The Lowdown On Buzzy Wellness Therapies
By Hannah Ziegler
wellness
: the quality or state of being in good health especially as an actively sought goal
// lifestyles that promote wellness
Gwyneth Paltrow may be the darling of the growing wellness trend but the buzzword is on everyone’s lips (and social feeds) these days. But the truth is, wellness can mean different things to different people. It’s not just eating clean or juicing your way to a healthy lifestyle.
As more trends jump on the wellness wagon, we decided to revisit some tried-and-true complementary therapies—from acupuncture to Ayurveda.
Reiki
Photo: BettyHatchett.com
What you need to know
Reiki is so much more than jade rollers and quartz collections. The ancient Japanese practice of natural healing centers around restoring “universal life energy” — the direct translation of the word Japanese word Reiki. It was developed back in 1922 by a monk, while today the traditions are making a huge comeback in the form of activities like breathing exercises and even facials.
Who is it for?
If you’re a fan of meditation, Reiki might pique your interest. Though there is no scientific evidence of Reiki’s benefits, the emotional and mental healing process can be quite successful. It’s super low-risk and could become your new favourite treatment.
What to expect
It’s similar to a massage in that you lie face up on a massage table with a blanket covering you. The practitioner will typically start by explaining the process before surveying the body’s chakras while using crystals. The practitioner will then use their hands to increases your life force energy to bring the body back into balance promoting a healthier life.
* Always consult your medical team before trying any complementary therapies or treatments.
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Acupuncture
Photo: @parsleyhealth/Instagram
What you need to know
Acupuncture is a procedure that also goes way back — and it’s a mainstay in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Studies show that it can help relieve fatigue, control hot flashes, decrease nausea and vomiting and lessen pain. Researchers say that the process of placing thin needles onto the skin stimulates the nervous system to release natural painkiller cells and immune system cells to relieve weakened areas of the body.
Who is it for?
If you’re afraid of needles, this is probably not the procedure for you (although it is a fairly painless process). Acupuncture is for those wanting to try a complementary form of therapy that has some solid research behind it, as well as those experiencing lots of fatigue and physical pain.
What to expect
Sterile, single-use needles are placed on different areas (depending on the type of treatment) and some find it relaxing, where others might experience some mild discomfort. Acupuncture Canada trains professionals so there is no risk of infection or transmission of disease. During treatment, aching, heat and heaviness are often experienced briefly, which is called the “deQi effect.”
* Always consult your medical team before trying any complementary therapies or treatments.
For more stories on wellness, click here.
Ayurveda
Photo: @wrightkitchen/Instagram
What you need to know
Originating in India over thousands of years ago, Ayurveda operates on two guiding principles: A) the mind and the body are inextricably connected and B) nothing has more power to heal and transform the body than the mind. With the body and mind seen as so interconnected, many Ayurveda practices include meditation, incorporating a healthy diet, and improving sleep and exercise. Overall, it’s just about changing up your lifestyle to boost your energy and mood.
Who is it for?
Aryuveda is great for those wanting a holistic lifestyle approach, but you can also incorporate certain elements that you feel are essential in your life, for example practicing yoga, daily meditation or following the recommended sleeping routine.
What to expect
Typically, an ayurvedic consult starts with an assessment from a practitioner who will check your pulse, eyes, tongue and nails for any imbalances. You will be asked a wide variety of things: your overall health, spiritual practices, energy level, diet, sleep habits, digestion issues, metabolism and more. This information will then be used to determine your strengths and weaknesses via your doshas (or energies) followed by a wellness plan to restore them.
* Always consult your medical team before trying any complementary therapies or treatments.
For more stories on wellness, click here.
