In my previous article titled Easy Guide to Complementary Therapy, I explained the meaning and approach of this form of medical solution. Otherwise known as Alternative or Holistic Therapy, it differs from standard medicine in that it takes into account the entire person and their lifestyle when it comes to keeping healthy or beating illness.
The following article will explain the different types of complementary therapies in further detail.
Overview - Complementary Therapy Categories
Complementary or Alternative therapies see illness as an imbalance, caused by such factors as bacteria, diet, stress and injury. This loss of equilibrium causes a blockage in a person's vital internal energy pathways, preventing the physical body from functioning as it should. The complementary therapies use to treat imbalance or prevent it from occurring fall into the three main categories: physical therapy, herbal medicine and relaxation techniques.
Physical Therapies
This form of treatment focuses on a person's body and senses to promote healing and overall well-being. Examples include:
Massage
There is a wide variety of massage techniques available, but in general your trained complimentary therapist will press and rub your body muscles and pressure points. This is an effective way of relieving stress, recovering from injury and easing the side effects presented by illness. Massages also improve your blood circulation and some believe it strengthens your immune system.
Acupuncture
Developed as part of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture treatment involves inserting tiny needles (about as wide as a hair) into particular areas of your body. This might sound painful, but in fact most people confirm that they do not experience any discomfort. It is reported that acupuncture helps treat side-effects from medicine, facilitates an energy increase and is very helpful in cases of neuropathy (body pain caused by nerve damage from illness such as HIV or the medicines used to treat them).
Yoga
Yoga is a set of ancient exercises that people practise to improve their health, reduce stress and increase flexibility. The physical aspect involves breathing exercises, stretches and poses which influence the internal body. Meditation is also used, which will be explained further on in this article under 'Relaxation Techniques'.
Aromatherapy
This form of therapy is based on the premise that certain smells effectively change the way you feel. The scents used are made from natural plant oils - they can be inhaled, used in baths or during massages. It is reported to be an excellent way to relieve stress and fatigue.
Herbal Medicine
Herbal remedies have been used since the earliest history of mankind. Made from plants, including their roots, leaves, berries and flowers, they act in much the same way as modern medicine. It's important to note that all medicines including herbal ones need to be taken in the prescribed dosage or side effects can occur. It's also important to discuss any herbal medicines you're thinking of taking with your GP so he/she can advise you on whether they will affect any other medicines you're taking or any pre-existing conditions you might have.
Relaxation Techniques
This type of complimentary therapy concentrates on how a person's mind and imagination can promote their health and well-being. Examples include:
Meditation
In a nutshell, meditation is a particular way of breathing and concentrating that allows your mind and body to become calm, focused and relaxed. There are many different forms of meditation – from sitting in a certain position with your eyes closed to taking a walk or watching a beautiful sunset.
Visualisation
This is another method used to help you replace anxiety with a sense of calm. It generally involves you imagining yourself in the place you feel most safe and relaxed. Many people have reported this to be an effective way to relieve stress and boost their mental frame of mind. It has also been reported to help alleviate the pain or side-effects experienced during an illness.
Conclusion
Complementary therapists can offer a wealth of solutions to promote your overall health and equilibrium. All in all, it's important to research their qualifications and experience as well as the therapies they offer, so that you can be sure of achieving the best results possible.
Author Resource:-
Angela Cilano is a medical researcher and consultant on complimentary therapists.
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