Massage therapy can provide comfort, relaxation and the assurance of human touch at a time of increased anxiety and fear for hospice patients. Many who receive massage therapy at end of life experience a decrease in emotional distress, anxiety, physical discomfort, nausea and muscle tension. In addition, massage treatments can lead to improvements in circulation, which aids digestion and helps prevent pressure sores. Massage therapy helps restore emotional balance and improve quality of life.
Swedish Massage provides deep muscle stimulation and rhythmic movements to enhance relaxation and calmness, stimulate oxygen in tissue, reduce buildup of lactic acid in muscles, and assist in delivering nutrients and removing waste products from tissue.
Comfort Touch is a nurturing form of acupressure that gives special consideration to the physical and emotional needs of the hospice patient. Its primary goal is to provide comfort through techniques that promote relief from physical and emotional pain and also enhance quality of life for anyone in need of a caring touch.
Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. Administered by the “laying on of hands”, Reiki is based on the idea that an unseen “life force energy” flows through us to affect our well-being. As massage therapists apply Reiki, it treats the whole person – mind, body and spirit – to create beneficial effects such as relaxation, pain reduction, and feelings of peace and security.
Aromatherapy uses natural plant extracts and essential oils to promote well-being. Certain herbs and essences are known to activate areas of the brain to significantly reduce stress, anxiety and depression and promote relaxation.