Friday 24 June 2011

Contra-indications

What is a 'contra-indication'?
Contra-indication is a term used by therapists to describe something that will prevent the beneficial outcome of a treatment. A contra-indication is defined as an illness or condition that prevents part or all of a treatment from being carried out.

Examples of contra-indications
The major contra-indications that prevent any treatment from being performed are
  • epilepsy, 
  • high blood pressure that is not managed
  • infectious skin diseases such as scabies, ringworm and impetigo.
Minor contra-indications that are localised to one area and only prevent some of the treatment from being performed are
  • bruises
  • sunburn
  • a verruca or wart

What should I do if I want a treatment but have one of these?
Your therapist will ask you questions about your current health during your consultation but it is always helpful to mention any health disorders you have when you book, just to save you a waisted journey, if at that time, the treatment cannot be performed. If you are unsure about anything just ask your therapist and they should give you any advice you need.

Is pregnancy a contra-indication?
Pregnancy is NOT a contra-indication, however some therapists may feel uncomfortable working on a pregnant client. Pregnancy is a wonderful time but it can leave clients with sore backs and swollen ankles that benefit greatly from massage. Therapists usually won't perform holistic therapies on a pregnant client during the first trimester (12 weeks) due to it being such a delicate and sensitive time, after this time there should be no reason not to treat a pregnant client unless they suffer with bleeding or stomach pains at any time during the pregnancy.

Friday 17 June 2011

The History of Holistic Therapies

What are holistic therapies?

Holistic therapies can be defined as a treatment that addresses an individual as a whole being, including physical, mental, emotional and spiritual elements through massage and meditation. All of the treatments are personally tailored to suit the individual’s needs and goals.

Holistic therapies have roots in history as far back as ancient Greece, China and Egypt, and have been used as a form of healing ever since.

Aromatherapy
Evidence of Aromatherapy can be dated as far back as 3500BC and early examples can be seen in ancient Egypt and ancient Greece. The Egyptians used herbs and plant material such as Cedarwood and Myrrh in the mummifying process because they believed they had powerful properties. They are also believed to have used the first known form of equipment used to extract essential oils from plant material, and used them to fragrance the temples.

Reflexology
Examples of a type of foot therapy can be seen depicted on a hieroglyphic painting in a tomb is Egypt that dates back to 2300BC. The ancient Chinese recognised the link between the feet and spirituality.
In the 19th century, the theory of Reflexology was being studied by European and Russian medical professionals into the link between reflex areas and the nervous system.

Indian Head Massage
The treatment originates from India, hence the name, and is used as part of Ayurvedic techniques to improve an individuals lifestyle and well being.  Indian Head Massage is used along side a strict healthy eating plan, exercise such as Yoga and health supplements.
The Western version of Indian Head Massage was pioneered by an Indian man called Mr. Maeda who was disappointed in the lack of head massages performed in places like barbers and salons. Indian Head Massages are now one of the most popular holistic therapies performed.

Massage
Massage is the oldest form of holistic therapy and has origins in ancient China, ancient Greece and ancient India, and has always been used to relax and heal. Massage even has references in the bible where it documents daily massage with olive oil and myrrh as a part of the beauty regimen of the wives of Xerxes.

Hopi Ear Candles (Thermal Auricular Therapy)
Ear Candles originate from the Hopi Indian tribe of Arizona. They used this treatment to regulate, harmonise and cleanse. It is now used today to help ease symptoms of glue ear, sinusitis and tinnitus. 

Friday 10 June 2011

My Very First Blog.

I have decided to have a stab a writing a blog as I have lots of information I want to share about holistic therapies. If you follow me on Twitter you may know that I tweet daily top tip and fab facts, but sometimes 140 characters just isn't enough. So stay tuned for more information about different therapies, product reviews, special offers, and even information about me, the person behind Calluna Therapies.

Heather :)