The Benefits of Complementary Therapies
Written by Chloe, Tutor at our Derby Academy
With histories stretching back thousands of years and seen in ancient civilisations all around the world, Complementary Therapies are deeply ingrained in all societies, in one form or another. In our more modern times they’re designed to complement rather than replace more orthodox medicine, and indeed many people find that they are a key component to their everyday lives, enabling them to maintain an important physical, mental and emotional balance.
Sadly they are often overlooked, or seen purely as a ‘treat’ - only to be enjoyed on special occasions or whilst on holiday or at a spa. But did you know the Romans enjoyed daily massage, or that in India it’s a key part of family bonding, where children are taught to massage their elders? Aromatherapy is not just used to make something smell nice - the chemical constituencies of the oils all differ and all have different uses, and can help physical ailments such as burns, eczema or psoriasis. Plus, don’t forget the Reflexologist who picks up on that lower back pain you’ve been suffering with, but hadn’t even told them about!
The benefits of Complementary Therapies are wide-ranging and can vary depending on the treatment you have - but how can any of the following not be a good thing?
Pain reduction and relief
Reduced stress and anxiety
Uplifted mood
Increased energy
Induced relaxation and sedation
Improved blood circulation
Improved digestion
Reduction in oedema (swelling)
Improved movement and range of motion
Improved physical and athletic performance
Why not take the time on this National Complementary Therapies Week to enjoy a long-overdue treatment from a local therapist. Or perhaps, try a new one? Just what is involved in Thai Herbal Compress Massage? What is a Heated Bamboo Massage like - is it similar to a Hot Stone Massage? Do you like the sound of Reflexology but never got around to trying it out?
If you’re a therapist yourself, why not take the plunge and book on to a course to add a new skill to your repertoire?
Here at Cedars Training Academy all of our Tutors have a real passion for Complementary Therapies - it's a key part of what we live and breathe! We asked some of our Tutors and Staff Members to share their favourites with you:
“My absolute passion is Aromatherapy. In my opinion it’s often the most overlooked complementary therapy, and so versatile that it can be added to almost every treatment out there (even Sports Massage or Fire Cupping!). It’s the best way for a therapist to take their treatments to the next level, enabling you to provide bespoke, personalised and completely unique blends for your clients, and making you completely different to any other therapists out there. I have over 50 essential oils in my collection! If you ever come on a course with me, beware of my enthusiasm - and that you may leave wanting to learn Aromatherapy too! 😊”
Chloe’s Essential Oil Collection
“Those of you that have met me, know that the best way to enjoy complementary therapies is to introduce them into your everyday life.
It is difficult for me to choose as I love all the therapies but do have a passion for reflexology and the powerful but natural way it induces the bodies own healing.
I have seen and felt the results first hand, in both myself and more importantly my clients. We can treat the feet, the hands, face and even ears.
For me, through reflexology I can work every system, every organ of the body. Clients experience deep relaxation and a sense of wellbeing. It is the perfect way to rebalance, renew and restore your body, when you need it most. ”
What’s your favourite complementary therapy? Let us know in the comments below (and if you’d like us to share on our social media, please say so).