren on the website and nothing came up. Do you have any comments regarding the appropriateness for Catholics who may want to read this book?”
SL writes: " . . . I lost my sister to cancer two years ago. After her cough became progressively worse with alternative therapies she finally sought conventional treatment at the behest of her family. Unfortunately, it was too late in the course of her Stage 4 lung cancer . . .
C asks: "I have a friend who was an ayurveda practitioner and teacher for years before returning to the Catholic faith. She insists that ayurveda is scientifically proven etc. Not knowing anything about it, I've been searching the internet for more information. Is Ayurveda science or pseudoscience?"
We have received numerous inquiries from readers who wonder why our blogs on New Age and alternative health practices seem to put so much emphasis on science. Shouldn't they based on Catholic teaching?
NC writes: "Could you tell me what you know about the Ashwaghanda herbal supplement? It is supposed to be very helpful but it seems linked to some Indian philosophy that I would not agree with."
Photodynamic Red Light Therapy (Photo courtesy of the National Cancer Institute)
CF writes: “I was reading about the new LUMEBOX red light therapy. It is promoted to be better than medications in helping almost everything. Could you illuminate me as to whether this is a hoax?”
DF writes: "I googled 'earthing' on your blog and read the article you wrote on it (and essential oils). While you stated that there is little evidence that this 'earthing' stuff is, you did not say if it is harmful (other than wasting your money and/or supporting new age businesses.)
TM writes: "My wife and I have enjoyed the five exercises known as the Five Tibetan Rites. They make it sound far more elaborate then what it is, merely five exercises 21 times each. At least that is how we see it. Can you comment?"
BGL writes: “I have come across this system of psychotherapy by Richard C. Schwartz known as IFS [Internal Family Systems]. Do you know what is in involved with this program? It seems to be coming from different religious traditions. I’m concerned that it is being facilitated in Catholic organizations and I’m not sure it is valid for healing as it portrays.”
