Is “The Emotion Code” allowed according to Torah?
Question:
Hi Rabbi Braun,
I would like to try a method called “The Emotion Code” by Bradly (Brad) Nelson to try to figure out what’s bothering me and the cause.
The method is supposed to “release trapped emotions in the body that cause stress and disfunctionality.”
Many of my friends use this method and it has helped them.
They can actually do this test by speaking with a practitioner over the phone.
Is this allowed according to Torah?
Thank you
Answer:
There are many alternative healing methods (as well as meditations) out there that are based on ancient Indian or Chinese tradition, for example, acupuncture, reiki, yoga and mindfulness.
Included in this is the emotion code developed By Dr. Bradley Nelson some 20 years ago, which he clearly states is based off Chinese and Indian tradition, of energies that exist in the world and body, which you can tap into with physical activity as well.
Though this does not necessarily mean that its basis is Avoda Zara, there is definitely room for concern. Upon some research, it appears furthermore that Bradley Nelson attributes receiving his ideas, through prayer to his deity, and he mentions how in the emotion code you’ll find certain ideas which exist in x-tianity (which lav davka can’t be taken from Torah either).
This can also be a serious reason for concern.
See here:
Another important point to consider is whether these methods are actually proven to help in a scientific way (whether logically or illogically). Many of these methods have already been discussed by recent Poskim, and there are different opinions on the matter. The Rebbe also discouraged certain of the above practices.
See here at length: Chabad.org/Alternative Medicine in Jewish Law
Though for a person who’s exhausted finding help in traditional medical remedies, there might be some room on occasion to allow the use of alternative ones, and even those with a sketchy track record (see here), initially, help should be sought out at traditional physical and mental health professionals, which have a proven track record and are regarded as doctors enough to be Michalel Shabbos (if needed) based on their opinion.
Thus, my opinion is that although this method is not definitively Asur, it should be avoided based on the above points.
For a general analysis of the issues involved, see here:
If I work as an energy healing (Reiki) practitioner, may I work on women?
See here about the pendulum: Links 1 (pg. 119) and 2.
With a Bracha for Refuah Sheleima,
והסירותי מחלה מקרבך
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