Alternative Therapy

This week, the group attended a therapy centre. Here, therapies such as massage, reiki and reflexology are performed, for descriptions of different types of massage see the massage company. I feel this is a session a lot of the group were looking forward to, in particular the massage. I was able to have a hydrotherm massage whilst visiting (illustrated on the left). This is a relatively new form of massage where you lay on a mattress filled with warm water allowing the therapist to slide their hands under the patient’s body to exert pressure on their muscles. This allows the massage to go deep into the muscles without discomfort. An advantage of Hydrotherm over other forms of massage is the warm water improves blood circulation and therefore is often used for muscle injuries. I found the massage to be very relaxing and also interesting as the sole purpose of such a massage is to relax. Although I therefore feel I benefited a lot from this massage, feeling less tense afterwards, I noticed their price list on the way out and it was very high. I was unable to try any of the other therapies due to them being in such high demand! However, I was able to observe reflexology being performed on a fellow student. Whilst doing the reflexology, the therapist was able to explain the theories behind it. I learnt reflexology is an ‘energy therapy’ which uses massage mostly on the feet but also the hands to benefit other parts of the body. He went through different areas on the hands and feet and explained to which part they relate to in the body. He then went on to tell us stories on how reflexology had benefited his patients in the past. However, as open-minded as I tried to be, I remained unconvinced, feeling the benefits were due to the pleasant experience of having your feet massaged rather than his ability to remove a blockage of an invisible ‘life force’. I realise however that this may just be my scepticism toward anything without a sound and proved scientific basis, but I am still not convinced! However, I don’t deny that having a massage is very relaxing, even if it’s just a one of treat.

Feeling of health: Before: 7/10 before: 9/10
What I learned: Massages can be relaxing and can make an individual feel more healthy
What I will change: save up for a massage