Complementary Therapies
What are complementary therapies?
Complementary therapies can help to promote relaxation, sleep and
a feeling of well being, as well as temporary relief of some physical symptoms. Treatments are given in the warm, relaxing atmosphere of the Oak Centre therapy room, or in your bed on the ward, to a background of gentle music.
Complimentary therapy treatments are available to Oak Centre patients, in-patients, and the carers of patients with chronic conditions. (Other carers will continue to be cared for by CancerCare at Slynedales,)
If you would like be referred for complementary therapy, please ask a member of staff.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy treatments harness the power of essential plant oils to stimulate or to calm, depending on the oils used. The therapist and client together choose the oils.
Aromatherapy can be delivered as a warm and comforting massage or inhaled if this is more suitable, to help reduce stress, enhance relaxation, and relieve anxiety.
Therapeutic Massage
Therapeutic massage involves gentle and rhythmic touch and stroking movements using nourishing oil to ensure that the massage is smooth. It can take place on a bed, chair or therapy couch, wherever the client is most at ease. If preferred, the massage can take place over clothing.
After a massage, the client may feel more relaxed and able to cope with their symptoms and circumstances. Temporary reduction of some symptoms may also take place.
Indian Head Massage
Indian Head Massage is a treatment of the scalp, face, neck, chest, upper back and arms. It can be fairly vigorous or very gentle, depending on the needs of the client. Aromatherapy oils can be used if desired.
Indian head massage aids the body in its elimination process, reducing tense and aching muscles and promoting a feeling of harmony. It can also improve the condition of the scalp, hair, and skin by increasing the circulation.
Reflexology
Reflexology begins with a relaxing foot massage, which is followed by gentle alternating pressure being applied to the whole foot using small movements of the thumb and fingers. It works on the nerve pathways, so bringing about a change in the whole body.
It can be adapted to suit the needs of the client, and can be given on the hands if preferred. Reflexology aids the elimination process and helps to relax and balance the body and mind, relieving stress and anxiety.
Reiki
Reiki assists our physical and emotional energy, which can sometimes be interrupted by factors such as lifestyle, stress and illness. When this happens, our energy-flow needs a little ‘fine-tuning’.
A reiki treatment takes place fully clothed, either sitting or lying. The therapist places her hands over the clients’ body in specific positions for a few minutes. Some people feel warmth, coolness or tingling in the area being treated. Reiki can help the client to feel calm, less anxious and more able to cope.
Our team of therapists are all fully trained professionals with nationally recognised qualifications. They work in collaboration with the medical and nursing team to complement your other treatments
To find out more about the therapies we offer, please contact Sarah Bowers, Nurse Complementary Therapy Co-ordinator.
