"Reflexology deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands which are believed to correspond to parts of the body. It is a unique method, using the thumb and fingers, usually performed on the feet but in some cases also on the hands and ears. A practitioner will work the reflex areas, which may help to relieve stress and tension." (Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council - CNHC www.cnhc.org.uk)

 

 

 

"Aromatherapy is the systematic use of essential oils in holistic treatments. Essential oils, extracted from plants are thought to possess distinctive therapeutic properties.These natural plant oils are applied in a variety of ways, for example:

 

 

 

Massage has for centuries been used for reducing stress and alleviating a wide range of muscular, circulatory and respiratory issues. Studies show that massage can significantly decrease post-natal depression. In cases of depression, diabetes, asthma, HIV and cancers studies show that massage lowers stress hormones and enhances immune function, in turn improving the clinical condition.

 

"There are over 80 types of massage therapy and in all of them, therapists press, rub, and otherwise manipulate the muscles and other soft tissues of the body, often varying pressure and movement.Practitioners mostly use their hands and fingers, but may use their forearms, elbows, or feet. Typically, the intent is to relax the soft tissues, increase delivery of blood and oxygen to the massaged areas, warm them, and decrease pain." (Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council - CNHC www.cnhc.org.uk)Despite being used for many years, massage is only now building a body of clinical evidence to support its use in the healthcare arena. Guidelines recently published by the National Institute for Clinical Evidence (NICE) recommends that patients with persistent, non-specific low back pain have access to a choice of different treatments, including massage. The NICE guidelines state “The effect of massage on patients with chronic low back pain lasted at least a year after the end of treatment.”

  

*Savingy P, et al (May 2009). Low Back Pain: early management of persistent non-specific low back pain. London: National Collaborating Centre for Primary Care and Royal College of General Practioners. Available from the NICE website at: www.nice.org.uk

 

 

Reiki is a non-invasive complementary therapy, said to use natural energy flow for well-being.Reiki may be used on the whole body or can be localised to a specific part of the body. A full body treatment can last between 45 to 90 minutes, with a localised treatment lasting approximately 20 minutes.You will remain fully clothed and typically be asked to lie on a massage table or be seated in a chair. Your therapist may need a few moments to enter a calm state and will then place his or her hands on or near various parts of the body, including head, torso, knees and feet. The hands will remain in each position for up to three minutes before moving to the next position.Some practitioners may follow a fixed set of positions while others will use their intuition to guide movements.

 

 

 

 

Indian head massage has been used in Asia for over 5,000 years and works specifically on the area surrounding the head, scalp, face, neck, shoulders and upper back. Indian head massage comes from Ayurveda, an ancient method involving natural therapies, which takes into account mind, body and spirit.An Indian head massage usually lasts for approximately 30-45 minutes, although the treatment can be shortened to 15-20 minutes if it takes place in the workplace.You will be invited to take a seat and relax on a low backed chair. The use of oils is optional e.g. sesame, coconut, mustard, olive or a special blend of oil with added herbs and spices. If oil is used, a towel will be used to ensure your modesty. Alternatively, you can remain fully clothed.

 

 

 

Ear candling is an ancient practice that has been used for centuries in many cultures throughout the world. They are hollow tubes made from unbleached cotton or linen and hardened with beeswax.You will lie on your side on a massage table and a protective cloth with a slit in it will be placed over the ear. The ear candle will be lit and gently inserted into the opening of the ear. Once treatment is completed, it will be repeated on the other ear. During treatment you may experience gentle heat around the ear area. You may hear popping sounds and a pleasant crackling as the ingredients are burning.

 

As with all treatments, a full consultation should be completed with your therapist to ensure that each of these therapies is right for you.