I might write an article about fascia, for my book, of course, but I could include it here if there’s any interest? I’ll be doing Block Therapy, Rolfing, Bowen Therapy and starting Hypnotherapy for my nerves soon.
40/50 Therapies 14.02.2025
A collection of therapies, in order of importance and efficacy, that I have found helpful and beneficial during my stroke recovery. These solutions call on traditional Western, Eastern, Holistic, Complementary and Alternative medicine, all backed by strong empirical data.
Nutrition
including supplements & vitamins. Good nutrition is foundational to maintaining overall health. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients fuels your body, supporting bodily functions. A nutrient-rich diet boosts your body’s ability to fight infections and recover faster from illness. Obtaining nutrients from bioavailable food sources is better compared to synthetic supplements, and more easily absorbed by the body. Additionally, food provides a complex matrix of nutrients that work synergistically, enhancing absorption and effectiveness. Hippocrates: “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”
Exercise
benefits cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. It burns calories, builds muscle strength, improves bone density, metabolism and boosts the immune system. Our life expectancy improves as does mood, mental focus, and quality of sleep. For stroke survivors, developing a strong core is essential for stability, posture, balance, and overall functional movement. Exercising increases our demand for energy, generated through aerobic, and anaerobic cellular respiration. This is how we convert nutrients into energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate ATP. This happens through Glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the Electron Transport Chain ETC, which take place in our mitochondria.
Grounding
or Earthing, is the practice of connecting your body directly to the Earth’s surface, which has a negative electric charge. The Earth can then transfer free electrons into your body, neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation. This can be done through direct skin contact with the ground or using electrical grounding devices that reproduce this effect. Earthing can improve blood flow, leading to better oxygenation of tissues and overall circulation. This helps relieve pain, improve sleep, and boost the immune system by reducing inflammation. Grounding influences the electrical charge of red blood cells, increasing Zeta potential, reducing clumping (rouleaux formation) and improving microcirculation in capillaries
Sunlight
All animal and plant life rely on sunlight. The UVB portion of light helps us produce vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, the immune system, and helps prevent chronic disease. At the opposite end of the spectrum, Near Infra-red light NIR improves mitochondrial function, thereby boosting ATP synthesis in the production of cellular energy. NIR and UVB panels, or photo biomodulation PBM, is the therapeutic application of light, whist a balanced full spectrum of natural sunlight is the most powerful healing power we can access directly. Sunlight helps regulate our circadian rhythm which govern our sleep patterns.
Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine TCM, is an ancient system of medicine that has been practiced for thousands of years. It is rooted in the concept of balance and harmony within the body and the external environment. It includes herbal medicine, acupuncture, diet, massage, reflexology, meditation, and Qigong. Qi or Chi is the life force or energy that flows through the body through pathways called meridians. When the bioelectrical qi field is balanced, a person is healthy, stable, and calm. Blockages in Qi can lead to illness. TCM treats the root cause of such illness, promoting maintenance and prevention through a holistic approach.
Block Therapy
is a self-care practice that focuses on releasing tension and improving alignment in the body by targeting the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, organs, and other structures. The method involves lying on or applying pressure to a specialized wooden block in specific positions to help decompress and rehydrate the fascia, releasing restrictions and adhesions caused by injury, poor posture, or repetitive stress. Fascia can become tight, dehydrated, and restricted over time. Block therapy helps restore the fascia’s elasticity and hydration. Incorporating diaphragmatic breathing helps increase oxygen flow to tissues, reduce stress, and support the release of tension in the fascia. The block is placed on areas of the body that need attention, using body weight to apply pressure for myofascial release. See Fascia and Rolfing.
Wheatgrass juice
is a nutrient rich superfood containing Vitamins A, B, C, E, K, minerals Iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium and zinc, and enzymes superoxide dismutase and cytochrome oxidase. It also contains chlorophyll, which has detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties. The structure of haemoglobin (based on Iron) and chlorophyll (based on Magnesium) are strikingly similar, though the scientific community rejects a connection between the two while proponents claim we can convert chlorophyll to haemoglobin.
Endocannabinoid system
Our bodies come equipped with a complete endocannabinoid biological system ECS, discovered in 1992, though not yet fully understood. This is a widespread regulatory system that plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis, influencing processes like mood, appetite, pain, and memory. Through retrograde signalling its primary role is as a modulator of neurotransmission, regulating conventional neurotransmitters such as glutamate (excitatory) and GABA (inhibitory). THC Relieves muscle spasticity in conditions like stroke and spinal cord injuries.
Bowen Therapy
is a holistic, non-invasive manual therapy that aims to restore balance and promote healing within the body. Developed by Tom Bowen in Australia in the 1950s, it involves gentle, rolling movements over specific points on muscles, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissue. These movements stimulate the body’s innate healing mechanisms, addressing physical, emotional, and energetic imbalances. Treats the body as a whole, rather than focusing solely on symptoms. Uses light, precise movements to avoid forcing the body into change. Incorporates breaks to allow the body to process and respond. Encourages the body to heal itself by addressing root causes of dysfunction. Reduces pain and muscle tension, improves mobility and flexibility, enhances relaxation, and reduces stress, supports recovery from injuries and chronic conditions, balances the nervous system and improves overall well-being.
Plyometric Training
Plyometric training, also known as jump training, is a type of exercise designed to improve power (a combination of speed and strength) by using explosive movements. It is commonly used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to enhance performance in activities requiring quick bursts of energy, like sprinting, jumping, or throwing. Involves exercises like jumping, bounding, and skipping to develop power and speed. Leverages the natural elastic properties of muscles and tendons by quickly stretching and then contracting the muscles. Exercises are typically short and intense, requiring maximum effort for brief periods. Often incorporates multiple muscle groups to enhance overall athletic performance. Develops fast-twitch muscle fibres, which contribute to quicker sprints and reactions.
Essential Oils
Trees and plants were placed on this Earth long before man arrived, to heal and support us. Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts obtained through methods such as cold pressing. These oils capture the natural fragrance and therapeutic properties of plants, and have been used for thousands of years in various cultures for medicinal purposes. Essential oils are a versatile and powerful natural tool used in a variety of health and wellness applications. Used to promote relaxation, support immune function, improve skin health, or enhance mood. Consider the power of chamomile oil; more effective in reducing muscle soreness and inflammation than ibuprofen.
Raw Honey
has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal, and therapeutic properties plus numerous health benefits. Modern research continues to validate its effectiveness in treating various health conditions. Antimicrobial and Antifungal Effects: Bacterial and Fungal Infections: Honey has broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties that help fight infections caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Studies have shown that honey can be effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Honey is rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic acids.
Massage
offers a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. It relieves muscle tension and knots improving flexibility and range of motion. It reduces chronic back pain, neck pain, and arthritis by improving circulation and releasing endorphins. It stimulates the lymphatic system, aiding in the removal of toxins and improving immune function. It lowers cortisol levels and promotes relaxation and better sleep, helping to manage stress and anxiety. It can boost serotonin and dopamine levels, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall mood, encouraging better awareness of your body and its needs. Abdominal massage can improve digestion and reduce bloating.
Walking
is one of the simplest and most effective forms of physical activity with numerous benefits for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It strengthens the heart, reduces blood pressure, and improves circulation. It boosts metabolism, bone density and aids in fat loss. It builds strength in the legs, hips, and core. It improves joint health and reduces stiffness, especially beneficial for those with arthritis. It stimulates digestion, helps the body fight off illnesses like colds and infections and prevents issues like constipation. Walking in nature helps lower cortisol levels and promotes relaxation. “Walking is man’s best medicine” Hippocrates.
Pandiculation
Pandiculation is the involuntary stretching and stiffening of the body’s muscles and extremities, often accompanied by yawning. It is the body’s natural response to prolonged muscle contraction, such as when waking up or after being sedentary for a long time. When we pandiculate, we are contracting muscles that have been inactive. Pandiculation is important for maintaining proper posture and breathing patterns. It also helps keep the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles, organs, and blood vessels, supple and flexible. Pandiculation is the most efficient and effective way to release chronic tension, relieve muscle soreness and pain, and restore full voluntary muscular control
Inversion Therapy
involves hanging upside down or at an inverted angle, often using specialized equipment like inversion tables, inversion chairs, or gravity boots. Relieves Back Pain by helping to decompress the spine and reduce pressure on discs and nerve roots. Improves posture by counteracting the effects of gravity on the spine. Enhances circulation by encouraging blood flow to the upper body and brain. Achieves relaxation and stress relief by reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation.
Green Tea
is rich in antioxidants and high in catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate EGCG, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce cell damage. This may slow the aging process and improve skin health. It helps lower LDL cholesterol levels and improve the ratio of good to bad cholesterol. It lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow. It contains caffeine, which enhances alertness and focus without causing jitters. The Theanine content improves mood, cognition, and relaxation. Rich in polyphenols, reducing inflammation, enhancing immune defence. Stabilizes glucose levels and spikes in blood sugar levels. Flushes out toxins and supports liver health. Promotes overall well-being, better health, and longevity.
Somatics
is a bodywork and movement therapy that focuses on the mind-body connection. It involves using internal awareness to re-educate the brain and body to move more freely and functionally. Somatics helps people become more aware of their bodies and the signals they send about pain, discomfort, or imbalance. Somatics uses small, gentle movements to help people relax and move their muscles more freely. It encourages people to reflect on their bodies’ sensations and use this information to work toward healing. Somatics can help people release bodily tension. It can help people regain control of muscles that are restricted by injuries, trauma, or emotional stress. It can help people work toward healing and wellness. Thomas Hanna developed somatics, influenced by the methods of Moshe Feldenkrais.
ITeraCare wand & Healy
The ITeraCare wand utilizes terahertz frequency technology, combined with scalar wave and optical quartz components, to promote health and wellness. Terahertz frequencies resonate at the same frequency as normal human cells, generating millions of vibrations per second. This resonance is believed to activate healthy and dormant cells while eliminating unhealthy cells and free radicals. It incorporates scalar wave energy, which is said to energize cells and balance bodily systems. The Healy is a wearable gadget that utilizes pulsed microcurrent therapy and individualized microcurrent frequency IMF programs to interact with the body’s bioenergetic field. It is designed to support health and wellness by delivering specific frequencies to the body through electrodes placed over targeted areas. These microcurrents aim to improve cellular communication, promote repair, reduce inflammation, and enhance energy production.
Closed-chain Isometric exercises
Isometric exercises are a type of strength training where your muscles contract without any visible movement in the surrounding joints. These exercises involve holding a static position for a set amount of time, rather than performing dynamic movements like lifting or lowering weights. Isometric exercises are effective for building strength, improving muscle endurance, and stabilizing joints. They are particularly useful for rehabilitation, improving posture, or targeting specific muscles. For example, holding a dumbbell in a bent-arm position without moving. A closed-chain exercise is a type of movement where the distal end of the limb remains fixed or in contact with a surface, such as the floor or wall, while the rest of the body moves. These exercises typically involve multiple joints and muscles working together, making them excellent for improving strength, stability, and functional movement.
Lymphatic Drainage
is a specialized massage technique designed to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. The lymphatic system plays a critical role in the immune system by removing toxins, waste, and excess fluids from tissues. Unlike the vascular system, this one has no pump and relies on exercise and movement to keep flowing. When it becomes sluggish, it can lead to swelling, discomfort, and a buildup of toxins. Gentle, rhythmic, and precise hand movements are applied to the skin, targeting lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels. The goal is to encourage the movement of lymph fluid toward the lymph nodes, where it can be processed and filtered. Reduces Swelling and Oedema. Especially useful for people with lymphedema, a condition that causes localized fluid retention. Encourages the removal of metabolic waste, toxins, and excess fluids, which can leave you feeling lighter and more energetic. By improving lymphatic flow, the therapy helps the body transport immune cells more efficiently. A feeling of heaviness or tightness in limbs can be caused by a clogged lymphatic system.
Gua sha (pronounced “gwa-shah”) is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves scraping the skin with a smooth tool to improve circulation and reduce inflammation. Gua sha means to scrape sand. An acupuncturist uses a smooth-edged tool to scrape the skin gently in one direction, after applying an oil or serum to the area being treated. The strokes should be smooth and controlled, using light to medium pressure. The goal is to create small red spots called petechiae. Used to treat TMJ disorder, Chronic pain, Back pain, Shoulder and neck tension, Carpal tunnel syndrome, Tennis elbow, Poor circulation, Scar tissue. Gua sha is believed to improve blood flow, reduce inflammation and help move stagnant energy, or Qi through the body.
Hormesis, cryotherapy, stressors
Hormesis is a biological response where low doses of a substance or environmental agent have a beneficial effect, while high doses are harmful or toxic. It is a type of nonmonotonic dose response that can be observed in many biological models and under a variety of conditions. Hormesis is a result of cells and organisms adapting to moderate stress, such as exercise, dietary restrictions, or exposure to low doses of certain chemicals. These adaptive responses can improve an organism’s fitness and ability to survive. For example, the oxidation of chemicals in the mitochondria produces reactive oxygen species ROS that can damage cells. However, low levels of ROS can trigger signalling pathways that increase the production of antioxidant enzymes, which help cells resist higher levels of ROS. This process is known as “mitohormesis”.
Magnet Therapy
or bio-magnetic therapy is an alternative medical practice that involves the use of static magnetic fields to promote health and healing. Proponents of magnet therapy claim that it can help with pain relief, inflammation reduction, and overall wellness. It typically uses static magnets, which produce a constant magnetic field. These can be embedded in bracelets, shoes, mattresses, wraps, or patches placed directly on the body. Advocates suggest that magnetic fields can influence the body’s natural magnetic fields or improve blood flow, which may promote healing. Magnets may help align the body’s “energy fields” or “Qi”
Fascia
is a connective tissue that surrounds and supports the body. Containing 6 times more nerves and receptors than our muscles, it has been called our primary sensory organ. Tight or restricted fascia can limit the range of motion in joints and muscles. Regular massage can stimulate elasticity, maintaining the fascia’s ability to stretch and rebound. Myofascial release can break up the adhesions which become stiff and sticky, by applying pressure and stretching techniques to loosen fibres and release tightness. Tight fascia, common after a stroke, can cause your limbs to feel heavy; a massage gun can help. See therapy: Rolfing. Hyperarch Fascia Training HFT is a specialized training system designed to enhance athletic performance, improve posture, and develop efficient movement by targeting the connective tissues in the body.
Rolfing
Or Structural Integration is a form of therapy focused on improving the body’s alignment and functioning through manipulation of fascia (connective tissue.) Practitioners use hands-on techniques to stretch, loosen, and reorganize fascia to improve posture, movement, and overall structural balance. Rolfing seeks to align the body with gravity to reduce physical strain and improve energy efficiency in movement. Benefits include improved posture and body alignment. Reduced chronic pain. Greater flexibility and range of motion. Enhanced athletic performance and recovery. Emotional release and stress relief (fascia stores tension). Rolfing can sometimes feel intense in areas where fascia is tight. However, many people often describe a sense of relief afterward.
Stretching vs Contracture
A contracture is a condition where a muscle or joint becomes stiff or permanently shortened, often due to injury, immobility, neurological conditions, stroke, or chronic inflammation. Stretching against contracture focuses on gradually lengthening shortened muscles, tendons, or joint capsules to restore range of motion, reduce stiffness, and improve functionality. Static Stretching involves holding a stretch at the end of the available range of motion for a period. This helps elongate the muscle and soft tissues as in a passive hamstring stretch with a strap. Dynamic stretching involves moving gently and repeatedly, progressively increasing the stretch, swinging the leg to gradually loosen tight hip flexors. Prolonged passive stretching using a splint, brace, or weight to maintain a gentle stretch for an extended period. PNF stretching (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) alternates between contracting and relaxing the muscle to facilitate stretching with an assistant gently pushing the limb into a deeper stretch.
Reflexology
is a therapeutic practice that involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet or hands to promote relaxation, improve circulation, and support the body’s natural healing processes. These points, called reflex points, are believed to correspond to different organs, glands, and systems in the body. Reflexologists map the body onto the feet, hands, or ears, believing that specific reflex points are linked to specific areas of the body. For example: The toes correspond to the head and neck. The arch of the foot corresponds to internal organs like the stomach and intestines. The heel corresponds to the lower back and pelvic area.
Singing
Singing releases endorphins and oxytocin, hormones that promote feelings of happiness and reduce stress and anxiety. Singing provides a safe outlet for emotions, allowing individuals to process and express feelings. Singing requires deep, controlled breathing, exercising the rib cage and lungs, while strengthening the respiratory system and enhancing oxygen flow. Humming is linked to increased production of nitric oxide NO in the nasal passages, which offers several health benefits. Nitric oxide is a molecule that plays a critical role in various bodily functions, including improving blood flow, supporting immune function, and enhancing respiratory health. NO is a neuromodulator that affects both the central and parasympathetic nervous system.
Listening to music
engages multiple areas of the brain, which can keep it sharp and improve overall cognitive function. Listening to relaxing music can reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. Listening to emotionally powerful music can help process complex emotions or life experiences. It acts as a therapeutic tool to work through grief or trauma. Classical music can help improve focus and productivity. Music is particularly helpful with stroke rehabilitation. Listening to music has the potential to influence brain wave activity, including the generation of alpha brain waves, which are associated with relaxation, calmness, and a state of focused awareness.
Mirror Therapy
Mirror therapy is a therapeutic technique primarily used to treat conditions involving pain, sensory deficits, and movement impairments, particularly in patients with neurological disorders or phantom limb pain. It utilizes a mirror to create the illusion of normal movement or sensation in the affected limb or body part, providing a sensory feedback mechanism that can help improve motor function, reduce pain, and retrain the brain. The basic principle of mirror therapy involves placing a mirror in such a way that a person can see the reflection of their healthy hand while the paralyzed or affected limb is hidden behind the mirror. The individual performs movements with their unaffected limb, while the mirror creates the visual illusion that both limbs are moving normally.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy HBOT
is a medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized room or chamber. This treatment helps deliver higher-than-normal amounts of oxygen to tissues, which can promote healing, reduce inflammation, and improve overall tissue function. HBOT is commonly used for various medical conditions and is supported by research for its therapeutic benefits. The patient breathes pure oxygen at a pressure higher than the normal atmospheric pressure. Normally, oxygen is carried by red blood cells, but under increased pressure, oxygen dissolves into the plasma at much higher concentrations. This allows oxygen to reach areas of the body where blood flow may be reduced or where tissues are damaged, promoting healing and regeneration.
EMDR
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing EMDR therapy is a mental health treatment technique. This method involves moving your eyes a specific way while you process traumatic memories. EMDR’s goal is to help you heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences. EMDR is a psychotherapy approach primarily used to treat trauma and other distressing life experiences. It was developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro and has since gained widespread acceptance, especially for treating post-traumatic stress disorder PTSD and related conditions. Traumatic or distressing experiences can overwhelm the brain’s natural ability to process information. These unprocessed memories are stored in a “frozen” or fragmented form and can cause emotional and physical symptoms when triggered. EMDR therapy involves an 8-phase structured approach that helps the brain reprocess these memories in a way that reduces their emotional charge.
Tuning Fork Therapy, Bowls, Gongs
Tuning Forks use calibrated metal tuning forks which apply specific vibrations to the body or energy field. The goal is to promote physical, emotional, and energetic healing. This practice is rooted in the belief that sound frequencies can help restore balance and harmony to the body, mind, and spirit. Tuning forks are struck to produce a specific frequency. These vibrations are believed to resonate with the body’s tissues, organs, and energy systems, encouraging relaxation, balance, and healing. Tuning forks are often applied to specific areas of the body, such as acupressure points, chakras, or meridians, to clear blockages and restore the natural energy flow. The sound waves produced by the forks interact with the body’s biofield (or energy field) and are thought to stimulate healing at both a cellular and energetic level.
Asea Redox signalling supplement
is designed to support cellular health by enhancing the body’s natural signalling processes. ASEA claims that its product contains redox signalling molecules, which are naturally occurring reactive molecules in the body, essential for cell-to-cell communication and repair. Redox signalling molecules are chemically reactive molecules derived from oxygen and chlorine that play a critical role in cellular communication. They help cells detect damage, signal the need for repair, and maintain overall cellular function. These molecules are produced in the mitochondria during energy production and are involved in processes like: Activating the immune system, repairing damaged cells, regulating antioxidants and oxidative stress.
Mushroom Therapy
for their therapeutic benefit. This can include functional mushrooms for health support or the use of psychedelic mushrooms (psilocybin-containing mushrooms) in mental health therapy. Immune Support: Mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, and Turkey Tail contain beta-glucans, which boost the immune system. Cognitive Health: Lion’s Mane may promote brain health by stimulating the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), potentially improving memory and focus. Energy and Stress Management: Cordyceps supports energy production and endurance, while Reishi is known for its adaptogenic properties, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Gut Health: Mushrooms like Turkey Tail are rich in prebiotics, supporting a healthy microbiome. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects: Many mushrooms contain compounds that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy PEMF
is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-frequency electromagnetic waves to stimulate and promote healing in the body. It is based on the principle that electromagnetic fields can influence cellular behaviour, improve circulation, and support the body’s natural repair processes. PEMF devices generate low-frequency electromagnetic fields that penetrate the body. These pulses stimulate cells, tissues, and organs at a molecular level.
Spinal Flow Technique
is a holistic healing modality designed to help release stress, tension, and blockages within the body by facilitating the free flow of energy along the spine. It combines elements of chiropractic care, somatic healing, and energy medicine, with a focus on activating the body’s innate healing abilities. Spinal gateways are specific points along the spine believed to be crucial for accessing the nervous system and facilitating healing. Blockages that prevent the natural flow of energy along the spine are released. The technique aims to reconnect the brain and body by clearing interference within the nervous system, enabling the body to self-regulate and heal.
Ozone Therapy
Ozone therapy is an alternative medical treatment that involves the use of ozone gas O₃ to promote healing, fight infections, and improve overall health. Ozone is a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms and is known for its strong oxidative properties. This therapy has been applied in various medical fields, but its safety and efficacy remain topics of debate in the medical community. Ozone therapy typically involves administering medical-grade ozone into the body via different routes, depending on the condition being treated.
Shockwave Therapy
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy ESWT is a widely used, non-invasive therapy that stimulates soft tissues to repair. Poorly healed soft tissues can be broken down so the body can re-heal an area which has remained painful following trauma or overuse. It is most often used in the foot to treat plantar fasciitis but can also be used to promote better healing in other structures. Common conditions treated include Achilles tendinopathy, heel pain, and shin splints.
Kinesiology Muscle Testing
is a technique used in Applied Kinesiology AK and related practices to assess the body’s energy flow, balance, and overall health. It involves testing the strength or weakness of specific muscles to identify imbalances in the body’s physical, emotional, or energetic systems. Practitioners believe that the body provides feedback about its condition through these muscle responses. How Muscle Testing Works Muscle Response: A muscle’s ability to resist pressure is tested while the practitioner applies gentle force. If the muscle locks (stays strong), it indicates balance or harmony in that area. If it unlocks or weakens, it suggests an imbalance.
Hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy is a type of psychological therapy that uses hypnosis to help treat certain mental and physical health conditions. It can also be used to change habits. Some therapists also use hypnosis to increase the effectiveness of other psychological treatments, or pain management.
Emotional Freedom Technique EFT
also known as Tapping, is a form of energy psychology that involves tapping on specific acupuncture points on the body while focusing on a specific issue or emotional distress. The goal is to release emotional blockages and restore balance to the body’s energy system. It is often referred to as “tapping” because of the technique’s characteristic use of light finger tapping.
Sauna
Saunas use dry or wet heat to increase body temperature, which causes sweating. The body responds to the heat by increasing heart rate, releasing hormones, and redistributing blood flow to the skin. The body’s response to heat can have many health benefits, including reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. The intense heat generated within the sauna encourages detoxifying perspiration, relief from aches and pains, and deep relaxation.
CBT Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
is a widely used, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. It is effective for treating a range of mental health conditions and is based on the principle that negative thought patterns can lead to distressing emotions and maladaptive behaviours, which can be challenged and replaced with healthier alternatives. Cognitive Triad: CBT emphasizes the interplay between thoughts: What we think about ourselves, the world, and the future. Emotions: How these thoughts make us feel. Behaviours: How we respond or act based on these feelings and thoughts.
Methylene Blue
abnormal levels of methaemoglobin (a form of haemoglobin that cannot carry oxygen) build up in the blood, leading to oxygen deficiency. Methylene Blue can help restore normal haemoglobin function by acting as a reductant to convert methaemoglobin back into functional haemoglobin. It has some antimicrobial properties, including activity against protozoa and other pathogens. Urinary Tract Infections UTIs Methylene Blue has been used in the past as a urinary antiseptic due to its ability to kill bacteria and reduce infection. Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment. In research, Methylene Blue has been investigated for its ability to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. It is thought to have a neuroprotective effect, especially by influencing the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain a hallmark of Alzheimer.
EES Energy Enhancement System & scalar waves
EES is an energy-based wellness technology designed to help improve the body’s energy flow, reduce stress, and enhance overall health. It is often used in alternative wellness practices and is believed to have a variety of therapeutic benefits. The system is typically associated with scalar energy and Pulsed Electromagnetic Field PEMF therapy, which are thought to have healing effects on the body’s bioenergetic field. Scalar waves are claimed to be a type of energy wave that differs from conventional electromagnetic waves, which oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. Scalar waves are often described as being longitudinal, meaning they move in the same direction as the wave.
Dianetics
a set of ideas concerned with removing mental problems and making people happier and healthier by dealing with harmful experiences from their past. Auditing uses techniques from hypnosis that are intended to remove the subject from the power of harmful experiences, or Engrams, which cause a reactive mind, governed by the subconscious, to act irrationally. Once cleared a subject can regain their innate power and function to the best of their ability.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy is an alternative medicine based on the theory of treating ‘like with like’. Homeopathy claims to stimulate healing responses to diseases by administering substances that mimic the symptoms of those diseases in healthy people. The effectiveness of homeopathic preparations is disputed within medical science.
Chakra balancing
Chakra balancing is the process of aligning the body’s seven main energy centres, or chakras, to improve energy flow and overall well-being. When the chakras are balanced, the body’s energy is optimized, which can lead to: Increased vitality, stamina, and energy levels: Enhanced creativity, productivity, and motivation: A harmonious union of the spirit, mind, and body
Hi Roland - this is an amazing series of therapies you are using.
I found Bowen very interesting - reminds me of something similar I have seen as part of Qi Gong.
Therapy 22 - Gua Sha.
We are doing a kind of DIY version of this. Exfoliating using an exfoliating mitt / glove and seems to be having a similar effect. We use warm water and a soap substitute - Dermol. Really does seem to help Mum and it’s something we can do ourselves with no additional cost
Going through all these, it’s incredible the areas the cover. One thought comes to mind and that is whether there is any conflict amongst these, possibly even to the extent they cancel each other out? I am thinking, for example, in the same way as having several medicines in one go can cause conflict when they react and so you need more to counter the effects of the reaction, whether the same happens with some of these therapies as there probably is some cross-over amongst them?
Yes, @ManjiB, I met someone (my hairdresser who cut my hair yesterday) who recently did a series of bowen therapy sessions; with very good results. That prompted me to book a session for myself ; my hairdresser warned me that the therapist advises to discontinue acupuncture for 6 weeks while bowen therapy sessions are in place. Both work with fascia.
So, there are many clashes, but not with grounding for example ; it can enhance and compliment medicines and other therapies very well. (though blood pressure can come down with grounding… so a bp monitor £40 is recommended if, like me, you are on meds) Anyone who embarks on any of the above therapies should do their own research and proceed cautiously.
There are many complimentary therapies that have so much to offer
Ciao, Roland
ps. I agree Qigong & Bowen are a sort of East meets West !
Hey Roland - Personally, I am a big fan of Bowen - Jim Bowen
Great, super, smashing lovely!!!
I’m so sorry, I just could not resist that. Please forgive me
It’s my warped sense of humour and the ability of my brain to bring in random and totally unrelated, though they clearly are related, at least in my brain, subjects.
On a serious note, I am pleased grounding is not going to [adversely] impact Mum’s recovery plan.
She is wearing her earth wrist band a few hours a day - as she cannot communicate, I need to be careful in case there is something that happens
