CAYCE PRIMER AND UPDATE
Eric A. Mein, MD; David L. McMillin, MA
Meridian Institute
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
[NOTE: This paper was presented at the American Holistic Medical
Association 23rd Annual Scientific Conference, May 31 - June 3, 2000;
Tuscon, AZ. See
below for continuing
education credit for this article.]
ABSTRACT
The work of Edgar Cayce has made a notable contribution
to the development of modern holistic medicine. This paper explores
some of the important themes of Cayce's approach to health and healing
with special emphasis on current research and clinical application.
The causes and treatment of three common syndromes (migraine, psoriasis
and asthma) are discussed based on the Cayce model. Pilot studies
on several other conditions are also briefly described. Various
educational resources and opportunities for participation in Cayce oriented
research and clinical application are described.
INTRODUCTION
Historical Background of Edgar Cayce's Life and Work
More than fifty years ago, an important body of information
about health and healing presented itself through the work of Edgar Cayce
(1877-1945). Cayce's childhood was marked by paranormal experiences
such as seeing and speaking to recently deceased relatives and sleeping
with his head on textbooks to memorize school lessons. His abilities
as a psychic diagnostician surfaced during his early twenties when he developed
a gradual paralysis of the throat and medical doctors were unable to provide
relief. As a last resort, he allowed a friend to hypnotize him so
that he could reestablish the altered state of consciousness that he had
utilized as a child to memorize his school books. From this trance
state, he was able to diagnosis his condition and prescribe treatments
which remedied his problem.
For over 40 years, Cayce would lay on a couch and
present information and respond to questions from a sleep-like state, covering
a wide range of topics. Cayce was hesitant to use his ability to
help others. He felt responsible for the information and was concerned
that the suggested treatments might have deleterious effects. Consequently,
many of the early beneficiaries of his services were desperate cases, often
given up by medical doctors. Working closely with various types of
physicians who applied his recommendations, Cayce gradually became
convinced that his unusual ability could provide
help to suffering humanity.
As an indication of Cayce's interest in providing
help to persons suffering from physical illness, over 9,000 were given
in response to health issues. The remainder of the 14,000+ readings
cover virtually every field of human endeavor, from religion and philosophy
to business and international affairs. Apart from the content of
Cayce's readings, the trance process itself is a fascinating aspect of
Cayce's work. Harmon Bro provides a glimpse into the trance procedure
and the physical context of the readings:
"What took place in the morning and afternoon
trance sessions, in the months that followed when I heard and took notes
on some six hundred of Cayce's readings, was a profound shock. Nothing
could adequately prepare one for the amount of swift helpfulness that flowed
from the unconscious man. His outward procedures were simple enough.
Cayce sat on his plain green studio couch in his cheerful windowed study,
across the room from his desk and little portable typewriter. He
prayed, then lay down and step by step went unconscious. He spoke
in measured address about each person or need to which his wife, sitting
beside him, quietly directed his attention. After an hour or more
of discourse and questions which his secretary recorded in shorthand, he
came swiftly back to consciousness, remembering nothing of what he had
said, and got up to resume the activities of his busy correspondence and
office. It was all done in broad daylight and simplicity, as naturally
as if he were still taking portraits in a photographic studio. But
the plainness of the process did not take away the jolt of seeing him accomplish
day after day what our culture said was impossible." (Bro, 1990, p.
58)
Although many of the early readings were not recorded,
over 14,000 were stenographically transcribed and have been preserved by
the Association for Research and Enlightenment (A.R.E.) in Virginia Beach,
Virginia. A CD-ROM containing the Cayce readings is available from
A.R.E. Press (see below).
Edgar Cayce and the Holistic Movement in America
An oft-quoted Journal of the American Medical
Association editorial acknowledged Edgar Cayce's contribution to the holistic
movement in America:
"The roots of present-day holism probably go back
100 years to the birth of Edgar Cayce in Hopkinsville, Ky. By the
time he died in 1944 [sic], Cayce was well recognized as a mystic who entered
sleep trances and dictated a philosophy of life and healing called "readings."
(Callan, 1979, p. 1156)
With regard to the creation and development of the
AHMA, some of the founding members of the AHMA have acknowledged Cayce's
influence.
Principle Concepts of Edgar Cayce's Approach
The Cayce approach to health and healing is based on the following fundamental
concepts:
-
Holism - This approach affirms that human beings are multidimensional including
physical, mental and spiritual aspects which must be considered in relation
to health and healing.
-
Inner Healing - All healing comes from within. Our bodies have the
inherent ability to be healthy. Therapeutic interventions work best by
assisting the processes of innate healing.
-
Prevention - Healthy lifestyle is emphasized as a means of staying well
and preventing disease. Because all healing comes from within, the
same therapies which assist the body in healing itself are often helpful
in the prevention of illness.
-
Self Care - Self responsibility in making choices and applying what we
know to be true on a regular basis is the foundation of health. Most
of the therapies utilized in this approach are best done in the home and
as part of the daily routine of life.
-
Natural Therapeutics - "Nature cures" is the basis for many healing systems
as it is for this one. Natural remedies and therapies which work
closely with and are supportive of the body's innate healing ability are
emphasized in this approach.
-
Integration - The Cayce approach acknowledges that all therapeutic modalities
and systems of healing can be helpful. The important point is to
find the best combination of treatments for each individual. This
cooperative attitude seeks the common ground between systems and is known
by various names such as "complementary medicine," "integrative medicine,"
and "comprehensive medicine."
-
Individuality - Each person is a special entity. Health and healing
can best be achieved by a person-centered approach which recognizes and
utilizes the uniqueness of each individual rather than limiting people
to diagnostic categories and pathological labels.
-
Health & Illness - Health is a state of wholeness, balance and growth.
Incompleteness and imbalance ("incoordination") are common experiences
which can challenge us to grow and develop. Thus illness can often
be viewed as an opportunity for transformation.
-
Non-Invasive Assessment & Treatment - "First do no harm" should be
practiced with regard to assessment and treatment. Practitioners
should seek the least invasive procedures available that can assist with
inner healing. Keep in mind, however, that surgery and/or medications
can be helpful for extreme situations.
-
Cause and Effect - Although symptomatic relief to decrease suffering is
desirable, addressing the underlying cause(s) is also strongly emphasized
in the Cayce readings. One of the strengths of the Cayce approach
is the wealth of insight into the patterns of "cause" and "effect" associated
with the various categories of disease.
CAUSES AND TREATMENTS OF THREE COMMON SYNDROMES
BASED ON THE CAYCE MODEL
Migraine and the Enteric Nervous System
Migraine is a complex, systemic disorder of unknown
causation. Typically, migraine presents with various neurologic,
vascular, and gastrointestional symptoms. One of the major
problems in understanding the etiology and pathophysiology of migraine
is how to conceptualize both the nervous and vascular aspects of the syndrome.
Traditionally, migraine has been regarded as a "vascular" headache due
the obvious abnormalities in circulation to the head. More recently, nervous
system involvement has been emphasized, with particular emphasis on the
trigeminal or fifth cranial nerve. An integration of these two models
has culminated in a trigemino-vascular theory which integrates nerve and
circulatory processes. Although the neurovascular components are a primary
focus in medical diagnosis and treatment, historical and contemporary viewpoints
also attribute great significance to gastrointestinal features.
The conceptual basis of the integrative approach
advocated by Edgar Cayce is described by Mein et al. (1998). In essence,
the model emphasizes that migraine is often a consequence of problems in
the intestinal system and enteric nervous system (ENS - "gut brain"), rather
than the brain or central nervous system. According to this theory,
dietary or other irritations to the bowel are common causes of migraine.
Edgar Cayce gave numerous readings describing the
pathophysiology of migraine in terms of intestinal irritation (usually
in the upper small intestine), nerve reflexes from the abdomen affecting
circulation (sympathetic vasomotor reflexes) and reflex irritation to the
trigeminal nerve.
Therapeutically, a variety of natural remedies are utilized to reduce
intestinal irritation, heal the gut, and improve neurovascular functioning.
These treatments are a complement to standard medical treatments which
are directed toward symptomatic relief.
Migraine is a general classification which probably
encompasses various etiological subgroups. Designations such as abdominal
migraine, dietary migraine, cervical migraine, menstrual migraine, etc.
suggest that a multifactorical approach is needed to understand migraine.
The Cayce approach views intestinal pathology as
one possible etiological subgroup, perhaps a major subgroup. Or alteratively,
intestinal pathology may represent a common pattern which ties together
various other subgroups into a more integrated model of migraine etiology.
Psoriasis and Leaky Gut Syndrome
Psoriasis can best be understood from a multifactorial
approach that recognizes the systemic aspects of the disorder. Among the
various factors thought to be involved in the etiology and pathogenesis
of psoriasis, bowel pathology has assumed a noteworthy position in the
literature.
Considered to be an autoimmune disorder with systemic features, psoriasis
is known to be associated with joint and bowel disease. This article
explores the concept of intestinal pathology as a significant etiological
factor in psoriasis. In essence, the model focuses on intestinal
permeability as a primary factor in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
According to this theory, various factors produce a "thinning of the walls
of the small intestine - specifically, the jejunum and the lower duodenum
. This thinning allows toxic products to leak from the intestinal tract
into the circulation; these eventually find their way into the superficial
circulation and lymphatics and are eliminated through the skin, producing
the plaques of psoriasis" [5, p. 176]. Therapeutically, a variety
of natural remedies (such as diet, herbal teas, hydrotherapies, and topical
applications) are utilized to heal the gut, decrease systemic toxicity,
and provide symptomatic relief.
Vasomotor Etiology in Asthma
Although various exciting factors are known to trigger
asthmatic attacks, the etiology of asthma remains clouded. Many authors
are concerned that the incidence of asthma has increased significantly
in recent years.
The conceptual basis of Edgar Cayce's approach to
asthma has been described by Mein (1989). In essence, the model
focuses on nervous system dysfunction as a primary factor in the pathogenesis
of asthma. According to this theory, ". a single mechanism underlies
the vast majority of asthmatic attacks - namely, "spinal lesions" and a
facilitated neural reflex, most commonly in the upper dorsal region; factors
producing these lesions include injuries, sometimes occurring at birth,
and previous lung infections. With the balance between . nervous
systems disrupted, any number of factors can further place pressure on
the system and trigger the neural reflex causing bronchial constriction
." (Mein, 1989, pp. 156-157)
Thus, pressure on spinal nerves (such as a "subluxation"
in the dorsal/thoracic area) alters nerve impulse and blood flow to the
respiratory system creating a hyperreactive condition which can be triggered
by any of several well-known mediators of asthmatic attack. In such
cases, treatment recommendations typically focused on removal of somatic
dysfunction by manual therapy, limiting exposure to mediators (especially
dietary and environmental triggers), and providing symptomatic relief for
acute episodes (usually systemic medicines or inhalants).
RESEARCH
Scholarly Research
The Abdominal Brain
An article titled "The Abdominal Brain and Enteric
Nervous System" (McMillin et al, 2000) has recently been published which
documents the role of the abdominal nervous system in neurological conditions
such as migraine, epilepsy and autism.
Leaky Gut Syndrome in Psoriasis
A comprehensive review titled "Systemic Aspects of
Psoriasis: An Integrative Model Based on Intestinal
Etiology" has been accepted for publication in Integrative Medicine (McMillin
et al., 2000).
Early American Manual Therapy
To fully document Edgar Cayce's utilization of traditional
therapeutic modalities, Meridian Institute has conducted extensive scholarly
research into primary disciplines such as historic osteopathy, chiropratic,
neuropathy, massage and other manual healing approaches. The
Early American Manual Therapy (EAMT) collection is one of the outgrowths
of this study. The EAMT collection is an interactive database with
text and graphics from the traditional manual therapy literature.
Currently the collection contain thirteen texts and numerous articles.
EAMT is hosted on the Meridian Institute website and is also available
in a CDROM format.
Physiological Regulation
Cayce's most frequent therapeutic recommendations
included osteopathy and massage. He emphasized the importance of regulating
physiology and re-establishing equilibrium and balance among the various
systems of the body. A review of the key concepts in Cayce's view of manual
therapy has been published as "Physiologic Regulation Through Manual Therapy,"
in the Manual Therapy volume of the series Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation:
State of the Art Reviews (Mein et al., 2000). An article highlighting the
importance of these regulatory concepts in assessing the efficacy of manual
therapy has been published as "Manual Healing Diversity and other Challenges
to Chiropractic Integration," in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological
Therapeutics (Nelson et al., 2000).
Basic Research
Improvement of Circulation Using the Radial Appliance
The purpose of this study was to determine if a subtle
energy device, the Cayce Radial Appliance, could improve circulation in
the extremities (Richards et al., 1996). There were two aspects to
the study: a double-blind, placebo-controlled experiment and a small clinical
investigation. In the experiment, 30 subjects were selected for cold
extremities, with the criterion that either the hands or the feet had to
be below 80 degrees F during the initial measurement session. To
measure improvement of circulation, we used digital thermometers to record
the temperatures of the thumbs and big toes on both hands and feet.
Subjects were instructed to use the appliance 16 times; laboratory measurements
were taken during the 1st, 4th and 16th sessions.
Skin temperature turned out to be a difficult variable
to work with, due to the wide variability in temperature apparently not
related to the experimental situation. The strongest results were
observed in the 4th session. During the session baseline, the
difference between hand and foot temperatures of the experimental group
was significantly higher than that of the control group (t(13,11) = 2.49,
p = .02).
The 16th session did not yield significant differences
between the experimental and control groups. However, in the experimental
group, there was a correlation of r(9) = -.56 (p = .07) of hand temperature
increase with the number of days it took to complete the 16 sessions.
That is, those subjects who were more consistent in using the appliance
may have obtained better results, though statistically the result is only
suggestive due to the small sample size.
In contrast, in a clinical follow-up study with five
subjects and no control group, we found that all subjects had a substantial
increase in hand temperature following three sessions on the appliance
(Mean increase = 8.4 degrees F, SD = 3.3). This increase was well
in excess of that seen in either the experimental or control groups in
the previous study. One important difference was that in the clinical
study, use of the appliance was closely supervised, whereas in the blind
study most of the appliance sessions were conducted by the subjects alone
in their homes.
Physiological Effects of Manual Therapy Techniques
A study currently in progress is exploring the physiological
effects of the manual therapy techniques recommended in the Cayce readings.
The osteopathic and vibratory therapy manuals of the early 1900s make specific
claims about the effects of various techniques in regulating such physiological
parameters as heart rate and blood pressure. Selected techniques are being
evaluated using computerized monitoring equipment. For example, vibration
to the right of the upper thoracic spine (T2-3), over the sympathetic ganglia,
is claimed to affect heart rate and circulation.
Measurements in this study have shown both psychological
and physical effects. The psychological effect is typically a heightened
sympathetic response (increase in heart rate and decrease in peripheral
circulation) in response to preparatory movements immediately before the
physical stimulus is applied. The physical effects include both stimulation
and inhibition of the sympathetic nervous system, as reflected in heart
rate and peripheral circulation, depending on the duration and location
of stimulation.
Thermographic Measurement of Somatic Dysfunction
The Cayce readings explicitly suggest measurements
of skin temperature as indicators of underlying physiology. In particular,
Cayce recommended a chiropractic device, the neurocalometer, for measurement
of paraspinal temperatures reflecting somatic conditions. He also spoke
of an abdominal cold spot as characteristic of idiopathic epilepsy. Two
methods of measuring temperature are being used in the current project
to explore the relationship of skin temperature to somatic dysfunction.
The first technique is liquid crystal thermography,
in which a sheet of plastic changes color in response to temperature. It
can simultaneously measure skin temperatures over a wide area. This technique
has revealed the presence of an abdominal cold spot in several epileptics.
In psoriasis patients, it has also shown the presence of hot spots in the
thoracic spine in the area most often identified by Cayce as needing adjustment.
The second technique is paraspinal infrared thermography,
a computerized improvement over the neurocalometers of Cayce's day. The
device consists of two temperature sensors, designed to scan up both sides
of the spine. It can be used for before/after evaluation of spinal manipulation.
For example, one woman with epilepsy had a difference of about 2 degrees
C between the left and right sides of her spine in the mid-thoracic area.
After three months of treatment, the difference had become less than 0.5
degrees C. Future work will focus on correlating these surface temperature
changes with underlying physiological changes.
Clinical Pilot Studies
Meridian Institute, in cooperation with HRRC, conducts
clinical pilot studies (residential research programs) on specific medical
conditions. The purpose of these projects is to explore the efficacy
of Edgar Cayce's recommendations for treatment. These projects use
a complementary medicine approach that supplements conventional treatments,
but is not intended to replace them.
Participation in a typical residential research program requires participants
to:Attend a 10 day, live-in program in Virginia Beach,
-
Follow a treatment program at home for 6 months,
-
Return for a 3-day follow-up assessment at Virginia Beach.
Thus far we have conducted clinical pilot studies on
the following conditions:
-
Psoriasis
-
Migraine
-
Epilepsy
-
Multiple Sclerosis
-
Parkinson's Disease
-
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
-
Asthma
-
Arthritis
-
Hypertension
-
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Meridian Institute has created research reports and
journal articles on these studies which are available on the Meridian Institute
website.
APPLYING THE CAYCE APPROACH
Protocols for over 40 Illnesses
Research protocols are simple, standardized portable
health packages on specific illnesses that allow individuals to apply the
Cayce approach at home. Meridian Institute has created a wide variety
of protocols as listed in the TABLE 1.
Each protocol varies due to the inclusion of books,
tapes, etc. for some conditions. However every protocol contains
a treatment plan and instructions for doing the recommended therapies.
Data collection forms provide a simple pre/post research format.
Protocols are upgraded as we gain more understanding
of how to effectively apply the Cayce approach. New protocols are
constantly being developed for the numerous and diverse conditions addressed
in the Cayce readings.
The Cayce Herbal
For persons interested in the Edgar Cayce approach
to healing, herbal medicine is an extremely important area in need of further
research. Edgar Cayce recommended over 100 different herbs for a
wide range of problems. To explore the role of botanical medicine
in the Cayce readings, Meridian Institute has undertaken a research project
to understand Cayce's approach and document our findings in a manual -
The Cayce Herbal.
Currently, The Cayce Herbal is an electronic
text available on the Meridian Institute website. Because this is
an ongoing project, The Cayce Herbal will be regularly upgraded
with our latest findings. Version 1.0 of The Cayce Herbal
consists of the following sections:
-
Overview - An introduction and outline of The Cayce Herbal.
-
Home Remedies - A home medicine chest; simple remedies for common ailments.
-
Monographs - Fact sheets on over 100 herbs recommended by Edgar Cayce.
-
Classics - Classic texts that complement The Cayce Herbal.
The electronic format of The Cayce Herbal makes
it possible to quickly and inexpensively upgrade the information by editing
existing topics and adding new material. Future versions of The
Cayce Herbal may contain additional sections on clinical applications,
popular herbs not mentioned by Edgar Cayce, and current research on the
effects of specific herbs.
CCSI and ATLI: Two Psychometric Instruments
One of the major challenges in researching and applying
the Cayce approach to healing is the development of a standardized assessment
process. As an intuitive diagnostician, Edgar Cayce's assessment
process was relatively comprehensive (holistic) and noninvasive.
Also, the uniqueness of each individual was emphasized, rather than relying
solely on diagnostic categories. Without Edgar Cayce to provide
an assessment for each person, how can a modern clinician effectively apply
the Cayce approach?
Meridian Institute, in conjunction with the A.R.E.
Health and Rejuvenation Research Center (HRRC), has been exploring various
assessment techniques that are consistent with the Cayce approach.
The following sections will focus on two new psychometric instruments created
specifically to address Cayce's person-centered assessment process.
CCSI
The Cayce Comprehensive Symptom Inventory
(CCSI) is a structured assessment instrument intended for use as an adjunct
to traditional and alternative assessment procedures. The CCSI consists
of a wide variety of signs and symptoms of physical and emotional distress.
The items are arranged in scales, each scale representing a pattern of
etiology (cause and effect) used by Edgar Cayce in his system of assessment
and diagnosis.
Individuals taking the CCSI are asked to rate the
presence of the sign or symptom during the past twelve months. Some
items are retrospective, requiring information preceding the previous twelve
month period. Based on the responses, the CCSI calculates scores
for each scale. Some of the CCSI scales (such as hypothyroid or calcium
deficiency) are found in many symptom inventories. Other scales (such
as "lacteal duct adhesions" or "high hepatic circulation") are distinctive
to the Cayce material.
The CCSI can be administered electronically or on
paper. When administered on a computer (Excel spreadsheet), the program
automatically generates statistics and graphics displaying normative data.
This provides a measure of how the individual compares to others who have
taken the CCSI.
The CCSI is intentionally designed to serve as an educational tool
for understanding the Cayce approach to anatomy and physiology. The
various scales correspond to sections of a typical Cayce physical reading.
Working with the CCSI will make the Cayce health readings more accessible
with regard to the language and conceptual basis of Cayce's perspective.
A workbook/manual for the CCSI has being created to document this instrument.
ATLI
The Approach To Life Inventory (ATLI) is a brief psychometric
instrument for the assessment of psychospiritual functioning. The
ATLI is based primarily on the philosophy of Edgar Cayce. The foundation
of Cayce's holistic philosophy is the role of spiritual, mental, emotional,
and interpersonal factors in health and healing. The ATLI focuses
on nine aspects of psychospiritual functioning as represented by the following
scales:
1. Ideals (Purpose and Meaning in Life)
2. Applied Spirituality ("Fruits of the Spirit")
3. Love of God (Relationship to a Higher Power)
4. Love of Others (Interpersonal Functioning)
5. Love of Self ("Self-Esteem")
6. Will (Locus of Control and Empowerment)
7. Mind (Attitudes, Beliefs, and Cognitions)
8. Emotions (Affective Functioning)
9. Balanced Living (Work and Play)
Individuals taking the ATLI are asked if they agree
or disagree with items on each scale. The electronic version of the
ATLI automatically creates statistics and graphics for each administration.
An additional analysis generates a health index based on specific items
that may be particularly relevant to the healing process (self-efficacy,
neglect, social support, relation to the divine, locus of control).
The electronic versions of the CCSI and ATLI generate
tables and graphs. Meridian Institute is currently collecting
data from research participants to establish normative data and document
reliability and validity of the instruments. The CCSI Workbook
and CCSI Administration and Interpretation Manual are on the Meridian Institute
website.
RESOURCES
Key Published Works
One of the strengths of the Cayce legacy is the amount
of published works that have been created during the fifty-five years since
Edgar Cayce's death. In large measure, this is due to the A.R.E.
Press. See Appendix A for a selected bibliography of Cayce oriented
works.
Internet Websites
Meridian Institute
The Meridian Institute website is a major resource
on the Cayce health approach. The site contains thousands of pages
of text on all phases of research and clinical application.
http://www.meridianinstitute.com
A.R.E. HRRC
The HRRC section of the A.R.E. website also contains
numerous resources for health professionals seeking information on the
Cayce model. Of special note, The Cayce Health Database is a comprehensive
collection of articles and reports.
http://www.are-cayce.com/health/index.htm
Education and Training Opportunities
Annual Health Professionals Symposium
The Annual Health Professionals Symposium is held
each fall at the A.R.E. in Virginia Beach. This gathering of practitioners
and researchers features reports on Cayce oriented health research, demonstrations
of therapeutic techniques recommended in the readings, and interdisciplinary
presentations on the integration of spirituality and healing. The
conference is co-sponsored by the A.R.E. and Meridian Institute and features
presentations by Meridian Institute personnel, Cayce-oriented health professionals
and researchers of the Cayce health information.
Cayce-Reilly School of Massotherapy
The Cayce/Reilly School of Massotherapy is a department
of the A.R.E. The origin of the Cayce/Reilly School lies in the A.R.E.'s
therapy department, founded in 1967 by Hugh Lynn Cayce and Dr. Harold Reilly,
a well-known New York physiotherapist. Dr. Reilly developed the Cayce/Reilly
massage by combining his personal techniques with the methods recommended
in the Edgar Cayce readings. In 1985, Dr. James C. Windsor, then-president
of the Edgar Cayce Foundation and Atlantic University, saw the need for
a full-fledged school of massage in Virginia and began the development
of the Cayce/Reilly School. The school was issued a certificate to operate
as a proprietary school by the Virginia Board of Education in March 1987.
The Cayce/Reilly School of Massotherapy is licensed
by the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Education and is a member
of the Virginia Association of Private Career Schools. The program
of the Cayce/Reilly School of Massotherapy is accredited by the Commission
on Massage Training Accreditation/Approval (COMTAA).
Atlantic University
Atlantic University is an outgrowth of the A.R.E.
education division. Located in Virginia Beach, but offering distance
education courses to students around the world, Atlantic University has
developed a graduate program in holistic education which is designed specifically
for adults interested in exploring the self in a liberal learning context.
Atlantic University offers an Holistic Health Concentration as a special
area of study. The holistic concentration provides an opportunity
for students to learn traditional and contemporary healing systems that
recognize the physical, mental and spiritual dimensions of health. The
holistic health curriculum is a blend of academic study in the history
and philosophy of holism balanced with personal application of holistic
principles and techniques. Some students are already involved in health
care service and are seeking alternative perspectives on healing to compliment
their practice. Other individuals are more interested in achieving optimal
wellness for personal growth and development.
HRRC Assessment Center
The HRRC (Health and Rejuvenation Research Center)
has created an assessment program specializing in noninvasive evaluation
procedures. Based on the Cayce philosophy of attending to individual
uniqueness, the HRRC Assessment Center offers a broad range of diagnostic
techniques which closely parallel the Cayce readings. These assessments
are being made available to health professionals seeking additional information
about their clients and also to the general public.
Current assessment modalities include darkfield microscopy,
heart rate variability, computerized segmental electrography, infra-red
neurocalometry, Cayce Comprehensive Symptom Inventory, Approach to Life
Inventory, Taylor-Johnson Profile and the RISO Type Indicator.
The capabilities and capacity of the HRRC Assessment Center will be expanded
with additional evaluation techniques and personnel as resources allow.
A.R.E. Health Services
The A.R.E. Health Services department in Virginia
Beach, Virginia offers a variety of health services based on the Cayce
health recommendations. Services include massage, steam baths, colon
hydrotherapy, and Epsom salts packs and baths.
A.R.E. Health Services is open to the public. A.R.E. members
receive discounts on services.
PARTICIPATION
A.R.E. Health Care Professional Referral List
The A.R.E. maintains a Health Care Professional List
used for making referrals to A.R.E. members and others who contact the
A.R.E. requesting information on health professionals who are willing to
work with the Cayce approach. The A.R.E. membership numbers over
20,000 making this list a valuable networking tool for connecting clients
with practitioners.
The list is comprised of licensed healing arts practitioners,
including medical and osteopathic physicians, naturopathic doctors, chiropractors,
dentists, physical therapists, nurses, massage therapists, social workers,
and psychologists. The list is divided by states and is available
to anyone requesting it. Basic continuing education on the
Cayce approach is required in order to remain on the list.
Meridian Institute Participating Researcher Program
One of Meridian Institute's primary purposes is to
"conduct and support ... clinical projects incorporating a network of cooperating
researchers and clinicians." To begin the process of creating such
a network, Meridian Institute has initiated a program intended to develop
cooperative relationships with professionals working with the Cayce health
information.
A Cooperating Researcher is a health care professional
who is applying the Cayce readings, and is willing to share with Meridian
Institute the results of this application. This sharing might include:
presentations at Meridian Institute conferences and workshops, contribution
to a database on results of applications, and contribution of new research
protocols. A Cooperating Researcher might also offer services such as massage
or chiropractic, either as a volunteer or for reimbursement to be agreed
on for specific projects.
To clarify the relationship between Meridian Institute
and cooperating researchers, the following guidelines have been developed:
-
Meridian Institute will provide suggested research protocols, data sheets,
and information on the results of our own research projects.
-
There will be no obligation on the part of either the Cooperating Researcher
or Meridian Institute to participate in any particular activity.
-
Cooperating Researcher status applies only to individuals, not organizations
or companies. If more than one individual in a particular organization
desires to be a Cooperating Researcher, they would have to seek this status
individually.
-
Cooperating Researcher status is not meant to imply that Meridian Institute
approves or accepts responsibility for projects not under its direct control.
It is your responsibility to practice within the limits of your license
or certification, complying with all applicable laws or regulations.
It is also your responsibility to conduct research in an ethical manner,
including informing subjects of benefits and risks of participation, and
maintaining confidentiality.
-
Meridian Institute conducts educational and research programs, not training
programs. Meridian Institute does not certify expertise in Cayce therapies,
and Cooperating Researchers must not state or imply that they have been
trained by Meridian Institute to offer those therapies.
-
Meridian Institute does not endorse products or therapists. Cooperating
Researchers must not use the Meridian Institute name in any advertising
materials.
-
Meridian Institute is not a membership organization. Cooperating Researchers
are not "members" of Meridian Institute. They are independent practitioners
with an interest in sharing expertise and research results.
-
Cooperating Researcher status is granted for a specific time period, normally
a year, and is renewable by the mutual agreement of the researcher and
Meridian Institute.
CONCLUSION
The full potential of the Edgar Cayce approach is
still not known. There are many anecdotal stories of success, but
like many other holistic approaches, they have only started to be scrutinized
in a systematic fashion. The Cayce readings themselves, however,
encouraged people to verify their principles and gave ideas for experimentation
to accomplish this. Meridian Institute and HRRC are working toward
this end and invite the participation of interested clinicians and researchers.
REFERENCES
Mein et al. Physiologic Regulation Through Manual Therapy. Physical
Medicine and Rehabilitation: State of the Art Reviews. 2000, Vol. 14(1):27-42.
Nelson et al. Manual Healing Diversity and other Challenges to
Chiropractic Integration.
Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2000, Volume
23(3):202-207.
Bro H. A Seer Out Season: The Life Of Edgar Cayce. Signet
Books. 1990; p. 58.
Callan JP. Editorial. Journal of the American Medical Association.
1979;241:1156.
McMillin DL, Richards DG, Mein EA, Nelson CD. The abdominal brain and
enteric nervous system. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary
Medicine. 2000;5(6):575-586.
McMillin DL, Richards DG, Mein EA, Nelson CD. Systemic aspects of psoriasis:
An integrative model based on intestinal etiology. Integrative Medicine.
2000, in press.
Mein E. Keys to health. New York: Harper & Row, 1989.
Mein EA, Richards DG, Nelson CD, McMillin DL. Edgar Cayce's therapeutic
approach. In (Jonas W & Levin J, Eds.), Textbook of Complementary and
Alternative Medicine. New York: Williams and Wilkins. 2000, in press.
Richards D, McMillin D, Nelson C, Mein E. Improvement of circulation
using the radial appliance. Subtle Energies & Energy Medicine.
1996;7(1):71-88.
APPENDIX A
Key Published Works on Edgar Cayce's Approach
The following books are sold at many bookstores and
can be purchased from the A.R.E. Bookstore at (800) 723-1112. The
A.R.E. Library in Virginia Beach, Virginia also makes them available to
A.R.E. members. The CD-ROM is sold through the A.R.E. Bookstore.
Books About Edgar Cayce
Bro, H. A Seer Out of Season. New York: Penguin Books.
Smith, R. A. (Ed.) The Lost Memoirs of Edgar Cayce. Virginia Beach,
VA: A.R.E. Press.
Stearn, J. Edgar Cayce: The Sleeping Prophet. New York:
Bantam Books.
Sugrue, T. There is a River. New York: Holt, Rinehart and
Wintson.
The Edgar Cayce Readings
Cayce, E. The Complete Edgar Cayce Readings on CD-ROM. Virginia Beach,
VA: A.R.E. Press.
Overviews of the Cayce Approach to Health and Healing
Mein, E. Keys to Health: Holistic Approaches to Healing.
St. Martin's Press: New York.
Reilly, H. & Brod, R. The Edgar Cayce Handbook for Health
Through Drugless Therapy. Virginia Beach, VA: A.R.E. Press.
Other Resources
Carricato, J. Edgar Cayce's Health, Healing & Diet.
Virginia Beach, VA: A.R.E. Press.
Duggan, J. & S. Edgar Cayce's Massage, Hydrotherapy &
Healing Oils. Virginia Beach, VA: Inner Vision Publishing Company.
Duggan, S. Edgar Cayce's Guide to Colon Care. Virginia Beach,
VA: Inner Vision Publishing Company.
Karp, R. Edgar Cayce Encyclopedia of Healing. New York:
Warner Books.
McGarey, W. The Oil That Heals: A Physician's Successes with
Castor Oil Treatments. Virginia Beach, VA: A.R.E. Press.
McGarey, W. The Edgar Cayce Remedies. New York: Bantam
Books.
McGarey, W. In Search of Healing. Virginia Beach, VA: A.R.E.
Press.
McMillin, D. The Treatment of Schizophrenia. Virginia Beach,
VA: A.R.E. Press.
McMillin, D. The Treatment of Depression. Virginia Beach, VA:
A.R.E. Press.
McMillin, D. Living Nightmares: Case Studies in Anxiety (Based
on the Readings of Edgar Cayce). Virginia Beach, VA: Lifeline Press.
McMillin, D. An Alternative Perspective: Alzheimer's Disease
and the Dementias. Virginia Beach, VA: A.R.E. Press.
McMillin, D. & Richards, D. The Radial Appliance and Wet
Cell Battery. Virginia Beach, VA: Lifeline Press.
McMillin, D. Principles & Techniques of Nerve Regeneration.
Virginia Beach, VA: A.R.E. Press.
McMillin, D. Case Studies in Depression. Virginia Beach,
VA: A.R.E. Press.
McMillin, D. Case Studies in Schizophrenia. Virginia Beach,
VA: A.R.E. Press.
Pagano, J. Healing Psoriasis: The Natural Alternative.
Englewood Cliffs, NJ: The Pagano Organization.
CONTINUING
EDUCATION CREDITS ASSOCIATED WITH THIS MATERIAL
As a service to health professionals
who are required to obtain continuing education, an exam is provided to
test your understanding of some of the key concepts discussed above.
These CEUs are designed to qualify as "Type 2" as required by the Virginia
Board of Medicine for MDs, DOs, and DCs. If you don't practice in
Virginia, check with your state medical board or professional organization
for applicable requirements for continuing education. It is your
responsibility to determine the applicability of this CEU material to your
situation.
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For more information on the Meridian Institute
Continuing Education Program, click here.
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To take the EXAM
for this material, click here.
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