Therapies available

Acupuncture

Is based on the principles of Chinese medicine and uses needles, finger pressure or heat in the form of moxibustion to stimulate the specific acupuncture points, to influence the energy flow throughout the body.  The points will be chosen for their specific effect, and can influence symptoms such as pain, nausea and anxiety.

Aromatherapy

Is a gentle treatment combining the art of massage with the therapeutic properties of fragrant essential oils, aimed at enhancing physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Counselling

People can shy away from counselling, because they are not sure that it can help to “just talk” to a stranger or “I don’t want to be told what to do”, or “I don’t want to be psychoanalysed”.   Speaking with a counsellor can help you to explore and express your concerns and feelings and may help you find your own choices and solutions in a safe, accepting and confidential atmosphere.

This is what the Sara Lee Trust counsellor Joy Oakley says -

‘I don’t tell people what to do – how on earth could I?  What I can do is put all my effort into trying to understand what life is like for them where they are now, to listen fully when they choose to share their innermost fears and anxieties, or their joys and achievements. Sometimes it helps to talk to someone outside the family, someone you don’t have to worry about!  Sometimes it helps people to make sense of what they’re going through, and sometimes to find solutions and new ways of being’.

“I’d like to thank you again for all the help you’ve given to me with my post cancer treatment anxiety. As I said during out last session you’ve really helped me to sort things out in my head and even though I still get these waves of anxiety and surges of fear, I also feel that I’m more able to manage them. Key phrases which you used will also be very helpful for me to hang onto when I need them”.

Y. Laybourne

Massage

Is a gentle hands on therapy providing relaxation for tense and tired muscles.

Reflexology

Is derived from an ancient therapy based on the principle that reflexes on the feet and the hands correspond to parts of the body.  Massaging these reflexes in a special way helps to restore balance and harmony within the body.  It promotes a state of deep relaxation allowing the restorative and natural healing power of the body to flow more freely.

Relaxation & Visualisation

Offers the opportunity to learn practical exercise and breathing techniques which may help to quieten the mind, which in turn can help liberate more positive images and energy.

Shiatsu

Uses the principle of Chinese medicine to balance and harmonise the energy pathways of the body.  Energy meridians are worked throughout the body using palm and finger tip pressure in flowing movements.  This therapy is performed through clothing.