Tag: therapy

HRT: A Powerful Tool for Women’s Health – What You Need to Know

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Women's Health

As we navigate different stages of life, our health needs evolve. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a topic that often sparks curiosity, and sometimes concern. While commonly associated with menopause symptom relief, HRT offers long-term health benefits that go beyond managing hot flashes and night sweats. However, like any treatment, it also comes with considerations.

So, what should you know about the benefits and risks of HRT? Let’s explore the latest research.

The Benefits: More Than Just Symptom Relief

Many women turn to HRT for relief from menopause symptoms, but its advantages extend far beyond that. Here are some key long-term benefits, backed by research:

Supports Heart Health

– 4 fewer cases of cardiovascular disease per 1,000 women aged 50-59 who start HRT within 10 years of menopause.

– 2.5 fewer deaths per 1,000 women aged 50-59 who initiate body-identical oestradiol (oral or transdermal) with a progestogen.

– No reduction in mortality when HRT is started more than 10 years after menopause with synthetic progestogens.

Stronger Bones & Reduced Fracture Risk

– 7 fewer fractures per 1,000 women aged 50-59 who use HRT.

– 5 fewer fractures per 1,000 women aged 60-69 who take HRT.

– Osteoporosis-related fractures occur in 15 per 1,000 women aged 50-59 each year, highlighting the role of HRT in prevention.

Brain Health & Dementia Risk Reduction

– 14.5 fewer cases of dementia per 1,000 women who start oestrogen-only HRT within 10 years of menopause.

– 10 fewer cases per 1,000 women who start combined oestrogen + progestogen HRT within 10 years of menopause.

– Dementia is a leading cause of death in women, and HRT may play a role in reducing neurodegenerative risks.

May Lower the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

– 20% of women aged 60-69 have diabetes, and HRT has been linked to improved blood sugar control.

– Women who used HRT for 2.5 to 5 years had a 69% lower risk of developing diabetes.

The Risks: What to Consider

HRT isn’t one-size-fits-all, and certain factors should be considered before starting treatment:

Breast Cancer Risk

– 23 cases of breast cancer per 1,000 women aged 50-59 over five years.

– No increased breast cancer risk has been confirmed for women using body-identical progesterone, but more long-term data is needed.

Blood Clots (VTE – Venous Thromboembolism)

– 5 cases per 1,000 women aged 50-59 using HRT over five years.

– 8 cases per 1,000 women aged 60-69 using HRT over five years.

– No increased risk for women using transdermal oestrogen with or without body-identical progesterone.

Stroke Risk

– 4 cases per 1,000 women aged 50-59 each year.

– 9 cases per 1,000 women aged 60-69 each year.

– No additional stroke risk for women under 60 using transdermal oestrogen.

Finding the Right Approach

The key to HRT is personalization—the right type, dosage, and timing make all the difference. If you’re considering HRT, consult a healthcare professional to explore options that align with your individual health needs.

HRT is not just about managing menopause—it’s about long-term health and quality of life. Whether you’re just starting your research or considering treatment, staying informed empowers you to make the best decisions for your well-being.

Have questions or experiences with HRT? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Let’s keep the conversation going.

WRITTEN BY Dr Anna Ord, Menopause Doctor

Dr Anna is passionate about helping women with their perimenopause and menopause journey. She dedicates each Monday to assisting women at Drift Wellness Centre in Clarkson, and also via online appointments during the week. You can find out more about Dr Anna and book in your appointment on her website www.drannaord.com

Child Psychotherapy Explained: Treating Emotional, Mental and Behavioural Challenges

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Children & Families, Mental health

Psychoanalytic Child Psychotherapy is a highly specialised, evidence-based
treatment which can address a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and mental
health difficulties. Psychoanalytic Child Psychotherapists are trained to be able to
treat any emotional or behavioural concern. This type of therapy is often sought
when other therapies have not been able to help.

What Can Child Psychotherapy Help With?

  • Relationship difficulties or social struggles
  • Aggression, angry outbursts
  • Low mood & depression
  • Anxiety, irrational fears, or obsessive behaviours
  • Sleep problems
  • Bed-wetting or soiling
  • School refusal
  • Risk-taking, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts
  • Emotional struggles linked to trauma, neglect, or loss
  • Emotional or behavioural problems arising from physical illness
  • Emotional or behavioural problems arising from developmental disorders such
    as autism

The Process of Psychotherapy

The process begins with an initial appointment to discuss concerns and determine if psychotherapy is the right sort of help. Following this a psychotherapy assessment might be arranged consisting of 2-3 sessions, the assessment gives the child an opportunity to experience what psychotherapy is like. The assessment is also an important step in beginning to make sense of the child’s difficulties.

Parents involvement and support of therapy is important, separate parent sessions may also be arranged alongside scheduled review meetings.

Following the assessment a review meeting takes place to think about the assessment and whether to proceed with psychotherapy. Psychotherapy sessions last for 50 minutes and usually take place weekly.

Each child’s response to therapy is different. Some may feel better after a few sessions, others need much longer. Attending regularly is important for
effectiveness.

But How Does it Work?

Psychoanalytic child psychotherapy is a non-directive, child led therapy which provides a safe space where children can explore and develop an understanding of their feelings and behaviours.

Child psychotherapists are trained to observe very subtle communications expressed by a child. Through combining observations with undirected talking, play, or creative activities, psychoanalytic child psychotherapists gather an understanding of the child’s view of the world, and of their struggles and worries. This understanding is gradually shared with child, helping them to gain insight into their difficulties,
enabling change.

If you’re considering therapy for your child or have any questions about the process, don’t hesitate to contact Tracey at Child Psychotherapy Perth based in the Northern Suburbs of Perth.

WRITTEN BY Tracy Christophi MA, MACP Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist

Tracey is a full qualified ACP Psychoanalytic Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience in specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in the UK. Now based at Drift Wellness Centre in Clarkson, Western Australia, where she is establishing her own practice to support children, young people, and families.

To find out more how Tracey can help your family and book in your appointment please go to www.childpsychotherapyperth.com.au

What is Art Therapy?

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Mental health, Wellness

Art Therapy is a therapeutic practice that utilizes the creative process of making art to improve mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. It’s founded on the idea that the visual language of art can access parts of our psyche that words sometimes cannot reach. Through creating and exploring art, individuals can express and process their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a nonverbal way.

​In an Art Therapy session, clients might use various mediums like drawing, painting, sculpting, or collage to explore their inner world. This process can help them gain insights, resolve conflicts, and cope with difficult emotions. The art created during therapy serves as a powerful tool for self-expression, allowing individuals to articulate complex or hidden aspects of themselves.​

Art Therapy is often used in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches and can be beneficial for people of all ages and backgrounds, including those dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. It can also be a way to foster personal growth and enhance overall life satisfaction by promoting self-discovery and personal insight.

​But I can’t draw! I’m not an artist!

​In Art Therapy, the emphasis is on the process rather than the product. It’s about exploring and expressing emotions and thoughts through art without the pressure to create a “perfect” or aesthetically pleasing piece. You have permission to “screw it up”. The beauty of art therapy lies in its freedom from conventional standards of artistic success.

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​​“Stick figures are welcome in art therapy. It’s all about the process, not the end result”.

Here’s why Art Therapy is so effective:

​Non-Judgmental Space: Art therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can experiment with materials and techniques without the worry of making mistakes or producing a “bad” piece of art.

Accessing the Unconscious: Sometimes the most profound insights come from art that seems chaotic or nonsensical. The creative process can tap into subconscious thoughts and feelings that might be hard to articulate with words.

Metaphorical Exploration: Art can serve as a metaphor for personal experiences. Even abstract or “ugly” pieces can reveal valuable information about your inner world, offering new perspectives on challenges or emotions.

Personal Growth: Engaging in artmaking helps you connect with different parts of yourself and can lead to personal growth and self-discovery. The process itself can be therapeutic and revealing, regardless of the final product.

Accessibility: You don’t need to have any prior artistic experience or skills to benefit from art therapy. It’s about the experience of creating and reflecting, not about artistic talent or outcomes.​

In essence, art therapy is about the journey of self-expression and exploration. It’s an opportunity to delve into your inner life in a creative, non-verbal way, and sometimes the most meaningful discoveries come from the unexpected or unconventional.

written by Meaghan Hamilton, a qualified Transpersonal Art Therapist and Counsellor

Meaghan has a rich background in both the arts and psychology. She embodies the essence of being human, embracing love, vulnerability, and the complexities of life. Her journey toward healing began two decades ago during her time as a Constable in the Queensland Police Service, where she discovered her passion for supporting those in need. Following a life-changing diagnosis of complex PTSD in 2005, Meaghan turned to Art Therapy, which transformed her path and helped her reclaim her sense of self. Now, she dedicates her life to guiding others who feel lost or disconnected, using a holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual healing. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Arts and advanced diplomas in Transpersonal Art Therapy and Counselling, Meaghan employs both ancient and modern therapeutic modalities to empower her clients: adults, adolescents and children, helping them find their inner wisdom and fostering a journey of growth and transformation.

book your therapy session today

Meaghan is at Drift Wellness Centre every Friday and for more information please visit her website: www.meagsartthreapy.com.au

Cupping Therapy: What It Is and How It Can Benefit You

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Why you need a massage

Cupping therapy has been around for centuries, and its popularity has surged in recent years, thanks to high-profile athletes and celebrities showing off those distinctive circular marks. But what exactly is cupping, and why should you consider trying it?

What is Cupping?

Cupping is an ancient form of therapy with roots in Chinese and Egyptian medicine. It involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, which promotes healing by increasing blood flow to specific areas. Originally, materials like bamboo or animal horns were used, but modern cupping typically employs glass, silicone, or plastic cups.

There are a couple of ways to perform cupping, including dry cupping and dynamic cupping. Dry cupping is the more traditional method where cups are placed on the skin and left stationary for several minutes. Dynamic cupping, on the other hand, involves moving the cups across the skin after suction is applied. This technique allows for a broader treatment area and helps target muscle tension and fascia release more effectively.

How Does Cupping Work?

Cupping works by creating negative pressure inside the cups, pulling the skin and underlying tissues upward. This suction increases blood flow to the area, bringing oxygen and nutrients that promote healing while reducing muscle tightness and inflammation. The lifting action also helps separate the layers of muscle and fascia, which can become stuck together due to tension or injury.

Dynamic cupping, in particular, is great for people looking for more extensive treatment. After applying the cups to the skin and creating suction, the therapist gently glides the cups across the muscle tissue. This mobilizes the fascia and increases blood flow to a larger area, promoting deeper relaxation and more comprehensive muscle recovery. Some describe this sensation as similar to a deep-tissue massage, but with the added benefit of the skin and muscles being lifted rather than compressed.

The Benefits of Cupping

Now, let’s dive into some of the amazing benefits of cupping therapy.

1. Pain Relief

Cupping is most commonly used for pain relief. The increased blood flow and lymphatic drainage help reduce inflammation, making it an effective treatment for conditions like back pain, neck pain, and tension headaches. Many athletes use cupping to speed up recovery from muscle soreness, while people with chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia or arthritis, often find significant relief as well.

The ability of dynamic cupping to cover larger areas makes it particularly effective for treating widespread muscle tightness or stiffness, especially in larger muscle groups like the back, shoulders, or legs.

2. Improved Circulation

One of the most immediate effects of cupping is improved circulation. The suction draws blood to the targeted areas, which not only helps heal damaged tissues but also improves overall blood flow. Better circulation can prevent issues like muscle cramps, stiffness, and fatigue, keeping your body feeling more limber and energized.

Dynamic cupping enhances this effect, as the movement of the cups helps stimulate circulation over a broader region, making it especially beneficial for athletes or anyone looking to improve mobility and recovery.

3. Relaxation and Stress Reduction

While cupping provides significant physical benefits, it also offers mental and emotional relief. The process of cupping can help activate the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for relaxation. Many people find themselves feeling more at ease and less stressed after a session, which makes cupping an excellent choice for anyone battling tension or anxiety.

The gentle movement of cups during dynamic cupping adds an additional layer of soothing therapy, as it mimics the feeling of a massage while simultaneously addressing muscle tightness.

4. Detoxification and Lymphatic Drainage

Cupping therapy is known for its ability to stimulate the body’s natural detoxification processes. The suction helps increase lymphatic drainage, which supports the body’s ability to eliminate toxins and waste products. This can leave you feeling refreshed, with a sense of lightness and renewed energy.

The sweeping motions in dynamic cupping assist in moving stagnant lymph fluid through the body, making this technique especially effective for detoxification and reducing water retention or swelling.

5. Skin Health and Scar Healing

Believe it or not, cupping can also improve the health of your skin. The increased circulation from the suction promotes cell repair and can reduce the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and even wrinkles. Regular cupping sessions can help improve skin elasticity and rejuvenate your complexion, giving your skin a natural glow.

The enhanced blood flow from dynamic cupping adds to these benefits, helping treat a wider surface area and promoting better overall skin health.

What to Expect During a Cupping Session

If you’re new to cupping, here’s what a typical session might look like. You’ll lie down comfortably, and your therapist will apply oil to your skin to allow the cups to move smoothly. The cups are then placed on your skin, and suction is created, either through a pump or by heating the air inside the cups.

With dynamic cupping, once the suction is applied, your therapist will glide the cups across the treatment area. You may feel a mild tugging or pulling sensation, but most people find the process relaxing, even soothing. After the session, you may have red or purple marks where the cups were placed—these are not bruises but simply areas of increased blood flow, and they will fade in a few days.

Is Cupping Right for You?

Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from a tough workout, or simply looking for a way to de-stress, cupping can be an excellent addition to your wellness routine. Dynamic cupping is especially helpful for those wanting broader treatment coverage and more extensive muscle relaxation.

Cupping therapy offers a natural, non-invasive way to promote healing, improve circulation, and relax both body and mind. If you’re curious about giving it a try, talk to your therapist to see how this ancient practice can work for you.

At Drift Massage not only do our Remedial Massage Therapists having cupping done on themselves they have been trained in cupping therapy and we can use it as a tool within our remedial massages.

Raising the Vibe!

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Art en Soul, Wellness Fundraiser

Talk about raising the vibe… I do believe we successfully did that recently at “Raise Your Vibe – Meet Your Tribe” event, where at Art en Soul, we threw open our doors and created a memorable night for all.

Art en Soul Wellness Centre, located near Clarkson Station, has been carefully designed, decorated and harmonised, using Feng Shui remedies, to become a beautiful relaxing haven. A place for calm, healing and peace.  A place to escape the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives.

The evening opened with an introduction to the Art en Soul therapists, followed by a group meditation, facilitated by Sarah, our Reiki Master and designed to connect, centre and raise the vibe, and boy it did so, what a buzz was felt in the room.

From there the guests were able to explore the centre, chat with the therapists, get free advice, create a heart-felt message for the Message Tree, which was designed and created especially for the night by Larah from Art Therapy Connect who specialises in helping people connect and heal by expressing and using their hands in creative ways.

IMG_0737Our meeting room was full when Sarah from Neuro Body Balance held a discussion on hormones and hormone balancing and the effects everyday living has on them, including a demonstration showing how we balance hormones with kinesiology.  Beth our Naturopath from Naturally Thyroid who shared her wealth of knowledge on the effects of yo-yo dieting on our bodies and how to stop it once and for all with the proven and effective metabolic balance easy weight loss solution.

Sara, with her amazing Feng Shui knowledge and experience,  is the creator of our beautiful centre and its nurturing energy.  In keeping with her Healthy Home philosophy, on the night she introduced a new natural skin care range called Oxymax. An Australian made chemical free range of skincare products  with high quality, natural ingredients that promotes healthy skin and cell rejuvenation.  Oxymax is exclusive to Art en Soul in WA.

Venturing outside you came across Narda from Perth Soapworks and her luxurious display of handmade all vegan body soaps and shampoo bars.  Not only were you able to purchase her handmade soaps but you could sign up to experience one of her soap making courses.

Elaine from Balance for Life Pilates was on hand to talk to those who wanted to know more about practicing Pilates every Friday morning in Art en Soul’s tranquil courtyard, which makes you feel like you have left the suburbs behind and are on a retreat in Bali.

You could not go pass an organic wine tasting with Howard from Raw Wine Estate, his knowledge and passion for organic wine is infectious and to top it off they are delicious.

Back inside you were able to experience Emmett therapy, a unique form of non-invasive body work, with Riana from Valentino Sanctuary.

While our guests were experiencing all the centre has to offer, I was having a great time meeting guests and helping them to relax, release and reinvigorate their body and mind through a chair massage.

Prizes and giveaways were draw and the night was even more special as we had over 30 people attending the event, and managed to raise over $500 for the Type 1 Diabetes Family Centre. A non-profit centre that has built a thriving community of children and parents in Western Australia, supporting them to face the challenges of type 1 diabetes with confidence, through unique educations programs, inspirational role models, support, connection, clinical care, action packed camps and events.  As a mum of a Type 1 Diabetes child, the wealth of support and knowledge the centre have given me and my family is invaluable.


​Definitely a night enjoyed by all, and we look forward to organising and holding our next one, we hope you can make it!

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