Gill Westland

Massage as a Therapeutic Tool, Part 1

The first part of this article defines massage, outlines some of the various systems of massage and discusses the importance of touch. The second part will look at research into the clinical application of massage and contraindications to and precautions in the use of massage.

Relaxing in Primary Health Care

This article describes a Cambridge Health Authority project to introduce relaxation groups into primary health care. The consumers view; the holistic and humanistic approach to stress-related health problems forming the rationale for the project; and the collaborative efforts of lay group leaders, the Occupational Therapy Service for Mental Health, community services, Health Promotion and those working in primary health care are discussed.

Dipping into Community Mental Health: An Aspect of the Occupational Therapist's Role

This article describes the setting up of a relaxation group by an occupational therapist working in mental health at a health centre, which encourages patient participation. Observations about the occupational therapists role in this context and the contribution of the relaxation groups are discussed.

Book Review: Therapeutic Factors in Group PsychotherapyTHERAPEUTIC FACTORS IN GROUP PSYCHOTHERAPY.BlochSCrouchE, eds. Oxford University Press1985. £16.00. ISBN 0 19261 365 0.

The book takes the reader through Helmans early years and surgical training in South Africa, to his years of consultancy and specialization, culminating in the period during which his illness took place. The book tells of the reactions of family, friends and colleagues and of Helmans own thoughts as he becomes ill, initially with infective hepatitis. This was subsequently to be diagnosed as cancer of the colon.