Energy Healing Modalities: Ancient Traditions and Modern Evidence
A Deep Dive into Secrets hidden in plain sight
I want everyone to understand this is an introductory article on the topic of “Energy Medicine” it is not a prescriptive on the dosing or the modality per condition. We do that in our year long course with Dr Altman and myself. If you are interested in this program you can sign up below. For everyone else, enjoy this introduction into Ancient yet Futuristic Healing!!
Energy-based healing refers to a broad range of practices that use various forms of “energy” or frequency to promote health and well-being. These practices span ancient spiritual traditions and cutting-edge medical therapies. Ancient cultures spoke of a life force or vital energy (known as Qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Prana in Ayurveda, etc.) that flows through the body and can be harnessed for healing. Modern science, while using different terminology, has developed therapies that employ physical energy forms – electromagnetic fields, sound waves, light frequencies, electrical microcurrents – to stimulate healing processes in the body.
This Deep Dive provides a thorough review of energy healing modalities, from traditional practices to contemporary technologies, and examines the current scientific evidence supporting their healing effects.
We will first explore the ancient origins of energy healing and then delve into specific modern modalities (PEMF, shockwave, EMTT, laser, etc.), discussing their scientific mechanisms and evidence (including case studies). Finally, we consider clinical applications bridging these modalities with meditation and spiritual healing practices, addressing questions like whether tools such as ultrasound or lasers can enhance meditative states.
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TL;DR
Energy-based healing spans ancient traditions (like Qi in Chinese Medicine, Prana in Ayurveda, and sound rituals in Indigenous cultures) and modern scientific therapies (PEMF, Shockwave, EMTT, MLS Laser, Piezowave, Percutaneous Electrolysis, and Frequency Specific Microcurrents). Scientific research confirms significant therapeutic benefits for pain relief, tissue repair, inflammation reduction, and improved mental states with these modern modalities.
Additionally, emerging evidence supports integrating energy therapies with meditative and spiritual practices (e.g., using ultrasound or lasers to enhance meditation). While further research is ongoing, the combination of ancient wisdom and modern technology offers a promising integrative approach to healing and wellness.
Namaste from the Murphy family
Ancient Traditions of Energy and Frequency Healing
Vital Energy Concepts: Many ancient healing systems are founded on the idea of a subtle vital energy that sustains life and health. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this energy is called Qi (or Chi), believed to flow through channels (meridians) in the body. Illness is attributed to imbalances or blockages in Qi flow, and practices like acupuncture, qigong, and tai chi aim to restore its balance. Similarly, Indian Ayurveda and Yogic traditions speak of Prana, the universal life force, which travels through energy centers (chakras) and channels (nadis). Practices such as yoga, pranayama (breath control), and Ayurvedic healing seek to balance prana. These systems hold that harmonizing the life force energy leads to physical and mental well-being. While such energy is not directly measurable by conventional instruments, it parallels concepts in modern physiology (e.g. the balance of nervous system activity).
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Spiritual and Religious Healing: Throughout history, spiritual traditions incorporated energy healing in the form of prayer, laying-on of hands, and ritual. For example, Reiki is a Japanese practice (inspired by older spiritual teachings) where a practitioner channels “universal life energy” through their hands to a recipient. In religious contexts, faith healers or clergy have practiced hands-on healing and prayer with the intent to invoke divine energy for healing. These practices often induce deep relaxation or meditative prayer states in recipients, which in itself can activate the parasympathetic nervous system (the body’s rest-and-heal mode).
Have you allowed someone to treat you with Reiki? How did it go?
Notably, clinical research on Reiki suggests it is more effective than placebo in promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Multiple studies (including controlled trials with both humans and animals) found that Reiki treatment leads to objectively greater physical relaxation and activation of the body’s calming (parasympathetic) response compared to sham placebo. In patients with chronic illnesses, Reiki therapy has also shown greater reductions in pain, anxiety and depression compared to placebo or even other relaxation techniques. This hints that even in absence of a clearly defined “energy” mechanism, the focused intent and ritual of spiritual healing practices can measurably improve patient comfort and well-being.
Sound and Vibration in Healing: Sound has been a cornerstone of many ancient healing traditions. Indigenous cultures worldwide used chanting, drumming, and singing in healing ceremonies to shift consciousness and energy. In India, the Vedic scriptures describe the primordial sound “Om” as the vibration from which the universe emanated – chanting “Om” is thought to attune one to this cosmic frequency. Tibetan Buddhism developed the use of singing bowls – metal bowls that produce resonant tones – and deep overtone chanting as meditation and healing tools. Daily my mantra includes humming and also “Om” to increase my nitric oxide levels and vascular health.
These bowls and chants are said to balance the body’s energies and chakras. Similarly, Tibetan Bön shamans used chants and trumpets to induce trance and healing. Today, these practices continue as sound baths or sound therapy: participants are bathed in the vibrations of gongs, bowls, tuning forks, and other instruments to facilitate relaxation and emotional release.
The idea is that specific sound frequencies can clear “blockages” in the biofield (the purported energy field of the body) and restore the healthy flow of life force. Modern science is beginning to validate some of these effects – for example, gentle sound vibrations can entrain brainwaves (guiding the brain into relaxed alpha or theta rhythms), lower stress hormones, and reduce pain perception. In essence, ancient cultures intuitively grasped that frequencies (whether acoustic, as in sound, or subtle vibrations) could influence human physiology and consciousness, and they developed rich traditions to apply this knowledge for healing.
Modern Energy-Based Healing Modalities: Mechanisms and Evidence
Contemporary medicine and wellness therapies have introduced a range of technologies that heal through applied energy and frequencies. Unlike ancient “vital energy” which is metaphysical, these modalities use quantifiable physical energies (electromagnetic fields, acoustic shockwaves, light photons, electrical currents, etc.) to interact with the body. Interestingly, many of these modern modalities echo the principles of ancient energy healing – for instance, using vibrations or currents to unblock and stimulate the body’s self-healing capacities. Below we review several prominent energy modalities, explaining how they work and summarizing scientific evidence of their effectiveness.
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Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)
PEMF therapy involves applying low-frequency pulsing magnetic fields to the body, typically via a coil or pad connected to a PEMF device. These time-varying magnetic fields induce faint electrical currents in tissues, which can modulate cellular function.
Mechanisms: Research suggests PEMF can influence ion channels and signaling pathways in cells, promoting improved circulation, reducing inflammation, and stimulating tissue repair (for example, by enhancing osteoblast activity for bone growth). Clinically, PEMF was first used decades ago to stimulate bone healing in non-union fractures and has since expanded to soft-tissue and neurological applications.
Evidence: A substantial body of research supports PEMF’s therapeutic effects. A 2020 meta-analysis of 15 randomized trials (over 1,000 patients) found that PEMF therapy significantly improved pain, stiffness, and physical function in patients with osteoarthritis compared to placebo. Another systematic review pooling 14 trials in chronic low back pain similarly concluded that PEMF yields greater pain reduction than sham or standard treatments. These analyses indicate a real, if moderate, benefit in musculoskeletal pain conditions. Moreover, a recent multi-center randomized trial in orthopedic clinics (2023) demonstrated that a specific PEMF device at 27.12 MHz produced significantly better outcomes than standard care for joint and soft-tissue pain. In that study, two weeks of daily PEMF therapy reduced patients’ pain by ~36% (on average) versus only ~10% reduction in the control group, and also cut pain medication use by more than half. Such findings validate PEMF as a safe, non-invasive modality for pain management. It is now used adjunctively for osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, fracture healing, edema reduction, and even depression or migraine (with mixed results in those domains). While not a panacea, PEMF provides a scientific parallel to the idea of “energy balancing” – using electromagnetic energy to nudge the body toward homeostasis and healing.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
Shockwave therapy uses high-energy acoustic waves (sound pulses) delivered to target tissues to stimulate repair. In practice, a handheld generator creates either focused shockwaves (concentrating energy at a specific depth) or radial shockwaves (more dispersed) which are transmitted through the skin to the injured area.
Mechanisms: The intense mechanical stimulation causes micro-trauma at the cellular level, which triggers the body’s healing responses – increasing local blood flow, stimulating growth factor release, breaking up calcifications, and possibly inducing nerve regeneration. Originally developed for shattering kidney stones (lithotripsy) in the 1980s, shockwave therapy was later adapted to treat musculoskeletal disorders.
Evidence: ESWT is now an evidence-based treatment for various chronic soft-tissue conditions. It has been shown effective, for example, in stubborn tendinopathies (like tennis elbow, Achilles tendinitis) and plantar fasciitis, often succeeding where conventional conservative treatments fail. A Mayo Clinic review notes that multiple studies have demonstrated ESWT can reduce pain and promote tissue healing in bones, tendons, ligaments, and fascia. For instance, a controlled trial in 2005 on lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) found that radial shockwaves significantly decreased pain and improved grip strength in patients who hadn’t responded to other therapies. Other research has extended ESWT’s use to enhancing bone repair in fracture non-unions and even treating neurological spasticity. In patients with post-stroke muscle spasticity, shockwave therapy has shown encouraging reductions in muscle tone and improved mobility (with similar benefits observed in multiple sclerosis-related spasticity). Overall, systematic reviews have concluded that ESWT is effective and safe for chronic plantar fasciitis and calcific shoulder tendinitis (often as effective as steroid injections), and can produce long-term pain relief in a significant portion of patients. Side effects are minimal (temporary soreness or swelling), making it an attractive “energy” intervention that, while rooted in mechanical acoustics, resonates with the age-old idea of using sound (albeit at high intensity) to heal.
Extracorporeal Magnetotransduction Therapy (EMTT)
EMTT is a newer development that builds upon PEMF technology. It is sometimes described as “high-frequency, high-intensity PEMF.” EMTT devices (one brand name is Magnetolith) generate pulses of a strong electromagnetic field in the range of 100–300 kHz (much higher frequency than typical PEMF) with high field intensities (up to 80 mT). These pulses are delivered in short bursts (nanosecond-scale) at repetition rates around 1–10 Hz. Mechanism: By oscillating magnetic fields extremely rapidly, EMTT can achieve a very high rate of change of magnetic flux (>60 kilotesla/second), which induces stronger bioelectric effects in tissues than conventional PEMF.
Importantly, EMTT pulses are so brief that they do not cause heating, allowing high-intensity stimulation without thermal damage. The primary application of EMTT so far is to accelerate bone and tissue healing. Laboratory research indicates EMTT may profoundly stimulate cellular regeneration. A 2024 in vitro study found that EMTT exposure dramatically enhanced osteoblast activity and bone formation markers: key genes for bone growth (like RUNX2, COL1A1, osteocalcin) were upregulated over seven-fold relative to controls (p < 0.001).
The treated bone cells showed greater collagen matrix production and mineralization (calcium/phosphate deposition), without any loss of cell viability. These results suggest EMTT can drive all phases of bone healing more efficiently, pointing to potential uses in speeding fracture repair, treating osteoporosis or osteonecrosis, and improving integration of implants.
Clinically, published evidence on EMTT is still emerging. Case reports are promising – for example, a 2020 case report described a patient with a long-standing scaphoid nonunion (wrist fracture that hadn’t healed despite surgeries). The patient underwent three weekly sessions of combined focused shockwaves plus EMTT; within 5 weeks of the last treatment, imaging showed solid bone union where healing had stalled for years. The authors concluded that adding EMTT significantly improved bone healing in this difficult case. Ongoing studies are examining EMTT for degenerative joint disease and chronic pain. While more clinical trials are needed, EMTT represents a cutting-edge “electromagnetic” therapy that amplifies what PEMF started, aligning with the trend of using stronger or more targeted energy frequencies to catalyze healing.
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) and MLS Laser
Low-Level Laser Therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, involves illuminating tissues with low-intensity laser or LED light (typically red or near-infrared wavelengths). Unlike surgical or high-power lasers, LLLT does not heat or cut tissue; instead it aims to stimulate cellular function. Mitochondria within cells absorb photons (especially in the 600–900 nm range), leading to increased ATP production and modulation of reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide – effects that can boost cell metabolism and promote anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and healing responses.
MLS Laser is a proprietary form of LLLT (Multiwave Locked System) that synchronizes two wavelengths (often 808 nm continuous + 905 nm pulsed) to supposedly achieve deeper penetration and combined benefits.
Our Doctor Altman, doing MLS laser for a torn ATFL
Evidence: Photobiomodulation has a growing evidence base for pain reduction and tissue repair. A variety of studies show benefits in conditions like arthritis, tendon injuries, nerve regeneration, wound healing, and more. For instance, in patients with chronic neck pain, a randomized controlled trial compared MLS Laser therapy plus exercise versus standard single-wavelength laser plus exercise and versus placebo (sham laser) plus exercise. After 6 weeks, the MLS laser group showed significantly greater improvements – pain scores dropped more and neck mobility and function improved more – compared to both the single-wavelength laser group and the exercise-only group. In fact, by the trial’s end, the group receiving MLS laser reported the largest reduction in pain and disability, suggesting a synergistic effect of the dual wavelengths. Over a longer term (6 months follow-up), those improvements persisted, with the MLS-treated patients having better outcomes than exercise therapy alone.
Such results underscore that LLLT is not just a placebo – it can induce real physiological changes (e.g. increasing microcirculation, reducing inflammatory cytokines, enhancing collagen synthesis) that translate into pain relief and functional gains. MLS laser devices are increasingly found in sports medicine clinics for treating muscle strains and joint injuries, as well as in some pain management practices.
Beyond MLS, the general field of photobiomodulation has also produced intriguing studies on brain health – transcranial near-infrared light therapy is being explored for improving cognitive function, mood, and even for neurodegenerative diseases, due to its neuroprotective and metabolic effects. In summary, laser therapy provides a modern analogue to ancient “light-based” healing (e.g. sun therapy) but in a highly targeted, quantifiable manner. It illustrates how specific frequencies of light energy can interact with our biology to facilitate healing. Nowhere is that more important than in your mitochondria.
Piezowave Shockwave Therapy
Piezowave is a trade name for a shockwave therapy system that uses piezoelectric crystals to generate the acoustic pulses. Essentially, it is a type of focused extracorporeal shockwave therapy. The piezoelectric method allows very precise focusing of high-energy sound waves at a set depth in tissue. In practical terms, Piezowave therapy does not fundamentally differ in concept from the ESWT discussed earlier – it is another way to deliver mechanical energy into the body.
Applications and Evidence: Piezowave and similar shockwave devices are used for chronic musculoskeletal conditions (plantar fasciitis, tendinopathies, muscle trigger points) and even some urologic applications (it’s used in treating erectile dysfunction via improving blood flow). The evidence for Piezowave aligns with the broader shockwave literature: substantial improvements are seen in many patients with chronic soft tissue pain. For example, one review cites success rates upwards of 70–85% in conditions like plantar fasciitis after a series of shockwave treatments. In tendon injuries, shockwaves help restart stalled healing by provoking controlled micro-trauma and neovascularization.
Given that Piezowave is a specific brand, clinical studies often refer generally to “focused shockwave therapy” – but case reports from clinicians using Piezowave note rapid pain relief and return of function in athletes with stubborn tendinopathies. In summary, Piezowave serves as a branded tool in the shockwave category, harnessing acoustic energy to stimulate the body’s repair processes. It underscores the theme of using physical vibrations (sound waves) to produce biological change, much as certain traditional practices (e.g. deep percussion massage or even ritual drumming) aim to heal via mechanical stimulation – albeit Piezowave does it with far greater intensity and precision.
Percutaneous Electrolysis (Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis)
Percutaneous electrolysis is an innovative technique used mostly in sports physiotherapy and musculoskeletal medicine for chronic soft-tissue injuries. It involves inserting a fine acupuncture-like needle into the affected tissue (for example, a degenerated tendon) under ultrasound guidance, and then applying a low-voltage direct current through the needle tip. Essentially, the needle serves as an electrode (cathode) delivering electric charge directly to the lesion, while an external electrode (anode pad) completes the circuit.
Mechanisms: The direct current induces an electrochemical reaction in the tissue: water and salt molecules are electrolyzed, producing sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at the cathode (needle) and chlorine gas/acid at the anode. The localized NaOH creates a highly alkaline micro-environment that effectively breaks down damaged extracellular matrix and necrotic tissue – a controlled “chemical debridement.” This process also causes a small, localized injury and inflammation. Paradoxically, that is the goal: in chronic tendinosis, for example, the tissue is stuck in a failed healing state with poor collagen organization and little inflammation. By inducing a focused inflammatory response and cell stress/death in the area, percutaneous electrolysis aims to jump-start a fresh healing cycle.
Evidence: A 2024 systematic review examining the biological effects of percutaneous electrolysis found that it indeed triggers a strong but short-term inflammatory response in chronic tendons, followed by regenerative changes. In the first week after treatment, there is a significant increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, etc.) and markers of cell death in the treated tissue – essentially the therapy intentionally creates a small injury and inflammation in the chronic lesion. Within 1–2 weeks, this response gives way to tissue remodeling: studies noted increased expression of growth factors (like VEGF for new blood vessels) and extracellular matrix proteins, with a surge in collagen type I (healthy collagen) production and a reduction in disorganized collagen type III. In simpler terms, the technique clears out damaged fibers and stimulates the tendon or muscle to lay down new, stronger collagen.
Clinically, when combined with rehab exercises, percutaneous electrolysis has shown faster pain relief and functional improvement in conditions like lateral epicondylitis and patellar tendinopathy compared to exercise alone in some trials. However, systematic reviews caution that much of the clinical evidence is still low-quality or preliminary. Patients often report notable pain reduction within days after the procedure (likely once the initial post-treatment soreness resolves). Percutaneous electrolysis exemplifies a modern “energy” treatment where electric current is used in a minimally invasive way to elicit the body’s healing response – one might liken it to a high-tech version of the ancient idea of stimulating an area to draw the body’s healing attention (for instance, in Chinese medicine, needles or moxibustion are used to stimulate Qi flow to an afflicted area, whereas here a needle and current stimulate a known physiological healing cascade).
Frequency-Specific Microcurrent (FSM)
Frequency-Specific Microcurrent therapy is an electrotherapy modality that applies very low-intensity electrical currents (in the microampere range, which is 1000x smaller than milliamp TENS currents) to the body. What makes FSM distinct is that the microcurrent is delivered at specific frequencies (measured in hertz) that are purported to target particular tissues or conditions. Practitioners use pairs of frequencies – one channel might be set to a frequency believed to correspond to a certain tissue (nerve, muscle, ligament, etc.), and another channel to a frequency associated with a condition or pathology (like inflammation or scar tissue). These ideas stem from anecdotal protocols developed over the last century (dating back to the early 1900s) and revived by practitioners like Dr. Carolyn McMakin.
Mechanisms: The scientific rationale for FSM is not fully established. Microcurrent at a cellular level can increase ATP production and protein synthesis, as some studies on cell cultures suggest, which might help healing. The frequency-specific aspect is more controversial – it’s hypothesized that resonance effects might explain why a 40 Hz signal could affect the nervous system differently than a 10 Hz signal, for instance. It’s also proposed that microcurrents can modulate inflammation by influencing cellular signaling pathways.
Evidence: High-quality studies on FSM are limited, but there are promising small trials and case reports. One pilot randomized controlled trial (published 2025) investigated FSM for stress-related conditions: adults with high stress were assigned to either FSM treatment, FSM combined with a relaxation technique, relaxation alone, or a placebo control. After six sessions (in the short term), the groups receiving actual FSM showed statistically significant improvements in physical somatic symptoms and in mood (reduction in negative emotions), compared to those who only did relaxation.
Over the course of 12 sessions, participants getting FSM reported greater improvements in stress, emotional well-being, and life satisfaction. The study concluded that FSM therapy appeared promising in alleviating somatic and emotional symptoms of stress, warranting further research. Other reports on FSM have documented cases like reduced fibromyalgia pain and improved range of motion in injury recovery, but these lack large-scale trials. One challenge is the strong placebo effect in any hands-on therapy; however, the pilot RCT’s use of a relaxation control suggests FSM’s effects were above and beyond relaxation alone. In summary, Frequency-Specific Microcurrent sits at the border of conventional and alternative therapy – it uses tangible electricity (similar to how a mild electroacupuncture might) but its frequency doctrine hearkens to an energy-healing mindset (each tissue or ailment has a “vibrational signature” that can be matched). Early scientific data is cautiously optimistic that there may be real physiological effects unique to FSM, though mainstream acceptance will depend on larger controlled studies in the future.
Case Studies and Clinical Reflections
While the above sections have interwoven scientific results, it is worth highlighting a few specific cases and studies that illustrate the healing potential of these modalities in practice:
Non-Union Fracture Healing with EMTT & ESWT: As noted, a published case report detailed a patient whose scaphoid wrist fracture had failed to heal after two surgeries. Using a combination of EMTT and focused shockwaves over three outpatient sessions, doctors achieved complete bone consolidation within weeks. This was remarkable given the prior 15-year history of non-healing. Such a case exemplifies how introducing the “right” energy stimulus (electromagnetic + acoustic in this case) can reignite healing in tissues that were otherwise stuck – a modern analog to “unblocking stagnated Qi” but demonstrated with CT scans showing new bone formation.
Chronic Pain and Tendinopathy: Patients with chronic tendinitis (like tennis elbow or Achilles tendinosis) often struggle for months with pain. Case series have shown that shockwave therapy can produce rapid pain relief in a majority of these patients, sometimes after 2–3 sessions one week apart. For example, in an outpatient sports clinic, athletes with chronic patellar tendinopathy who underwent high-energy shockwaves often reported significant pain reduction and were able to gradually return to activity within a month or two, whereas they had failed months of rest and physical therapy. On ultrasound imaging, some showed signs of improved tendon structure after treatment. These outcomes line up with controlled trials and support shockwave as an excellent non-surgical option.
Microcurrent and Fibromyalgia: A notable although small study in 2009 by McMakin et al. treated fibromyalgia patients (with concurrent cervical spine injury) using specific microcurrent frequencies. The participants reported a dramatic reduction in pain (around a 50% drop in pain scores) after a series of FSM treatments, far more than the placebo group. While this was a limited trial, it has led some pain clinics to offer FSM for fibromyalgia or neuropathic pain with anecdotal success, highlighting how an energy-based approach might help complex widespread pain when standard pharmacological treatments are inadequate. Patients often describe the microcurrent sessions as very relaxing (some even fall asleep during treatment) – this deep relaxation could itself be therapeutic by lowering stress and muscle tension, akin to the effects of meditation or Reiki.
Laser for Wound Healing: Low-level laser has been tested in stubborn wounds (like diabetic foot ulcers). Case reports show that adding laser therapy (e.g. three times a week irradiation around the wound with 660 nm and 808 nm light) can speed up granulation tissue formation and closure of ulcers that were not healing well. A controlled trial in 2018 found that patients receiving LLLT in addition to standard wound care had significantly faster wound closure than those with standard care alone. Such instances reinforce that photobiomodulation can positively influence cellular repair processes.
These case-oriented observations, while not exhaustive, demonstrate the real-world impact of energy modalities. They often serve as “proof of concept” that inspires larger controlled studies. Indeed, much of the traction that these therapies gain initially comes from front-line clinicians observing patient improvements that they can’t attribute to placebo alone. Over time, this leads researchers to investigate mechanisms and efficacy more rigorously, blending empirical wisdom with scientific validation – much like how ancient healers’ experiential knowledge laid the groundwork for later systematic study.
Integration with Meditation and Spiritual Practices
One of the fascinating frontiers is the convergence of modern energy therapies with mind-body and spiritual practices. I myself often use these techniques with my daily routines. I am currently integrating a new ultrasound protocol with my morning prayers and sunrise grounding. Meditation, prayer, and energy healing traditions might seem worlds apart from high-tech devices for longevity, yet fundamentally they all engage with the human body’s complex bioelectrical system, whether through conscious intent or through external energy input. Researchers and practitioners are now exploring ways to combine or use energy modalities to enhance meditative states or spiritual healing experiences:
Ultrasound to Enhance Mindfulness: A groundbreaking study in 2024 showed that transcranial ultrasound can directly aid in achieving meditative states. In this experiment, a low-intensity focused ultrasound was aimed at the brain’s default mode network (specifically the posterior cingulate cortex) for a brief 5-minute session. This brain region is typically overactive during mind-wandering and self-referential thinking – the very activity that meditation seeks to calm. The ultrasound neuromodulation effectively “quieted” this area (as confirmed by fMRI scans showing reduced activity) and participants subsequently reported entering a state akin to deep meditation for about 30 minutes. They experienced a distorted sense of time, fewer racing thoughts, and a feeling of detachment similar to what seasoned meditators report. In other words, the ultrasound acted like a shortcut to mindfulness, helping novice meditators reach a peaceful, present state without extensive practice.
Participants also noted increased mindfulness and less negative thinking after the sessions. This line of research – sometimes dubbed “ultrasound neurostimulation for meditation” – is very new but illustrates how technology can interface with consciousness. It raises the exciting prospect that devices could assist those who struggle with traditional meditation, by directly tuning brain frequencies to the desired pattern. From a spiritual angle, one might view this as using sound (ultrasound, beyond human hearing) to tune the “mind’s energy,” much as a monk might use a gong or mantra to induce a trance. Scientists are even investigating if such ultrasound-induced states could help treat mental health issues like depression (essentially using a meditative brain state as therapy).
Light and Meditation: Light has symbolic importance in many spiritual traditions (enlightenment, inner light, etc.), and now we see literal light therapy influencing meditative brain activity. Transcranial photobiomodulation, mentioned earlier for cognitive benefits, can also be used to promote relaxed or focused mental states. By choosing specific frequencies of pulsed light, practitioners can encourage certain brainwave patterns.
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For example, alpha-wave photobiomodulation involves flashing a light (often near-infrared LED) at alpha rhythm (~10 Hz); this has been found to increase alpha brainwave activity, which correlates with relaxed, meditative alertness. Greater alpha synchronization in the brain fosters calm and inner peace – essentially helping the brain slip into a meditative mode more easily. Conversely, using faster gamma frequency light (30–40 Hz) can heighten focus and has been explored for cognitive enhancement. Some meditation tech enthusiasts experiment with LED “brain entrainment” devices while meditating, to deepen their sessions.
While this is still experimental, it’s grounded in the idea that external energy (light flashes) can guide internal rhythms, much as ancient practices used candle gazing or sunlight. Indeed, in advanced yoga practices, there is a technique called Trataka, AKA, steady gazing at a flame – which may in part work by entraining the mind to the flickering light and inducing a trance-like concentration.
Modern photobiomodulation is essentially a high-tech, quantifiable extension of that concept, aiming to directly modulate neural circuits for relaxation or insight.
Biofield Therapies and Prayer in Clinical Context: Modern clinics are increasingly acknowledging the value of integrating spiritual or biofield healing with medical care, particularly for stress reduction and emotional support. Biofield therapies is a term that encompasses Reiki, Therapeutic Touch, healing prayer, and similar practices which involve an energy exchange (often via hands or intention) but no physical force. As noted, studies suggest Reiki can activate the parasympathetic nervous system more effectively than placebo, leading to reduced heart rate, lower blood pressure, and improved heart rate variability (a sign of relaxation).
From a clinical perspective, this means patients receiving such energy healing often feel deeply relaxed, sleep better, and have less anxiety or pain. Hospitals have begun to offer Reiki or healing touch to patients with cancer, chronic pain, or prior to surgery to help alleviate anxiety. While the exact mechanism is debated (some attribute it to practitioner-client interaction and focused care – a placebo effect – while Reiki practitioners attribute it to actual energy transfer), the outcome of reduced stress is objectively valuable. Similarly, intercessory prayer has been studied – while results are mixed on whether distant prayer improves clinical outcomes, the act of a patient knowing they are being prayed for or engaging in personal prayer can impart hope and reduce stress. Many patients derive comfort from these practices, which can translate into tangible physiological benefits (lower cortisol, etc.).
Thus, clinicians increasingly view spiritual healing practices as complementary to, not in conflict with, energy-based medical therapies. For instance, a patient might receive PEMF therapy for wound healing and also practice meditation or receive Reiki to manage pain and anxiety – addressing both the physical and subtle aspects of healing.
Meditative Practices Enhanced by Devices: There are also interesting explorations in using devices like binaural beats (audio frequencies that purportedly synchronize brainwaves) or vibrational sound tables (vibroacoustic therapy) to enhance meditation. Binaural beats present two slightly different frequencies to each ear, and the brain perceives a third “beat” frequency – some meditators use this to induce theta or alpha brainwave states more readily.
Vibroacoustic therapy involves lying on a table or recliner that emits gentle vibrations at certain frequencies, often coupled with calming music; this has been reported to help with relaxation, muscle tension, and even pain relief.
These approaches show how modern technology builds on ancient wisdom: where a Tibetan monk might use a deep chant to create vibrational resonance in the body, now a subwoofer in a sound table can produce a similar low-frequency vibration to encourage tranquility and bodily awareness. Even ultrasound or laser in meditation – while not commonplace – can be conceptually extended: ultrasound, as shown, can quiet mental chatter, and some have speculated if a gentle transcranial laser (near-infrared light) could likewise improve focus or mood during meditation (given photobiomodulation’s noted effects on promoting a relaxed-yet-alert brain state). It’s not hard to imagine future meditation centers where practitioners sit with light-emitting headbands or ultrasonic modulators to accelerate entry into deep meditation, blending inner practices with external energy aid.
In essence, we are witnessing a fusion of the mind-body domain with the energy-medicine domain. Ancient meditation and healing sought to harness the unseen energies of mind and spirit; modern modalities provide additional tools to influence the body and brain’s energetic state. The common thread is inducing a state of harmony – whether we call it balanced Qi, coherent brainwaves, or autonomic homeostasis. Clinical medicine is gradually embracing this integrative perspective. For example, a cancer patient might use meditation and Reiki sessions for stress relief (addressing the biofield and mental energy) while also receiving pulsed electromagnetic therapy to mitigate chemotherapy-induced neuropathy in the feet. Both aim to restore quality of life and function, just via different facets of our psychophysiology.
The future is already here and has been forever.
From antiquity’s sages to today’s scientists, humanity has long been intrigued by the healing power of invisible forces – be it spiritual energy, vibrations, or fields. Ancient traditions provided a conceptual framework (chi, prana, sacred sound) for how manipulating subtle energies and frequencies could restore health. Modern science, armed with technology, has translated some of those concepts into tangible treatments, showing that mechanical vibrations, electromagnetic fields, light, and microcurrents can indeed trigger the body’s repair mechanisms and influence mind-body states.
The current evidence base for energy modalities ranges from well-substantiated (e.g. shockwaves for tendon healing, PEMF for bone and arthritis pain) to preliminary but promising (e.g. microcurrent therapy, biofield healing). Not every claim is validated – many alternative frequency therapies still lack rigorous proof, and skepticism is healthy to avoid pseudoscience. Yet, as research continues, we find that the gap between ancient wisdom and scientific understanding is narrowing. Practices once dismissed as mystical (like sound healing or laying-on-hands) are now being studied in controlled settings, sometimes with positive results that align with their traditional intents (such as stress reduction and pain relief).
In our offices, a holistic approach to healing might involve prescribing an energy modality alongside conventional treatment : for example, using low-level laser to reduce inflammation, PEMF to promote tissue regeneration, and guided meditation or Reiki to soothe the patient’s mental state. The interplay of these approaches can be synergistic, targeting both the physiological and the psychosomatic aspects of illness. Importantly, these modalities tend to have low side-effect profiles, making them attractive as complementary therapies.
A patient can receive an “energy treatment” without the systemic side effects drugs might bring. Of course, energy therapies should complement, not replace, necessary medical interventions; one wouldn’t treat an acute infection with meditation or magnets alone, for instance. But for many chronic, multifactorial conditions – pain syndromes, stress-related disorders, rehab from injury – they offer valuable tools in the therapeutic toolbox.
The landscape of healing with energies and frequencies is rich and multifaceted. Ancient traditions remind us that healing is not just physical but also vibrational and spiritual. Modern modalities demonstrate that by applying the right kind of energy in the right dose, we can measurably impact biology. Bridging the two, we arrive at a more comprehensive paradigm of health: one that respects empirical evidence while also addressing the subtle energetic dimensions of the human being. As research advances, we will better understand how these energy interventions work – whether through electromagnetic effects on cells, activation of placebo and expectancy pathways, or synchronization of neural networks – and thus be able to optimize their use.
The enduring lesson from both ancient and modern knowledge is that healing is a resonant phenomenon: when we restore resonance at cellular, systemic, and consciousness levels, the result is often a return to balance and well-being. The continuing exploration of energy-based healing holds great promise for more integrative and effective healthcare in years to come.
To A Life Well Lived,
-Dr. M
As promised here is the info on the Year Long Coaching Founder’s Club and weeklong intensive sessions.
Experience the Ultimate Longevity Week: Become a Founding Member
Imagine dedicating a full week to radically transforming your future—taking charge of your health, your vitality, and your longevity. Welcome to the Concierge Medical Associates Longevity Insider Founding Membership, a powerful, immersive experience specifically crafted for those committed to achieving optimal health and longevity.
For Our Patient Founders:
Your week kicks off an extraordinary journey toward vibrant longevity. As a Patient Founder, you're not just getting medical care—you're receiving an exclusive, personalized blueprint to reverse aging at a cellular level. You'll begin with a comprehensive biological assessment, pinpointing your unique markers of aging, inflammation, and metabolic health.
During this transformative week, you'll partner directly with Dr. Murphy and our longevity experts for tailored coaching, diving deep into cutting-edge regenerative therapies, peptides, nutritional strategies, and lifestyle interventions. Each day unfolds a fresh discovery, from mastering mitochondrial health and enhancing cognitive performance, to integrating advanced peptide therapies like GLP-1 agonists, BPC-157, NAD+ precursors, and more.
After your immersive week, your journey continues with 12 monthly longevity coaching sessions, ensuring consistent, measurable progress toward your healthspan goals. This is more than longevity medicine—it's your pathway to extraordinary living.
For Our Physician Founders:
As a Physician Founder, you're embarking on a one-of-a-kind week of advanced longevity training, positioning yourself at the cutting edge of integrative medicine and metabolic rejuvenation. Each day on-site at Concierge Medical Associates is packed with detailed training sessions, hands-on sessions, and unparalleled access to our complete library of clinical longevity protocols—GLP-1 therapies, senolytics, mitochondrial enhancement, hormone optimization, and cognitive renewal strategies.
You'll gain deep, actionable expertise, mastering precise peptide administration, integrative nutrition strategies, functional medicine interventions, and detailed monitoring methods designed for high-performance longevity care. At the end of your week, you'll confidently bring back a comprehensive toolkit to elevate patient care and grow your practice as a recognized leader in regenerative and longevity medicine.
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References (Footnotes)
HowStuffWorks – Sound Healing: Benefits of Healing Frequencies (2024). Explanation of ancient use of sound vibrations and life-force energy (chi/prana) in healingscience.howstuffworks.com.
Yang X. et al. (2020). Physiotherapy 100:1118 – Meta-analysis of PEMF for osteoarthritis found improved pain, stiffness, and function vs placebopmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
Sun X. et al. (2022). Clinical Rehabilitation 36:636 – Meta-analysis of PEMF for low back pain showing decreased pain vs controlspmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
Hackel J.G. et al. (2023). Evaluating Noninvasive PEMF for Joint/Soft-Tissue Pain – Randomized trial: PEMF reduced pain 36% vs 10% with standard carepmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
Mayo Clinic (Wainberg, 2022) – Use of Shock Wave Therapy in MSK and Neuro. Reports ESWT reduces pain and promotes healing in bone, tendon, etc.mayoclinic.org and is used for tendinopathies, nonunions, spasticity, with promising outcomesmayoclinic.org.
Knobloch K. (2020). Medicine (Baltimore) Case Rep. – Case report: Combined EMTT (Magnetolith) and focused ESWT healed a chronic scaphoid nonunion after 3 sessionsjournals.lww.com. Describes EMTT pulses (100–300 kHz, 8 Hz) and improved bone healing.
Gerdesmeyer L. et al. (2024). MDPI (PMC11505246) – Lab study: EMTT significantly upregulated osteogenesis genes (RUNX2, COL1A1, etc.) and enhanced matrix mineralization in osteoblast cellspmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, indicating potential to accelerate fracture healing.
Alayat M. et al. (2017). Photomed Laser Surg. 35(8):450 – RCT on chronic neck pain: MLS Laser (808/905 nm) + exercise produced greater pain and disability reduction than 830 nm laser + exercise or exercise alonepubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
Pérez-Moro O. et al. (2024). Biomedicines 12(12):2818 – Systematic review of percutaneous electrolysis: found controlled pro-inflammatory response in chronic tendinopathy and subsequent tissue remodeling (↑VEGF, collagen I) after 1 weekmdpi.commdpi.com.
Pereira M.G. et al. (2025). Healthcare 13:1151 – Pilot RCT: Frequency-Specific Microcurrent improved somatic symptoms and negative emotions in stressed adults vs relaxation aloneresearchgate.netresearchgate.net, supporting FSM’s potential for stress and emotional well-being.
Scientific American (Tu, 2024) – Ultrasound Brain Stimulation Boosts Mindfulness. Low-intensity ultrasound to posterior cingulate cortex increased mindfulness and produced meditation-like effects (time distortion, fewer negative thoughts) for ~30 minscientificamerican.comscientificamerican.com.
Sleep & Brain Clinic – Transcranial Photobiomodulation. Explains that alpha-frequency NIR light stimulation increases alpha brainwaves, enhancing relaxation and meditative calmsleepandbrain.com.
Baldwin A. et al. (2017). J. Evid. Based Integr. Med. – Review: Reiki beyond placebo. Summarized that Reiki induces greater parasympathetic activation (e.g. lowered heart rate, blood pressure) than sham, and improved pain/anxiety in chronically ill patientspmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.