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The use of complimentary therapies alongside traditional medical practice allows for holistic treatment of the body and mind. Below are some of the more well-known therapies which you may find useful, most of which have benefits for the bladder. It is recommended that you seek your doctor’s advice before starting any new treatment.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical procedure involving insertion and manipulation of needles at more than 360 points in the human body. It can be applied to relieve pain during surgery or in rheumatic conditions and to treat many other illnesses.
Acupressure is where the practitioner uses manipulation and
pressure to alleviate pain or other symptoms.
Aromatherapy is the art of applying essential oils to suit individual needs usually, by massage. The oils work directly on the chemistry of the body, via the skin and bloodstream and can be given as a relaxing treatment covering ‘stress’ areas such as back, shoulders, face and legs. The essential oils can also be inhaled, using an oil burner or breathing in an infusion and can also be very beneficial when added to baths.
Massage Therapy is a systematic, therapeutic stroking and
kneading of the soft tissues of the body. All types of massage can have an effect on the skin, muscles, blood vessels, lymph, nerves and some of the internal organs, however different techniques can focus on the physical effects on the body or on the flow of ‘energy’ within the body. It has been found that by stimulating specific areas on the surface of the body, a corresponding effect on the internal organs and systems of the body can be achieved.
Pilates focuses on strengthening the core postural muscles and developing balanced alignment through the use of slow, controlled movements and breathing. Pilates professionals also recommend it for first time exercisers, the elderly, those suffering from ME and people who in general wish to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.
Reflexology involves a method of treatment using massage to
reflex areas found in the feet (and occasionally the hands). In the feet there are reflex areas corresponding to all parts of the body and these areas are arranged in such a way as to form a map of the body in the feet. Thus, it becomes possible to treat the whole body and to treat the body as a whole. This later point is an important factor of a natural therapy and allows not only symptoms to be treated but also their causes
Reiki Healing works by channelling the vital life energy which flows through all living things and which can be activated for the purpose of healing. Reiki practitioners believe that everyone has the ability to connect to their own healing energy and use it for the purposes of strengthening the Ki (or life energy) of others. The Reiki therapist channels the Ki through his or her hands to the recipient, activating the body’s natural ability to heal itself.
Yoga is an ancient Indian practice using physical postures to obtain a harmony of mind, body and spirit, while the discipline of breathing and concentration during practice will bring tranquillity and awareness to the mind. Regular practice of any form of yoga may bring about many benefits.
For further information on these and other therapies, visit the
Complementary Healthcare Information Service at
www.chisuk.org.uk
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