[Myrkk]

How prevalent are alternative therapies in NZ? i.e. crystal healing, reiki etc.

[jess]

I don't know if it qualifies as alternative anymore, but acupuncture is widely accepted. It costs $42 a visit for me to see the acupuncturist at the mainstream medical center near me. I'd never had it before coming to NZ, but was amazed at how helpful it was for my shoulder.

---

For crystals, Reiki, etc... I think there are lot of places in Auckland, some in Welly and Christchurch, and just a few outside these cities. The NZ Search lists quite a few:
Crystal links (http://www.nzsearch.co.nz/search.aspx?id=758&q=crystal+healing&engine=NZSCAT&searchbutton.x=0&searchbutton.y=0&searchbutton=go)
Reiki links (http://www.nzsearch.co.nz/search.aspx?id=758&q=reiki&engine=NZSCAT&searchbutton.x=0&searchbutton.y=0&searchbutton=go)
(You can narrow by part of the country)

[barryp]

'Alternative therapies' is such a wide net that I'm not sure the question can be answered. Which ones did you have in mind?

There is quite broad acceptance of homeopathy [sigh], acupuncture, and holistic nutrition. I have found a number of GP's (medical doctors) who have supplemented their core allopathic training with Chinese medical training.

[CjChris]

This is "slightly" off topic, but I have searched for meditation centers and yoga classes in NZ, and much to my delight, there are numerous options available. Even in Wanganui, which is considered the boonies by many, has a Buddhist Monk visit weekly from Palmerston North to teach meditation/healing classes. I have never gone to a meditation or yoga class, but I have long been wanting to, so I'm hoping to begin these upon settling.

I'll need something to sooth me after all the insanity of applying for residency!! :laugh

[Myrkk]

Why the sigh re. homeopathy barryg?

Specifically the two I mentioned and herbalism which is different to homeopathy in that it works... sorry....... not a believer in homeopathy.;)

[jess]

Also OT
This is "slightly" off topic, but I have searched for meditation centers and yoga classes in NZ, and much to my delight, there are numerous options available.Yes, I attend a weekly meditation group nearby. You're right; they're all over NZ.:) I also see yoga classes in the local paper along with Tai Chi and Aikido.

[zardell]

I'll need something to sooth me after all the insanity of applying for residency!! :laugh



Can definitely relate to that..........:yes

Julie

xx

[highlander]

We have a quite extensive homeopathic remedy shop in Wellington called Simillimum (http://www.arnica.co.nz/about_us/index.html) (there may be others). Most health food shops also stock basic/common remedies.

[Trigirl]

sorry....... not a believer in homeopathy i think barryp may agree with you - hence the sigh!!

[Moorf]

Lots of alternative therapies advertised around Chch and its environs... :nice1 great reflexologist in Sumner if anyone wants a recommendation....

[KerryS]

There are loads in Auckland. I met someone who reads auras the other week in a bar. She was interesting, although I'm not too sure I actually believe in auras...
I went to a laughter club session on Saturday morning, which was fun. It's a form of yoga apparantly?
I had hot stone therapy and acupuncture for my shoulder, both of which helped far more than traditional physio did. However, I later saw an oesteopath who was better than all the above as she clicked my spine and hips into the correct alignment and I've had no further shoulder pain since.

There are definitely plenty of alternative therapists about - it's just a case of finding the right one in your location.