Complementary Therapies
Reflexology
The ancient art of reflexology accesses these nerve endings which are linked to every organ and system of the body. Through skilful manipulation a reflexologist can help to unblock the flow of energy in organs and rebalance entire systems. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, it is particularly useful for stress related conditions as it helps to discharge the negative effects of stress and stimulate the body’s own healing.
I am also qualified in advanced spinal reflexology which helps with more specific back issues, I provide an assessment of skeletal alignment through the positioning of the feet and use techniques which include working on nerve points, pelvic and vertebral alignment and muscular spasms.
Reflexology is a renewal and maintenance programme for the body. It not only aids recovery but helps the body to maintain health. It is not necessary to have a ‘symptom’ to benefit from reflexology.
Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage
RLD is an award winning reflexology technique which focuses on stimulating the lymphatic reflexes on the feet. The aim is to cause an effect on the lymphatic system in the body. It is a unique sequence that has been researched and developed by Sally Kay, whilst working in Cancer Care. The results appear to support the theory of reflexology.
www.reflexologylymphdrainage.co.uk
ScarWork
Decades ago, the way of dealing with scars and adhesions was generally one of ‘knuckling’, i.e. breaking down the rigid, unresponsive tissues with the knuckles. Although some relief could be obtained in that way, it was painful. With ScarWork, we listen to the body’s pain alerts and adapt our pressure, techniques and angle of touch accordingly; it should feel good for the client. The touch is light, responsive and non-intrusive and has been known to help with a variety of scars, not just their appearance but their underlying effects on the body.
Adhesions stick structures together that would normally glide past each other; this can cause functionality problems and affect posture and energy level, among other symptoms. With ScarWork, our aim is to soften and change the scar tissue; the light touch approach has been shown by research to create changes at cellular level and this enables deep change in the tissues to take place.
The therapist will assess how the scars and adhesions are affecting your posture and gait, then work not just on the scar but on the surrounding area.
www.scarwork.uk/
Neuro Muscular Technique (Emmett Technique)
What is it? Good question! It is based on the belief that light touch can trigger a relaxation response in the soft tissues of the body, and that the therapist thereby may help relieve tension which results in feelings of improved comfort.
We believe a good analogy is that of a digital touch-screen. With the touch-screen, if you touch too hard, nothing happens. If you touch on the wrong spot nothing happens. If you hold for too long, all the icons start to shake. But if you touch with just the right amount of pressure in a specific location, an application opens and you are good to go. We believe the EMMETT points are small sensory receptors that allow access to the brain via the therapists’ touch. With the correct light touch, the brain receives and evaluates this stimulus and initiates the relaxation response in the soft tissue. There are receptor points all over the body so the therapist can target the area of concern. It may sound surprising but the relaxation response and the feeling of ease in the area is often immediate.
The pressure required is not heavy or painful. “No pain no gain” has NO place in the EMMETT therapist’s approach.
www.emmett-uk.co.uk/
MLD
"Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is an advanced therapy in which the practitioner uses a range of specialised and gentle rhythmic pumping techniques to move the skin in the direction of the lymph flow." (MLD UK)
This stimulates the lymphatic vessels which carry substances vital to the defence of the body and removes waste products.
MLD is Is deeply relaxing. It may strengthen the immune system as part of “detox” treatment. Relieves fluid congestion: swollen ankles, tired puffy eyes and swollen legs due to pregnancy. Is an effective component of the treatment and control of lymphoedema (which may occur after cancer treatment) and assists in conditions arising from venous insufficiency.
Myofascial release
Myofascial release is a gentle soft tissue massage treatment to help increase myofascial mobility and reduce pain within the musculoskeletal system. Myofascial is connective tissue that is situated under the skin and surrounds muscle, bone, ligaments and tendons. The soft tissues in the body can become restricted due to injury, overuse, inactivity and result in pain, tension and reduced blood flow. Myofascial release is a slow, effective technique to relief symptoms of fascia restrictions. It is really useful for clients with Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Syndromes.
Reiki
Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's "life force energy" is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy.
The word Reiki is made of two Japanese words - Rei which means "God's Wisdom or the Higher Power" and Ki which is "life force energy". So Reiki is actually "spiritually guided life force energy."
A treatment feels like a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. Reiki treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind and spirit creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security and wellbeing. Many have reported miraculous results.
Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing and self-improvement that everyone can use. It has been effective in helping virtually every known illness and malady and always creates a beneficial effect. It also works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.
Kinesio Taping
Kinesio Taping is designed to facilitate the body’s natural healing process. It can providing lymphatic drainage by microscopically lifting the skin and encouraging flow into areas away from the affected site. It can also provide support and stability to muscles and joints without restricting the body’s range of motion, as well as extended soft tissue manipulation to prolong the benefits of manual therapy administered within the clinical setting. The lifting action and helps decrease inflammation of target areas.
Hypnotherapy & Relaxation (Coming Soon!)
There are different types of hypnotherapy, and different ways of hypnotising someone. Discuss what you hope to achieve and agree what methods I will use to help support you.
Hypnotherapy may...
- lead you into a deeply relaxed state – most people feel refreshed and relaxed
- help you towards your goals – for example, suggesting that you do not want to carry out a certain habit
- gradually bring you out of the trance-like state. Most people feel refreshed and relaxed
You're fully in control when under hypnosis and do not have to take on my suggestions if you do not want to. If necessary, you can bring yourself out of the hypnotic state. Hypnosis does not work if you do not want to be hypnotised.
Physical Therapy
Therapy for the preservation, enhancement, or restoration of movement and physical function when it has been impaired or threatened by disease, injury, or disability. Encouraging clients to choose whichever modality of help they want. It includes therapeutic exercise programming, physical modalities (such as massage and other therapies), assistive devices, and patient education and training.
"My first sports massage session with Kate was fab!! She is very professional and made me feel at ease. She is very informative throughout the massage, letting me know how and why she is employing a certain technique. I felt great afterwards and as an avid mountain biker, will be seeing Kate for my maintenance massages to keep me in ship shape!!" Hayley, Downhill Mountain Biker
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