Polarity Therapy was developed by an American Osteopathic physician, Dr. Randolph Stone (1890-1981). Dr. Stone was a student of spiritual and mystic texts from Hebrew as well as Indian traditions. In his search for the root cause of pain and disease in the body, he was attracted to the concept of the flow of energy written about in these ancient texts. 

The concepts Dr. Stone used were ancient, but he attemp­ted to put these ideas from the East into a con­text that could be absorbed by a Western audience. He used techniques from the Osteopathic tradi­tion together with Whole-Body Reflex points to release energy blockage and pain from the body.

He formulated Polarity Therapy through sixty years of successful clinical practice in the Chicago area, and research into energy healing that took him around the world many times.

Throughout his career, Dr. Stone dedicated himself to teaching and sharing his knowledge. He authored several influential books, which are collected in two volumes Polarity Therapy Vol 1 & 2, as well as Health Building.

Today, Polarity Therapy is practiced by professionals worldwide and continues to evolve as a respected modality within the field of complementary and alternative healing. It is valued for its holistic approach, incorporating physical, emotional, mental, and energetic aspects of well-being.

Dr. Randolph Stone's contributions to Polarity Therapy have left a lasting impact on the field, and his teachings have inspired generations of practitioners to explore the healing potential of balancing and harmonizing the body's energy systems.

What Practices Influenced the Development of Polarity Therapy?

Dr. Stone drew from a variety of practices and influences including:

• Osteopathy

• Naturopathy

• Chiropractic

• Cranial Osteopathy (predecessor to Craniosacral Therapy)

• Chinese Medicine

• Ayurvedic Medicine

• Yoga & Meditation

• Reflexology & Zone Therapy

• Hermetic & Esoteric Philosophy

In Polarity Therapy, he found a bridge between East and West, and between the health philosophy of the ancients and contemporary science (i.e. quantum physics).

Dr Stone’s methods have been adapted into a system of touch that encourages natural health; it is not a version of massage or physical therapy. It is focused on encouraging one’s natural vitality (known as chi or prana in Eastern practices) via gentle non-invasive touch along with the practitoner’s awareness and presence.

What are some current resources for Polarity community?

Prior to retirement, Dr. Stone trained a group of dedicated students who later formed the American Polarity Therapy Association. APTA continues to uphold standards for practice, and offers Board Certification for Polarity Practitioners.

The International Polarity Education Association is another group that offers support for the education and practice of Polarity Therapy.

Dr. Stone’s books about Polarity Therapy can be accessed free of charge at digitaldrstone.org.