Is Magnetic Pain Relief Real, Or A Hoax?

Magnetism is one of the core forces of the universe, according to modern science. It is also among the most enigmatic, seemingly capable of generating a multitude of effects that seem wholly unrelated to it. So it is no surprise that some people believe that there is a plausibility behind the seemingly ridiculous idea of magnetic pain relief. At the moment, the idea is hardly considered scientific fact, but some research groups are taking the concept seriously. This is primarily because there have been no verifiable, concrete details on whether or not magnetic pain relief concepts work, which means that the argument could still go either way. That is, until a more definite answer can be found.

At the moment, there is no verifiable scientific evidence that says magnetic pain relief actually works. Any reports of tests that have conclusive evidence have turned out to be fraudulent, or the results could not be replicated by independent groups. In the latter case, it can sometimes be a sign that the studies are rigged or that the results are invalid. However, there is a healthy amount of anecdotal evidence suggesting that it does work. While not everyone who has tried using it has stated that it works, there is a large enough number of them to make it worth noting. Most researchers that take magnetic pain relief seriously believe that there are probably a few variables that determine whether the technique will work or not.

In the medical industry, there are basically two types of magnets being utilized. The first is the static magnet, named such because the field it generates does not change with environmental conditions. The other type would be the electromagnet, which only generates a field whenever an electric current is passed through it. Of these two types, only the former is made commercially available, albeit in a limited capacity. Electromagnets are used only under the supervision of a medical professional, if they are used at all. Reports coming in from tests conducted on both types are conflicting, with some reporting positive effects while others indicate no effects at all. This effectively renders the whole thing inconclusive.

The possibility of a placebo effect coming into play during the use of magnetic pain relief has also been suggested. Some skeptics have suggested that the anecdotal evidence may be nothing more than the result of the placebo effect. The patient believes in the effectiveness of the magnets so much that the body reacts to the belief of getting better, though nothing is really being changed or treated. However, there is not enough evidence to prove that this is the case.

Some scientists have noted that, while magnets may not play a role in relieving pain, it might not be harmful to try it. As far as medical science is aware, using magnetic fields to help fight pain in patients does not have any harmful side effects on the body. There is no guarantee that it will have a positive effect, or any effect at all, but so far, no one has reported any pain-related conditions becoming worse after magnetic therapy.

Positive Mental Attitude

Even up to recently the night before any exam my dad would, without fail, tell me, “oh well, think positively and you'll do fine”. I always wanted to scream back at him that positive thinking wasn't going to tell me what dates the 3rd crusade were, or who built the Parthenon.

Imagine how shocked I was then when I recently read a blackjack tutorial that talked about positive mental attitude. Unlike my dad's version of 'think positively' which equated to 'chin up dear, it'll be alright on the night', the definition of positive mental attitude in blackjack applies to the serious card counting or strategy following player, and is compulsory for his success.

For the serious blackjack contender, the player must maintain a 'positive mental attitude' irrelevant of how he is doing on the tables. It is very important, or so this tutorial claimed, to maintain an entirely unemotional approach whilst playing at a casino. Apparently, if emotions are bought to the table you will get frustrated, excited, lose concentration, lose will power, or be affected by one of numerous other consequences that will ultimately result in your downfall and destitution. I think that this might be a little serious, but it does stand to reason that if you are affected by your results, whether good or bad, you can no longer play in the calculated mathematical manner in which you must to obtain an overall winning balance. In other words, for the table player, a positive mental attitude is advantageous because it is precisely this that will stop him from giving up when he's down, or going on a spending binge when he's up.

The man giving the tutorial claims that he actually looses 35% of the time, but because he is a card counter he is able to exact a 14% advantage over the casino meaning that he does in fact make money on each hand he plays; and it is from this that he takes solace during his 35% of the time loosing streak!

No practical advice was given in this tutorial on how to reach this Zen like state of indifference regarding an activity that you are choosing to partake in. Concentration is obviously important, as is steadfast determination; it might be an idea to start on smaller tables and free play games in order to develop the ability not to care or get involved emotionally in the activities of the table or indeed your funds.

Recreational Therapy in Mental Health Treatment

Recreational Therapy has become a popular component of treatment for many health fields, including mental health. The American Therapeutic Recreation Association defines it as "a treatment service designed to restore, remediate and rehabilitate a person's level of functioning and independence in life activities, to promote health and wellness as well as reduce or eliminate the activity limitations and restrictions to participation in life situations caused by an illness or disabling condition." (American Therapeutic Recreation Association, July 2009) Recreational Therapy services are provided in a variety of mental health treatment settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and residential care. Certified therapists have earned at least a bachelor's degree in the field and have passed national certification exam.

Recreational Therapists use a variety of techniques to help alleviate symptoms of mental illness and improve the quality of a consumer's life. Leisure education is often provided, which can help consumers identify what types of leisure they are interested in and find community resources for participation. Many people who are experiencing symptoms of a mental illness have lost touch with their leisure lifestyles or have become socially isolated. Leisure education can also improve social skills to enhance enjoyment and enable consumers to build better relationships. Many Recreational Therapists also use recreation participation as a treatment modality. Therapists will engage in leisure activities with the consumer to improve leisure skills and practice social skills in the moment. In a group setting, therapists will use leisure based activity to explore patterns of behavior and teach healthy coping skills.

In treating mental health, Recreational Therapy can be a versatile treatment addressing various issues. Leisure activity can provide improved daily structure when participating in activities such as volunteer work, classes, or social groups. Certain leisure activities also provide opportunities for social interaction and support. Physical activities and exercise can help improve your mood. Exercise and other leisure activities also can provide a sense of accomplishment. Many of the concepts reinforced in Recreational Therapy align with cutting edge treatments like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). The skills of mindfulness, regular participation in pleasant events, and building mastery are all core components in both DBT and Recreational Therapy. Finally, leisure involvement can provide a sense of purpose and meaning in one's life, as well as strengthening individual identity or one's sense of who they are. A Recreational Therapist can motivate and guide someone experiencing mental health difficulties to leisure that provides the specific benefits suited to their needs. Recreational Therapy services are included in most high quality mental health programs.