A Comparison of Energy Work and Traditional Western Medicine The difference between energy work and traditional western medicine is a fundamental difference in the model that each uses to define health and illness. * Energy work thinks in terms of wellness. * Traditional medicine thinks in terms of illness. * Energy work treats blocks or impedances. * Traditional medicine treats symptoms. * Energy work sees health as a perfect free flow of energy. * Traditional medicine sees health as an absence of disease. * Energy work sees illness as an absence of something which needs to be restored. * Traditional medicine sees illness as the presence of something that needs to be removed. * Energy work sees illness as a disruption in the energy flow which can be treated by restoring its natural flow. * Traditional medicine sees illness as a complex array of invading micro-organisms each of which must be addressed separately. * Energy work functions according to the principles of physics. * Traditional medicine functions according to the principles of chemistry. * Energy work sees the individual as a multi- dimensional synergy of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual totality. * Traditional medicine sees the patient as a collection of parts which work magnificently and mechanically together. In the best of all possible worlds, energy work and traditional medicine would work together to solve any individual’s problem in the most effective way for each person. A compatible blending of complementary treatments would be in the best interests of all.