Caring Through Complementary TherapiesComplementary therapies, sometimes called alternative or holistic therapies, have become a useful addition to medical practice to improve health. In an end-of-life situation, however, these options are sometimes all we have left that we can do for a palliative loved one. Fortunately, the holistic aspect of complementary therapies means that although they involve the body, the spirit also benefits.Massage means touch, but there is heart in our touch. Aromatherapy is more than just nice smells: inhaling deeply brings oxygen to painfully tight muscles. Music impacts the sense of hearing, but the right rhythm also soothes an erratic heart beat. Even with closed eyes, colour therapy is a felt sensation. Although the dying person may be out of hope, they are not out of reach. Non-invasive touch therapies such as Reiki, Therapeutic Touch, Healing Touch or Cranial-Sacral Therapy can positively affect the person's depleted energy. Hands-on massage combines well with aromatherapy, but needs to be gentle: using two or three fingers is a safe way to protect delicate skin. Lavender, chamomile, or sandalwood pure essential oils are the best choices, used with a light, good quality cream. A few drops of vanilla on a tissue are also effective. Choosing the right relaxation music can be tricky. A rhythm that mimics a slowing heart rate helps with the transition. Nature sounds, or the vibration of stringed instruments such as piano, harp or guitar resonate especially well on the human ear – far better than synthesized music. Colour Therapy is another simple practice with a positive effect. Relaxing colours such as sea green or blue can settle restlessness; rich reds, indigo, or purple will warm a chill, sterile atmosphere. Lamps with removable colour gels are available through speciality shops. An inexpensive option, however, is a choice of bed linen, towels, pretty pillows or a light-weight throw. Complementary therapy is a world of options, rather than a cure. It is a wonderful way to give the dying person a say in their final moments. As long as pain symptoms are properly managed, grimaces or breathing changes will clearly show whether or not a therapy is being well-received. As end-of-life becomes the reality, the focus shifts to comfort and meaning. In the face of feeling helpless, we can use these therapies to create a positive experience with the desired sense of peace and resolution for everyone. Gertrude King
Gertrude King is an Aromatherapist and Reflexologist with a private practice in south western Ontario.Top - Back - Mind - Body - Spirit |
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