Complementary therapies can work alongside orthodox
treatments, helping to improve quality of life and reducing stress.
With specialist guidance, they are safe and appropriate to use for most
conditions.
We are able to offer patients, free of charge, a number
of sessions of either aromatherapy or reflexology, subject to availability.
All our therapists are qualified practitioners who are offering their
time on a voluntary basis.
Aromatherapy is an ancient therapy, which combines
the medicinal properties of plants with the tradition of healing massage
with oil. Aromatherapists work holistically and the treatments aim to
bring a feeling of wellbeing and relaxation to the client.
Reflexology is a therapy that works on the principle
that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands, which correspond
to all the organs, glands and parts of the body. Gentle stimulation
of these reflexes with the thumbs and fingers relieves stress and tension,
improves circulation and promotes normal body function.
For further information, ring 01225 722988
The following contacts may also be helpful:
Provides information on complementary therapies, administers the British
Register of Complementary Practitioners and is looking at ways to control,
regulate and research the different disciplines and techniques. Tel.
020 7237 5165
www.icmedicine.co.uk
Aims to promote integrated healthcare, including orthodox and complementary
medicine. Tel. 020 7688 1881
www.fihealth.org.uk
Publishes a booklet on 'Complementary Care and Cancer'
www.cancerlink.org
Offers healing and positive healthcare to people affected by cancer.
Practises and develops an holistic approach as an integral part of cancer
care. Patient helpline: 0117 980 9505; Information: 0117 980 9500.
www.bristolcancerhelp.org
Maintains professional standards, provides training and has a register
of qualified practitioners.
www.reflexology-uk.co.uk
Operates a healer referral service to help you find a healer in your
area.
Old Manor Farm Studio, Church Street, Sunbury on Thames, TW16 6RG
Tel. 01932 783164; Healer Referral Service 09068 616080
www.nfsh.org.uk
Represents and governs professionally qualified traditional acupuncturists
and publishes a register of practitioners.
Tel 020 8964 0222
www.acupuncture.org.uk
Professional body which regulates the teaching and practice of homeopathy
by registered healthcare professionals.
27A Devonshire Street, London W1N 1RJ
Tel. 020 7935 2163
www.trusthomeopathy.org
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Find a reliable practitioner. Recommendations
are useful, but it is also worth checking whether there is an organisation
that sets standards in the field, and if they have a list of qualified
practitioners.
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Try and find someone who has worked
with people with the same type of illness as yourself.
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Check on the cost. Most therapies
are not available on the NHS and can be expensive. It is worth checking
what the cost of treatments should be with a recognised organisation
for the therapy you choose.
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Check the number of sessions needed
before benefits are felt, and how long each session will take.
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Choose someone you feel comfortable
with.
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Be afraid to ask for credentials
and references
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Be led to believe there are 'miracle
cures'
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Be taken in by people who say you
should follow their method and abandon everything else
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