2012-02-15T08:03:00.000-08:00

Aromatherapy

Part 2: Raindrop Technique

{Note: It cannot be emphasized enough that only pure, therapeutic-grade oils are used. I use only Young Living Essential Oils in my practice because the purity and quality are impeccable.}

Having a Raindrop Technique Aromatherapy Massage is a wonderful introduction to Aromatherapy! The Raindrop Technique is a truly remarkable procedure that combines a variety of energy medicine and natural modalities. Developed by D. Gary Young, ND & DOC* in the 1980s, it includes the use of several anti-bacterial essential oils (both as aromatics and as direct topical agents), a series of specific techniques along the spinal muscles and feet, and the application of moist heat. Since its development, it has brought relief to thousands suffering from chronic back pain. Studies continue to support and verify the principles upon which the Raindrop Technique is based. It not only helps heal the spine, but it also benefits other body systems, including the mental and emotional functions of the brain.

In addition to pain reduction, the many benefits include reduced inflammation, improved circulation, stress relief, improved immune function, and the release of pent-up negative emotions. It can also help prevent the bacterial and viral causes of spinal misalignment, including scoliosis and kyphosis.

To address other health issues, the Raindrop Technique can be customized by substituting standard Raindrop Technique essential oils with other oils that specifically target the relevant issue. In addition to physical issues, emotional issues can be addressed by changing the oils used.

The benefits of the Raindrop Technique go well beyond the physical benefits of massage. It can help improve every aspect of life – physical, mental, and emotional – often relieving a variety of issues in a single treatment. Not only does it help relieve pain and restore physical well-being, it can also set in motion healing processes that will last for weeks or even months.

*(ND) Naturopathic Doctor; (DOC) Doctor of Chiropractic

Joyce Phelps Stephens, NCLMBT #2272

110 Iowa Lane, Suite 201

Cary, NC 27511

919-270-5868

www.joycephelpsstephens.com

YLEO#401605

www.youngliving.org/joycestephens

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2012-01-17T11:18:00.000-08:00

Aromatherapy

Part 1: What is Aromatherapy?

{Note: It cannot be emphasized enough that only pure, therapeutic-grade oils are used. I use only Young Living Essential Oils in my practice because the purity and quality are impeccable.}

Aromatherapy is the use of ultra-pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils to promote physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Essential oils can be applied topically, inhaled, and even ingested.

Essential oils are some of the oldest and most concentrated natural extracts known, exerting significant antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, hormonal, and psychological effects. They have the ability to penetrate cell membranes, travel throughout the blood and tissues, and enhance electrical frequencies. When topically applied, they can travel throughout the body in a matter of minutes.

The ability of essential oils to act on both the mind and the body is what makes them truly unique. They have a chemical structure that is similar to that found in human cells and tissues. This makes them compatible with human protein and enables them to be readily identified and accepted by the body. The powerful life force inherent in many essential oils gives them an unmatched ability to communicate and interact with the cells of the human body.

Amazingly, their very complexity keeps them from disturbing the body’s natural balance, or homeostasis; if one component exerts too strong an effect, another component may block or counteract it.

Major benefits of therapeutic-grade essential oils include:

· They are small enough in molecular size to quickly penetrate the tissues of the skin.

· They are capable of penetrating cell membranes even if the membranes have hardened due to oxygen deficiency. According to Jean Valnet, M.D., essential oils can affect every cell of the body within 20 minutes and are then metabolized like other nutrients.

· They stimulate blood flow, increasing oxygen and nutrient delivery, according to research at the University of Vienna.

· They are some of the most powerful known antioxidants as determined by the ORAC test* developed at Tufts University. They are antibacterial, antifungal, anti-infectious, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antiviral, and antiseptic. Some have been shown to destroy all tested bacteria and viruses.

· They can aid detoxification of the cells and blood.

· They promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

*Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) measures antioxidant capacities. Antioxidants reduce free radical damage to cells. Free radicals contribute to aging and have been linked to many disorders, including cancer, arthritis and inflammation, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes.