The ancient Chinese believed that there is a universal life energy called Chi present in every living creature. This energy is said to circulate throughout the body along specific pathways that are called meridians. As long as this energy flows freely throughout the meridians, health is maintained, but once the flow of energy is blocked or 'out of balance', the system is disrupted and pain and illness can occur.
Acupuncture involves the usually painless insertion of very fine sterile needles at specific points in the body to 'free up' the Chi energy and restore normal function. Side effects are minimal, and patients often report feelings of deep relaxation during treatment.
Studies have shown that, in addition to providing an overall feeling of well being, acupuncture may help treat or prevent the following symptoms associated with radiation and chemotherapy:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Neurotoxicity
- Lowered immunity
- Decreased energy
- Stress and anxiety
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Pain
Acupuncture treatments are available Monday through Thursday, 9 am to 3:30 pm. To make an appointment call
(541) 506-5788.
Massage therapy is one of the oldest forms of health practice. It has been used to enhance healing and general well being since ancient times. This therapy manipulates the skin, muscles and joints for muscle relaxation, improved circulation and stress relief.
The therapists at Mid-Columbia Medical Center offer a variety of massage techniques tailored to your specific needs; relaxation, deep body, warm stone, sports, pregnancy and Thai massage are all specialty massages that can be requested.
Lymphedema Massage
Manual lymph drainage massage is effective through the pumping and stretching effect on the lymph vessels. This form of therapy stimulates contractions of the lymph vessels, which in turn assist the movement of lymph forward. This a relaxing and deeply detoxifying therapy. Our therapist is certified in the Vodder technique of manual lymph drainage and combined decongestive therapy.
Yoga is a physical and mental practice that involves the body, mind and spirit. The practice — which is believed to have originated in India 6000 years ago — is designed to enhance awareness, and create a mind-body-spirit balance.
Yoga is gentle enough to be practiced by almost anyone. The beauty of yoga is that you don’t have to be able to do all of the positions; you can work within your own limitations and tailor your practice to your specific needs. Yoga’s gentle, mindful and controlled movements can provide a non- or low-impact workout for people in almost any physical condition.
Yoga’s most obvious benefits relate to stress reduction, flexibility and relaxation. But as more studies are conducted, there is evidence of other tangible health benefits. While it’s no cure, yoga can be an effective complementary therapy for a variety of conditions, including cancer, arthritis, asthma, diabetes, depression, fibromyalgia and migraines.
Yoga can make you more aware of your own body — more conscious of its strengths, weaknesses and needs.
Once practiced exclusively in China, T’ai Chi has grown to become one of the most
recognizable forms of exercise in existence. A cross between yoga and meditation, T'ai Chi
incorporates a sequence of slow movements; encouraging practitioners to keep their bodies stable and upright while shifting weight.
T'ai Chi is a gentle meditative exercise ideal for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. Participants will enjoy increased balance, flexibility and coordination while reducing stress and associated pain and fatigue.
Guided Relaxation with Harp
Listen to the soothing sounds of harp music as our relaxation guide assists you in relaxing and letting go of tension during this 45 minute session. Taking the time for relaxation helps you cope with challenging times. Music soothes the body and soul and gives your mind a chance to take a break. Guided relaxation can help with anxiety, insomnia and pain. It’s inspiring.
Gentle Yoga
Gentle stretching and deep breathing can help release physical and mental tension. Yoga helps strengthen the body while increasing flexibility and balance.
This class of gentle yoga stretching followed by relaxation includes instruction on ways to breathe to promote relaxation.
Reiki
Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. This technique enhances the body’s own ability to heal and is based on the idea that a ‘life force energy’ flows through each of us and is what causes us to be alive.
Some report that a treatment feels like a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. Reiki treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind and spirit creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security and well-being.