Complementary Therapies
Complementary Therapies are becoming increasingly valued. We offer a variety of therapies in order to help relieve stress, to aid relaxation, to promote a sense of well being and develop self help/coping skills. The therapies are given alongside conventional medical treatments and are not to be regarded as an alternative to what has been prescribed by a consultant of GP. The importance of Complementary Therapy in holistic care is recognised by St Mary's Hospice as one of the specialist services providing supportive and palliative care to the people of South Cumbria. Our therapists are trained to clinical standards and will ensure that the treatments offered will suit your needs.
Therapeutic Gardening is a new addition to our services. We have extended our programme to include gentle gardening with professional assistance. Patients and their carers will be enabled to benefit from the natural environment of the Hospice, including the greenhouse, courtyard, garden and our developing Healing Garden of vegetables, herbs and cutting flowers.
Art Therapy is a psychological service, not an art class. People attending do not need to be good at art to benefit physically, mentally, intellectually, emotionally and spiritually from therapies offered individually and in groups. Art Therapy uses art materials and the relationship with the therapist to creatively explore difficult feelings and become more attuned to your inner needs. The therapist will assist you in this practical process and encourage you to express and communicate intuitively, experimentally, and imaginatively.
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Aromatherapy - The benefits of natural plant oils are used within a gentle massage which can help the body cope with a variety of physical and emotional conditions all within a comfortable and caring environment.
Craniosacral Therapy is a non-manipulative, gentle, hands-on therapy. It has the effect of being deeply relaxing thus helping the release of physical or emotional tension. Those who receive this therapy often find they have increased energy and a greater sense of well-being.
Reflexology is the practice of treating specific reflexes in the hands and feet that correspond to all the parts of the body. This can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve circulation and enable the body to return to a state of normalisation.
Simple Lymphatic Drainage - This is a gentle and effective way to improve lymphatic drainage through gentle massage. It is also a way of giving the individual after care which can be used at home. Referral for this service can be given through a specialist nurse or GP.
Chair Massage - This massage uses our specialist chairs to provide all the benefits of massage without the couch. If preferred treatment can be given fully clothed without oils.
Remedial Massage Therapy employs various techniques to manipulate the soft tissues of the body i.e. muscles, tendons and ligaments. Massage can be beneficial in treating a variety of conditions and as an excellent tool to aid relaxation.
‘Healthy-Steps’ Groups - A programme of therapeutically sound, gentle movements and exercises to music. It is a potent package that addresses mind, body and spirit.
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Creative Imagery Relaxation - We provide a variety of techniques including relaxation and guided visualisation to help achieve a deep state of rest. Can be used for both individual and group sessions.
'Moving on Positively' Groups - A variety of sessions either to follow individual sessions or for immediate access depending on requirements. Examples of content might be stress management, relaxation techniques and creative journal work.
Am I eligible to receive Complementary Therapies?
If you have first hand experience of a life threatening illness or are a relative or carer of someone who has, or if you have experienced bereavement, then you could be eligible.
How do I get referred?
You need to talk to your GP, Macmillan Nurse, Breast Care Nurse or other allied Health Professional to ask for a referral.
What to Expect
Your first session will be an informal assessment where you can discuss the treatments and your preferences with the therapists, so that you can decide on your treatment plan.
Where are we?
We have clinics in Barrow, Ulverston, Grange, Windermere and Cartmel. We are also part of the Hospice at Home team who provide home visits when required.
How much does it cost?
All St Mary's care is provided free of charge but donations, however small, are always gratefully received. If you wish to make a contribution please click here.