Information for patients, families and friends
Complementary Therapies
These relaxing therapies can have a positive impact on your sense of wellbeing and quality of life as well as helping to support you in coping with symptoms such as insomnia, constipation, pain, fatigue, breathlessness, anxiety or low mood. Many people also value the restful time that complementary therapies and relaxation provide for them, alongside whatever else is happening in their lives.
All treatments can be carried out with you seated or lying down. Your therapist will take your health needs into consideration and agree a treatment plan with you that will be safe and comfortable for you.
Gentle massage
Massage can include stroking , gentle pressure or holding an area of your body to assist relaxation, so there is always something that can be done even if your body is painful or sensitive You can choose to have a foot massage, or focus on your neck and shoulders, or a back massage; depending on your needs.
Patients frequently report how relaxing and enjoyable they find massage. It may help to ease tension or discomfort, and can be a very nurturing treatment
Reflexology
Reflexology is a relaxing treatment performed on the feet, and sometimes the hands. Like acupuncture, acupressure and shiatsu, it is based on the principle of energy that flows throughout the body This means that all of the body systems, organs and structures can be treated through the feet (or hands) with gentle pressure and massage techniques.
As the feet and hands are very rich in nerve endings, people often find reflexology deeply relaxing , and some find it helpful in relieving symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.
Reiki
Reiki is an ancient Japanese form of energy healing. The therapist draws upon the energy all around us, focusing this universal energy through their hands and into your body, helping to support you with whatever you are dealing with at that time.
Reiki is done over clothes and the therapist may rest their hands gently on your body offering a soothing hold, or may position their hands a little distance away from your skin. Many people find Reiki helps to relieve symptoms and many experience deep relaxation and feelings of wellbeing.
Group Sessions
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine sterile needles into specific points on the body. At Trinity, we offer acupuncture in a group setting , and we encourage patients to relax and rest during the session. Needles are mostly inserted into the hands or feet, with patients seated in reclining chairs.
Relaxation
We offer a relaxation group which covers a variety of different relaxation and self-care techniques such as visualisation, mindfulness and aromatherapy
The group aims to help you to relax and also to develop the confidence to use the techniques you learn independently
Seated Movement
The classes we offer for patients are designed to be accessible for all levels of ability The classes are mostly seated, but there is some standing for those
able to do so. Participants report how the classes help them to do more stretching than they thought possible, whilst also being gentle enough to feel relaxed afterwards.
FAQ
How many complementary therapy sessions can I receive?
We usually offer four 1:1 complementary therapy sessions to outpatients. At the end of this course of sessions we review your needs and may suggest other services that might be of help to you
How long do complementary therapy treatments last?
Treatments for outpatients usually last about 45 minutes, but please allow up to an hour in case the therapist needs to take a little longer with you. During the first session the therapist will need to complete some paperwork with you. Treatments for inpatients tend to be shorter, depending on need.
Who can access complementary therapy at Trinity?
Inpatient and outpatients can access complementary therapy treatments when it is agreed that they may be a useful and supportive way of meeting patient needs.
Are all therapists qualified?
Yes, all our therapists, whether paid staff or volunteers, are experienced, qualified practitioners of the therapies that they offer All are registered with the CNHC (Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council) or their relevant professional body, both of which are accredited by the Professional Standards Authority
Do you have female and male therapists?
Please let us know if you have a preference and we will do our best to meet your needs, depending on the availability of therapists.
Do I have to take clothes off for 1:1 complementary therapy sessions?
Not always. Many treatments can be given over clothes or just to hands, feet, face or head. If you would like a body or back massage with oils you would need to remove some clothing , but this would always be your choice.
How can I get the most from my complementary therapy sessions?
If possible, take some time for yourself after the treatment and avoid anything too stressful or tiring. Some people feel that they have more energy after a treatment, but others may feel tired as they begin to relax and let go of stress and tension.
Inpatients may need some quiet space after a treatment and may wish to rest or sleep afterwards. It is usually recommended that you drink plenty of water after a treatment unless your fluid intake is restricted for medical reasons. Please avoid alcohol on the day of treatment.
Your therapist may suggest things that you can do between treatments to support the complementary therapy that you are receiving.
How to contact Trinity
Royal Trinity Hospice
30 Clapham Common North Side
London SW4 0RN
Call 020 7787 1000
Email enquiries@royaltrinityhospice.london
www.royaltrinityhospice.london
@trinityhospice
RoyalTrinityHospice
@royaltrinityhospice
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Charity no. 1013945
Date of publication April 2023