- .
- .
- .
- .
- .
- .
- .
- .
- .
- .
-
- .
- .
- .
- .
- .
- .
- .
- .
- .
- .
Complementary therapy
Complementary therapies are now very much part of the overall care given in hospices throughout the country. Pilgrims Hospices offers three of the most effective complementary therapies available: aromatherapy, massage and reflexology.
Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils to help promote and maintain health and vitality. Essential oils are extracted from a wide variety of aromatic plants, flowers and trees and have been used in medicine for thousands of years. These essential oils are diluted in vegetable massage oil and then massaged into the body
Massage is one of the oldest and simplest forms of therapy. It helps the body and mind to relax; it relieves pain, stimulates the blood circulation and improves the elimination of waste products - all vital to good health.
Reflexology is a specialised massage treatment carried out by applying gentle pressure to specific reflex points on the feet or hands, and helps to promote health and the feeling of well being.
All the therapies, as used in the hospice, are truly holistic, helping to ease physical and spiritual pain, relieving anxiety, aiding relaxation and increasing a feeling of self-worth.
Complementary therapy is part of the medical care Pilgrims offers so there is no charge for any treatment given. It is offered to every patient whether in the in-patient unit, attending the day hospice or being cared for by one of the Pilgrims clinical nurse specialists and also to carers attending Carers' Days. Treatments are available in the afternoons, Monday to Friday, from complementary therapists that are highly qualified practitioners with many years experience.
Links:
National Association of Complementary Therapist in Hospice and Palliative Care