Natural Healing as Conflict Resolution

Book excerpt: Traditional methods for addressing conflict and healing have been largely replaced in elite settings by modern approaches. Rather than old and new complementing one another, bias is present. New is widely perceived as better among elite institutions, even when research indicates otherwise. Within the realm of international development, the need for cost-effective, sustainable, and successful methods of healing must be explored. Natural Healing as Conflict Resolution is an essential reference book that examines and addresses systemic bias towards natural healing methods and explores the mutually beneficial relationships of natural healing through human and non-human life forms in the context of resolving conflict. It illustrates not only the more obvious biological/physiological benefits of complementary approaches, but also the spiritual, emotional, and psychological benefits of integrating natural means of healing to resolve conflict. As such, the book acknowledges the effectiveness and articulates the benefits of traditional indigenous healing methods and how they can be used in complementary, mutually beneficial ways with modern practices. Highlighting emerging topics that include ecopsychology, parapsychology, and holistic medicine, this book is ideal for conflict resolution practitioners, psychologists, trauma counselors, veterans associations, pet therapists, nature organizations, academics, scientists, eco-architects and designers, international development policymakers, peacebuilding institutions, natural and traditional healers, alternative/integrative medicine practitioners, spiritualists, researchers, and students.