Complementary and alternative medicine is a broad term, covering practices like herbal remedies, yoga, acupuncture and meditation that aim to heal mind, body and spirit through holistic techniques.
Studies have revealed that complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is widely practiced among adults. Therefore, it’s crucial that healthcare providers discuss CAM with patients and encourage them to inquire further into alternative providers’ training and experience before selecting any specific one for themselves.
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) encompasses an umbrella term encompassing any therapeutic practice not associated with traditional medical treatment, from acupuncture and homeopathy to aromatherapy and meditation. Practitioners in CAM vary greatly in qualifications; some have formal training while others don’t. While some therapies have been extensively tested in scientifically designed studies, others remain untested; either way CAM therapies continue to grow in popularity as many seek it for various purposes.
Contrary to claims by some, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) cannot replace standard medical care. If you decide to pursue this avenue of therapy, it is essential that you speak to your physician first – this will allow them to ascertain whether there may be an underlying condition that requires more aggressive approaches, while simultaneously making sure any medications don’t conflict with each other or interfere with any treatments you might already be using.
Some complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices rely on holistic systems of theory and practice, like naturopathy or traditional Chinese medicine, yet these practices tend not to rely as heavily on scientific evidence as conventional medicine does – which seeks to make its recommendations on top quality evidence.
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Health at the National Institutes of Health classifies most complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies into two broad categories: natural products and mind-body practices. Natural products encompass herbs and vitamins sold as dietary supplements while mind-body practices involve procedures or techniques like Tai Chi, Yoga, Acupuncture Massage Relaxation Techniques Meditation; while some forms aren’t scientifically supported and may even be dangerous.
Reiki
Reiki is a form of energy healing. Practitioners believe it assists the body’s natural defenses against illness by relieving stress and encouraging an increased flow of energy, in addition to supporting emotional and spiritual well-being. Reiki treatments often accompany medical care services as a complementary strategy to mitigate side effects associated with medication or treatments, as well as reduce adverse side effects from medication and treatments.
While research on reiki remains limited, several studies suggest it can help reduce pain and anxiety. According to a 2024 systematic review of five controlled trials involving patients who received reiki, they reported less fatigue and improved well-being; another 42 individual study discovered that it reduced physical therapy pain associated with knee osteoarthritis treatments through reiki therapy.
Reiki stands apart from other alternative medicine forms by not requiring its practitioners to possess specific credentials in healthcare fields. Instead, attunement–where a master touches your hands in positions believed to promote healing energy–is taught. Unfortunately, there is no evidence to demonstrate its efficacy or safety (National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2012e).
Hospitals already implement informed consent policies for Jehovah Witness patients receiving blood products; these individuals typically refuse to sign blood-based consent forms. Hospitals should create similar policies for those seeking complementary and alternative medicine therapies associated with religious or spiritual beliefs in order to meet TJC standards of cultural competence and safeguards for spirituality and beliefs of patients.
Whenever a patient requests Reiki treatment at the hospital, it should be stressed that not enough research exists on its efficacy and safety. Patients must also be reminded that reiki should not replace conventional medical care but instead complement it as part of a complete therapeutic approach.
Hypnotherapy
Hypnosis or hypnotherapy is a nonstandard approach that uses guided relaxation and concentration to assist people in managing mental health issues, quitting smoking, losing weight and sleeping better. Hypnotherapy may also be combined with psychotherapy sessions for maximum effectiveness.
Studies demonstrate the impact of hypnosis on brain activity. When under hypnosis, your mind becomes more open to change in areas such as perception, sensation, emotion, memory and behavior. Your therapist can use verbal suggestions to help steer you away from unhelpful beliefs or associations towards more reasonable ones.
Your hypnotherapist will start each hypnosis session by asking you to relax and focus on the present. They may teach techniques such as controlled breathing (inhale for seven counts and exhale 11 counts), progressive muscle relaxation (tensing and relaxing each muscle group in your body), or visualization (imagining yourself sinking into a comfy chair or walking down an imaginary staircase).
Once you are comfortable and relaxed, your therapist will lead you into a trance state. In a trance state, your focus becomes only the words of the therapist and not any external distractions around you. They may ask you to remember a time when you successfully tackled a problem or object you feared; or recall instances when you felt calm and in control.
Contrary to popular belief, being hypnotized does not force anyone to do anything against their will. It should only be undertaken if necessary due to severe mental illness – in particular psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions or anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Massage
Stressed or need a relaxing massage? Lewes offers an abundance of top-quality spa services for every need, including full body and foot massages. Use Fresha app to find local services that specialize in these therapies and book your appointment. Relax as experienced therapists work their magic!
Massage, the therapeutic manipulation of muscles and soft tissues, can be found across cultures worldwide. Massage helps relieve pain, reduce stress levels and induce feelings of calm. Furthermore, it enhances musculoskeletal, circulatory and lymphatic systems functions as well.
Full body massages offer an exquisite way to unwind. Accompanied by soothing music and fragrant oils, this treatment has long been proven to promote circulation, ease muscle tension, and release endorphins – perfect for helping you forget any worries for 30 minutes or so! Book one from PS80 now to experience pure blissful relaxation!
Amarjeet is an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner and provides various massage therapies, such as Marma Massage (pressure applied to vital energy points). His approach is holistic, taking into account both mind and body health; treating not just symptoms but their source. Amarjeet serves both professionals as well as individuals from various walks of life; working from his centre in Lewes as well as making home visits.
Meditation
Meditation is an ancient practice that can help reduce stress, improve health and wellbeing. Meditation can be done alone or with others and has roots in many religions and philosophies, although you don’t need to be religious to meditate. Many have reported significant decreases in symptoms related to anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following regular meditation practice; additionally some individuals reported improved concentration skills as well as changes to brain structure including an increase in density as well as growth of new neurons.
Meditation comes in various forms, and finding one that resonates with your beliefs and lifestyle is crucial. A good place to start researching is online: read books or podcasts related to meditation; check for local classes offered; ask healthcare providers or mental health specialists for recommendations if necessary.
