Alison Clamp

Aromatherapy:

Aromatherapy is the systematic use of essential oils in holistic treatments. Essential oils, extracted from plants are thought to possess distinctive therapeutic properties. These natural plant oils are applied in a variety of ways, for example:

• By massage blended in a carrier oil - the most used method.
• Adding a few drops to warm bath water (ideally diluted first).
• Through inhalations (this is not advisable for asthmatics).
• Blended into creams/lotions and other plant bases for individual use.

An essential oil is an aromatic, volatile substance extracted from a single botanical source by distillation or expression. Essential oils have been utilised in fragrances, flavours and medicines for thousands of years and there are some 400 different oils extracted from plants all over the world.

Bowen Technique:

Bowen technique is a soft tissue remedial therapy that involves the therapist using fingers or thumbs to move over muscle, ligament, tendon and fascia in various parts of the body.

The main feature of Bowen technique is that between sets of moves the therapists will leave the room and allow the patient to rest. This is a key element of Bowen and is a defining aspect of the technique.

Children also respond well to Bowen and I have worked with many children with conditions ranging from asthma, glue ear to autism and cerebral palsy. (Please see www.bowen4children.org.uk for more details).

Ear Candling:

Ear candling is an ancient practice that has been used for centuries in many cultures throughout the world. They are hollow tubes made from unbleached cotton or linen and hardened with beeswax.

You will lie on your side on a massage table and a protective cloth with a slit in it will be placed over the ear. The ear candle will be lit and gently inserted into the opening of the ear. Once treatment is completed, it will be repeated on the other ear. During treatment you may experience gentle heat around the ear area. You may hear popping sounds and a pleasant crackling as the ingredients are burning.

Indian Head Massage:

Indian head massage has been used in Asia for over 5,000 years and works specifically on the area surrounding the head, scalp, face, neck, shoulders and upper back. Indian head massage comes from Ayurveda, an ancient method involving natural therapies, which takes into account mind, body and spirit.

An Indian head massage usually lasts for approximately 30-45 minutes, although the treatment can be shortened to 15-20 minutes if it takes place in the workplace. You will be invited to take a seat and relax on a low backed chair. The use of oils is optional e.g. sesame, coconut, mustard, olive or a special blend of oil with added herbs and spices. If oil is used, a towel will be used to ensure your modesty. Alternatively, you can remain fully clothed.

Reflexology:

Reflexology deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands which are believed to correspond to parts of the body. It is a unique method, using the thumb and fingers, usually performed on the feet but in some cases also on the hands and ears. A practitioner will work the reflex areas, which may help to relieve stress and tension.

Reiki:

Reiki is a non-invasive complementary therapy, said to use natural energy flow for well-being. Reiki may be used on the whole body or can be localised to a specific part of the body. A full body treatment can last between 45 to 90 minutes, with a localised treatment lasting approximately 20 minutes.

You will remain fully clothed and typically be asked to lie on a massage table or be seated in a chair. Your therapist may need a few moments to enter a calm state and will then place his or her hands on or near various parts of the body, including head, torso, knees and feet. The hands will remain in each position for up to three minutes before moving to the next position.

And more.