We’ve all heard of Complementary Therapy but what actually is it?

As its name suggests it’s a therapy that goes alongside (or complements) other treatments. You continue to take your medication and having any treatments you’ve been prescribed from your GP or hospital specialist.

Complementary therapies like Reflexology are now offered routinely in some hospital cancer clinics whilst people are receiving their chemotherapy. 

This is completely different to Alternative Therapies where you don’t take medication or have procedures or treatments but ‘just’ rely on holistic treatments to heal you.

I always recommend that you DO continue to take your medication and having your treatments. 

If you find that your medication or treatments are not agreeing with you go back to the GP or health professional who prescribed them for advice. 

 How can Complementary Therapies help you?

Usually complementary therapies are calming and supportive and help you to take an hour or two away from whatever you’re dealing with.

For you to be able to off-load some of your worries, to put them down for an hour or so. To be tucked up under a blanket and to simply let go without fear of judgement. That’s what Complementary Therapy allows you to do. That in itself can be very therapeutic.

They are also good for helping tackle some of the problems you may be facing at the source of the problem. For instance if you are suffering with low mood, having a treatment will help produce naturally occurring feel good hormones called endorphins which will help your mood lift a little.

If you’ve got tense muscles having a complementary therapy treatment like massage or reflexology  may help to release tension. 

Having a reiki treatment may help you feel calm and reconnect your mind and body leaving you feeling calm and replenished. 

If you’re struggling to sleep you may find Reflexology helpful. Also whilst they’re helping you to feel more relaxed and calmer, less tense and less stressed or anxious they also (usually!) feel really good. 

Examples of Complementary Therapies include Massage, Aromatherapy, Reiki, Acupuncture, Reflexology, Indian Head Massage, Osteopathy etc. 

Did you know you may be able to get cashback on your Reflexology treatment if you have health insurance? 

Some health plans offer cashback on Complementary Therapies including Reflexology and Acupuncture.

Double check your policy and any specific requirements the company has regarding eligibility as not all companies offer cashback on Complementary therapies and some need the therapist to be a member of a specific professional register or organisation in order to qualify for cashback.