Complementary Therapy Week 2025: A Holistic Approach
Complementary Therapies are methods that aim to enhance wellbeing alongside conventional medical treatments. While the scientific backing for some of these therapies may vary, many people report positive experiences. The key idea is that if a practice is safe and personally beneficial, it can contribute to a more holistic approach to health, especially in terms of mental wellbeing. That being said, it’s important to remember that these therapies are meant to complement, not replace, standard clinical treatments.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body. This stimulates nerves and triggers a natural response in the body such as the production of pain-relieving endorphins, which are believed to be responsible for the beneficial effects experienced with acupuncture (1).
The NHS recognizes acupuncture as an effective treatment for certain conditions, especially chronic pain. Some studies also suggest that it can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression (2).
Hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy uses hypnosis to help patients change their behaviours or address specific issues. By placing individuals in a focused state of concentration, hypnotherapy can facilitate positive changes in thought patterns and emotional responses. It has shown promise for conditions like anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia (3).
Importantly, patients remain in control during hypnosis and can choose to accept or reject any suggestions made by the therapist. This makes hypnotherapy a collaborative and empowering process for many.
Reiki
Reiki is a fascinating complementary therapy that may be particularly appealing for those looking for a more holistic approach. This practice originated from ancient Buddhist traditions and was popularized in the 20th century by Dr. Mikao Usui. It focuses on channelling energy to promote wellbeing and balance in the body, mind, and spirit.
Practitioners use gentle touch or work just above the body to help release stress and emotional blockages, creating a sense of calm and wellbeing, with many patients reporting feeling relaxed and rejuvenated following a Reiki session. For individuals seeking a gentle, non-invasive way to support their wellbeing, Reiki can be a valuable addition to their wellness toolkit (4).
To dive a bit deeper into this, we got together with Sue, one of our amazing complementary therapy volunteers at Primrose Hospice, who’s been offering Reiki to our patients over the past year…
Hi Sue, it’s good to see you! Thanks very much for your support at Primrose. Could you tell us a little about yourself, your work with Reiki and complementary therapy?
“I came to Primrose Hospice from a referral while I was suffering with bereavement. I was very depressed and came for a number of therapies, including; yoga, breath work and Reiki. I had previously worked for 25 years at a GP practice in the NHS, so I’ve seen a lot of patients that have been very poorly and the impact it can have on their families. After receiving support at Primrose, I wanted to give something back after they had helped me tremendously so I trained in Reiki and began volunteering at Primrose Hospice. That’s how my Reiki journey began.
Complementary therapies are relaxing treatments to help improve wellbeing and can be as simple as listening to music to take everything away for just an hour. Reiki in particular, is an energy healing technique that can help with anxiety, depression, pain management, sleep, and mood, not only physically, but mentally as well. I think it would be really beneficial to anyone.
It’s used as alongside conventional medication, so it doesn’t aim to cure anything. It’s not harmful in any way. It’s just about being open minded, relaxed and just let Reiki through and unblock any negative energies that you might have.”
How do you think Complementary Therapy could support someone living with a life-limiting illness?
“Especially with Reiki, I think it can help people relax and give a positive distraction which can be beneficial for clients, families and carers. This can help people to cope a little better, improve sleep and promote wellbeing.”
If a patient or client came in and they were struggling with sleep, could you provide any advice as to how they could take what you’ve done in the session and use it at home?
“Sometimes a bit of movement can help. I would say, try changing position or sitting in a chair for a while, play some relaxing music or try some simple breathing exercises. Mindfulness or body-scanning meditation can also help to alleviate anxiety. If your mind wanders, just bring it back to those breathing exercises, I think that helps a lot. It did with me and I still do these exercises today.”
How do you think complementary therapy could support someone who is experiencing bereavement?
“I think Reiki is something very spiritual and it can just help you to relax and sleep. I think any Complementary Therapy can help with all those things that come with upset; depression, anxiety, and stress. Even if it is just for that hour, it’s something that patients can take away with them and feel positive about.
I feel that the clients I’ve dealt with have always felt very positive at the end of a session and they seem to have a lot more energy so hopefully that can help them a little bit more.”
Can you tell us a bit about what it’s like to volunteer at Primrose and what drew you to this role?
“I love feedback from any clients and staff members… Some clients have told me that I’ve made them feel very special in that moment. At the beginning of a session, patients can be a bit down, but at the end, it’s like I’m talking to someone different, they can often feel quite elated. So it gives me a lot of satisfaction, seeing the change in people.
I love meeting new patients, talking to them, calming them and letting them relax with the hand and foot massage that I do. It’s very relaxing, and they are always appreciative at the end of the session. They say how much I’ve helped them and I love that feedback. So that’s what I enjoy most; meeting different people.”
What would you say to other people to encourage them to volunteer with Primrose?
“I would say, please do it, it’s amazing! The reward you get from it, even if it’s just driving someone to an appointment, is truly worthwhile, everyone is so appreciative. If you have got time to spend, please volunteer, because it’s just a wonderful thing to do.”
Thanks Sue! Reiki certainly sounds fascinating!
If you or someone you know is going through bereavement or life-limiting illness, get in touch with us via our referrals page and discover what complementary therapy can do for you at Primrose Hospice! or contact us: 01527 889799
References
(1) https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/acupuncture
(2) https://www.york.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/2017/research/acupuncture-boosts-medical-care-effectivness
(3) https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/treatments-and-wellbeing/hypnosis-and-hypnotherapy
(4) Einion 2022. Chapter 14 – Biofield and manipulative therapies for emotional wellbeing and fertility. Fertility, Pregnancy, and Wellness, Pages 249-263
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