The Lighter Touch

The Lighter Touch Full Lymphoedema & Lipoedema Management, sports injury, pain & Low Level Laser (photobiomodulation), colon Hydrotherapy, Deep Oscillation & Lymphatouch

29/05/2026

At ARCH, our registered colon hydrotherapists understand that booking your very first colonic treatment can feel like a big step.

For many people, it’s a treatment they’ve never experienced before, so it’s only natural to have questions, concerns, or even feel a little apprehensive.

That’s why every ARCH therapist is committed to creating a safe, professional and supportive environment from the moment you walk through the door.

Your therapist will take the time to explain the treatment, answer any questions you may have, and ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way. There is never any pressure to rush, and the treatment will always be carried out at a pace that feels right for you.

We believe that feeling listened to, respected and reassured is just as important as the treatment itself.

Many clients tell us afterwards that the treatment was far gentler and more relaxing than they expected, and that the anticipation beforehand was often the hardest part.

If you’re feeling nervous, please know that you’re not alone—and your ARCH therapist will be there to support you every step of the way.



Professional. Supportive. Reassuring. Always at your pace.

27/05/2026

Drs Chris and Xand van Tulleken explore the lymphatic system.

This!!! Take note!
15/05/2026

This!!! Take note!

New population studies suggest that tattoos may be associated with a higher risk for lymphoma and skin cancer, although causality remains unproven.

Great to be a part of this group of newly qualified MLD therapist’s training.  Treating your lymphoedema the right way.
15/05/2026

Great to be a part of this group of newly qualified MLD therapist’s training. Treating your lymphoedema the right way.

Yehhh… one crazy week… 12 crazy therapists! Just joking!
🌟A fantastic, fun filled, stress filled, learning filled few days with this lot.
🙌 Completing their training.
They bring so much experience and knowledge from their existing skills, add in Manual lymphatic drainage for and their patients will be supported so much.
Well done all, please tag your clinic below 🙂

12/05/2026

“It’s not always the food.”

For many people living with Crohn’s disease, flare ups can sometimes feel unpredictable.

While certain foods may trigger symptoms for some individuals, other factors may also influence digestive wellbeing, including:
▫️ stress
▫️ poor sleep
▫️ illness or infections
▫️ hormonal changes
▫️ antibiotics
▫️ smoking
▫️ changes within the gut microbiome

This is because Crohn’s disease is a complex inflammatory bowel condition involving the immune system, the digestive tract and the gut-brain connection.

What one person tolerates well may affect someone else very differently, which is why supportive, individualised care and understanding are so important.

Living with Crohn’s can often feel physically and emotionally exhausting — especially when symptoms are not always visible to others.

Persistent digestive symptoms should always be discussed with a qualified medical professional or gastroenterologist.

12/05/2026

🌿 ARCH’s YOGA POSE OF THE MONTH — BALASANA (Child’s Pose) 🌿

Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do for our body and mind is simply pause as Kelly has created for mental health awareness week 💚

Balasana, also known as Child’s Pose, is a gentle restorative yoga posture that encourages the body to soften, the breath to slow and the nervous system to settle. In today’s fast-paced world, taking even a few quiet moments to rest can have a profound impact on our overall wellbeing.

This nurturing pose may help to:

✨ Encourage relaxation and emotional calm
✨ Support deep breathing and mindful awareness
✨ Gently stretch the back, hips and thighs
✨ Help activate the body’s natural “rest and digest” response
✨ Create a sense of comfort, grounding and safety
✨ Offer a mindful pause during stressful or overwhelming moments

Balasana is often used in yoga practices as a resting posture, reminding us that slowing down is not weakness — it’s an important part of caring for ourselves both physically and emotionally.

During Mental Health Awareness Week, this is your reminder to check in with yourself, breathe deeply and make space for rest when needed. 💚

Small moments of self-care can make a big difference.
Breathe. Rest. Reset.

12/05/2026

During Mental Health Awareness Week we are posting some thoughts. Mental health is very individual so please hear what speaks to you and ignore what does not.
We all know that movement helps lymphoedema but it also has a huge impact on mental health.

Homemade sauerkraut. After  8weeks fermentation. White cabbage and two jars of white cabbage with ginger and black peppe...
10/05/2026

Homemade sauerkraut. After 8weeks fermentation.
White cabbage and two jars of white cabbage with ginger and black pepper. Yummy!

09/05/2026

Yesterday May 8th was Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day 💜

Often referred to as the “silent disease,” ovarian cancer can sometimes present with symptoms that are subtle, persistent and easy to overlook.

✨ Persistent bloating
✨ Feeling full quickly
✨ Pelvic or abdominal discomfort
✨ Changes in bowel habits
✨ Increased urgency to urinate
✨ Ongoing fatigue

Many of these symptoms can easily be mistaken for digestive or hormonal changes, which is why awareness and early conversations matter so much.

As ARCH practitioners, we often support clients who are navigating ongoing digestive discomfort and changes within the body. While we support wellbeing from a holistic perspective, we would always encourage anyone experiencing persistent, unusual or worsening symptoms to seek appropriate medical advice and investigation.

Today is about raising awareness, encouraging earlier conversations and reminding women to trust their bodies and seek support when something does not feel right.

Because silent does not mean invisible 💜

08/05/2026

Food triggers can look very different for someone living with Crohn’s disease.

While food does not directly cause Crohn’s disease, it can have a significant impact on symptoms, inflammation and overall digestive wellbeing.

During active inflammation, the bowel lining may already be sensitive and irritated, meaning certain foods can sometimes worsen:
▫️ cramping
▫️ bloating
▫️ urgency
▫️ diarrhoea
▫️ abdominal discomfort

Some commonly reported trigger foods for certain individuals may include:
• spicy foods
• alcohol
• caffeine
• very high fibre foods
• nuts and seeds
• greasy or highly processed foods
• excessive sugar
• dairy products for those who become lactose intolerant

What’s important to understand is that food triggers are highly individual.

A food that one person tolerates well may trigger symptoms in another. There is no single “Crohn’s diet” that works for everybody.

Inflammation within the bowel can also affect nutrient absorption, which may contribute to:
✨ fatigue
✨ low iron
✨ vitamin deficiencies
✨ weight loss
✨ low energy levels

Researchers are also continuing to explore the relationship between:
• the gut microbiome
• the immune system
• inflammation
• the gut barrier
• dietary patterns

Living with Crohn’s can often create anxiety around eating, social situations and food choices, particularly during flare ups.

As ARCH practitioners, we recognise how complex digestive conditions can be and why supportive, individualised care matters so much when helping to support a person’s broader wellbeing alongside their medical care.

Persistent digestive symptoms should always be assessed by a qualified medical professional or gastroenterologist.

Address

The Malvern Surgeries, 64 Worcester Road
Malvern
WR144AB

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when The Lighter Touch posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Share