Acupressure. Traditional Chinese system of healing through pressure on certain areas using the thumb and finger and other parts of the hand; the pressure points are the same as in acupuncture.
Acupuncture. Traditional Chinese system of healing through needles being placed at certain points which lie along channels called ‘meridians’. The theory is that this method stops pain and cures organ imbalances.
Alexander Technique. Originated by Frederick Mathias Alexander. A technique of improving health through correcting posture.
Aromatherapy. A method of treating illness with concentrated plant-based oils, known as essential oils; these can be applied either by massage or by aromatic baths and steam inhalations.
Bach Flower Remedies. Originated by Edward Bach (1880–1936). It used homeopathic-type preparations made from plants and wild flowers, spring water and alcohol. These tinctures are given according to the person’s attitude and emotional outlook.
Bates’ Method. Originated by Dr William H Bates (1860–1931). A method of eye treatment through exercises to improve vision.
Biochemic Tissue Salts. Originated by Dr W H Schuessler (1821–98). Remedies consisting of mineral salts. A correct balance of minerals must be maintained to help everyday ailments.
Chiropractic. Originated by David Daniel Palmer (1845–1913). A technique of treating disorders through manipulation. Its theory is that skeletal displacement and soft tissue trauma may cause malfunction and irritation of nerves and muscles, causing disorders of the body. McTimoney chiropractic uses a much gentler manipulation than the original method.
Counselling. In this the person talks to someone trained in sympathetic listening skills. The patient is enabled to unburden himself or herself to help with the problem.
Herbal Medicine. In general use by many people. Plant-based remedies have powerful healing properties to restore health.
Homeopathy. Natural remedies to boost the body’s own healing process. Based on the Samuel Hahnemann (1755–1843) principle of treating a disorder using minute doses of a substance that in large quantities produce symptoms similar to the disease.
Iridology. Used as a very useful diagnostic tool, the theory is that the organs of the body are laid out on the iris; through observation disorders are often noted prior to manifestation in the physical body.
Massage. Practised in early Egyptian times and also in ancient Greece (3000 BC). Hippocrates was known as the ‘Father of Medicine’; he stated that an oiled massage daily would improve your health.
Naturopathy. Treatment is aimed at helping your body to heal itself through natural means. Changing the diet, breathing exercises, gentle physical exercise, hot/cold baths, massage, and manipulation are all part of the natural healing process.
Osteopathy. A therapy relying on manipulative techniques, especially of the spine. The theory is that many diseases are caused or exacerbated by displacement of bones.
Shiatsu. Pressure on vital points. Practitioners also use many other parts of the body to apply pressure on tsubo (points on the meridians).
Tai Chi. Dating back to the 11th century. Another holistic therapy using a series of slow, continuous moves that are thought to achieve balance of Yin and Yang. It combines a meditation-like mental focusing with breathing and correct body alignment through motion.
Yoga. (Indian origins). A system of spiritual and mental and physical training to enhance the body, through mind control.