Perception of Subtle Energy "
Manasa Belal et al. (2023) · Global advances in integrative medicine and health
This systematic review synthesizes data from studies on perceptions of subtle pranic energy and the effects of biofield therapies, aiming to enhance understanding of their physical and emotional impacts. The research is significant as it bridges traditional healing practices with modern scientific inquiry, potentially benefiting integrative medicine. The study design involved a systematic review of qualitative and mixed-method research, analyzing nineteen relevant studies published between 1990 and 2022. The sample size varied across studies, focusing on individuals who reported experiences with subtle pranic energy. The intervention tested was not a specific treatment but included various biofield practices such as Reiki, Qigong, and Pranic Healing, with outcomes measured through qualitative interviews and surveys assessing physical, mental, and emotional changes. No specific duration or frequency was detailed as this was a review of existing studies. The meta-synthesis revealed significant experiences of pranic energy during biofield therapies, with participants reporting sensations of energy, including temperature variations and positive physical and psychological effects. Primary outcomes indicated that participants experienced awareness of pranic energy sensations, with no specific statistics provided. Secondary outcomes showed improvements in emotional well-being and physical comfort, although cognitive awareness during therapy did not demonstrate significant change. Qualitative findings highlighted participant-reported outcomes such as increased awareness of energy presence, physical sensations like warmth and tingling, and improved emotional well-being. Importantly, no adverse events were reported during the studies reviewed. The findings suggest that individuals across diverse demographics can benefit from biofield therapies, which may enhance mental and physical well-being. Practitioners could consider incorporating these therapies into their practices to improve patient outcomes. However, the study's limitations include a lack of rigorous empirical data to support personal reports of benefits and insufficient exploration of the mechanisms behind the reported sensations. Future research should focus on investigating these mechanisms and the relationships between different experiential themes to substantiate the therapeutic applications of biofield practices.