Okay everyone, time for an update (for those who are interested), but first of all, thanks for all the replies.
Lisa Rose, incredible story (if true). I think we can't apply the placebo-effect to this dog, who didn't see that one coming! The healing happened fast en suddenly, I also assume there was too little time for the dog to suspect the healing stranger to be an off-duty vet or dog-whisperer
Anders Andersen, I read your link regarding phantom-pain. It's interesting to read that regarding the mirror technique, the site admits:
It is not obvious why this simple technique works
rebel8, I read this on your link:
Patients told they were getting a placebo still reported improvements at a much higher rate than patients who were not treated.
The outcome is fascinating and confirms what many of us already know... the mind can be very powerful, even (as the experiment shows) if we are fully aware of the placebo-effect. But, an improvement is what it is, an improvement. I went from pain to no pain within seconds, a 100% efficiency just by gently pressing my wrist! No crystal ball, no prayer, no questions about any of my personal views...just a human touch. This was no long term experiment with gradual improvement, this was some sort of on/off switch. Again, very effective.
This also brings me to two different views among the replies:
OrphanCrow > I think it is important to remember that the "gift" only works if the recipient of that "gift" accepts it. That gift is ineffective without a willing participant to receive it
just fine > The lady that I see says it doesn't matter if you believe her or not it works anyway.
I promised to ask my healing lady about it and Idid today. She confirmed what just fine wrote. No faith required.
Nevertheless OrphanCrow asked some additional questions, which haven't been answered yet by just fine.
It is to be expected that every healer, receiver and situation has its own "rules" and chemistry. So far, I'm very happy with all the stories and replies, thanks again. I hope to reach a balanced, non-superstitious view and certain things I can relate to.