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There are lots of different types of complementary therapy. Some are better known than others – such as massage, aromatherapy, reflexology and reiki – but what exactly do these treatments have to offer? Are they merely about relaxation and pampering or do these little pockets of ‘me-time’ actually have wider health benefits?
While complementary therapies should never be used in place of medical care, below are five reasons you might just like to give them a try…
Tackle the cause, not the symptom
Over-the-counter medicines tend to offer a ‘quick-fix’ approach to a particular health problem but rarely address the underlying cause. If you’re experiencing tension headaches or pain in your back, neck and shoulders because you sit at a desk for long periods of time, wouldn’t it be much better to have regular massages and learn how to correct your posture than reach for the pain killers?
Get a better night’s slumber
Most complementary therapies are excellent at helping to promote a good night’s sleep, the power of which should never be underestimated. We all know that a lack of sleep, or interrupted sleep, can affect our mood and concentration levels the next day but research now shows that regular poor sleep can actually put us at an increased risk of serious medical conditions including obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
Benefit from a ‘whole-person’ approach
The holistic nature of complementary therapies means that even if you hope to address just one particular health issue, over time you may find that other little niggles start to improve, too. Most therapists will also offer you some general tips to improve your wellbeing and show you self-help techniques that you can use at home.
Feel the power of positive touch
As humans, touch is so important to us that if we are deprived of it as newborns, we can literally fail to thrive and grow. Even as adults, positive touch helps us to feel nurtured and cared for, and encourages us to respect and feel connected to our bodies. The body and mind are also intrinsically linked, with the health of one usually affecting the other. A treatment that helps to relax the body can therefore also help to relax the mind.
Take control of your own health and wellbeing
Sometimes, there is nothing more empowering than knowing you have the ability to take charge of your own health and wellbeing, rather than being a ‘passive’ patient. Complementary therapies can be that vital first step in taking back the reins and may even prompt you to make other positive lifestyle changes, such as improving your diet or exercising more regularly.
Ready to take the next step? Find a professional therapist in your area today by visiting the FHT Directory and feel the difference.
The Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) is the UK’s largest professional association for complementary, holistic beauty and sports therapists, and has been developing and promoting the highest standards in education and therapy practice for more than 50 years.