Exploring Common Over-the-Counter Medications for Pain Relief

Medication otc

Common over-the-counter medications for pain relief set the stage for this enthralling narrative, offering readers a glimpse into a story that is rich in detail and brimming with originality from the outset. As we delve into the world of over-the-counter pain relief, a myriad of options and considerations await exploration.

From understanding the uses and dosages of different medications to exploring the risks of self-medication, this topic promises to be both informative and intriguing.

Common Over-the-Counter Medications for Pain Relief

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medications are widely used to alleviate various types of pain. They are easily accessible without a prescription and can provide relief for mild to moderate pain. Here are five common OTC pain relief medications along with their typical uses, recommended dosages, effectiveness, and side effects.

1. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

  • Typical Uses:Acetaminophen is commonly used to reduce fever and relieve minor aches and pains, such as headaches, muscle aches, and arthritis.
  • Recommended Dosage:The typical adult dosage is 325mg to 650mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 4,000mg in a 24-hour period.
  • Effectiveness:Acetaminophen is effective for mild to moderate pain relief but may not be as effective for inflammation-related pain.
  • Side Effects:Common side effects include liver damage if taken in high doses, so it’s essential to follow recommended dosages.

2. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)

  • Typical Uses:Ibuprofen is used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain from conditions such as headache, toothache, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, and arthritis.
  • Recommended Dosage:The typical adult dosage is 200mg to 400mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 1,200mg in a 24-hour period.
  • Effectiveness:Ibuprofen is effective for reducing inflammation and relieving mild to moderate pain.
  • Side Effects:Common side effects include stomach upset, ulcers, and kidney damage if taken in high doses or for prolonged periods.

3. Aspirin

  • Typical Uses:Aspirin is used to relieve mild to moderate pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent blood clots in conditions such as heart attack and stroke.
  • Recommended Dosage:The typical adult dosage is 325mg to 650mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 4,000mg in a 24-hour period.
  • Effectiveness:Aspirin is effective for pain relief, reducing inflammation, and preventing blood clots.
  • Side Effects:Common side effects include stomach irritation, ulcers, and increased risk of bleeding, especially in high doses or with prolonged use.

4. Naproxen (Aleve)

  • Typical Uses:Naproxen is used to relieve pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by conditions such as arthritis, muscle aches, menstrual cramps, and tendonitis.
  • Recommended Dosage:The typical adult dosage is 220mg every 8-12 hours, not exceeding 660mg in a 24-hour period.
  • Effectiveness:Naproxen is effective for reducing inflammation and providing long-lasting pain relief.
  • Side Effects:Common side effects include stomach upset, ulcers, and increased risk of cardiovascular events with prolonged use.

5. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

  • Typical Uses:Diphenhydramine is used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and treat allergy symptoms such as itching, rash, and sneezing.
  • Recommended Dosage:The typical adult dosage is 25mg to 50mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 300mg in a 24-hour period.
  • Effectiveness:Diphenhydramine is effective for mild pain relief, reducing inflammation, and treating allergy symptoms.
  • Side Effects:Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and blurred vision, so caution should be exercised when operating machinery or driving.

Healthcare

Consulting a healthcare professional before taking over-the-counter pain medications is crucial for ensuring safe and effective treatment. Healthcare providers can offer personalized guidance based on your medical history, current medications, and any underlying health conditions. This step helps prevent potential drug interactions, allergic reactions, or other complications that may arise from self-medicating.Over-the-counter pain medications play an important role in managing minor aches and pains as part of a broader healthcare regimen.

They can provide temporary relief from symptoms while you address the root cause of your pain through lifestyle changes, physical therapy, or other medical interventions. Incorporating these medications into your overall healthcare plan can help improve your quality of life and promote faster recovery from injuries or illnesses.However, self-medicating without proper healthcare guidance can pose risks to your health.

Without professional advice, you may unknowingly exceed recommended dosages, use medications that are contraindicated for your condition, or delay seeking necessary medical attention for a more serious issue. By consulting a healthcare professional before starting any pain relief regimen, you can ensure that you are using the most appropriate medications in a safe and effective manner.

Addictions

Medication otc

When it comes to over-the-counter pain medications, there is a potential risk of developing dependencies if not used properly. It’s important to be aware of the warning signs of addiction and take necessary precautions to avoid such a situation.

Risks of Dependency

Over-the-counter pain medications, while effective in providing relief, can lead to dependency if misused. Some common risks include:

  • Increased tolerance to the medication over time
  • Physical and psychological dependence on the medication for pain relief
  • Withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop using the medication

Warning Signs of Addiction

It’s crucial to recognize the warning signs of potential addiction to over-the-counter pain medications. Some common signs include:

  • Increasing the dosage without consulting a healthcare professional
  • Using the medication for reasons other than pain relief
  • Feeling anxious or irritable when the medication is not taken
  • Visiting multiple pharmacies to purchase the medication

Strategies for Avoiding Addiction

To avoid developing an addiction to over-the-counter pain medications, consider the following strategies:

  • Follow the recommended dosage and duration of use provided on the packaging or by a healthcare professional
  • Avoid using the medication for purposes other than pain relief
  • Discuss any concerns or potential signs of addiction with a healthcare provider
  • Explore alternative pain management techniques, such as physical therapy or relaxation exercises

Alternative Treatment

When it comes to managing pain, over-the-counter medications are not the only option. Alternative treatments like acupuncture and chiropractic care have gained popularity as natural ways to alleviate pain.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve pain. Research has shown that acupuncture can help reduce chronic pain conditions such as back pain, migraines, and arthritis.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine, to improve overall health and alleviate pain. Chiropractors use hands-on spinal manipulation to align the body’s structure, which can help reduce pain and improve function. Studies have shown that chiropractic care can be effective in treating conditions like lower back pain and neck pain.

Beauty and Cosmetics

Pain relief medications are not just limited to treating aches and pains, but they can also be found in beauty and cosmetic products for various purposes.

Usage in Beauty Products

  • Pain relief medications like aspirin can be used in skincare products to reduce inflammation and redness.
  • Topical creams containing pain relievers such as lidocaine can numb the skin for cosmetic procedures like waxing or tattooing.
  • Salicylic acid, a common ingredient in acne treatments, is derived from aspirin, a well-known pain relief medication.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

  • Using pain relief medications in beauty products may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.
  • Overuse of products containing pain relievers can lead to skin thinning or other long-term skin issues.
  • Some pain relief medications can interact with other skincare ingredients, leading to adverse effects.

Emerging Trends and Controversies

  • There is a growing trend of incorporating pain relief medications in anti-aging products due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Controversies arise regarding the safety and efficacy of using pain relief medications in beauty products, especially when it comes to long-term use.
  • Some experts raise concerns about the potential for developing resistance to pain relief medications when used in cosmetic applications.

Natural and Physical Science

Pain relief medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, work through various scientific mechanisms in the body. These mechanisms target specific pathways to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Understanding these processes can help individuals make informed decisions about their pain management.

Mechanisms of Over-the-Counter Pain Medications

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin work by inhibiting enzymes called cyclooxygenases (COX), which play a role in producing prostaglandins involved in pain and inflammation.
  • Acetaminophen, another common OTC pain reliever, works by affecting the central nervous system and reducing the perception of pain.
  • Topical analgesics like creams or patches target pain receptors in the skin to provide localized relief.

Recent Scientific Discoveries in Pain Relief

  • Researchers are exploring new drug delivery systems to improve the effectiveness and safety of pain medications.
  • Advancements in understanding the role of inflammation in chronic pain conditions are leading to the development of targeted therapies.
  • Studies on the interaction between pain perception and psychological factors are shedding light on the mind-body connection in pain management.

Intersection of Natural Remedies and Physical Science

  • Scientists are investigating the potential of natural compounds like turmeric, ginger, and capsaicin to provide pain relief through anti-inflammatory and analgesic mechanisms.
  • Research on the effectiveness of acupuncture and acupressure in pain management is highlighting the role of traditional healing practices in modern healthcare.
  • Understanding the biochemical pathways involved in the body’s response to natural remedies can guide the development of new pain relief therapies with fewer side effects.

Medicine

Over-the-counter pain medications have a long history in modern medicine, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Initially, pain relief options were limited to natural remedies and opioids, which were often addictive and had significant side effects.

However, as advancements in pharmacology and medical research progressed, new over-the-counter pain medications were developed to provide safer and more effective relief for common ailments.

Advancements in Medicine and Pain Relief

In recent decades, the field of medicine has seen significant advancements in the development of new pain relief options. Pharmaceutical companies have been able to create a wide range of over-the-counter medications that target specific types of pain, such as headaches, muscle aches, and joint pain.

These medications often contain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, which are known for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Role of Pain Medications in Different Medical Specialties

Pain medications play a crucial role in various medical specialties and conditions. For example, in primary care, over-the-counter pain relievers are often recommended for the management of minor aches and pains, as well as fever reduction. In orthopedics, these medications are used to alleviate the discomfort associated with musculoskeletal injuries and conditions.

Additionally, in rheumatology, pain medications are prescribed to help manage chronic pain caused by conditions like arthritis. The versatility and accessibility of over-the-counter pain medications have made them an essential component of modern medical practice.

Mental Health

Chronic pain can have a significant impact on mental health, often leading to conditions such as anxiety and depression. The use of over-the-counter pain medications to manage chronic pain can also influence mental health in various ways.

Connection Between Chronic Pain, Mental Health, and Pain Relief Medications

Chronic pain is not just a physical sensation but also a psychological burden that can contribute to mental health issues. The constant discomfort and limitations caused by chronic pain can lead to feelings of frustration, hopelessness, and even isolation, which can exacerbate conditions like anxiety and depression.

In an attempt to alleviate the physical and emotional distress caused by chronic pain, individuals may turn to over-the-counter pain medications for relief. However, the prolonged use of these medications can also impact mental health by causing side effects such as drowsiness, confusion, or mood changes.

It is essential to recognize the interconnected nature of chronic pain, mental health, and the use of pain relief medications to address these issues effectively.

Strategies for Addressing Mental Health in Chronic Pain Management

1. Seek Professional Help

Consulting with healthcare providers, including therapists and pain management specialists, can help address both the physical and emotional aspects of chronic pain.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT techniques can be beneficial in managing the psychological effects of chronic pain by changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

3. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Practicing mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress and improve mental well-being.

4. Social Support

Connecting with friends, family, or support groups can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation often associated with chronic pain.

5. Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, and getting adequate sleep can positively impact both physical and mental health in chronic pain management.

Nutrition

Eating a well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in overall health and can significantly impact the effectiveness of over-the-counter pain medications. By incorporating specific nutrients and foods into your diet, you can complement the effects of these medications and support your body’s natural healing processes.

Nutrient-rich Foods for Pain Relief

  • Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
  • Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables such as berries, cherries, and spinach can help combat oxidative stress and reduce pain symptoms.
  • Turmeric, ginger, and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties that can enhance the pain-relieving effects of medications.

Interactions between Medications and Food

Certain pain medications, such as NSAIDs, may interact with alcohol, caffeine, and high-fat foods, leading to potential side effects or reduced effectiveness. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist to understand any possible interactions.

Balanced Diet for Pain Management

A balanced diet for pain management should include a variety of nutrient-dense foods, such as lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Hydration is also key in supporting the body’s natural healing processes and optimizing the effects of pain medications.

Pharmacy

Pharmacists play a crucial role in guiding patients on the proper use of over-the-counter pain medications. They provide valuable information on dosage, potential side effects, drug interactions, and proper storage of these medications.

Role of Pharmacists

  • Pharmacists educate patients on the correct dosage and frequency of over-the-counter pain medications.
  • They advise patients on potential side effects and interactions with other medications or health conditions.
  • Pharmacists help patients choose the most suitable pain relief medication based on their symptoms and medical history.

Common Misconceptions

  • One common misconception is that over-the-counter pain medications are always safe to use in any situation, which is not true. Patients need to be aware of potential risks and proper usage.
  • Another misconception is that all pain medications are interchangeable, when in fact different medications may be more effective for specific types of pain.
  • Some patients believe that taking more medication than recommended will provide faster or better relief, but this can lead to harmful side effects.

Safe Storage and Disposal Tips

  • Store pain relief medications in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture to maintain their effectiveness.
  • Avoid keeping medications in the bathroom or kitchen where humidity can affect their quality.
  • Dispose of unused or expired medications properly by following local guidelines or returning them to a pharmacy for safe disposal.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or throw them in the trash, as this can harm the environment.

Closing Summary

In conclusion, the landscape of common over-the-counter medications for pain relief is vast and varied, offering individuals a range of choices for managing discomfort. By arming ourselves with knowledge about these medications and their implications, we empower ourselves to make informed decisions about our health and well-being.

As we navigate the realm of pain relief options, let us remember the importance of seeking professional guidance and practicing caution in our choices.

Questions and Answers

What are the common side effects of over-the-counter pain medications?

Common side effects may include stomach irritation, dizziness, or drowsiness. It’s essential to read the label and follow the recommended dosage to minimize these effects.

Can over-the-counter pain medications be taken with other prescription medications?

It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before combining over-the-counter pain medications with prescription drugs to avoid any potential interactions that could be harmful.

How long can one safely take over-the-counter pain medications for chronic pain?

Long-term use of over-the-counter pain medications for chronic pain should be monitored by a healthcare provider to prevent dependency or other adverse effects. It’s advisable to seek professional advice for prolonged usage.

Are there any natural alternatives to over-the-counter pain medications?

Yes, natural alternatives such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, or physical therapy can complement or substitute over-the-counter pain medications. Consult with a healthcare provider to explore these options.

You Can Heal Anything: You Are the New Medicine

The origin of healing systems

The division of medicine into traditional/conventional and alternative/complementary did not occur by accident. Mankind as a whole needed to experience both of them before it was ready for a system of medicine whose purpose would be of a higher nature than is currently available. The new medicine, although it is so unlike the conventional and alternative models, is being birthed by both of them

Other than the Lemurian and Atlantean approaches to healing, it is clear that the ‘medicine of nature’ has been the most influential in recorded history. Nobody created this form of medicine; it was simply there to be re-cognized or discovered by those who had direct access to the language of nature called Veda, which means knowledge or science. The first written records of nature’s medicine appeared about 6,000 years ago. They were channeled messages written down by Vedic sages in direct response to the first occurrences of illness on the planet. This system, which kept illness and suffering at bay for hundreds of years, became known as Ayurveda, or the ‘Science of Life’.

Although Ayurveda only survived the passage of time in India and some in areas of Brazil and China, it remains a universal form of medicine. Today it stands revived to some of its original form. It greatly contrasts with the western approach to modern medicine in that it seeks to address the underlying imbalance responsible for the symptoms of illness rather than trying to alleviate or remove the effects of the imbalance.

Outsmarting the violation of the laws of nature

Before Ayurveda became a textbook science of healing, people knew how to live in harmony with the laws of nature. As a result, sickness, pain and poverty weren’t part of life. But as time progressed, we began to replace some of the laws of nature with our own laws; in other words, we violated natural law. To try to address the consequences of this transgression from natural living, a system of healing (Ayurveda) was developed to treat the physical and mental effects resulting from the deviations from natural law. A new set of natural laws needed to be employed to undo the damage that was caused by the violation of the original laws of nature. When you dam a stream of water and it flows over its banks, the flooding caused by this action requires a different approach than just letting the stream flow in its own course. We needed to employ new laws and insights to help us deal with the damage once done. The first violations of the laws of nature on Earth created the need for a natural system of healing, one that would give us access to those secondary laws that would reduce the damage caused by violation of the primary laws. This system would show us how to release the obstruction that hinders the flow of the stream in its natural direction. Without anyone violating the primary laws of nature, such healing systems would otherwise be unnecessary.

Hippocrates was perhaps the most enlightened father of nature’s medicine in the more recent history of our species. He understood that the need for healing (applying secondary laws) resulted from the loss of alignment with one’s inner wisdom and intuition. The more humans distanced themselves from their own inner wisdom and the rules of the natural world, the harsher were the corrective measures needed to be taken by the force of nature. So, killer diseases such as the plague began to decimate the population, which then generated the urge for a new kind of medicine, which would combat disease-causing germs and stop each new one dead before it became an epidemic. This approach is what has become known as the conventional system of modern medicine. Of course, all of this was part of the master plan – to throw much of humanity into the other end of the spectrum of duality for the purposes of greater learning and growth in consciousness.

Breeding illness

Just like Ayurvedic medicine, modern medicine, too, was unable to prevent the escalation of disease on the planet. Modern medicine was so concerned with the effects or symptoms of disease that it lost sight of the reasons why people fell sick, most of which weren’t even physical causes. The discovery of the first antibiotic medicine (penicillin) caused euphoria among the medical circles and general population. Years later, the enthusiasm of developing an effective drug for almost every infectious disease became dampened by the fact that the side effects generated by the poisons contained in the drugs were so severe that they often outweighed their benefits. In fact, they actually contributed to the emergence of an entirely new class of diseases now known as chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis.

At the beginning of the twentieth century, only 10 percent of all diseases fell into this category. The rest were acute problems, including fractures, infections, burns, etc. By around 1980, over 90 percent of all diseases had reached a chronic stage, meaning they couldn’t be cured by modern medicine. They also became known as the killer diseases of the modern era. Since our genes haven’t changed a bit over the past hundreds or thousands of years, genetic errors cannot be held responsible for such a sudden and dramatic escalation of diseases, especially when most of them occur only in the modernized world. What’s more, having defective genes doesn’t mean an affected person is going to get ill. Research on the blood disease thalassaemia, for example, has shown that patients who have exactly the same defect in the gene may be extremely sick, mildly ill, or completely healthy. This applies to most other ‘genetic’ illnesses, too. There may be just as many people with healthy genes who suffer from diabetes or asthma as there are those who have defective genes.

The symptom-oriented approach of modern medicine became synonymous with the revival of the old epidemics that so scared and scarred humanity less than a hundred years ago. The wide use of antibiotics and steroids have forced the targeted microbes, blamed for causing infectious disease, to resist the drugs’ action and mutate into what is termed ‘antibiotic resistant organisms’. The germs, following their natural survival instincts, are now outsmarting one drug after another, which means that there are now very few effective ‘treatments’ left for diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria. Millions more people each year are dying from these ‘new’ infectious diseases than ever before and the current trends suggest it will get worse. Unless medicine takes a complete u-turn in its approach, or healing is practiced in a different fashion, mankind will be greatly decimated once again.

It is highly unlikely, though, that modern medicine is going to save humanity from self-destruction. The side-effects of drugs and treatments are breeding so many different diseases and causing so many deaths every minute of the day that it is virtually impossible to even remotely win the battle against disease as long as people believe they depend on any form of medicine, even an alternative one. Since the current medical system is primarily controlled by financiers who have a vested interest in keeping it going and even expanding it further, it is not in the investors’ interest to find a real cure for the most common illnesses, for this would mean the end of medicine. Modern medicine is not designed to make people healthy; it is designed to make and keep people sick.

Many voices among doctors, patients and alternative practitioners denounce the exploitation of ‘innocent’ people. However, they have not yet realized that the same medical system that is misleading and enslaving mankind and robbing millions of people of their sense of sovereignty and self-empowerment is also instrumental in birthing a new medicine, one that will make everyone their own best healer. The government, health care agencies, medical associations, insurance carriers, and drug companies are unaware that they are key players in the cosmic game of transformation. They have helped a major portion of mankind to feel helpless and powerless against microbes and other disease-causing factors. The extreme denial of the infinite power of healing and rejuvenation that lies inherent in everyone is forcing the pendulum of time to swing back and allow the masses to gain complete and unrestricted access to this power within. Without the hazards of the old medicine, the new medicine could not come about.

The perfection of all this lies in the fact that no person can fall ill, regardless of whether it is through a microbe or a medical drug or treatment, without having (unconsciously) agreed to this. The Universal Law of Non-interference makes certain there are no victims and no victimizers. Each person’s Higher Self knows exactly what lessons are needed to move on and evolve toward greater wisdom, love, compassion and self-empowerment, however hard and painful the learning process may appear to be. The final lesson of each individual is to discover and produce the New Medicine, the medicine of one’s Higher Self.

The New Medicine

The return of old diseases and the emergence of chronic illness divided mankind into two camps: One that continues to uphold the trust and confidence in modern medicine, and one that takes recourse to natural methods of healing. Although alternative (complementary) medicine is still battling to make its approaches available to the masses, in some countries of the world such as Australia, Germany, England, New Zealand and now also in the United States, it is becoming more and more common sense to try the natural route, either along with or without conventional medicine. Now both approaches are well represented in the overall scheme of things and can be accessed by almost anyone. Medical doctors still risk prosecution and loss of their license to practice medicine if they dare speak out in favor of alternative health modalities or even apply these in their practice. But before long we will find that both approaches of medicine will intermix or merge together. Indications for merger are already subtly there; when it happens in a more obvious way, a New Medicine will be born, one that will be entirely different from that which existed before. It will work according to the principle, “The whole is more than the sum of its parts.”

The New Medicine will be less concerned about what is wrong with the body or mind; it won’t need to be. Instead, it will focus on unleashing the creative power of the individual as the principle source of health and youthfulness. The New Medicine will recognize that disease is ultimately the result of disconnection from our Source intelligence and Source energy. It will give health care back to the people. Miracles will take place as frequently as operations take place today. Reconnecting with our spirit Source will be the most important thing that can be done to improve one’s health. It’s like switching on the light that dispels darkness. Mankind as a whole will realize that trying to find out everything about the symptoms of disease is like trying to investigate all the possible problems that darkness could cause to a person who has no light to see the path along which he is walking. Although switching on the light is a very simple act, it can solve some of the most complex problems arising from being in the dark. Imagine if there was no light. What could you possibly do in your life except sit, think and worry? Fixing diseases is similar to fixing darkness; there is no end to the fixing.

Both the alternative/complementary and conventional systems of medicine are incapable of eliminating disease on this planet. Both of these systems are expressions of duality; therefore, their scope of influence remains very limited and incomplete. They each have their value in upholding their particular expression of duality; some of it is effective, and some of it is not. To find the eternal fountain of youth and healing, however, we must return to the origin of both these streams, that is, human consciousness. Now is the time to move collectively into the Divine moment where the consciousness of spirit and the physical matter of the body meet, and are recognized as one. It is in the gap of the moment where the two spirals of duality find their common origin. Of the two approaches neither is better or more important than the other. Both are capable of taking us to the desired place of wholeness. Here in this gap of simple existence we activate our creative intelligence, the intention of desire that becomes instant manifestation. The power surge emanating from the Divine moment of being within our own awareness creates the instant and automatic healing of that which is without.

In the gap of Non-Judgment

Healing does not need to take long. In fact, if it does it is likely to be incomplete. According to Japanese research studies, spontaneous remission and complete cure of cancer occurs when those afflicted with the disease move into the gap of non-judgment or non-duality, i.e., when they relinquish all needs or desires to have it one way or the other. This cannot be accomplished by will or by use of the rational mind. It may occur when someone faces death and, oddly, loses all hope for survival. Giving into death may take someone into the gap of their eternal spirit self, provided this is in the person’s highest interest. Thus, consciously losing the fear of dying and stepping into one’s essence may instantly stimulate the body’s immune system into a powerful response that can dismantle egg-sized malignant tumors in the brain, bladder, intestines, etc., within less than 24 hours, in some instances within as little as 15 seconds. There are thousands of documented cases like these.

What is most interesting in these cases of spontaneous remission is that the healing merely (if that is not enough) consisted of gaining freedom from judgment, of accepting one’s situation at that moment. Fighting for life doesn’t get you to this magical place of the Divine moment, for effort and struggle are born out of fear. Giving up one’s desire to live, on the other hand, is born out of resignation, frustration and merely represents the other end of duality awareness. However, accepting death without trying to avoid or enforce it moves you into the Divine moment where miracles take place.

Of course, we don’t all have to face death, either our own or someone else’s, in order to find the opening to slip into the Divine moment. Life provides us with plenty of other opportunities that can serve in the same way. All we need to do is to keep our eyes, ears and hearts open to receive and accept these opportunities, many of which may show up in the disguise of problems and misfortunes. In due time, our polarized duality consciousness becomes anchored in the singularity of Self. The body simply follows suit. Once we lose our polarity thinking, that is, our mode of reference to what we believe is right and wrong or good and bad, the DNA of our body begins to lose its polarity mode as well. As soon as we are able to accept whatever is, which means all our strong and weak sides, our successes and failures, fears, anger, and guilt, etc., our body will move, automatically and spontaneously, out of its polarity mode.

You can make your body do anything

When you are under the strong emotional influences of fear, anger, or even excessive joy, your body is out of balance, too. The stress of sudden joy can cause a heart attack just as easily as the stress of sudden rage. Being ‘good’ is no antidote to disease. We need to remember here that being or expressing one quality also means that its opposite is not far away; in fact, it lurks in the invisible shadow part of our consciousness known as the subconscious mind. True healing begins when we can be both qualities and have no judgment about which one is better or worse. Shadow and light serve each other well and co-exist all the time. The reason we have ‘weak’ spots in our attitudes and behavior is to bring out and develop their opposite, ‘strong’ counterparts. Accepting both creates oneness or balance, and balance is the key to healing. Preferring one quality to another generates discord in the body and mind. For example, even if we choose happiness over sadness, it counts as an imbalance. Consequently, the body has no other choice but to develop a physical imbalance, too.

Everything in life is valuable, and once we see that we then become graced with the perception of oneness. Since the body does nothing of its own accord but simply follows instructions, the new perception of oneness and acceptance of whatever is becomes the new blueprint reference for DNA. The genetic codes in your body’s DNA adjust to the ‘new you’ and copy that information into a new RNA which subsequently alters the functioning of your body, making complete rejuvenation not just possible but unavoidable. When the adjustment is complete, the DNA structure will go off like a time bomb in order to accommodate the light of oneness. The time for genetic detonation is now.

Our body is nothing but soft clay, shaped and molded on a minute-by-minute and day-by-day basis. If you tell your body that something is good for you, it believes you. It has no other choice but to serve one master, you. If you tell your body it cannot heal itself and requires help from outside it will believe this too and you will find yourself in need of a doctor, a drug or surgery.

On the other hand, your body can walk on fire if you can convince it that it can. You can even pierce your body with knives and needles and suffer no injuries if you can make it believe that this won’t hurt it. If you persuade your body that it can live without air for several days while being buried under the earth, then it can even do that for you. Levitating in mid air or walking on water are other so called ‘impossible feats’ the body can accomplish if it trusts its instructor enough. Sri Chin Moi, the well-known peacemaker and musician from India living in the United States, repeatedly lifts 1,000 pounds of weights in front of camera crews. He claims that the power is coming from his mind. Numerous ‘miracle performers’ have been scientifically studied and show that the above abilities have actually nothing to do with the body but come from the power of the mind. Likewise, your body can remove a tumor that has metastasized (spread) everywhere.

But for this to happen, you need to step outside the awareness of the body (duality) and move into the awareness of the spirit (oneness).

[This is an excerpt from the book LIFTING THE VEIL OF DUALITY by Andreas Moritz]

Andreas Moritz is a writer and practitioner in the field of Integrative Medicine. He is the author of 13 books ( http://www.ener-chi.com/book.htm ) on various subjects pertaining to holistic health and spirituality, including ‘The Amazing Liver and Gallbladder Flush’, ‘Timeless Secrets of Health and Rejuvenation’, ‘It’s Time to Come Alive’, and ‘Cancer Is Not a Disease, It’s a Survival Mechanism’.

His most recent book is titled ‘Vaccine-Nation: Poisoning the