Can natural and holistic therapies help with weight loss?

We know that natural therapies such as aromatherapy, reiki and reflexology are very relaxing and pleasant to experience, but can they actually assist with weight loss? And if so, how? 

Some of the most well-known therapies and their benefits regarding weight loss are:

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is very relaxing and there is little doubt that it can alleviate some of the stress we experience in our lives, but it can also be helpful when you are trying to lose weight. Add 12 drops to your bath, use in an oil burner or add five to six drops in grapeseed oil for an aromatherapy massage. 
Try these oils:
Bergamot: Bergamot is said to have the effect of suppressing the appetite and also helps with depression which may often lead to eating problems
Patchouli: May help with regulating appetite and reduce cravings
Vanilla: May be particularly helpful if you often crave sweet things; use vanilla scented lotions and burn a candle scented with vanilla

Swedish body massage

Because massage is so relaxing and reduces stress, it may assist with haphazard eating which is often caused by stress. Lymph drainage (on its own or part of Swedish massage) helps remove toxins from the body.

Reiki

Reiki means universal life force and it implies the channelling of energy to rectify imbalances or blockages in the body. It is a healing art and it may assist in removing negativity and emotional blockages, which can be a great help when you are experiencing eating/weight-related problems. 
Eating problems often stem from self-esteem and emotional issues and because these are addressed by reiki, you may find it helpful. It is also extremely relaxing and anything that can reduce stress in our busy lives, is worth giving a try!

Reflexology

Reflexology works on different pressure points on the foot: according to the principles of reflexology, the entire body is represented by different points on the foot; for weight loss, one would focus on specific areas on the foot, such as the spleen, digestive system and pancreas.
Acupuncture (although I do not have personal knowledge of it) has also become a popular weight loss aid – it also works on the principle of using specific points in the body.  Needles are inserted into these points to assist weight loss.

It is imperative to consult a therapist if you are keen to try any of these methods

Although it is possible to do some of these therapies on yourself at home, a therapist should at least advise you first on how to do it. Acupuncture would have to be done by an acupuncturist.

Image: © Vladimir Sazonov - Fotolia.com

About the author:

Ilke Hay does weight and food counselling for individuals who wish to change the way they think about food and eating, in order to assist with permanent weight loss and maintenance.

Contact details

Website: www.weightcounselling.co.za
E-mail: [email protected]
Cell: 082 652 1823

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