Whilst powerful tools in the treatment of cancer, chemotherapy and other medical interventions can really take its toll on our bodies, can't it? Alongside the symptoms of cancer, treatment side effects can be challenging, and in the medical world the answer is very often another medication.
This is why I love holistic treatments – the perfect antidote to treatment induced side effects, gentle and non-invasive, and without any additional side effects which can impact quality of life and your day-to-day living.
It can be overwhelming and confusing to know where to start, or which therapies might work best for you or the symptoms and health issues that concern you the most. To make this process easier, I’ve put together this list of my favourite recommended holistic treatments and therapies to nourish, nurture and support your body alongside chemotherapy and other cancer treatments.
Reflexology
Reflexology originated in Asia and North Africa and has been extensively used in many cultures as a traditional medical treatment for thousands of years. Reflexology involves applying gentle, targeted pressure to specific points on the feet and sometimes other areas of the body. This is a soothing and comforting treatment which is also great for managing side effects of chemotherapy, in particular constipation, peripheral neuropathy, supporting and boosting the immune system and promoting healthy circulation and lymphatic flow. Reflexology can also help with symptoms of treatment induced menopause or hormonal imbalance and fatigue, making it a great all-rounder for patients with cancer.
Clinical aromatherapy
I absolutely love aromatherapy – I use it myself and for my family every single day. Clinical aromatherapy combines the ancient healing properties of essential oils with scientific and medical insight to help support a more balanced body and mind. Aromatherapy treatments are completely tailored to you, with oils carefully selected based on your concerns and goals. It’s great to support and boost immune system function and mental and emotional wellbeing, and it also helps with chemotherapy and surgical side effects such as related peripheral neuropathy, nausea, reduced appetite, fatigue. Many essential oils contain chemical compounds which have a deeply calming and relaxing effect which can help to reduce worries and anxieties, and boost your mood.
Please note that whilst I usually encourage self-exploration and discovery with holistic tools, aromatherapy MUST be used with caution during chemotherapy – be sure to seek specialist advice regarding essential oil dosage.
Lymphatic drainage
Any treatment which supports the movement and drainage of fluid is super important for anyone with cancer, because your lymphatic system is an integral part of your immune system. When you are undergoing chemotherapy you want as much immune system support as possible, don't you? A healthy well functioning lymphatic system aids the removal of toxins from you body and boosts immune function. Lymphatic drainage massage is also recommended after surgery to help promote healthier healing and recovery.
Please note that whilst I usually encourage self-exploration and discovery with holistic tools, be sure to seek specialist advice from a practitioner working in cancer care.
Head massage
This relaxing and soothing treatment is a wonderful treat for anyone – and I often recommend it for cancer clients following chemotherapy as it can also help to stimulate hair regrowth. Sweeping, stress-relieving strokes help to activate hair follicles, boosting circulation and blood flow to the area to bring them the nourishment they need to grow. Head massages can also help to release tension held in the face, head and neck areas which could be contributing to pain and fatigue.
Oncology massage
This dedicated, gentle treatment is focused primarily on relaxation and your overall wellbeing, supporting the body and mind simultaneously to reduce stress and improve emotional wellbeing. Oncology massage can be combined with aromatherapy oils.
Reiki
Reiki is a type of energy healing which was developed in Japan over 2500 years ago. Since then, it’s evolved and found its way all over the world and there are now thousands of practitioners. As a completely non-invasive (and where necessary, touch-free) therapy, reiki really helps with fatigue as well as supporting deep relaxation and balancing and supporting the mind-body connection. Reiki sessions can also be combined with other healing modalities such as crystal therapy and aromatherapy to further enhance these benefits.
Cancer coaching, meditation and hypnosis
Mindset plays a huge role in our recovery and the day to day quality of our lives – often even more than people realise. I do a lot of work in this area and have various offerings available to make mindset work accessible for all. My dedicated cancer coaching has been specifically designed to help support you through the emotional challenges of the cancer journey. Providing you with a safe space to work through and process your thoughts or feelings alongside a cancer diagnosis, supporting you to make sense of everything and helping you to find coping strategies that work for you. Guided meditation and targeted hypnotherapy sessions can also help to support emotional wellness and healing throughout your cancer journey.
How do I know which treatments are best for me?
For all my clients I offer a free initial consultation – this is an opportunity for you to tell me more about how you are feeling and the unique challenges you are facing. I can then recommend treatments for you based on what I feel will benefit you the most.
🎁 If you are looking for a perfect gift idea for a loved one or friend going through cancer treatment then look no further. PhysioCare Holistics Gift Vouchers are available here.
For more on cancer wellness treatments or to book your free initial consultation, get in touch here: info@physiocareholistics.co.uk
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