Complementary
Therapies
As an integrated part of our charity services we offer a range of complementary therapies, all free of charge, to patients and carers alike.
As an integrated part of our charity services we offer a range of complementary therapies, all free of charge, to patients and carers alike.
The service is partially funded by the NHS and we fundraise to maintain the quality of service. Our trained therapists provide a wide variety of complementary therapies, ranging from hot stone therapy, to treatments such as massage and aromatherapy which may help patients struggling with difficult procedures and help to provide extra support for carers. What the therapies have in common is a view that concentrates on the whole person, the ‘holistic’ approach. They often also require an active participation in making lifestyle changes, for example to diet, exercise or positive thinking.
Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by “laying on hands” and is based on the idea that an unseen “life force energy” flows through us.
Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing and self-improvement that everyone can use. It works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.
Aromatherapy is an alternative form of holistic therapy that uses essential oils to help improve and balance you both emotionally and physically, while helping you to take time out for yourself, to be mindful and to reconnect with yourself, even for a moment. The aromas experienced through aromatherapy and essential oils have a dynamic effect on the mind and body.
On a physical level, essential oils help to ease muscular aches and pains, improve circulation, ease sinus congestion and act as a strong antioxidant.
Reflexology applies pressure to a range of particular points on your hands and feet that correspond with all the organs, glands, tissues and muscles in your body.
This helps improve circulation of blood, oxygen and ‘qi’ around the body, relieving stress and healing pain in other parts of the body.
Hot stone therapy is a specialist massage that uses smooth, flat, heated basalt stones that are positioned along your spine, in the palms of your hands, along your legs and between the toes.
Typically from river beds, basalt stones are used for massage as they have a rich iron content that retains heat. Cold marble stones are often used in the treatment to help aid with detoxing and healing the body.
Please note this treatment is not suitable for patients having chemotherapy.
Counselling falls under the umbrella term ‘talking therapies’ and allows you to discuss your problems and any difficult feelings they encounter in a safe, confidential environment.
You and your counsellor will work together to understand and address your problems. Everything you and your counsellor say stays confidential.