Complementary Therapies
The diagnosis of a serious illness can often increase stress levels. The person diagnosed, the carers and their families may all experience anxieties and concerns.
You may appear to be coping outwardly but taking some time to reflect may help to support your physical and emotional well-being.
Complementary therapy sometimes helps people to achieve that balance, feel calmer, relieve the aches and pains and restore energy levels.
These therapies should never be regarded as an alternative to medical treatment prescribed by a consultant or GP but as an adjunct to promote well-being.
Following assessment, all of the following therapies are free of charge for Day Care guests, carers and outreach clients.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy can be traced back to Ancient Egypt. It involves the controlled use of essential oils such as lavender, sage, rose or lemon.
Aromatherapy may relieve stress or tension by helping you feel more relaxed. Sometimes it has helped with skin problems, insomnia and muscle pain caused by tension.
Massage
Massage can have a range of benefits including: improved circulation, relaxed muscles, elimination of toxins, aided digestion, improved muscle tone and eased tension.
Reflexology
Reflexology has its root in Chinese and Egyptian traditions. It is believed that different areas of the feet and hands are associated with different parts of the body. These areas are callled "zones".
By applying pressure to "reflex points" within these zones, the reflexologist may help to relieve imbalances in different parts of the body and help create a sense of well-being.
Reiki
Reiki means "universal life energy". It has its roots in the ancient healing methods developed 7000 years ago in Tibet and later adopted and developed by the Japanese.
The therapist uses gentle touch starting with the head to allow the Reiki energy to flow.