Our Clinics

Therapies

Contact your local branch or look at our Practitioner Profiles for exact details of therapists available. Gift vouchers are available for all therapies and can be purchased instore or in the Online Shop.


^ TOP Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a system of healing that has been practised in China and other Eastern countries for thousands of years. It focuses on overall well-being, rather than the isolated treatment of specific symptoms. Our health is dependent on the body's motivating energy known as Qi (chi), moving in a smooth balanced way through a series of channels beneath the skin. When the Qi becomes unbalanced, illness may result. By inserting fine needles into the channels of energy, you can stimulate the body's own healing response and help restore its natural balance. Many common complaints can be treated with acupuncture, and addictions such as those related to smoking, alcohol, food and drugs can also be helped.

^ TOP Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique is used to help rediscover our natural balance and poise, both physically and emotionally. By learning to use ourselves in a more conscious, constructive way we can deal with the causes underlying such conditions as back pain, poor posture, migraine and breathing difficulties.The Technique is a powerful tool for stress management, making life less tiring and more enjoyable.

^ TOP Allergy / Food Sensitivity Testing

Allergies, intolerances and sensitivity - whether chemical, dietary, environmental, short or long term - can be tested for using complementary therapy.

Muscle testing is highly accurate, painless and suitable for babies, the elderly and those that are highly sensitive. It allows you to become immediately aware of which substances are causing you problems. You will generally be tested for around 200 substances.There are a variety of other testing methods which our practitioners also offer.

^ TOP Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy massage involves the use of natural essential oils, and dates back to ancient civilisations. Each oil has unique properties, and they are used to treat a wide range of physical and emotional problems including back and neck pain, muscular aches and pains, depression, arthritis, PMS and general stress and anxiety. Aromatherapy is a rejuvenating treatment that leaves you feeling relaxed, refreshed and restored.

^ TOP Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurveda is the traditional healthcare practice in India. Literally translated it means 'Science of Life' and comes from the Vedas - the oldest known written texts. Rather than a single treatment, Ayurveda is a complete system that incorporates meditation, yoga, diet, lifestyle and herbal remedies. During a consultation the practitioner will use a variety of diagnostic techniques to determine the patient's current state of health, body type and any imbalances, which, left unattended, could result in ill health. The patient will be advised of dietary and lifestyle adjustments that will offset these imbalances and promote optimum health and well-being.

^ TOP Bowen Technique

Bowen originated in Australia based on the principle that the body instinctively knows how to heal itself. The therapist acts as a facilitator in a dialogue with the body involving small, gentle moves across muscle and tendon fibres. Deeply relaxing and suitable for all, it can improve a wide range of health problems.

^ TOP Colonic Hydrotherapy

Colonic Hydrotherapy uses warm water to gently flush through the colon ( large bowel) to rid waste matter, gas/wind, toxins, bacteria, parasites and mucous build-up. During treatment, the abdomen is gently massaged whilst you relax, chat, contemplate life or believe it or not, even sleep! Colonics may be used to help relieve constipation, diarrhoea, IBS ( Irritable Bowel Syndrome), Colitis, Diverticular Disease, Skin problems, headaches, lethargy, candida, parasites, the list is endless. You simply may want one to give you an energy boost, or as a maintenance, or as a treat.

We recommend a minimum of four treatments, with two weeks between each treatment for maximum effectiveness. Further treatments may be advised by your practitioner.

^ TOP Counselling & Psychotherapy

These forms of therapy offer an opportunity to discover a way forward from any difficult or painful point in life. They help explore current problems and enable an understanding and a coming to terms with past events. These therapies provide a means to express and release feelings, increase confidence and self esteem and to work through challenging situations, life crises and change. Also, specific problems can be helped such as anxiety, abuse, panic attacks, relationship problems, eating disorders, bereavement, depression and ill health.

^ TOP Cranio-Sacral Therapy

Cranio-sacral therapy is a direct extension of osteopathy, focussing on the movement of the cranial, facial and pelvic girdles. It can be used to relieve sinus problems, headaches and neuralgia, chronic pain and lower back pain. Cranio-sacral therapy is an incredibly gentle and non-invasive form of treatment and is especially effective for babies and young children.

^ TOP Dr Hauschka Skin Care

Practitioners use the unique Dr Hauschka range of natural products, containing organic and biodynamic plant and herbal extracts. The products are formulated to support the healthy functioning of the skin and restore its harmony. They are suitable for all skin types including sensitive and problem skins.

^ TOP Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy offers an extremely relaxing way to achieve relief from anxiety states, phobias, psychosomatic disorders, pain control, insomnia and unwanted habits such as smoking and over-eating. It also helps in confidence building, concentration and stress management. During hypnosis, the client is guided into a safe and comfortable hypnotic trance state (similar to a relaxing deep day-dream) that facilitates the mind's receptivity to therapeutic suggestions and self-healing. Self-hypnosis is also taught.

^ TOP Homoeopathy

The principles of homoeopathy were formulated 200 years ago by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann. He believed that medicines should be prescribed according to the law: like shall treat like. A homoeopath takes into consideration all aspects of health and considers the emotional and mental state of the patient before prescribing a remedy targeted to stimulate the body's natural powers of recovery.

^ TOP Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) was developed by the Danish physiotherapist Dr Emil Vodder in the 1930's. It involves light, rhythmical massage that aids the body in collecting and moving lymphatic fluid, which plays a key role in delivering nutrients, antibodies and other immune constituents to the tissue cells and removing debris such as toxins, cell wastes and dead particles. MLD also works on the nervous system, lowering blood pressure, reducing stress and improving sleep patterns.

MLD has proved particularly effective for oedema (water retention) and the more serious condition lymph-oedema (severe swelling of a limb or part of the body). It is also helpful in conditions such as sinusitis, skin problems, headaches, migraines, digestive bloating and immune disorders.

The therapist uses various techniques to stimulate the lymph flow without stimulating blood flow or damaging the skin.

^ TOP Medical Herbalism

Dandelion
Dandelion

Herbalism is one of the oldest systems of medicine in the world. Herbalists are primarily concerned with establishing and eradicating the cause of ill health through holistic treatment of the individual. Herbalists use whole plant extracts and believe that by using plants in their natural form, many of the side effects associated with modern medicine can be avoided.

Herbal medicine can be used to treat most of the ailments referred to a GP including arthritis, menopause, skin problems, digestive problems and headaches. Treatment centres on the patient as well as the disease and factors such as diet, lifestyle and emotional well-being are considered along with physical symptoms. Detailed information about consultations

^ TOP Naturopathy

A system of medicine that employs various natural means to promote health by stimulating and supporting the body's own healing power. Naturopathy draws on the wisdom of many countries, including India (Ayurveda), China (Taoism), and Greece (Hippocrates). Naturopathic philosophy believes that there is an inter-connection between body, mind, emotions, social factors and the environment in determining health status. A Naturopathic practitioner aims to identify and correct the underlying cause of disease rather than to simply focus on the presenting symptoms.

Techniques used in the treatment include herbal medicine, nutrition, iridology, mineral therapies, flower essences, fasting, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy and homoeopathy.

^ TOP Nutritional Therapy

Nutritional Therapy aims to change an individual's metabolism from an unbalanced state which may be causing minor or distressing symptoms and which may ultimately lead to diagnosable disease to a state of balance, allowing the body to return to optimum health. The process takes the form of a one-on-one consultation between client and therapist.

The first consultation may take up to 1 hour and will usually include taking a detailed history of health problems, medical and family history, plus diet and lifestyle factors. The client may be asked to fill in a questionnaire prior to consultation and to seek medical advice to eliminate underlying disease.

A nutritional assessment is then made, sometimes with the help of a questionnaire and appropriate laboratory tests, and dietary and lifestyle changes will be recommended, often supported by nutritional supplements based on individual needs.

^ TOP Osteopathy

Osteopathy has been practised for over a hundred years to relieve back and joint pain safely and effectively. The treatment programme often includes advice on posture, diet, lifestyle and stress management. Osteopathy can be used as a gentle treatment for sprains, sports injuries, back and neck pain, headaches and the discomfort of pregnancy.

^ TOP Physiotherapy

A science based practice that treats injury and disease of the movement system. The physiotherapist uses external physical methods of reducing pain and restoring normal body movement and function. A treatment includes exercise therapy and various therapeutic treatment modalities.

Manipulative physiotherapy (also called Manual Therapy):

Manipulative physiotherapy involves more precise clinical examination to confirm or negates the structures are involved in the dysfunction.

Physiotherapy and Manual Therapy can help a wide range of health conditions including Spinal dysfunctions(Nerve injuries, prolapsed disc, misalignments and sciatica), Sport and movement injuries (Top and amateurs), Surgical Patients (Rehabilitation and return to full functional capabilities), Joint care (Ache, stiffness, short range of movement, arthritis), Headaches. In every case – accurate clinical assessment will be followed by physiotherapy diagnosis and treatment plan.

^ TOP Reflexology

Reflexology is said to have originated in China 5,000 years ago, when pressure therapies were used to correct energy fields in the body. It works on the basis that there are zones in the hands and feet associated with various glands, organs and regions of the body. It is deeply relaxing and can prompt the body to heal itself. Reflexology is very helpful in alleviating stress-related ailments such as migraine, PMS, irritable bowel syndrome, insomnia and lethargy, as well as promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

^ TOP Reiki

An ancient Japanese/Tibetan form of hands-on healing that involves balancing Chi or life energies. It is a gentle treatment that heals at the deepest emotional and spiritual levels. Reiki is a safe and natural therapy that is particularly effective in relieving stress, depression, anxiety and pain.

^ TOP Shiatsu

Shiatsu, Japanese 'finger pressure' therapy, is a natural healing discipline springing from the same ancient oriental principles as acupuncture, but without needles!

The practitioner uses acupressure and gentle stretching of the body to relieve tension, improve posture and bring the body into balance. Shiatsu allows the receiver to relax deeply and activates their own body's healing abilities. The treatment takes place lying on a mat or futon and the client wears loose comfortable clothing throughout the session. Treatment can be adapted to sitting position, for example in an office environment, or where there are mobility problems.

Shiatsu treatment is tailored to the needs of the individual and is suitable for everyone from birth onwards. Shiatsu is used to treat a broad range of complaints including headache, backache, menstrual and digestive problems and stress related disorders. Clients may come for Shiatsu for relief of particular disease or discomfort, or they may receive treatment to maintain good health as part of a general healthy lifestyle.

^ TOP Shiatsu for Pregnancy and Childbirth

At conception and during pregnancy a woman’s deeper reservoirs of energy are drawn upon to prepare her body and to support her growing baby. Shiatsu works to encourage the smooth flow of this energy and help establish a healthy environment for the baby and promote well-being for the mother.

Shiatsu can help with pregnancy in many ways, from problems with conceiving, right through to post natal care for mother and baby. Many fathers even choose to receive Shiatsu during these times!
Common ailments of pregnancy can be alleviated such as:

  • back pain
  • restless legs
  • nausea
  • Acid reflux
  • carpal tunnel syndrome,
  • symphysis pubis disfunction (SPD
  • oedema

Some women choose to have their Shiatsu practitioner attend their labour. It can be helpful to get a labour going, relieve labour pains, and reduce fatigue. Shiatsu Promotes optimal foetal position and supports a mothers natural ability to give birth to her baby without medical intervention.

SHIATSU is also valuable in the post natal period, helping to restore and support a mothers energy. A mother can be shown how to give Shiatsu to her baby, alleviating problems such as colic and difficulty getting off to sleep.

^ TOP Therapeutic Massage

On a physical level, therapeutic massage works to relieve tension from tight and sore muscles, breaking down muscle knots and assisting the flow of blood and lymph. Mentally, it relieves stress and anxiety, and helps to prevent the build up of muscular tension. It is ideal for circulation problems, sore backs, stress and general aches and pains.

^ TOP Tibetan Massage & Healthcare

Tibetan Massage is specifically beneficial for stress-related complaints. The massage can be soft or deep depending on the body's specific needs. The massage works particularly on the nerve pathways linking the skin with the central nervous system and can also be used to treat internal disorders such as digestive or lung problems.

The receivers enjoy a treatment, which often alleviates such conditions of numbness, tingling, stiffness of the body areas, but most importantly the nervous system is relieved of tension. The treatment is Holistic and therefore works with the physiological and emotional person. The balance of the whole person is the result of this ancient therapy, steeped in the wisdom's gained from the ancient texts.

The practitioner is required to study for several years before being qualified to offer this therapy.

In Tibetan healing, the patient may also receive dietary, seasonal and lifestyle advice. The whole treatment takes into account that relaxation is the core to a healthy whole. Therefore the client often requests Relaxation Therapy too.

The client may wish to receive the massage fully clothed or may wish the benefit of the use of oils. By working on the back and shoulders, many stresses will be relieved, however the client may wish for a full massage. The choice is yours.

In order to feel long term benefits, it is recommended that one should receive a massage and healthcare treatment once monthly.

^ TOP Traditional Thai Massage

Traditional Thai massage has some similarities with Shiatsu, but is a physically deeper healing art with more intense stretching. It is suited to those who are athletic, or active and accustomed to receiving deep body work.

To begin gentle stretches are applied to the body, which gradually become more dynamic. These are rather like postures in yoga, but they are passive, the movements being applied to the receiver by the practitioner.

Also, energy lines, known as Sen lines, are stimulated with thumb pressure and massage. These are like the meridians of Shiatsu and acupuncture. However the Sen lines are Indian in origin and follow the form of the body rather that the energy paths of the organs.

Thai massage is a truly rewarding experience. Both giver and receiver come out feeling more open, stretched, refreshed and in balance.

^ TOP Other Therapies

Othere thereapies are also available, including:

  • Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)
  • Kinesiology
  • Indian Head Massage
  • Life Skills Coaching
  • NLP (NeuroLinguistic Programming)
British & Foreign Medical Herbalists - Established 1860