In spite of my life as a desk potato, my body regularly aches and I have difficulty sleeping. Therefore, when I heard that there was a health centre on campus with services that would help ease my aches and stresses, I jumped at the chance to learn more about this hidden gem.
Quietly nestled within the Chaplaincy Centre is the Natural Healthcare Centre. Founded 17 years ago, the team today consists of six professional healthcare practitioners. The Centre offers a range of treatments: Acupuncture, the Alexander Technique, Aromatherapy, Herbal Medicine, Reflexology, as well as, Shiatsu, Swedish and Tsuboki massage. Besides these treatments they also offer additional help and support regarding diet, exercise, time management and stress reduction techniques.
The team continues to work with the same ethos in mind as the founder Di Williams – to stay whole and healthy. I managed to have a quick chat with a few of the team members to find out how they could help you. I was even treated to a relaxing Aromatherapy massage that melted my muscle pain away!
Shiatsu – Martin Knowles
Martin has been practicing Shiatsu for over 20 years – so he knows his stuff! He has treated a wide range of ailments from sports injuries to digestive problems.
Shiatsu is a Japanese massage that is both gentle and stimulating. It blends the best of Eastern and Western techniques. The result is a deeply relaxing treatment that is very effective at targeting specific problems and can provide relief for many conditions.
You might be shy about stripping off for a massage, however as Shiatsu is performed fully clothed so you needn’t worry.
Reflexology – Dorothea Williamson
Dorothea has been practicing reflexology for over 18 years and has found it to be effective in alleviating many acute and even chronic conditions.
Reflexology is a gentle way of balancing and harmonizing the body, mind and spirit. Thousands of years ago ancient Chinese and Egyptians discovered the healing powers of the body could be stimulated by massaging specific areas (reflex zones) on the feet.
I am rather self-conscious about my feet however Dorothea said, ‘All feet are welcome!’ Regardless whether your feet are neatly pedicured or shabby you know they will be well looked after.
Herbal Medicine – Paula Foster
Paula combines modern western herbal medicine with traditional knowledge and the latest scientific research to effectively remedy a wide range of conditions. She uses herbal medicine to nourish and restore healthiness. My mum is rather traditional and always insists I try herbal medicine first before going to the doctors (to avoid side effects). Consequently, to this day I take watermelon powder for a cough instead of cough mixture.
Aromatherapy/Body Massage – Chryssie Burgess
Chryssie offers a melody of massages: Aromatherapy, Tsuboki, Hot Towel and Swedish massage. She often combines various treatments to personalize your session. I was treated to a taster massage and it was lovely. From the beginning she put me at ease, clearly explaining what I could expect from the treatment. I was gently massaged with essential oils from head to toe. She emphasized that she wanted me to leave feeling ten times better than when I arrived. I certainly left with a spring in my step, a smile on my face and feeling at peace with the world.
The team regularly participates in the Wellbeing Days on campus each year. On these days students can try their treatments for free, with follow up discounts and vouchers on offer too. The next Wellbeing Day will be May 2nd, from 12pm to 3pm in the Fylde Common Room. Make sure to turn up early and sign in to secure your free taster session.
It is simple to book an appointment with the team; all you need to do is call or email them directly. On the website: www.naturalhealthcare.org.uk are the team’s contact details. If you are feeling achy and stressed do check them out, as they are only a hop, skip and jump away – you won’t regret it!
