AROMATHERAPY AND REIKI
I love doing Reiki. I love doing self-treatments. I love giving Reiki. I love working with clients. Reiki is such a gentle healing modality that lends itself to so many possibilities. Many other techniques can be incorporated into a session. At times I find that using Aromatherapy along with Reiki is in the receiver's best interest. Below is a little background on Aromatherapy if you are not familiar.
So What Exactly is Aromatherapy?
It is the therapeutic use of essential oils found in plants. The term "essential" is used because the oils contained within the plants are highly potent forms of aromatic energy that manifests as the life force of the plant. When oils are extracted from their source they are "volatile" meaning they change from their liquid form into an aromatic vapor once they are exposed to air.
From What Parts of the Plants are EO'S Found?
They are found in various parts of plants: roots (Ginger), leaves (Basil),bark (Cinnamon), flowers (Lavender), peels (Bergamot), seeds (Anise), Resin (Bensoin), bulbs (Garlic), nut (Nutmeg), and fruit (Black Pepper).
What are Some of the Methods of Application?
The following are the various ways that EO's can be used: full bath, sitz bath, hand bath, foot bath, massage oils, used in products as an exfoliant for the skin or for a stimulating body rub, inhalation methods, added to heat sources to release the aromatic molecules into the air, used to make perfumes, used in floral water, and used in compresses.
How Many Drops of EO Do You Use?
It depends on which EO you are using and by which method. There is no one fits all formula for using Essential Oils. They are very concentrated and must be used with care and respect. Certain EO's have contra-indications and should not be used in specific cases. If you are interested in working with aromatherapy it is absolutely necessary to get yourself a good book to read to make sure you are following the proper safety guidelines. Also what would be considered a normal rate varies with adults, children, the elderly, and the sick.
Can EO's BE Applied Directly to the Skin?
As a general rule, EO's should not be applied directly to the skin without being diluted. The exception is Lavender (Lavandula officinalis) and Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). A person can have a severe allergic reaction to direct skin application. A skin patch test is used to test sensitivity. Dermal irritation may occur if an oil is administered incorrectly in too high a concentration or if you have sensitive skin or allergies.
How Do You Do a Skin Patch Test?
Place 1 drop of the EO being tested in a very small amount of carrier oil such as almond oil and apply it to a clean, dry area of the forearm. Wait 24 hours, then check the area tested. If there is no reaction, then you have passed the test! If there is any indication of sensitivity or reaction, it will appear as a red spot, itching or blistering. If that is the case, substitute it for another oil.
How Can I Create an Aromatherapy Bath?
Run your bath water, make sure the bathroom door is closed so vapors do not escape. Then add the recommended drops of EO's to the bath. Use just one EO. There are several Essential Oils that could be used but below are few that are effective for stress relief and relaxation. The recommendation is to soak for 20 minutes, so grab a good book, play some soft music, and let the day dissolve into the water. To continue the benefits of an aromabath, wrap yourself in a towel, get into bed under the covers and Reiki yourself for another 10-15 minutes.
What are Some Recommended EO's for a Stress Reduction and Relaxation Bath?
Lavender (Lavendula officinalis): has a steadying effect on the psyche, which aids in removing indecisiveness and emotional conflict. Helps to create a feeling of peacefulness. Good for depression. Dosage: 5-10 drops in a full bath. No known contra-indications
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus): clears the head of mental exhaustion and the inability to concentrate. Balances extreme moods. Helps cool heated emotions whether verbal, physical, or emotional. Its aroma creates a feeling of space. Also good for clearing out sinus congestion. Dosage: 3-5 drops in a full bath. Cautions/Contra-Indications: Do not exceed stated dosage, do not use with homeopathic remedies, do not use undiluted on skin, use with caution if taking medication, it can reduce the effects of the medication, contra-indicated if there is a history of epilepsy, hypertension, gastrointestinal inflammation or liver complaints.
Lemon (Citrus limonum): This clean, fresh, lively scent helps dispel sluggishness, indecision, and lack of humor. It aids stimulation of the body into action and clear thinking. Dosage: 3-6 drops in a full bath. Caution: It can cause irritation skin sensitization and may be phototoxic, use in moderation
Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens): is both calming and refreshing to the psyche at the same time. It is successful in lifting depression and treating anxiety states. It assists in balancing the mind and helps us to gain control of our lives when we are feeling depleted and blue. A good mood adjuster. Dosage: 3 drops in a full bath.Cautions/Contra-indications: not to be used in early pregnancy, it can irritate the skin in some sensitive individuals, and cause insomnia and restlessness.
As I stated these are just a few of the available choices. Dosages are stated for full baths. So if the stress of the day gets to you, why not try a bit of relaxation with Aromatherapy in the tub to rejuvenate your spirits!
If you have any questions about Aromatherapy, or a specific essential oil- its application, dosage recommendation, or cautions/contra-indication concerns…just askthem and I'll be glad to answer your questions.
NEXT POST: Buying, Storing, and Caring for Essential Oils.
Come On In...
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Enhancing a Session: Aromatherapy Part I
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Sunday, February 10, 2008
Energy Technique Toolbox Tip 1
ENERGIZE! LEARN THE 3 THUMPS
Alot of us have trouble sometime during our day, maintaining a good level of energy. Maybe it is first thing in the morning, trying to hit the ground running in a full sprint. Or possibly it hits around that 4PM time slot when the couch is calling your name for a nap, but you know you have to get dinner started . Then again, just maybe it is a little later in the evening, when one of your kids needs help with understanding his new-old-new math homework, but you are so exhausted you can barely keep your eyes open and head from falling into your lap. Then it is time to turn to the Technique Toolbox for some help!
These three simple techniques are ones that have been taught by Donna Eden in her classic book, Energy Medicine. When you find yourself in need of an extra dose of energy to get you moving-- try these. The complete 3 Thumps series takes only minutes to complete, yet sends waves of energy that can last for hours.
Thump the Thymus: The thymus gland contributes to the development of a strong, healthy immune system. By tapping on this area first thing in the morning, and then a few more times throughout the day, we are keeping this gland stimulated. So where is the thymus? Picture Tarzan pounding the center of his chest, what he really was doing was activating the thymus before moving into action. Take a page out of his book to start the energy flowing into your day.
Rub the K-27 Points: The K-27 points are very special points on the body! These points are also used in EFT (emotional freedom technique) to activate the energy system to flow in the correct direction. K-27 will help to strengthen the immune system, improve concentration and alertness. To find K-27 (which is the endpoint of the Kidney meridian) place your fingers at the ends of the collarbone, then slide fingers toward the middle of the collarbone, then drop down about an inch. You will feel a slight indentation. The points often hurt when first stimulated, but this decreases as they are regularly worked. Tapping or rubbing these particular spots will send a wake up message to the brain to adjust your energy so you feel more alert. Getting drowsy during the mid-afternoon meeting with the boss? Work these points!
Activate the Spleen Points: These are neurolympathic points on your spleen meridian, which like the two above will help boost the immune system, energize the body, and balance blood chemistry. How can I locate these points? They are the depression between the 7th and 8th rib, just below the level of the breastbone or sternum. Move your hands beneath your breasts, straight under the nipples, then move down over the next rib. Just like the points mentioned above, they may hurt when being stimulated if not done regularly.
Using these 3 special energy points throughout your day, will provide an extra boost when you need a little more get up and go than your getting.
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Non-Attachment to Results
Suggestions for the Practitioner
"In the western world, people learn to compete at an early age and they suffer the consequences of that programming throughout their lives. Most of us are programmed to obtain results and are motivated to achieve success. These programmed attitudes and skills work against a healer. To be a healer requires the development and use of other skills. Setting an intention or desire for healing is normal and appropriate. However, when either the healer or the person receiving the healing becomes attached to a specific result and strives for that particular outcome, the energy becomes disruptive. If you, as a healer, need to prove yourself on any level you are only detracting from the purity of the healing. By imposing your needs for approval and results onto others, you introduce a disruptive energy pattern that is similar to the energy of expectation, violation and abuse that many people experienced in childhood. If you are not clear with the healing energy, you may be perpetuating the same type of violation that was the root cause of the dis-ease in the first place.
When the healer remains unattached to a specific outcome, the person receiving the healing is allowed the freedom to change for themselves rather than changing to please the healer. If the person changes to please someone else, the healing will usually be only superficial and any positive results will probably be short-lived. Developing the skill of non-attachment will greatly assist those you work with as well as helping you realize your full potential in healing work. Any energy other than unconditional love and acceptance can feel like violation to the person, even when it is meant to help. This is especially true if they were violated as a child.
Please remember that healing takes place best when you let healing energy come through you and remain unattached to the outcome. This allows the energy to flow naturally and permits the person to heal at their own pace.”
Excerpted from: The Healing Energy of Your Hands, Michael Bradford
The message in the passage above is important, and one I try to emphasis when teaching Reiki. Although on a intellectual level, we can understand the concept of remaining unattached to results, when placed in an actual situation many times we may find ourselves coming from the perspective of sympathy. This emotion can shift us very easily out of the mode of channeling Reiki though us to that of using our own energy.
Instead the best approach is to be able to take the perspective of the compassionate heart that does not attach to the suffering. When we are able to do this, the sensation of Reiki energy flowing though us is inexhaustible and we do not feel drained or burned out by those we are working with.
Some points to remember to help remain centered when giving a Reiki treatment to another:
1. Discuss both your role and that of the person you are assisting, with assisting being the key term here. This implies that the receiver of the treatment is in the primary position of responsibility, we as the therapist are aiding them in their healing process, not taking on the task of their healing. If we move into this arena, we are short changing the person we are working with, as well as taking on some karma we don’t need. When these roles are clearly defined and understood by the client, it also helps us to stay centered and unattached, because the choices for healing and the results that ensue lie directly with the person we are helping.
2. It is helpful to state this in terms such as : Any healing that will occur during this session is that which you are ready and able to handle at this time.
3. I can not emphasis this enough, it is important for the person to take on an active role in their healing, and not to assume they will be receiving a treatment in which they are just lay or sit there passively, while you take on the responsibility of doing all the work. When this type of relationship occurs, we place ourselves in the danger zone!
4. Keep your intention broad and general as you begin your treatment session: This Reiki session is for **indicate the person’s name** highest good, and for the highest good of all.
5. Suggest to the person who will receive the treatment to also make an intention for the session, that is general as well. By asking for relief from a very specific ailment or set of symptoms could significantly narrow down the realm of possibilities. This may offer temporary relief while missing the bigger picture of why this particular set of circumstances appeared in the first place.
Example: Instead of setting an intention asking for relief from the back pain I am experiencing right now, set the intention for the session to create a healing on whatever level(s) I need right now as well as to provide me with the insight as to why I am currently experiencing this particular set of symptoms. Ask- What do I need to learn from this?
6. Lastly, examine your own reasons for working with others. If the list of reasons are all about you…wanting to feel good, needing to feel appreciated, seeking approval, etc. it may be best to just work on yourself until you can resolve these personal issues..
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Saturday, February 9, 2008
Using Reiki with Chronic Kidney Disease
My name is Rob and I have C.K.D.,,aka chronic kidney disease. As you probably know your kidneys play a major role in filtering the body's wastes. I was diagnosed about three years ago, after a routine blood test revealed a high Creatinine count. Creatinine is a waste by-product produced by the kidneys. The average person has a creatinine level of 0.02-5...my level was 3.2...an indication of kidney failure.
Now,the magic number for total kidney failure is 7.0, that means Kidney dialysis. Unfortunately or more, foolish of me, I put off going to the doctors. I sort of denied it. I reasoned that if it took all my life to get to that point, it would take many, many years to reach total failure...I was wrong!
Once reaching that level of 3.2, the condition starts to snowball towards failure! After more than a year since being diagnosed with c.k.d, I went for another blood test to see where I stood.. the test came back 4.3...I could no longer deny this. So I went to a Nephrologist, a kidney doctor....and began treatment.
I will never forget the first time I went to the kidney clinic. The waiting room was comprised entirely of elderly people, clearly with multiple problems. I, being 41 yrs old at the time,stood out! Right from the beginning, my mentality was "I don't belong here". Looking back I didn't realize my defiant attitude would play an important part of my treatment.
Treatment,by the way of conventional medicine, simply meant drugs and diet. Now there happened to be a dialysis room there at the clinic so curiosity got the best of me and I took a peek in! What I saw jolted me! Two rows of beds, about 10 per row, all filled with elderly people who looked like they've been to hell and back. If you don't know, a dialysis machine draws your blood out, its then filtered through the machine and returns it back to your body cleansed. The process is done 3 days a week: Monday,Wednesday, Friday--,5 hours each day, it leaves the patient feeling drained of energy,usually.
Well at the sight of that I thought "there is no way I am doing that"!!! I will do whatever it takes to stay out of there! So I dutifully followed the Drs orders and took my pills and watched my diet, and signed up for a kidney transplant. However I fell into a depression. The treatment wasn't intended to stop kidney failure just slow down the inevitable. Nothing was going to Stop my kidneys from failing,and this was depressing.
I was recently divorced, my condition had a hand in that, and I was working two jobs to survive. Things were not looking good for year. So I started praying, something I haven't done for about 7 years. I delved into books of a spiritual nature and content,looking for a positive outlook on life. I even went to therapy for help.
I go every 3 months for blood work and every month the creatinine level goes up. Not
much,usually a point, but always up. Now I was always "energy sensitive", and a few
years prior I had looked into Reiki and had a respect for it, but didn't embrace it at the time. Then in June 2007 I felt the time was right to look into it again, after all reiki is about healing. So I simply "googled reiki masters in pa" and had a list to choose from. After perusing some names, Susan Anderson and her Seeds for Change appealed to me! So I studied Reiki Level 1 and found it had wonderful possibilities!
The first few weeks after attunements, found me fascinated with rediscovery, both of
myself and this world,our universe! Really I am still going through this process. I've learned how to channel energy through touch and take an active role in treating my c.k.d.! Since i've studied with Susan, I've had two blood tests since becoming a reiki practioner..Before I went to Susan my cretinine level was 4...now its at 3.8!!
I give myself a reiki treatment almost every day for at least 30 minutes. My sessions are ever evolving and taking more dimension and depth! I presently incorporate visualization, crystals, jade and mantra's into each session. After which I have a deep satisfaction of knowing I am taking a proactive approach to my condition thats its actually working. Reiki is one of the best things that i have discovered in this life..its rewards are really amazing!! Sincerely, Rob G
Comment from Susan: This is such a powerful story illustrating the need to empower
ourselves, and once we do, we are firmer ground. One thing that Rob had mentioned to me in previous conversations is that the cretinine levels he was referring to do not go down...they may slow down, but they do not reverse. This is an amazing testimony to Rob's work on himself and using the healing power of Reiki to bring about positive change.
Many who know me, have heard me tell this story numerous times....about 15 years ago I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, the doctor told me it was a degenerative disease and would only get progressively worse. I was handed a few prescriptions, and an appointment was made to come back to see my doctor in 1 month. I walked out of that office, and committed a very defiant act, I tore up the prescriptions and declared to the universe..."I don't do rheumatoid arthritis, not in the realm of things that will be part of my life." Didn't know what I was going to do, but the answer arrived a few days later. I worked using a natural, holistic remedy and within 1 week's time I had no remaining symptoms left. Prior to that I was in bed, with every joint in my body inflamed and extremely painful. I do not have RA. Could it be that when we take the power of control, with our mind, body and spirit, we have the ability to create our own miracles? I think so...my experience and Rob's are good indicators. Read about my story of healing from Rheumatoid Arthritis.
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Thursday, February 7, 2008
Reiki FAQ 1: Basic Questions
What is Reiki?
Pronounced ray-kee, Reiki is a very gentle, yet powerful, self-healing modality, in which one channels the universal life force energy, for the purposes of restoring balance and harmony.
Rei- refers to universal consciousness, that higher power or source energy. It knows each living organism at its deepest level, understanding completely what creates balance and imbalance. Ki- refers to a non-physical energy that flows through all living things. When we are feeling good, the ki energy flows freely. When we begin to get out of balance, there is a restriction in the flow of this energy. When we become health challenged, there is a great slowing down of the ki. When a living organism dies, there is no flow of ki left in the body..
Where does Reiki come from?
Reiki energy is a subtle, non-physical energy coming from a Higher Source, which exists on a higher dimension than the physical world we are familiar with. We channel the energy into and through us, for healing purposes- to restore and balance.
What can Reiki do?
The simplest explanation is that Reiki reduces stress, allowing the body to go into a deep state of relaxation. In this state we are able to do many things to help ourselves access the healer within.
What can Reiki be used for?
There are so many ways Reiki can be used and incorporated into one's life. As a first aid tool, it is indispensible for immediate action until we can get other help, it compliments traditional medical treatment beautifully, it can be used to help restore an inner state of balance, manage or reduce pain, bless water and food, assist the healing of plants, animals, and the environment ... really the list can just go on and on.
What kind of training is necessary?
This is the beauty of Reiki, very little training is actually needed to get started with this healing modality. An open heart, a clear intention for working for the highest good, and your hands are enough to get you started.
Reiki does not require a big investment in money for education and materials. Since we channel the energy, we do not need to direct it. We do not diagnose. We simply allow the energy to flow through us. It goes to where it needs to go to get to the root cause of what is out of balance.
Reiki teachers, often called Reiki Masters, can determine how they wish to set up a class for teaching. Often a Level I class is taught in a full one day session. I personally, perfer to teach over a 4 week period of time.
As a retired educator, I often rely on good, general teaching practices. To me, it is difficult for an individual to fully attend and process all the information in one day, so I extend my class sessions. But each person is unique in their needs and wants. When looking for a Reiki teacher, you should select someone who aligns best with your preferred style of learning.
What is Reiki Level I?
If you are interested in taking a class in Reiki, this is where you start. It is about learning to access the healing power of Reiki, so you can work with the energy on yourself, first and foremost! You also are able to work with others--be it plant, animal, human- in person. It is where the foundation is set.
At Level I, you will learn the background information, general protocol of hand positions, receive a basic introduction to the chakra system, learn the 5 Reiki principles, be taught and practice self-treatments and working with others. Reiki is activated through an attunement process channelled by the Reiki teacher to the student. This helps you to access the reiki energy upon immediate request, as well as raising your vibrational level.
Is Reiki a Religion?
No, it is not a religion. It is a spiritual practice, when embraced fully into one's lifestyle. The Reiki principles which are taught, are really part of every culture's belief system. When these principles are used as a guiding light, peace and harmony become the mainstay of our lives.
What are the 5 Reiki Principles?
Glad you asked! Just for today...I let go of worry, I let go of anger, I live my life honestly, I give thanks for my many blessings and I am kind to all living things. If we get into the practice of reciting these principles each morning and evening, they become a central focus for our day.
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Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Enhancing a Session Index
Enhancing a Session with Aromatherapy Part 1
Using Polarity
Using Guided Imagery: Healing Script
And here is the rest of it.
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Labels: Index
Client Resource Index
Body Organ Frequency Chart
Care After a Reiki Session
Chakars
Healing Crisis
Herrings Law of Healing
How in the World Do I Let Go?
Keeping Oneself Clear
The Science Behind Reiki
12 Symptoms of Awakening
Voice and Consciousness
. And here is the rest of it.
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Tips and Techniques Index
- Care After a Reiki Session
- Cleansing Your Aura
- Connecting to Source and Centering
- Escaping the Grip of Fear
- Grounding
- Keeping Oneself Clear
- Moving the Energy Flow
- The Three Thumps
- Techniques for Removing Energy Blockages
- Seeing the Aura
. And here is the rest of it.
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Reiki Story Index
Reiki to the Rescue
Batteries Revived
Long Distance Reiki Assistance
Using Reiki with Chronic Kidney Disease.
Using Reiki with the Elderly
Spirit Guides
Visited By an Angel
And here is the rest of it.
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Labels: Index, Reiki Stories
Working With Others Index
Introduction to the Aura
Colors of the Aura
Chakras
Detectng an Energy Shift During Reiki
Intuition: The Golden Gift
Keeping Oneself Clear
More on Aure Cleansing
Non- Attachment to Results
Preparing For An Energy Session
12 Symptoms of Awakening
. And here is the rest of it.
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