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Dr. Fulford's Touch of Life: The Healing Power of the Natural Life Force
From Simon & Schuster, Dr. Fulford's Touch of Life: The Healing Power of the Natural Life Force is an information-packed volume in which he delineates the healing principles of osteopathy, shares compelling case histories, and offers advice on integrating natural healing methods with modern healthcare.
The ninety-one-year-old doctor known for his achievements in spontaneous healing explains the function of vital energy in human health, shares case studies of patients he has treated, and offers advice on natural healing methods.
The ninety-one-year-old doctor known for his achievements in spontaneous healing explains the function of vital energy in human health, shares case studies of patients he has treated, and offers advice on natural healing methods.
208 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 1996
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
November 7, 2021
As a current student of osteopathy, it can feel frustrating to try to develop your palpatory sense (something that undoubtedly comes from many years of diligent practice) and simultaneously learn how to move into the mental space of healing. In addition, it can be immensely difficult to maneuver within an academic space while feeling drawn to energy and deeper connection. I always hoped osteopathy would be the exception, but upon arrival at DO school I saw how "MD-afied" our knowledge has become. The scientific community often finds sneaky ways to blind itself to those things in our lives that cannot be quantified. His description of the life force felt like a coming home. An understanding.
I was pointed in the direction of this book by faculty at my med school - I was relatively desperate to hear more about how osteopaths work not only on the physical body but on deeper energetic realms. I have felt this, I have seen this, but it has never before had a name to me. Dr. Fulford spoke about these concepts through a lens that was both spiritual and evidence based. I feel so much gratitude toward physicians like him who have paved the ways for future healers such as myself.
I am a student of numerous physicians that work on the life force, and numerous who do not. Unfortunately, not all physicians (and further, not all DOs) have embraced the concept of a life force that can and should be treated through manipulation. It is my opinion that even if you are unaware of your impact on the life force, by placing your hands onto someone else with an intention to treat and care - you are manipulating the life force. Further too, by entering a room with another human being - you are manipulating their life force as well as your own. This is existence.
This book made me want to call him, it made me want to run to his office and see what all the hype was about. How he could possible make such massive impact on his patients without any pharmaceuticals? I want to talk about his choice only to work on pediatric patients due to the accessibility of their life force. I have so many questions for him, but unfortunately he is no longer with us - and the only way we can gain an understanding is through the works and students he left behind. As my interest in osteopathy has blossomed I have been told by the wisest DOs to just listen to the old guys. Drink up their knowledge and do the work within yourself to understand and palpate such a powerful and influential force within all living creations. This book was important step in that direction.
I was pointed in the direction of this book by faculty at my med school - I was relatively desperate to hear more about how osteopaths work not only on the physical body but on deeper energetic realms. I have felt this, I have seen this, but it has never before had a name to me. Dr. Fulford spoke about these concepts through a lens that was both spiritual and evidence based. I feel so much gratitude toward physicians like him who have paved the ways for future healers such as myself.
I am a student of numerous physicians that work on the life force, and numerous who do not. Unfortunately, not all physicians (and further, not all DOs) have embraced the concept of a life force that can and should be treated through manipulation. It is my opinion that even if you are unaware of your impact on the life force, by placing your hands onto someone else with an intention to treat and care - you are manipulating the life force. Further too, by entering a room with another human being - you are manipulating their life force as well as your own. This is existence.
This book made me want to call him, it made me want to run to his office and see what all the hype was about. How he could possible make such massive impact on his patients without any pharmaceuticals? I want to talk about his choice only to work on pediatric patients due to the accessibility of their life force. I have so many questions for him, but unfortunately he is no longer with us - and the only way we can gain an understanding is through the works and students he left behind. As my interest in osteopathy has blossomed I have been told by the wisest DOs to just listen to the old guys. Drink up their knowledge and do the work within yourself to understand and palpate such a powerful and influential force within all living creations. This book was important step in that direction.
May 16, 2008
This book is an amazing insight into the teachings and healing work of Dr. Robert Fulford. Osteopathic medicine was established in the United States, and has been around for many years . . . yet many people have never heard of it, or have reservations about the profession based on false media statements. Perhaps this is why this book is a breath of fresh air, because Dr. Fulford was a master of osteopathy, and proved to make a positive effect on many people over the course of his lifetime.
The book is important because it teaches readers to listen to their bodies in a more in-depth way than conventional medicine has taught us in modern times. We are too reliant on what "doctors say," while we should be in greater control of our own health. There are other, more foreign concepts detailed in the book, which are interesting to consider, some of which are fundamental to osteopathic teachings, and some which are unique to Dr. Fulford. Of course the more familiar concepts of eating right, breathing right, meditation, and exercise are outlined. Some newer concepts such as cranial manipulation, different forms of trauma on the body, fluid movement of spinal fluid, etc.
Check it out. There is some incredible stuff here.
The book is important because it teaches readers to listen to their bodies in a more in-depth way than conventional medicine has taught us in modern times. We are too reliant on what "doctors say," while we should be in greater control of our own health. There are other, more foreign concepts detailed in the book, which are interesting to consider, some of which are fundamental to osteopathic teachings, and some which are unique to Dr. Fulford. Of course the more familiar concepts of eating right, breathing right, meditation, and exercise are outlined. Some newer concepts such as cranial manipulation, different forms of trauma on the body, fluid movement of spinal fluid, etc.
Check it out. There is some incredible stuff here.
July 12, 2010
Great book by a great Osteopathic physician. Dr. Fulford explains from his many years of experience about how effective Osteopathic medicine is and breaks down this field to a science of sort. Great read and will keep for future reference...has some pretty good info.
September 4, 2012
I got this book about 13 years ago and it was very moving and exciting then. Knowing all I do now, I realize this book so much more valuable than I ever realized written by a darling, beautiful man. I highly recommend.
June 6, 2011
I know I've read this book before, but what an eye opener the second time around! Genius!
October 16, 2019
The author of this book, Dr. Robert Fulford, was one of the pioneers of alternative medicine in the form of Osteopathy. Where among other things, one of the primary methods utilized was full body and cranial manipulation. The central focus of Dr. Fulford's methods is that the body has the innate ability to heal itself and that the whole body must be looked at in a holistic way in contrast to viewing it as several unrelated systems. Unfortunately this is the trend of modern allopathic medicine. In recent times, Dr. Fulford's methods and theories have been accepted into traditional medicine. However, it should be noted, that the skill of the health professional and the acceptance of the patient is paramount in this practice.
July 12, 2025
Great book on Osteopathy (alternate medicine), Life force , energy. Dr Fulford shares his experience and enlightens us on how wellness in one’s life can built by understanding how life force (energy) flows through the body.
He also talks about philosophy, spirituality and how mind and body is connected.He also shares simple exercises that can activate the life force.
Overall a great read with lot of useful insights.
He also talks about philosophy, spirituality and how mind and body is connected.He also shares simple exercises that can activate the life force.
Overall a great read with lot of useful insights.
February 22, 2023
Very interesting topic, but given that it’s self reported it’s on a category of a personal opinion.
On the other hand, it’s very easy to read, clear and raised my interest in knowing more.
Assuming what he writes about is true, it’s very unfortunate that we don’t have regular paid check ups with osteopaths.
On the other hand, it’s very easy to read, clear and raised my interest in knowing more.
Assuming what he writes about is true, it’s very unfortunate that we don’t have regular paid check ups with osteopaths.
August 1, 2018
Extremely skeptical, but definitely interesting, and helps me contextualize several friends' interest in some of the practices contained within this book.
June 30, 2019
Read this to better understand osteopathic medicine. Sadly, not many doctors of osteopathic medicine include osteopathic manipulative therapy in their practices.
January 5, 2016
My Osteopath gave me a handout with stretching exercises developed by Dr. Fulford. Simple but effective, I was curious to learn more about him and I'm glad I did. His simple and straightforward writing style emphasizes the basics to building a life of wellness: taking good care of yourself by stretching, meditating, dealing with the past to release pain from your body and mind, eating for nourishment, etc. Great reference book moving forward.
February 6, 2016
This is a funny little book about mind-body healing written by a country doctor who's avoided being hypnotized by the promises of the pharmaceutical sales reps. Just gives his own experiences and insights without attempting to cover the whole subject. A nice read.
February 17, 2010
Dr. Fulford's book reminded me of the importance of proper breathing and stretching exercises to strengthen the life force of the body.
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November 4, 2012An osteopathic classic, Dr. Fulford's book is a very quick and enjoyable read and very useful for anyone wanting to learn more about "traditional osteopathy."
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December 13, 2012A must read for anyone who wants to be involved in the healing field. He was a wonderful and humble man.
May 29, 2017
One of the best books I've ever read on health. Five stars doesn't do this book justice.
April 29, 2025
From the first to the last page, this book is amazing source of information for perfect health and total wellness. It should be a must read for everyone.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews