Distance healing (also known as energetic distance healing or spiritual healing at a distance) is a form of alternative healing in which the "healer" attempts to support or "heal" another person without being physically present. This is often done through mental, energetic, or spiritual techniques.
Here are a few key aspects:
🔹 Basic idea:
The belief is that energy, thoughts, or healing impulses can be transmitted independently of space and time. This means that healing is possible even if the recipient is many kilometers away.
🔹 Typical methods:
Reiki distance treatments
Prayer or meditation for someone
Visualizations
Quantum healing
Working with angels or spiritual helpers (in spiritual systems)
🔹 What does science say?
From a scientific perspective, distance healing is not proven. There are no reliable studies showing that distant healing has a measurable medical effect. Nevertheless, many people report subjective improvements or positive experiences – which may be related to the placebo effect or the power of faith, for example.
🔹 Why do people use distance healing?
When they desire support, but the healer is far away
As a complement to conventional medicine
Because they believe in subtle energies or spiritual powers
🔹 Bruno Gröning
A German spiritual healer from the 1950s who claimed to transmit divine healing energy ("healing current"). People sat in silence to absorb this energy. He was revered by many, although his methods were controversial. There are still groups that continue his teachings today.
🔹 Andreas Hauber
A modern healer who works with so-called pranic healing. He moves his hands through the air to release "energetic blockages." He often sees his work as a complement to conventional medicine.
🔹 Ryke Geerd Hamer
He developed the controversial "German New Medicine," according to which all illnesses are rooted in spiritual conflicts. He was highly controversial because he largely rejected conventional medical treatments. Nevertheless, his ideas found followers.
🔹 Hannes Jacob
A Swiss healer who combines various energetic techniques, such as laying on of hands and spiritual alignment. He emphasizes collaboration with classical medicine and sees his work as a support, not a replacement.
🔹 Joao de Deus ("John of God")
A Brazilian healer who became known worldwide. He practiced so-called spiritual surgeries and was spiritually revered by many people – however, he was later prosecuted. Nevertheless, some still believe in his former work as a healer.