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Ashgate Hospice > Living well to the end: Holistic therapy’s role in quality of life at Ashgate

At Ashgate Hospice, a patient’s care doesn’t stop at simply taking care of their physical health. It’s about helping people live as well as possible for as long as possible – and that means caring for the whole person, not just their illness.  

Holistic therapy plays a big part in this. It’s there to help patients, and the people important to them, feel more comfortable, more at ease, and more like themselves. But what do we actually mean by holistic therapy, and how does it work in practice?

What is holistic therapy?

Holistic therapy, also known as integrative or complementary therapy, is a form of treatment that considers the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – rather than just the symptoms of an illness.  

At the hospice, these therapies sit alongside medical care to offer a more complete kind of support. Some focus on easing physical symptoms, others on emotional wellbeing or spiritual peace. Together, they help people feel more comfortable, more connected and more in control. 

Here are just a few examples of what that can look like: 

A close up of hands sowing an Ashgate Hospice Complementary Therapist doing a reflexology treatment

Physical therapies

Massage therapy: Gentle massages help relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve circulation. This therapy can be particularly beneficial for patients experiencing muscle tension and discomfort.

Aromatherapy: Using essential oils, aromatherapy aims to enhance physical and emotional wellbeing. Aromatherapy can help with relaxation, improve sleep, and reduce anxiety.

Reflexology: This therapy involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet or hands. Reflexology can promote relaxation, alleviate pain, and improve overall health.

A counselling session, two people are looking at each other and talking.

Emotional and psychological support

Counselling and psychotherapy: Providing a safe confidential space for patients and the people important to them to express their feelings, cope with grief, and discover emotional support. 

Art and music therapy: Engaging in creative activities like painting, drawing, or playing music can help patients express their emotions, find joy, and experience moments of peace.

A multi-faith and inclusive space for reflection.

Spiritual Care

Chaplaincy Services: Spiritual care offers support to patients and families, regardless of their religious beliefs. They provide a listening ear, spiritual guidance, and help with finding meaning and comfort during difficult times. 

Mindfulness and meditation: These practices can help patients focus on the present moment, reduce stress, and cultivate a sense of inner peace.

Why it matters

Holistic therapy helps people feel better – physically, emotionally and spiritually. It can: 

  • Bring comfort and ease alongside medical treatment 
  • Support mental wellbeing and reduce anxiety or isolation 
  • Create moments of connection, peace or joy – even during the hardest time 

 

Our Complementary Therapy team have developed these audio guides to help you relax – find out more on the resources hub of our website.