As per its title, Complementary Therapy is medical treatment used in conjunction with conventional methods. It is also known as Alternative or Holistic Therapy and has been practised as far back as 10 000 BC. Over the past three decades, the Western world has seen a growing interest in this form of treatment – from reflexology and massage to homeopathy and acupuncture, there is a wide range of solutions which complimentary therapists can offer. Currently, around half of GP's and three in ten local health authorities in the UK now offer access to alternative therapies.
The Complementary Therapy Approach
In contrast to conventional medicine which treats specific symptoms, complementary therapy uses a holistic approach, where the entire body is taken into account as an integrated system. In addition, your lifestyle, occupation, diet, occupation and emotions are regarded as strong contributory factors to your wellbeing. Alternative therapies seek to restore your bodies balance, as illnesses, disease, stress and injury are seen to block your vital internal energy pathways, preventing your physical body from functioning as it should.
Alternative therapies fall into the following main categories:
1.- Physical therapies, which include yoga, massage, acupuncture and aromatherapy.
2.- Relaxation techniques, such as visualisation and meditation.
3.- Herbal medicine which uses plant substances that work on the same principles as standard medicine.
Benefits
Complementary therapies are known to help restore your body's natural equilibrium. Relaxation techniques in turn help your body to deal more effectively with the strains and stresses of daily life. Research has shown that complementary therapies can boost your immune system, help eliminate toxins, improve circulation and sleep patterns, help relieve pain and increase energy levels. Many people with HIV or other serious ailments take complementary medicines to help ease side effects from conventional treatments.
This therapeutic approach can also be used to tackle a specific physical, mental, emotional or spiritual problem that conventional medicine cannot address. In addition, many people swear by its power as a preventative solution to keep illness from manifesting.
Top Tips for Getting the Right Results
1.- When using herbal treatments, it's important to remember to follow your complementary therapist's directions for correct dosage. Taking too much of certain herbs can be harmful and cause negative side-effects.
2.- Research the alternative therapies you are thinking of using so that you fully understand their benefits and side-effects. There is a wealth of information available in popular bookshops and on the internet. When choosing a complementary therapist, also make sure they have sound qualifications and experience.
3.- Always tell your doctor before taking any new treatment so that he/she can confirm it fits in with your overall health plan and will not affect any other medicines you might be taking. Some herbs for example can interfere with contraceptive or HIV medications.
Conclusion
Complementary or alternative therapy has been in practise far longer than the scientific medical approach we have today. It is increasingly gaining in popularity worldwide because of positive feedback on its ability to restore and maintain your body's balance and wellbeing. As with any treatment however, it's vital to determine whether it will be beneficial to your overall regime and individual system. Whether you're looking to boost your medical solution or simply want to learn to relax more, the right research, discussion with your GP and choice of professional complementary therapist will allow you to achieve enhanced results for your health.
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