Have you ever been to a spa or salon and been intrigued by the alternative therapies section, but not been quite brave enough to have a go? Elizabeth Barnett finds out more about the treatments on offer

AcupunctureOriginating from China, acupuncture is a natural healing method that is able to restore imbalances in the body, leading to an overall feeling of well-being. Fine sterile needles are inserted in to specific acupuncture points in order to stimulate the movement of energy around the body. What the experts say:Karen Erskine, Acupuncturist from Acupuncture Works, 08452 691357"When acupuncture was suggested to help with a reoccurring migraine I went along somewhat reluctantly. But I was so impressed that I went on to study acupuncture myself. It is incredible in that it can treat such a wide range of symptoms, while also getting to the root of the problem to prevent future occurrences of ill health."Colonic HydrotherapyColonic Hydrotherapy is an internal bath that helps cleanse the colon of poisons, gas, accumulated faecal matter and mucus deposits. Filtered water is introduced through the rectum into the colon. With special massage techniques, the water begins to soften and cleanse the colon of faecal matter and old deposits, which are released through a waste pipe. What the experts say:Karen Scott, Colonic Hydrotherapist from Inner Health, 01962 844032"Colonic hydrotherapy really helped me and I am now able to help people to understand their bodies. By seeking professional advice it is easy to reap the benefits of this remarkable treatment." ReikiReiki is a safe but powerful healing technique that helps to advance the body's healing process through energy channels. During a session the practitioner will place their hands gently on or over the body and allow energy to flow through to work on everything from emotional upset to pain relief. What the experts say:Sheila Smith, Reiki Practitioner at Redwood Health, 01962 877899"I have been a Reiki Master for many years and continue to see great benefits with pain relief and emotional rebalance. Depression, anxiousness and stress can all be relieved from this ancient Japanese form and is very beneficial when used alongside more conventional methods of healing."HypnotherapyHypnotherapy is a form of psychotherapy that enables you to enlist the help of your unconscious mind to bring about therapeutic changes. Hypnotherapists will help you to access your inner resources to achieve realistic goals by inducing a 'hypnotic trance', which is a state of altered awareness and relaxation. What the experts say:Cathy Blackburn, Hypnotherapist from Southampton Hypnotherapy, 0845 4757032"I use hypnotherapy to help free my clients from emotional and psychological problems such as phobias or anxiety, addictions or weight loss. Hypnotherapy not as some believe, mind control. It simply uses the mind's natural ability to accept positive and helpful suggestions.;