GINGER ROOT

Ginger root exerts potent antioxidant effects and has been shown to offer relief from pain and swelling in cases of rheumatoid arthritis, and muscular problems.  The therapeutic benefits are likely to be due to a reduction in free radical damage as well as an inhibition of inflammatory compounds such as thromboxanes, leukotrienes, and other prostaglandins.

VITAMIN B5 ( pantothenic acid)

Vitamin B5 is the main nutrient for nourishing the adrenal glands. It is needed by the adrenal glands to make glucocorticoids, which may be the reason that B5 is known as the anti-stress vitamin.  Nutritionally oriented doctors often recommend pantothenic acid at 250mg twice daily in the treatment of allergies.


Pantothenic acid is crucial for energy release through the production of coenzyme A (CoA) and acyl carrier protein (ACP), tow compounds known for their importance in protein, fat, and carbohydrate utilisation.


Pantothenic acid is vital for making the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, a key compound in memory processes and brain function.


ACNE
Pantothenic acid, active in the synthesis of cholesterol and steroid hormones, may be useful at high dosages in the treatment of acne.  Research has shown noticeable improvements in decreasing sebum secretion, reduced frequency of eruptions, and improvements in lesion healing.


ARTHRITIS
Vitamin B5 supplementation has been found to reduce pain and stiffness in cases of rheumatoid arthritis. Correcting low blood levels of B5 in these individuals has shown subjective improvements including, morning stiffness, degree of disability, and severity of pain.  The mechanisms underpinning these effects are likely to be due to improved adrenal response through restored cortisol production.

10 FOODS RICH IN VITAMIN B5


Mushrooms
Cheese (Gjetost)
Oily fish (Trout, cooked)
Avocados
Eggs
Lean Pork (Sirloin, cooked)
Beef & Veal (veal shoulder, cooked)
Chicken & Turkey
Sunflower seeds
Sweet potato

VITAMIN C

Vitamin C is know to be a potent immune stimulating nutrient. It has been shown to inhibit viral replication and may reduce the severity of the common cold.  A recent study of one hundred and sixty-eight volunteers were randomized to receive a placebo or a vitamin C supplement, two tablets daily, over a 60-day period. The results showed that vitamin C supplement may prevent the common cold and shorten the duration of symptoms.  Volunteers were generally impressed by the protection afforded them during the winter months.
Clinical assessment has demonstrated that 2000mg of vitamin per day for two weeks reduced blood histamine concentration by 30-40% in adult subjects.  Some evidence suggests that vitamin C may augment natural killer cell activity, which is important for the protection of tumour development. Research as shown that supplementation with the Ester- C calcium ascorbate/threonate complex provides an effective way to build vitamin C reserves in the important immune-competent cells of the blood; even in modest doses on (one gram) of ascorbate are used.


Everyone always thinks of oranges as the a good source of vitamin C but here is a list of 9 foods that contain more vitamin C than the orange=70mg per medium fruit.
The recommended daily amount is 60mg.
Strawberries = 85mg per cup
Pineapple= 79mg per cup
Khulrabi= 84mg per cup
Mango= 122mg per fruit
Sprouts = 75mg per cup
2 Kiwi fruit= 128mg
Papaya= 95mg per small fruit
Bell pepper, green, red, yellow and orange ranging from 95mg to 341mg in a yellow
Brocoli= 81mg per cup of raw florets.

                                                                  khulrabi

THE BENEFITS OF MEDITATION

To meditate it is not necessary to sit cross legged on the floor. Sitting upright on a straight backed chair with both feet on the floor is just as good. There are many methods of meditating some of which are:
Concentrating on the breath and counting the out breaths, in cycles of four. Repeating a mantra, (which is a word or phrase said in the mind, something like love or peace or a word or phrase that has a spiritual meaning for you), staring at a candle flame(tratak) and then closing your eyes, focusing on a mandala, using prayer beads and even walking meditation (whereby you count your steps or a repeat phrases such as "walking", "lifting" and "treading" as you walk slowly and purposefully). I used to go and practice meditation with Buddhist Monks and this was one of the nicest forms of meditation that they taught us to use in their beautiful grounds.
Whichever method you choose as you enter the meditative state your mind will begin to wonder. When this happens just bring it back to the focus you have chosen to use, counting the breaths or your mantra etc and eventually you will find that the thoughts disappear. The Buddhist Monks told us just to acknowledge the unwanted thoughts and then let them go, don't dwell on them.
It's best to try a few methods and see which one works best for you. Meditation brings the brainwave pattern into an alpha state that promotes healing, anxiety decreases, emotional stability improves, creativity increases, happiness increases, intuition increases and you are begin to gain clarity and peace of mind.
A regular practice of 15-20 minutes once or twice a day will bring results and if you have a designated time and space in which to meditate you will find it easier to discipline yourself to start and enter the meditative state.

THE BENEFITS OF WEIGHT/RESISTANCE TRAINING

Working your muscles as well as your heart and lungs can improve your health and help you drop a clothes size. You'll be burning extra calories while you're sedentary ie sleeping or sitting at your desk. For every additional pound of muscle you gain, your body burns around 50 extra calories every day of the week.
Research has show that regular resistance training can increase your basal metabolic rate by up to 15%, so for someone burning 2000 calories per day that's a potential 300 extra calories , more than a chocolate bar burned everyday.
Strong muscles, tendons, and ligaments are much more capable of withstanding stress, and the improved flexibility gained by strength training also reduces the likelihood of pulled muscles and back pain.
Resistance exercise can reduce bone deterioration and build bone mass, preventing osteoporosis. It has been proven to have a positive effect on insulin resistance, resting metabolism, blood pressure, body fat and gastrointestinal transit time. Factors that are linked to illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer.  Research show that just two

15-20 minute sessions a week is enough to gain all the potential health benefits of strength training.

THE BENEFITS OF RUNNING

I took up running around six years ago with the encouragement of my then fourteen year old daughter who suggested we go for a jog one spring morning. I hadn't run anywhere or for any distance since I was at school and that first morning run was a painful affair. I couldn't really run at all not even for a minute without becoming very breathless and uncomfortable, everything hurt, my knees, my ankles and my chest.
We didn't give up though we followed a running programme which suggested that we run for one minute and walk for two minutes. And then we increased the running minutes and decreased the walking until  by the end of a certain amount of weeks we found that we could run continuously for twenty minutes with no problems. I think the programme said that we would be able to run for twenty minutes continuously after seven weeks of training but it took us far longer than seven weeks to get to that stage.
Like my yoga practice my running isn't as regular as it could be, but it doesn't matter how big a gap I have from  running I never seem to decline right back to the initial stages of training when it felt like my lungs were going to burst. My longest run most recently has been approximately 9 miles at a steady pace.
Some of the benefits of running are:
It reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes, breast cancer, colon cancer, Alzheimer's disease and stroke.
It lowers blood pressure, raises your good high density lipoprotein(HDL) cholesterol, improves your uptake of blood fats and reduces your resting heart rate. It helps you shed body fat and keep it off, improves muscle tone and strength and strengthens bones.
It boosts circulation ,banishes depression and is one of the cheapest ways to keep fit, all that is need to run is a decent pair of trainers or running shoes.
Running outside in the fresh air gives you a  natural high and helps to clear your head so it is a good antidote to stress as well.

THE BENEFITS OF YOGA

I try to maintain a regular yoga practice but it's not as regular as I would like. I am mostly self taught from a DVD years ago, and a yoga book at the moment. However it is recommended that you seek a qualified yoga teacher, as they will show you how to do the positions correctly. A good teacher will ensure that you are working in a safe way.
Yoga is not competitive and you work at your own pace gaining flexibility as you progress. The purpose of yoga is not to build muscle but to build muscle tone.
Yoga also helps to ease tension in the body by the use of deep stretches and breathing techniques. This slow paced workout creates a union of body and mind. You will find that your concentration levels improve with regular yoga practice. The balancing postures are good for this. Internal organs are also massaged and stimulated by  using certain yoga positions which helps to regulate the whole body system.
Always go at your own pace and never force any stretch in yoga and as you continue you will see an improvement in the flexibility all round. The joints will become stronger and more supple and regular practice  also helps to strengthen your back and core muscles. Besides working on breathing, concentration,stretching and strengthening the physical body, yoga works on the chakras (our spiritual energy centres). The postures will release and unblock stagnant energy allowing it to flow through the body , energising, stimulating and healing from within.

A BALANCED DIET

A balanced diet is based on five food groups which are fruit and vegetables, bread, other cereals and potatoes, meat, fish and alternatives, milk and dairy foods. The major food groups which are protein, carbohydrates, fats, fibre, vitamins.


PROTEIN: meat, fish, eggs etc


CARBOHYDRATE: bread, rice, pasta etc


FIBRE: is a component of carbohydrate and is mainly found in fruits and vegetables.

FATS: meat. dairy foods, nuts and some oily fish. Fat provides a concentrated source of energy and is a carrier for fat-soluble vitamins A D E and K.  Essential fatty acids are important in the formation of cell membranes, particularly in nerve tissue.


VITAMINS: are complex organic substances that are needed in very small amounts, but are essential for health. There are two groups, fat-soluble and water-soluble, both types have to be provided by the diet the body does not make them. The exception is vitamin D, which is processed by the action of sunlight on the skin.

DIET AND EXERCISE

Whilst I do not hold any formal qualifications in exercise I have studied anatomy and physiology as underpinning knowledge as part of my holistic therapy diploma. We covered the mechanics of the body, various conditions and diseases of the body and the effects of exercise or lack of it on the body.
We  also studied chemistry as part of the underpinning knowledge and as part of the certificate in nutrition, alongside examining the chemical constituents and possible effects of the essential oils.
Personally I have always had a strong interest in diet and exercise and have tried many types of exercise and various dieting fads, from fasting, to juice detoxes, low carb and low fat diets.
A few years ago I went on a personal training programme with a personal trainer and I stuck religiously to the exercise regime that he made for me for a period of 12 weeks. During that time I did not lose any weight at all. I felt and looked healthier and looked more toned and measured less in vital places but didn't lose any weight. I had not altered my diet.  
A couple of years after this I gave up alcohol and fasted strictly for a month and I lost approximately one and half stones and that was without doing any exercise other than normal day to day activities. No gym or exercises at home even. So this indicates to me that overeating was the main contributor to my excess body fat, not so much a lack of exercise. It could be said that I had built up muscle during the personal training programme and muscle weighs more than body fat, hence no weight loss showing on the scales. Muscle also burns more calories even when resting unlike EXCESS body fat which does nothing than store toxins in the body. You need a certain amount of fat though, for such things as protecting the body's vital organs, maintaining body temperature, absorbing vitamins and as a back up source of energy to fuel the body.
A sensible approach for a healthy body is probably to cut down on junk food and exercise in moderation. A combined exercise programme of cardiovascular and weight resistance training is good for all round fitness. Activities such as walking (briskly enough to be out of breath), running, cycling, dancing and swimming for 20-30 minutes at least three or four times a week is enough to improve the cardiovascular system. Muscle toning exercise such as training with weights and yoga improve and develop muscles and keep the joints supple.

HYDROTHERM

Hydrotherm/water bed massage

Hydrotherm is a water bed based massage. The hydrotherm kit consists of two big plastic cushions which are filled with warm water, there is a small thermometer gauge on each cushion to indicate the correct temperature of the water inside that is required for the body massage to be safe and comfortable. Also included are various sizes of booster blocks (square pieces of covered foam, which are placed under the client’s head/neck and an inflatable bolster cushion to go under the knees to provide stability and support.

The cushions are filled and placed on a couch (in spas they are generally left in situation with thermostatic pads underneath them to maintain the correct operating temperature). I as a mobile therapist, did not have the thermostat so I used to fill my cushions up with warm water from the kettle and tap, when I got to the place where I was treating, and they can retain the heat long enough to complete a full body massage.

Once the water filled cushions have been placed on the couch the therapist will assist the client to get on top of them. There is a specific way of doing it and it can seem a bit daunting and unstable when you first get onto he cushions as obviously they move with the water and you feel as if you are going to fall off the couch. I’ve never had a client fall off the water beds and I used to do a lot of waterbed massages in a large well known spa that specialised in this type of massage. Once the client is safely situated and correctly positioned the booster blocks are placed under the head/neck and the bolster under the knees, this support with the help of the water makes you feel as if you are floating. The client is then covered with large warm towels as they would be for any other type of massage.

The water cushions are good for the therapist to use as the pliable plastic allows the therapist to slide her hands under the body, to massage and manipulate the various muscles from underneath. There is no need to turn over for a full water bed massage as all of the muscles are pulled and manipulated in this way. The warmth of the water has also has a very relaxing effect on them,it’s a bit like getting into a warm bath to ease muscle fatigue.

The massage itself is quite different from other massage techniques we use, such as in aromatherapy and Swedish body massage. There is some gentle stretching of the limbs involved which is really good for relieving tension and stiffness in these areas.

A water bed massage is soothing and is good for people who can’t lie on their fronts for a back massage such as pregnant women, frail or elderly people or people who suffer from breathing conditions. As the back muscles are worked on from underneath.


Contraindications would be as for aromatherapy massage(see earlier post)

CRYSTAL HEALING

I quite like crystal healing,  It's similar to intuitive reiki but obviously the crystals are supposed to work in conjunction with the spiritual healing. Or you can put yourself (if you are doing self healing) or your client in a healing grid of crystals and just absorb the energy from the crystals.
Clear quartz points are used to create a grid around the outside of the persons' body creating a circuit of energy. Then you, after dowsing with a pendulum for areas of imbalance (if you are self healing), or the therapist will choose appropriate crystals which are then placed on the chakras/energy points of the body.  It seems customary to choose crystals with corresponding colours to the colours that have been assigned to the chakras. An example  of a crystal healing layout would be.
Clear quartz points all around the body and at the crown chakra.
 Amethyst(purple) is placed on  the third eye (chakra colour is indigo)
 Turquoise or blue agate placed at the throat chakra which is blue
 Jade or green jasper for the heart chakra
 Citrine(yellow) for the solar plexus
 Topaz or amber for the sacral chakra,
 A grounding stone is usually placed in between the feet(brown or black, black obsidian or hematite.)for the root chakra.
The crystals all have different healing qualities assigned to them. So if you don't want to work on the colour matching  chakra principal you can look up which crystals have particular qualities for the areas that you wish to work on, and or emotional/mental/spiritual concerns or conditions that you want to address. Or as many therapists do, choose the crystals that are required intuitively. There are many good crystal books which give their properties and uses and you can also buy small charts to consult the properties of many different crystals. You can also buy chakra sets which have the specific crystals for the chakras and instructions for use. You dowse with a pendulum to pick up areas that need healing and clearing and then place the crystals on the energy centres, once you have cleared those areas.
I have never picked up much energy/ vibration from the many of the crystals I have worked with except for clear quartz and hematite. Hematite is magnetic and so has that field to it. With clear quartz I have sensed a pulsing sensation from a clear quartz grid that was put around me by someone else and I also sense the same energy form a large piece of quartz that I have and use for self healing. Clear quartz is a conductor and amplifier of energy and is used in watches and radios. The dog seems to like lying by the clear quartz, so he must pick something up from it as well.
Lots of people carry certain crystals, in their pockets, bags/purses for their vibrations and healing or protective qualities.
After using the crystals for healing they need to be cleansed and recharged. You can do this by leaving them in salt water or in moon or sunlight,or wash them in the sea if you get the opportunity. To charge a crystal with energy you hold it in your hand and choose a mental affirmation for it, for healing etc.  Or if you are a reiki practitioner you can use one of the reiki symbols to concentrate on as you hold the crystal.

HOPI EAR CANDLES

Hopi ear candles are stiff pieces of cotton rolled in honey and camphor (although you can get other versions with different fragrances such as lavender), I prefer to stick to the original ones.
Inside each candle is a small white plastic filter.
Apparently  Native American Indians used to use ear candles in some of their ceremonies as they thought it cleared a person's aura of negative energy.
They come as a pair, one for each ear and the client is placed on their side and a candle is then lit and place in the ear.  The therapist will create a vacuum effect with their hands around the base of the lit candle. It is a warming and relaxing treatment to receive and the warmth and heat has a massaging effect on the ear drum and loosens any wax that may be there. The wax is then drawn up inside the tube of the candle past the filter and into the cotton tube. It's important to always use candles with the filters otherwise any debris from the candle itself could fall into the ear.
It takes around 15 minutes for the hopi ear candle to burn down. There is a red mark around each candle, and when it has burnt down to this it indicates that the it is time to remove the candle from the ear.
The therapist will do each ear and then a face and scalp massage with pressure points is carried out. The warmth and massaging effect of the candles can also help to relieve sinus problems.
After the treatment is over the therapist will peel back the seam of the candles to open them out and it is possible to view any wax or fluid that has been drawn up into them.
Some people have said that the debris that is left in the candles is just the melted honey and cotton, but if that were the case then everybody's end result would look identical. I have done quite a lot of ear treatments and I've never had two clients with the same type of waste that has been drawn up into them.  In most cases even the client's two ears give a different result.
I have seen big clumps of very dark wax, fluid and mucus type material which wouldn't resemble the burnt cotton or honey anyway. People say that they find them beneficial and that their ears and sinuses feel better afterwards as well as feeling very relaxed by the treatment. However always go to a qualified therapist and always check that the candles they are using have the filters in them.


CONTRAINDICATIONS TO HOPI EAR CANDLES


1: Tumours of the ear
2: Grommets
3: Perforated ear drum, artificial ear drum
4: Cysts in the ear
5: Ear drains (tubes present)
6: Mastoiditis (inflammation of the bone behind the ear)
7: Any ear infection which is being treated with antibiotics
8:Recent ear surgery, head or neck injury.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR AGEING SKIN

VIOLET is a nice oil to use for ageing skin,it also refines the pores and helps with thread veins.




 PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS : Both leaves and petals contain nonadienal, parmone, hexyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, ionone and viola quercitin, among others.






SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, possible sensitization in some individuals.






AROMATHERAPY USES:
Skincare; acne, eczema, thread veins and wounds.

ROSE




PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: It has over 300 constituents, some in minute traces. Mainly citronellol (18-22 per cent), phenyl ethanol (63per cent), geraniol and nerol (10-15 per cent), stearopten (8 per cent), farnesol (0.02-2 per cent) among others.






AROMATHERAPY USES;
Skincare: Broken capilliaries, , dry skin, herpes, mature and sensitive complexions, wrinkles.

AGEING SKIN

Skin health is a reflection of the impact of diet, exercise, stress, pollution, genetics and many other factors that we have exposed ourselves to over our life span. Skin deterioration is somewhat inevitable although we can influence many of these factors and so limit the rate of cellular decline.  Here's a question: how old are you? It's a lot trickier that you might imagine. The correct answer, it turns out is about 15 and a half. According to recent research, that's the average age of your body - your muscles and guts, anyway. You might think you have bee around since the day you were born, but most of your body is a lot younger. Unfortunately over time mitochondrial ~DNA is damaged and loses some of its capabilities. in skin, for instance, mitochondrial mutations are thought to be responsible for the gradual loss in the quality of collagen, the skin's scaffolding, which is why skin loses it's shape and forms wrinkles. Fortunately, advances in nutrition provide us with important tools to aid our beauty regime. (An excerpt from my nutrition training manual)
Supplements which can help ageing skin are:
Acerola cherry extract, the high vitamin C and mineral slats have been shown to aid in the remineralisation of tired and stressed skin.
Hemp seed oil, the ideal ratio of essential fatty acids in hemp seed oil helps to stimulate the optimum formation of hair, skin and nails. Hemp seed has been found to have positive effects on dry skin conditions such as eczema.
Pycnogenol, helps avoid and reduce wrinkles. Procanthocyanidins (OPCs) protect against free radical damage, suggested to be a major cause of the ageing process. 


Green tea is beneficial to skin as it has a high collagen content and also if applied topically to the skin can reverse the effects of sun damage on the skin, ie skin discolouration, and wrinkles.
I have been drinking green tea and  also using green tea as a moisturiser, mixed with glycerine for 12 months now (the glycerine and green tea mix is for the external application, I do not drink glycerine). I had some little patches of skin discolouration under my eyes which I have had since my last pregnancy 21 years ago and they have nearly faded altogether along with some freckling on my nose, since using and drinking green tea.  After my last child I was left with two big skin discolouration's patches(the mask of pregnancy, chloasma or melisma) on my forehead and underneath both of my eyes. I used to use a concealer to cover them up.
 I had tried some products mainly(vitamin A which is good for acne and wrinkles)  and they had faded considerably over the years but there was still one patch under one eye which seems to have gone with the green tea .And overall I think the green tea applications to my skin have proved to be better than more expensive skin care products that I have previously used.

HOLISTIC FACIALS

What is the difference between a holistic facial and a beauty facial?  For a holistic facial the therapist will blend essential oils for the individual client's skin type. These essential oils can then be added to a base cleanser and toner for the cleansing stage and to a carrier oil for a massage of the face, neck and upper shoulders. So the whole range of products used during the facial are tailored and naturally sourced for each person.  Rosewater and orange flower water etc can  also used to tone and refresh the skin after cleansing.
Generally a facial consists of a superficial cleanse, a deep cleanse, a toner, an exfoliator, a face mask and  a massage including pressure points. During a beauty facial  the therapist would use toner to remove the massage oil and then apply moisturising creams to the face and usually a separate one around the eye area. A holistic massage usually stops at the blended massage oil stage as this is then allowed to soak into the skin for maximum benefit of the blended oils to the skin.
Besides cleansing and moisturising the skin, a facial has many more benefits. It is probably one of the more  relaxing holistic treatments as problem areas such as tightness in the neck and shoulders are relieved during the massage. Circulation of blood to the skin is also boosted during the facial. Sinus problems and headaches can be relieved by using the pressure points on the face and scalp.  The scalp is also massaged during a facial, which can boost blood supply to the hair follicles.
Exfoliating is also very beneficial and the act of sloughing off the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin stimulates the cell renewal at a deeper level of the skin's structure creating a rejuvenating effect.
A holistic therapist would choose natural products for  the exfoliator and the face mask, such as oatmeal and clay. Products for the client to use at home are also made on request and a beauty regime is recommended depending on age and skin type.

REIKI TRAINING

So what happens when you turn up at a reiki Masters establishment for an attunement to the reiki energy? It largely depends on what Master you go to. Ideally we were told that it is best to go to the same Master for each degree, however I think it is not essential.  I did my three levels with three different Masters and each one had their own way of working.
My first attunement was a very relaxed affair and there were just two of us trainees present, I had gone with a friend from the Spa where I was working at that time. The morning was spent listening to the history of Reiki. We then we had a healthy and balanced lunch in the garden and then the symbols were put into our auras, hands and crown of the head as we sat with eyes closed on two chairs next to each other, by the reiki Master. I felt absolutely nothing from my first attunement, during or after and was a little disappointed to be honest. I don't know what I was expecting but nothing was something I was not expecting, we had paid £120.00 each for the two days. We went back the second day for part two and more attuning, and we were taught the hand positions for the 21 day self cleansing programme that has to be completed. And I still felt nothing. However it didn't deter me and I thought I will press on and a few months later after practising on myself, house plants and the dog I enrolled on my level two reiki course.
This Master had come into reiki healing via his interest in martial arts and qi energy, which is probably the same energy used for healing but used in a different way for martial arts. It was a bigger group, probably eight of us and he was a very professional teacher who did everything by the book. After the attunement we had to memorise the symbols and destroy the paper, and practise distant healing on each other and practise  healing each other. It was a very interesting couple of sessions and I actually felt an energy from one of the symbols when he gave the attunement. He had an extra symbol that I had not encountered before for healing bones, the serpent of fire. When he did the procedure for that symbol I could feel an electric type of tingling going right up my spine. My hands tingled as well so the attunement seemed a lot more powerful than the first.
I stayed at level two for probably around 5 years, I had no wish or desire to be a Master for a considerable amount of time and I changed my mind primarily because I was curious as to what the difference was between a practitioner and a Master.
My Masters was done with a close intuitive friend who had her own way of doing everything, it was all laid back and I felt a huge amount of energy when she did the final attunement. I actually heard a crackling noise akin to electricity at one point which startled me as I wasn't expecting it.
So then I was a Master/ teacher and I have never really used it. I have probably attuned a handful of people who have specifically asked me to it for them but I never advertised myself as a teacher or Master. I don't know why, it just didn't feel right. So that's my reiki story.
All the Masters will get you to sit on chair and close your eyes for the attunements and then they go around you putting the symbols in the aura, hands, third eye and crown usually(tracing them with their fingers at the appropriate points), however some may work intuitively and do it their own way.
Be open minded.

GIVING AND RECEIVING REIKI

A  reiki healing session is usually a very pleasant experience.   The practitioner will usually have set the room up in advance of the treatment in several ways. Spiritually they will clear and prepare the space,this is done by drawing the reiki symbols(invisibly with the fingers) in the four corners of the room and also around or on the couch/bed that the client will be lying on.
I like to use very dim lighting or preferably candles and I usually have some soothing music playing in the background.  The recipient is then asked to lie comfortably, fully clothed on a therapist's couch and they are covered with a blanket or two. Healing can affect body temperature and some people will get cold quite quickly, the blankets also help to create a feeling of security.
The therapist will usually explain the treatment, which hand positions will be held etc. The majority of hand positions for reiki do not actually make contact with the recipient , the hands are held about 1 inch  or 2 above the body and the energy is channelled that way. However most reiki healers will begin to work intuitively and follow their own prompts, so you may find that the hands are held directly on to the body, ie the head and shoulders, feet etc. Except private parts, the energy centres for these are worked on either side of the hips.   The healer will be working on and around the chakras or energy points in the recipients body. I work with my eyes closed so that I can sense the energy as it flows through me.
A reiki healing session should never deplete the healer as we are not using our own energy, but are acting as channels so in effect we should also be receiving the healing energy at the same time. No two healing sessions are the same. Some people receiving the healing will have a multitude of sensations, emotions and changes in temperature, others will have no feelings or reactions. It is as it is and the healing as an intelligent energy will go to where it is needed, stimulating the recipients own healing mechanism.
I always advise people not to have any expectations or try to force anything but just to relax and let the reiki energy work as it should. A healer can say a prayer or an intention silently or audibly before the session to ask for healing for the person for their highest good. The reiki healer will be using the symbols, in their minds as a focus and to channel certain types of energy intuitively. i.e we have an emotional symbol, a power symbol(to boost the amount of energy required to a specific area or problem) and the Master symbol, which is said to be the most potent of all.
A healer working intuitively can pick up many things from the recipient, physical, emotional and mental problems can arise and the healer will work on these areas with the aid of the  symbols.
A healing session generally lasts around 45 minutes to 1 hour, however I maintain a session for only as long as I sense the energy flowing. I usually feel it start as tingling a the top of my head, this then seems to travel down my spine and out through my hands, and during the session I sense it as a pulsing like sensation.  Some areas of a recipient's body will have palpable blockages or imbalances and a healer can pick these up as either very cold or very hot spots.
I have had many reactions from clients over the years, some become extremely upset and tearful as blockages are released. Some have laughed, others see lights, images, swirling colours and feel tingling sensations in different parts of the body. A lot seem to go into a very deep sleep, it's all part of the healing process. Afterwards the recipient will be left to relax on the couch and should be given enough time to come around by themselves. However if you are working in a spa or healing centre with shared rooms, time can be problematic. So you may have to wake people up if they show no signs of coming back to themselves. This is quite common and some people say that they feel spaced out or even light headed after a session and their limbs may feel heavy. The best antidote to this is to drink water and go outside and take some deep breaths of air whilst stamping your feet to bring yourself back to earth, we call it grounding yourself.
The number of healing sessions required will vary from individual to individual and should be discussed accordingly.

REIKI LEVELS

FIRST DEGREE
In this level the student receives four attunements which awaken the energy centres in the hands, heart and third eye so that more Universal energy can flow through the practitioner. Each student learns to do a full body treatment on themselves, as well as all the hands-on positions for treating others.  This level enables the student to give self treatments which can also be offered to family and friends. A 21 day self treatment is requested of all students.  Each person receives a Reki I certificate and manual. it is recommended that a minimum of three months is given between Reiki I and Reiki II.


SECOND DEGREE
In this level the student learns the Sanskrit symbols rediscovered by Dr Usui and two more attunements are given.  These increase the amount of energy flowing through the practitioner.  In addition, the system for healing at a distance is taught.  At this level the student is able to administer reiki to all those who wish to receive it.  The student is requested to submit a number of case studies prior to completing reiki II then a certificate is awarded. Each person receives a manual at the end of the course. It is recommended that a minimum of six months is given between reiki II and reiki III if the recipient wishes to become a Master.


THIRD DEGREE
This is the Master level which trains the reiki practitioner to teach and give the attunements at each of the three levels.  Each person is given a certificate and a special manual which covers all the steps of initiation and practice.


Regarding the symbols in level II. When I did my level II quite a few years ago(15 years) now we were told that the symbols were sacred and secret and should be memorised. To do this we had to practice drawing them on pieces of paper in our teaching sessions,  after which they were then destroyed so no-one could read them. However since then the reiki symbols seem to be out in the public domain and freely available to anybody. I have even got a stained glass decanter on which the symbols have been painted by the artist who made the glass(not me). So I think maybe some of the potency and the mystery has been taken out of the reiki healing method by revealing the sacred symbols to the uninitiated. That being said however, as reiki is an energy it is probably more to do with the intent behind a healing session than the symbols themselves. All healing comes from source/God and that is what I believe reiki practioners are tapping into when they channel the energy. At the end of the day reiki practitioners are merely acting as channels for an energy from a higher source.

THE REIKI PRINCIPLES

JUST FOR TODAY DO NOT ANGER




JUST FOR TODAY, DO NOT WORRY




JUST FOR TODAY, BE HUMBLE




JUST FOR TODAY, BE HONEST IN YOUR WORK




JUST FOR TODAY BE COMPASSIONATE TO YOURSELF AND OTHERS.

REIKI HEALING

Reiki means Universal life force energy. REI - sacred or spiritual, KI-energy or life force. Reiki is taught or transmitted in three degrees/levels, level three being the master/teacher level, at which stage you are considered competent enough to pass/teach and attune others to the reiki energy. Most reiki practioners will be able to trace their lineage back to Dr Mikao Usui who founded the system of reiki in Japan a the of the 19th century. Primarily a Buddhist he studied other religious systems, including Shinto which was once Japan's state religion.  Shinto is  commonly translated as "The way of the Gods" and this  religious  practise involved the worshipping of spirits known as Kami.
Through Usui's education he was able to learn several languages, and studied theology, medicine and philosophy. His memorial states that he was well versed in history, medicine, Buddhist and Christian scripture as well as Waka poetry.
Usui was probably influenced by the Shingon methods of meditating on symbols in order to create the sacred symbols that are used in reiki today. It is understood that Dr Usui spent time researching and collecting texts on Buddhist systems of healing which helped him in his search for what we now know as reiki.
Dr Usui went to meditate at Mount Kurama as part of his search for healing energy and he is said to have practised a from of meditation called Kushu Shinren. It is thought that he spent 21 days in this state of meditation and at it's completion he realised that he understood a way to heal. Some accounts say that a great light appeared over his head and he received an empowerment of the universal healing energy. Other accounts say that during the meditation he saw the reiki symbols in gold spiralling towards him and entering his forehead. There are other accounts that say that after he had received the reiki symbols during the meditation on the mount he injured his foot on the way down and healed it himself with the new found energy.
Dr Usui set up a reiki clinic in Harajuku, Aoyama, outside Tokyo where he began teaching the system. He taught 2000 students before his death in 1926 and 21 of those students attained master Level.

Essential Oils for circulation, muscle and joints.

Essential oils should never be applied directly to the skin or ingested.They should be diluted in a suitable carrier oil such as grapeseed, sweet almond, olive , jojoba, or sunflower oil before they are applied to the skin. Take note of any contra-indications with specific safety data before using a new oils, especially with regard to toxicity levels, photoxicity, dermal irritation and sensitization.  For example fennel, hyssop and sage should be avoided by epileptics. Clary sage should not be used whilst drinking alcohol; hops should not be used by anyone suffering from depression.
Personally I would not use any essential oils on a pregnant woman or a breastfeeding woman, a massage if needed can be carried out using just a carrier oil. The reason being is that the molecules of an essential oil are small enough to pass through the skin and they enter the bloodstream. With babies and children always err on the side of caution. For babies 0-12 months the dose per oil is 1 drop of essential oil to 1 tsp carrier oil for massage or bathing. "Safe" oils(non toxic and non irritant to the skin) that can be used for babies and children are lavender, rose, and chamomile.
Infants it 1-5 years use 2 to 3 drops of safe essential oils to 1 tsp.
Children 6-12 years, use half the amount as stated for adults.
Over 12 years as directed for adults.
For an adult a usual ratio of essential oils to carrier oils  is 4-6 drops per 10 ml of carrier oil for a back massage and 4-6 drops per 20ml of carrier oil for a  full body massage.
The essential oil should be allowed to drop into the container first without shaking the bottle to get an accurate measurement, and if you are using a blend of two oils or more, the amount is the same but divided between them. Never exceeding 4-6 drops combined.  The oils will create a synergy ( a different oil) when allowed to mix in the container, you then add the carrier oil.
Essential oils that are good for arthritis and rheumatics are black pepper, ginger, lavender, turmeric and lemon. Such oils can relieve local inflammation by setting free mediators in the body which in turn cause the blood vessels to expand, so the blood is able to move more quickly and the swelling is reduced.

ROMAN CHAMOMILE

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS


Mainly esters of angelic and tiglic acids (approx. 85 percent), with pinene, farnesol, nerolidol,chamazulene, pinocarvone, cineol.


SAFETY INFORMATION
Non-toxic, non-irritant can cause dermatitis in some people.


THERAPEUATIC USES AND ACTIONS


Analgesic, anti-anaemic, antiseptic, hypnotic, bactericidal tonic. Can be used for acne, allergies, earache, eczema, insect bites, inflamed joints, rheumatism and sprains.


SYNERGY


Blends well with bergamot, clary sage, jasmine, neroli, rose, geranium and lavender.

AFTER-CARE ADVICE FOLLOWING HOLISTIC THERAPY

Avoid washing the skin if essential oils have been used, for at least 6 hours.


Avoid using bath oils


Drink plenty of water and herbal teas


Avoid spicy food


Eat a light diet


Relax as much as possible


Avoid alcohol

SWEDISH BODY MASSAGE

Swedish body massage differs somewhat from aromatherapy massage in that it is a much more brisk massage and you do not necessarily have to use essential oils, a carrier oil would probably be sufficient. Swedish body massage is good for pre or post sports and although the therapist will use effleurage, compression, petrissage and friction movements the pressure is increased and they will also use movements called tapotement (percussion) . Percussion movements are a series of brief, brisk, rapidly applied contracts of the hands or part of the hands to the skin in alternation. These movements are classified as.


1. Tapping-tips of the fingers
2. Slapping-palmar surface of the fingers
3. Hacking- ulnar border of the hand
4. Cupping-fingers and palms forming a concave surface
5. Pounding
6. Beating- Clenched fists palms down


Beneficial effects of petrissage are


1. Aids venous and lymphatic flow
2. To stretch shortened tissues
3. To loosen adherent tissues
4. aids absorption of substances within the tissues
5. Elimination of waste products will be increased


Beneficial effects of friction


1. Loosen adherent skin
2. Loosen scar tissue with great care
3.Helps relieve pain from within.

AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE

There are a few different types of massage, the main differences between Swedish massage and aromatherapy massage is in the techniques that are used.  Aromatherapy massage is usually a gentle massage using lots of effleurage ( superficial stroking and deep stroking). Massage seems to have acquired something of a sleazy reputation with many people linking it into a euphemism for the sex industry. A holistic massage is a far cry from this and is beneficial for a wide range of problems and a holistic therapist would always act in a professional way as they have been trained to do so. During a full body massage a client is never left naked on a table, but are always covered by towels to retain their dignity. The towels are only removed when a particular body part is being massaged ie a leg or an arm and clients are advised to wear underwear and in the case of males, shorts.
The superficial stroke is performed with extremely light pressure using the entire palmar surface of the hand or fingers only. Relaxation of the contractive muscles may be obtained and muscle spasm overcome through the reflex response to superficial stroking.  The pressure is very  light and gentle, hands must be flexible and under perfect control so that the entire palmar surface will be in contact and conform to the contour of the area being massaged so that the pressure is equal at all points.  Direction towards the heart and rhythm is 7 inches per second.
The deep stroke does not necessarily imply that force should be used. Any stroking movement which is given with sufficient pressure to produce mechanical as well as reflex effects is classified as deep stroking even though the pressure may be light.  In order to apply this type of massage effectively it is essential to have all the client's muscles relaxed. Pressure is regulated according to the bulk and condition of the muscles. Rate and rhythm is 7 inches per second.


The beneficial effects of effleurage
1. Aids relaxation by the reflex effect on the tissues
2. Aids venous circulation by the effect on the tissues
3. Aids the lymphatic circulation by the effect on the tissues
4. Absorption and therefore elimination of waste products is quickened
In aromatherapy massage the therapist will usually use a lot of effleurage and  some compression movements which can be kneading or friction movements(petrissage)


Petrissage consists of repeatedly grasping and releasing the tissues with one or both hands or parts thereof in lifting, rolling or pressing movements.  Pressure is intermittent, great care must be used in this movement to avoid pinching the skin.  Direction will depend on the reason for the massage. Rate and rhythm are 7inches per second.
Friction is often performed with the fingers and thumbs.  Circular movements are performed over the skin in certain areas. Pressure is firm but not so heavy as to cause injury. Although the movement is in a circular direction, the pressure of the movement must be applied in the direction which will produce tension on the involved structures, thereby stretching and loosening them.
For an aromatherapy massage the therapist will have blended  essential oils for the client depending on what psychological or physical effect they have decided to achieve after a consultation before the treatment begins. Different essential oils can be used to either relax or uplift and energise a client. The oils are classed as top note, middle and base oils. Top note oils such as citrus oils, lemon and orange will have an uplifting and energising effect on the client. A middle note oil, such as lavender, will have a balancing effect and a base note oil such as rose will have a sedating and calming effect.
So an aromatherapy massage is a very holistic treatment with the aid of essential oils to affect the client on many levels.

HOT STONE MASSAGE

HOT STONE THERAPY

History of the Stones

The earliest recorded use of stones as a therapeutic tool dates back to approximately 5000 years ago to the Mayan culture. Records also show the use of both hot and cold stones in china at around 4000 BC. Native American Indians have traditionally used heated stones as part of cleansing ceremonies in Sweat Lodges for example and stones were regarded by Shamans as "tools of the earth".

The application of hot and cold stones is known as "thermotherapy". This was documented in the 18^th Century and later in the 19^th century, when Sebastion Knelpp, a German naturopath experimented with the process of using hot and cold to improve circulation of blood and lymph in the body. He used baths of alternating hot and cold with his patients to boost the circulation which in turn he believed helped the person to achieve optimum health.

The term "Geothermotherapy" is used for the application of hot stones because Earth(geo) is used to deliver the temperature through the stones. You will find the process of giving and receiving a Hot Stone massage is a very grounding and earthing experience.

The hot stones are typically made up of volcanic" basalt" rock which is able to retain heat for a long time. Chilled stones are often made from marble.

MAIN EFFECTS OF HOT STONE MASSAGE

1: Improves the muscle tone and general range of movement in the muscle.

2: improves the transportation of fluid around the body increasing blood and lymph supply to the area.

3: Encourages a more efficient interchange of nutrients and waste products in the tissues.

4: Improves psychological and emotional well-being.

BENEFITS OF HOT STONE MASSAGE

HOT STONES WILL

. Create vasodilatation

. Increase the metabolism

. Increase pulse rate and circulation

. Increase cell metabolism

. Increase lymph action

. Create relaxation

.Works on the parasympathetic nervous system

. Helps the body achieve homeostasis.

MANGANESE

What is manganese most responsible for? As an essential nutrient that’s usually tied to iron and other minerals, manganese plays a role in numerous chemical processes, including synthesis of nutrients like cholestral, carbohydrates and proteins. Also importantly, manganese is involved in the formation of bone mass and helps balance hormones naturally that affect nearly every aspect of health.
Manganese is an important trace mineral needed for many vital functions, including nutrient absorption, production of digestive enzymes, bone development and immune-system defenses.
Manganese is present in the highest quantities in whole foods, including sprouted grains, legumes or beans, certain nuts, and seeds. To some extent, it’s also found in fruits and vegetables, although whole grains are usually considered the best natural source. Wherever manganese is found, iron is usually also present since these two work closely together.
Manganese also helps balance levels of calcium — helping fight calcium deficiency — and phosphorus, all of which work together in many crucial ways.
Manganese supplements  can be beneficial for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and joint problems. Always check the safety data, and with your GP if you are on ill and on medication before taking any supplements.

THE BENEFITS OF MASSAGE

THE BENEFITS OF MASSAGE

Besides inducing a deep feeling of relaxation and well-being, massage has numerous physiological benefits.

1: THE SKIN AND ALL OF IT’S STRUCTURES ARE NOURISHED.

2: THE MUSCLE FIBRE IS STIMULATED AND STRENGTHENED

3 :BLOOD CIRCULATION IS IMPROVED

4: LYMPTH CIRCULATION IS IMPROVED

5: AIDS ELIMINATION AND ABSORPTION OF WASTE

6: SKIN IS RENEDERED SOFT AND PLIABLE

7: BREAKS DOWN FIBROUS THICKENING

8: PAIN IS SOMETIMES RELEIVED

PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFITS OF MASSAGE

1: PHYSICAL LEADING TO MENTAL RELAXATION

2: QUIET RELAXING ATMOSHERE OF THE CLINIC, OR HEALING CENTRE

3: CLIENT CAN TALK ABOUT HIS/HER PROBLEMS

4: COMPLETE BREAK FROM FAMILY AND WORK

BLACK PEPPER AND GINGER ESSENTIAL OILS

BLACK PEPPER

PRINICIPAL CONSTITUENTS

Monoterpenes(thujene, pinene, camphene, sabinene, carene, myrcene, limonene, phellandrene) 70-80%, sesquiterpenes 20-30, oxygenated compounds.

SAFETY INFORMATION

Non-toxic, non-sensitizing, irritant in high concentration due to rubefacient properties. Always dilute and use in moderation only. Not compatible with homeopathic treatment.

THERAPEUTIC USES AND ACTIONS

Diuretic expectorant, stimulant, analgesic, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antitoxic, laxative.

Can be used for muscle aches and pains, constipation, chilblains, arthritis and rheumatism, flatulence and nausea.

SYNERGY

It blends well with frankincense, sandalwood, lavender, rosemary, marjoram.

GINGER

PRINCIPAL CONTITUENTS

Gingerin,gingenol, gingerone, zingiberine, linalol, camphene, phellandrene, citral, cineol, borneol.

SAFETY DATA

Non-toxic, non-irritant(except in high concentration), slightly photoxic, may cause sensitization in some individuals.

THERAPEUTIC USES AND ACTIONS

Analgesic, anti-oxidant, antiseptic,antispasmodic, antitussive, aperitif,aphrodisiac, bacteriacidal,carminative,cephalic, diaphoretic, expectorant, febrifuge, laxative, rubefacient, stimulant, stomachic tonic.

Can be used for arthritis, fatigue, muscular aches and pains, poor circulation, rheumatism, sprains, strains etc. Catarrh, congestion, coughs, sinusitis, sore throat. Diarrhoea, colic, cramp, flatulence, indigestion, loss of appetite, nausea, travel sickness. Chills, colds, flu, fever, infectious disease.

A BASIC REFLEXOLOGY

BASIC REFLEXOLOGY

It is possible to carry out a reflexology on yourself. Usually a therapist would start off with some relaxation techniques to both feet to warm and loosen the ligaments and relax the client before the treatment begins. Using techniques such as ankle, toe rotations and general effleurage/stroking or wringing type movements. After this each foot is worked on individually, one foot being covered up with a towel whilst the other is worked on. A basic treatment after relaxation techniques, would start with opening the five longitudinal lines of the foot. This is done by thumb walking in a caterpillar movement called cross hatching, in five lines going from the heel to the top of the foot. The energy centres of the body have then been opened. I always walk five lines on the big toe as well.

I then do a solar plexus press with the thumb and a diaphragm walk and press.(see foot chart for points).

Once the five longitudinal lines have been opened, a solar plexus and diaphragm press completed then a cross hatching, (thumb walking) is carried out over the entire foot excluding the toes. After which I then do a heart and lung press with a closed fist rotation at this point.

This process covers the whole body and major reflex points. However there are specific points which are rotated on at specific sites relating to joints and organs etc. So refer to the foot map to see which points you want to cover. The spine is located on the inside edge of each foot and is also finger or thumb walked separately, up and down the edge of the foot.  A reflexologist would cover all of the reflex points whilst looking and feeling for any areas of imbalance and congestion. These areas of imbalance/congestion are usually detected by areas which are either sore or painful for the client, or the therapist can feel a sponginess or inflexibility. Or crystal like deposits are felt under the skin. A therapist would pay more attention to these areas by rotating the thumb and pressing on them for longer if it was not too uncomfortable for the client.

The toes are treated separately and are individually thumb walked, inside each toe. And the backs of toes are also finger or thumb walked and pressed. The tops of toes are rotated on with a finger press and the big toe has many reflex points which need to be walked or pressed. Refer to the foot map for the relevant points. The tops of the feet, and points along the ankle and the sciatic nerve are carried out separately as well. A slight pinching movement, not too much, as it can be uncomfortable, being used for the sciatic nerve reflex at the back of the ankle and lower leg.

Once one foot has been worked on it is covered up and the same process is carried out for the other foot. It is important to do both feet or you may end up with a lopsided result. Once both feet have been worked and any areas of imbalance or congestion have been taken into account and treated accordingly, the session is usually followed by a relaxing foot massage using essential oils or carrier oil.

CONTRAINDICATIONS TO REFLEXOLOGY

Contraindications in reflexology are conditions or indicators that are at variance tot he treatment because of the risk to the client or the practitioner. The common contraindications are:


1: PREGNANCY-  this is because of the stimulation and possible effects on the reproductive organs and the affect on changing hormone balance and productions. Reflexology is not advisable if there has been a history of unstable pregnancies or during the first 14 weeks of pregnancy. However reflexology can stimulate the onset of labour at the end of pregnancy 40 weeks, and can be used as an aid to relaxation during labour.
2: HEAVY MEDICATION- This is because certain medication is prescribed to affect or balance organs, systems or even change function. Reflexology may counteract affects or interfere with the actions of the medication.
3: INFECTIOUS DISORDERS- If infections are at the acute stage, reflexology may exacerbate the symptoms as part of the healing process or overload the function of the immune system. Infectious disorders of the feet such as athletes foot or verrucas can easily spread if contact is made. However I have frequently treated clients with verrucas if you can cover the area with a plaster  and  avoid it. Some therapists also wear disposable gloves
4: SEVERE CIRCULATORY DISORDERS- As reflexology stimulates the circulation, it is inadvisable to work where there are inflammatory conditions of the venous system or conditions such as phlebitis, thrombosis, embolism or sever high blood pressure.
5: DAMAGED TISSUE-Treatment must avoid areas of the foot where there is damaged tissue as it can be painful and pressure could make it worse, this includes bruising, swelling, sites of surgery, metal pins and tender areas due to arthritis and bunions.
6: ADDICTIONS,MENTAL ILLNESS-Patients may exhibit unpredictable reactions or behaviour that may be difficult or even dangerous to deal with, especially as reflexology stimulates brain areas. There may also be on contraindicatory medication.
7:CANCERS, TUMOURS -These mainly focus on those that are involved in the lymphatic system or that travel through the bloodstream as it may then be transported faster through the body.
8: INJECTIONS-These include milographs or holiday jabs where time is needed for the substance to travel around the body, or for antibodies to build up immunity.


NOTE THAT ALTHOUGH THESE CONDITIONS ARE CONTRAINDICATED, MANY PEOPLE WITH THESE CONDITIONS WILL BENEFIT FROM REFLEXOLOGY. IF IN DOUBT CHECK WITH YOUR GP.

Healing Crisis

HEALING CRISIS

A healing crisis is a reaction following a complementary therapy. It can be due to the release of toxins and congestion from the body organs ready to be eliminated from the body. This leads to detoxification and so is a positive thing, however a healing crisis can manifest in a wide range of acute symptoms. By drinking plenty of water, the toxins released into the blood stream for elimination are flushed from the system faster and more effectively and the symptoms healing crisis are not as severe.

The concept of healing crisis is that the body is healing itself from the inside out and that existing conditions can temporarily worsen before improving. Previously experienced conditions can then be brought temporarily to the forefront to be dealt with. Ultimately, the body is returned to a state of homeostasis.

Some general symptoms of a healing crisis are:

GENERAL FATIGUE ,FEVER, SKIN ERUPTIONS, CONSTIPATION, RESTLESSNESS, NAUSEA, DISCHARGE, ACHES/PAINS, CHILLS/COUGHS, POSTNASAL DRIP, BODY ODOUR, TEMPERATURE, LUCID DREAMS, INCREASE IN URINATION, DIARRHOEA, EMOTIONAL UPSET, COLDNESS, VERTIGO, HEADACHES, ALTERATION IN SLEEP PATTERN, WORSENING OF CURRENT CONDITION.

Most healing crisis reactions occur in the first 24 hours following the treatment. Anything after that time is most likely not linked to the treatment received.

　

JOINT HEALTH

Around 80% of the over 50s suffer with painful, achy or stiff joints. Arthritis mostly affects the joints of the hands and weight bearing joints.  The medical approach is to prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatories to reduce fever, swelling and pain, but the side- effects can include liver and kidney damage, gastro intestinal bleeding, ulcers, dizziness, skin rashes and stomach upsets. 
Lifestyle and dietary changes, including moderate exercise and supplements can help.


Glucosamine can be taken as a supplement or sourced from shellfish.  Glucosamine is an important building block needed by the body to manufacture specialised molecules called glycosminoglycans found in cartilage. Glucosamine also promotes the incorporation of sulphur into cartilage.
Detailed human studies on the absorption, distribution, and elimination of orally administered glucosamine sulphate show an absorption rate as high as 98 %. Arthritis sufferers have been found to have reduced levels  of sulphur within their tissues. Food sources of sulphur include onions, garlic and beans. Once absorbed it is taken up by the joint tissues, where it is incorporated into the connective tissue matrix of cartilage, ligaments, and tendons.

Other vitamins and supplements that have been found to help with joint health are vitamin B5, vitamin C, Bromelain which  is found in high concentration in pineapple stems. Ginger root, Pycnogenol, Turmeric and Quercetin, which is one of several bioflavonoids(special nutrients found with vitamin C in fruit and vegetables with anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-histamine properties.

REFLEXOLOGY IN THE WESTERN WORLD

The origins of reflexology as we know it has its origins in the study of zone therapy, which utilises the longitudinal lines of energy which run through the body from the feet to the brain and down the arms.  There are ten zones, 5 on each side of the body, and it is believed that by applying pressure to the zones, all organs within that zone are affected. Also, by working on specific points along the zone, it is possible to predict which other parts of the body will be affected.
Dr William Fitzgerald was the main pioneer of zone therapy in the West in the early 20th century. He was a medical doctor and he noticed that by applying pressure over certain points of the toes and hands, he could cause a type of anaesthesia in a limited area.  This enabled him to carry out minor operations on the nose and throat without using local analgesics and without causing pain to his patients.
A colleague of Dr Fitzgerald, by Dr Edwin bowers, helped develop the theory, he decided on the term Zone Therapy.
Dr Joe Riley and his wife Elizabeth, supporters of the zone therapy theories used the techniques in their school of chiropractic. It was the Rileys who first refined the techniques and made the first detailed drawings of the reflex points of the feet. Elizabeth Riley first discovered the "hooking in " technique to work the zones.
It was the Rileys' school of chiropractic that Eunice Ingham, a physiotherapist, first heard of the therapy that was to change her life.  She was fascinated by the effects and introduced reflexology into her department of physiotherapy at a Florida hospital.  She was amazed at the response of her patients who experienced a decrease in pain, improved mobility and a natural speeding of the body's healing processes after surgery.


Eunice Ingham was the first person to separate reflexology from zone therapy.  She did this because she felt that the feet should be specific targets for therapy because of their highly sensitive nature.
In the 1930's Eunice Ingham resigned from her hospital job to set up a private reflexology practice. people came from all over America for treatments from her.
Eunice Ingham wrote the first reflexology book and set up the first school of reflexology to train others in the therapy. she died in 1952 and her work continues through the efforts of her nephew Dwight byers who runs the Institiute of Reflexology in St Petersburg..

The History of reflexology

There is evidence to show that reflexology was practised more than 4,000 years ago. Paintings showing a reflexology treatment being carried out were unearthed in the Physician's Tomb in Egypt and date back to 2,300 BC.
Further evidence in the tomb shows that the physician, called Ankmahor, was a very important person, second only to the King.  The Papyrus Institute in Cairo states that the hieroglyphics above the painting reads "Do not let it be painful" and the practitioner replies "I do as you please."


It is also known that the Chinese used reflexology in conjunction with acupuncture. Dr Wang-Wei, a Chinese doctor from the 4th century B.C. used to apply very firm pressure with his thumbs to the soles of his patients feet following the positioning of the acupuncture needles.  The pressure was maintained for several minutes while the therapeutic affects resulted. He stated that as the pressure was being applied, healing energy was released into the body of the patient.
We also know that the use of reflexology has been practised by the North American Indians for generations, with the Cherokee Indians firmly stating the importance of feet in maintaining physical, mental and spiritual balance.

REFLEXOLOGY

Reflexology works on the principal that each organ, muscle and gland of the body is represented by a reflex point on the feet. By applying specific pressure to a reflex point, the function of the organ is normalised through a system of energy zones that link the reflex points to the particular organ that they represent. By removing toxins, relaxing and normalising the body, the client is brought to a state of homeostasis(balance) and this allows self-healing to take place. Although reflexology is usually carried out on the feet, the hands and ears can also be used if the feet are contra-indicated.

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