1. Massage
Massage involves manipulating your skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments using strokes such as stroking, kneading and pressure point massage techniques. Massage therapy is generally considered part of integrative medicine and often used to complement traditional treatments for various illnesses or circumstances; additionally it may even serve as preventive therapy against depression, cancer and HIV/AIDS.
Studies suggest that massage can alleviate pain, lower heart rate and enhance mood as well as circulation. Massage also may help reduce swelling, stiffness and muscle spasms while stimulating hormone release that induce relaxation and feelings of wellbeing.
The different forms of massage differ in their focus and technique. A Swedish massage typically features long strokes, kneading, friction, vibration and tapping; deeper tissue massage involves deep finger pressure on contracted muscles with cross-fibre friction or stretching techniques; sports massage focuses on improving flexibility, performance and healing injuries while shiatsu massage embraces the concept that certain areas – such as feet or hands – reflect our whole beings.
No matter the kind of massage therapy session you receive, it’s essential that you are aware of potential risks and side effects, including blood clots or fractured bones, excessive pressure on bony prominences or any particular issues or concerns you might have before the session starts.
4. Reiki
Reiki (pronounced ray-key) is an energy healing technique created by a Japanese Buddhist monk in the late 19th century. Although not medical treatment or disease cure, Reiki can relieve anxiety and stress; research suggests it can also improve sleep quality during surgeries as well as medical conditions like cancer.
Studies of 2024 of 87 people with breast cancer receiving hormone therapy showed reiki improved their sleep and quality of life during treatment, while another found it reduced anxiety-related fatigue among children receiving chemotherapy. According to experts, it’s essential that you find a qualified practitioner – inquire about formal training, credentials and professional association memberships – before engaging in sessions; an accredited school or university certificated practitioner would likely possess all of the skills and knowledge needed for safe sessions.
Many hospitals understand how religious beliefs can impede healthcare options, like offering blood products to Jehovah Witness patients. Policies have already been put in place that address spiritual concerns while respecting a patient’s autonomy when making healthcare decisions; but could not disclosing spiritual aspects associated with Reiki, yoga and TT prevent patients from making fully informed choices when selecting their treatments options? Jeremy Sugarman from John Hopkins Berman Institute agrees that spiritual aspects associated with complementary and alternative medicine therapies must be disclosed as part of informed consent processes.
