Weight Management
Weight management is a complex journey influenced by physical, emotional, hormonal, and lifestyle factors. While diet and exercise remain essential, many individuals find that complementary therapies offer vital support by addressing underlying issues such as stress, metabolism, and emotional eating.
Therapies such as acupuncture, essential oils, massage, reflexology, and hypnosis are increasingly being recognised for their roles in supporting both weight loss and weight gain through holistic, patient-centered care. These approaches can help individuals achieve a balanced and sustainable path toward health.
Why Integrated Care Matters
Over 60% of adults in developed countries are either overweight or obese, according to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2023).
Emotional stress and anxiety are linked to up to 30% of overeating behaviors, often contributing to weight gain (Adam & Epel, 2007).
Studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce appetite and stimulate metabolism, aiding in weight loss (Wang et al., 2019).
Reflexology and massage therapy are reported to improve digestion and reduce cortisol, a hormone associated with fat accumulation (Field, 2014).
Essential oil inhalation may curb appetite and enhance energy expenditure (Ogata et al., 2013).
Hypnotherapy is gaining evidence as a method to reprogram subconscious habits around food and self-image, showing long-term behavioural change (Barabasz & Spiegel, 2017).
Our Therapeutic Approach
Auricular Acupuncture
This traditional Chinese medicine technique is used to regulate internal organ function and energy flow (Qi)
Body acupuncture and auricular (ear) acupuncture have shown promise in reducing hunger, balancing hormones, and increasing metabolism. A 12-week study revealed that auricular acupuncture significantly decreased BMI in obese participants (Wang et al., 2019).
Reflexology & Massage
By stimulating pressure points on the feet and body, reflexology promotes digestive health and endocrine balance. When paired with therapeutic massage, it can lower stress-induced eating and improve lymphatic drainage.
These therapies enhance physical and emotional well-being, key factors in healthy weight regulation (Field, 2014).
Combining hypnosis with targeted essential oils helps reset negative patterns around food and body image.
Hypnotherapy sessions target the subconscious to encourage healthy habits, and the aromatic compounds assist in calming cravings. Clinical trials have found hypnotherapy effective in supporting weight loss when combined with diet modification (Barabasz & Spiegel, 2017).
Hypnotherapy & Aromatherapy
Our Client Experience
Weight Loss
Background:
Sarah had been struggling with her weight for over a decade. Emotional eating and chronic stress from her high-pressure job had contributed to a steady weight gain, leaving her feeling fatigued, unmotivated, and frustrated. She had tried multiple diet plans and exercise regimes with limited long-term success.
Therapeutic Plan:
Weekly reflexology sessions targeting digestive function and endocrine regulation.
Biweekly hypnotherapy focused on reducing emotional eating triggers and building positive self-talk.
Aromatherapy were used in tandem with therapy to support appetite control and stress reduction.
Outcomes:
After 4 months, Sarah experienced a 9 kg weight loss, a reduction in BMI from 29.8 to 26.5, and a significant improvement in energy and emotional resilience.
Client Feedback:
“I finally feel in control of my body and emotions again. Hypnotherapy helped me uncover the deeper reasons I turned to food for comfort, and reflexology left me feeling balanced and calm each week. I’ve never lost weight in such a peaceful, supportive way before. This wasn’t just about the kilos—it was about healing.”
Weight Gain
Background:
James presented with underweight concerns and poor appetite. He had a BMI of 17.9 and was dealing with chronic digestive issues and anxiety, which often led to skipped meals and fatigue. He reported low confidence and concern over his long-term health.
Therapeutic Plan:
Weekly acupuncture sessions targeting digestive meridians and anxiety-related points, including auricular (ear) points.
Therapeutic abdominal and back massage to support gut motility and relax the nervous system.
Essential oils were used during treatment and at home to stimulate appetite and soothe the stomach.
Outcomes:
Over 12 weeks, James gained 6.5 kg, raising his BMI to 20.2. He also reported improved digestion, fewer stomach cramps, and a more consistent appetite.
Client Feedback:
“Before this, I honestly didn’t think I’d ever be able to gain weight without force-feeding myself. The acupuncture sessions helped my stomach feel less tense and more ‘awake,’ if that makes sense. The massage was incredibly grounding, and the oils really did work to get my appetite going. I feel stronger and more like myself again.”
References
Adam, T. C., & Epel, E. S. (2007). Stress, eating and the reward system. Physiology & Behavior, 91(4), 449–458. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physbeh.2007.04.011
Barabasz, A., & Spiegel, D. (2017). Hypnosis and weight loss. In Hypnotherapy: Advances in Evidence-Based Practice(pp. 113–125). American Psychological Association.
Field, T. (2014). Massage therapy research review. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 20(4), 224–229. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2014.07.002
Ogata, M., Yamaguchi, T., & Suzuki, T. (2013). Effects of grapefruit oil and lavender oil on appetite and body weight in rats and humans. Chemical Senses, 38(8), 691–698. https://doi.org/10.1093/chemse/bjt038
Wang, S.-M., Kain, Z. N., & White, P. F. (2019). Auricular acupuncture: A potential treatment for obesity. Medical Acupuncture, 31(1), 3–10. https://doi.org/10.1089/acu.2018.1344
World Health Organization. (2023). Obesity and overweight. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/obesity-and-overweight
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