David Cumes

In this book, The Spirit of Healing, Dr. Cumes explores non-traditional healing practices from around the world. Originally from South Africa, Cumes received traditional, western-style medical training. As a practicing physician, he compared medical practices of the United States and other westernized societies with the healing traditions of other cultures. He traveled to remote areas of Africa and Peru, seeking out and participating in ancient healing rituals. He entered into these ritualistic experiences as fully as possible, even ingesting the hallucinogenic plants that tribal shamans use to obtain trance states. Cumes observed these shamans as they diagnosed and healed patients. He went to places where healing power was said to reside, and even underwent an unusual healing experience himself. This physician considered the healing practices of ancient religions such as Buddhism and Kabbalah. He suggests that there is wisdom and truth to be found in these traditions that are too often overlooked in our medical system with its reliance upon scientific diagnoses and treatment. This is a book that raises valuable questions about the cultural beliefs surrounding sickness, medicine, and healing in our society.… (more)