Force Cancer Charity: Working locally to support anyone affected by cancer

Complementary Therapies can be a valuable aid to relaxation and help promote physical and emotional well-being.

The Centre has two purpose designed therapy rooms and patients and carers are offered 6 free sessions by appointment. They can choose from:

Reflexology

Light pressure is applied to all areas of the feet using specific finger and thumb techniques

Aromatherapy & Massage

Aromatherapy involves the use of gentle massage combined with essential oils to suit individual requirements. Massage involves a firmer technique specifically targeted at soft tissue using a base oil.

Indian Head Massage

This is a light massage to the upper back and head whilst comfortably seated. No oils are used.

Bowen Technique

The practitioner uses rolling type movements over specific points on the muscles.  This stimulates the muscles, soft tissue, nerves and energy within the body.  After each movement, the practitioner leaves the client for a minute or two, allowing 'messages' to pass between the brain and the muscles and thus starting the rebalancing process.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is offered to head and neck cancer patients who have experienced reduced salivary production as a result of surgery or radiotherapy. The aim of the 5 week acupuncture treatment is to try to improve this. The acupuncture is held on Monday mornings between 10am and 12:30pm. Currently referrals for this treatment are dealt with by Claire Barber and Julie Northcott, the head and neck Specialist Nurses who can be contacted on 01392 402215.

Mindfulness Practice                                                              

Mindfulness practice encourages you to focus on the present moment, letting go of the past and not anticipating the future, thus enabling you to manage stress more effectively. The course will introduce the core practices of mindfulness and offers the opportunity to strengthen the experience by attending sessions regularly.

This 4-week course will run on alternate months (starting in May 2011) on Mondays at 1pm (finishing at 2pm). The first week is essential to attend, after which anyone who has attended a “1st day” can come to any session of any of the courses.

Drop in Relaxation Group                                                            

We also offer a 'drop in' relaxation group on Wednesdays between 12 - 1pm.  Booking is not necessary. However it is advisable to check availability before making a special journey.

For more information call Anne on 01392 403094 or Karen on 01392 402086.