Magic is the performance of tricks. It is one of the art forms in the world. Magic shows usually include a disappearing act, card tricks, or pulling a rabbit out of a hat. But what could that have to do with health?
Alec Brown, an American magician, who made people have fun with magic as other magicians did in his early days. But later he paid more attention to using it to improve the lives of people with disabilities.
A car accident changed Alec Brown's idea towards magic performances. He was badly hurt in the accident and it took him almost a year to get the skills he'd lost. And this made him begin to think about using magic tricks as a tool for healing (治疗). Then Alec started giving classes to teach magic tricks to children and adults with disabilities.
Alec says magic therapy may seem non-traditional. But many skills are similar to the ones used in traditional forms of healing illness—thinking, understanding and social skill are all there. And the social connection with other people can also help people feel better and increase their confidence (自信心).
Amy Snow is an example. She has had a bad illness that makes it difficult for her to walk, understand complex (复杂的) feelings and connect with people. After learning some simple tricks, she could feel something different. "It made me feel happy and proud. It was great!" Amy said.
Alec Brown says seeing kids like Amy come alive has the meaning to him. And he plans to spend more time helping disabled people. He hopes more people can join him in helping the disabled.
