Those interested in alternative medical techniques will be intrigued by the healing methods advocated by the author. Sha, a teacher and healer with degrees in both Western and Eastern medicine, shares the "secrets of self-healing" that he developed as a disciple of Master Guo, the founder of Zhi Neng medicine. Zhi Neng is based on the Eastern concept of chi, a vital energy or life force. According to the author, chi
comes from healthy vibration of cells within the body. When these cells are blocked or otherwise not in balance, illness results. Self-directed power healing may result when Sha's four self-healing techniques (detailed here) are employed. Simply stated, these are body power (special hand, standing and sitting positions), sound power (repetitions of a mantra), mind power (creative visualization) and soul power (spiritual communication). Although the author is careful to state that these techniques can be used in conjunction with traditional Western medicine, his text is filled with examples of near-miracle reversals of chronic pain and disease allegedly alleviated by power healing. A flight attendant who cured herself of migraines, an asthmatic who reversed the condition of his lungs and a computer administrator who healed herself of tendinitis, back pain and constipation are just some of the examples. Since these case histories are anecdotal and not supported by more scientific documentation, Sha's claims will be unconvincing to many. (Mar.)
