Raindrop Therapy
Raindrop Therapy s a unique relaxation technique, combining essential oils with massage to create a truly memorable experience whilst supporting back health. It utilises a sequence of essential oils dropped on the back. Raindrop Therapy can be relaxing while also supporting immune function. D. Gary Young (founder of Young Living) developed Raindrop Therapy based on his research of essential oils, his knowledge of the Vita Flex technique and its reflex points on the feet and fascinating information on the light stroking called effleurage.
Anyone who has experience Raindrop Therapy is very quick to get on the massage table again to enjoy and discover new benefits of this remarkable application of essential oils.
Holistic Techniques in Raindrop Therapy
Gary Young found that combining several holistic techniques, described below, created a synergistic effect for the body. The three modalities that combine to form Raindrop Technique are:
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Aromatherapy – Raindrop technique uses seven single essential oils, two blends and one essential oil massage blend during the session. It is congruent with the French application of aromatherapy where essential oils are applied undiluted to the body.
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Vita Flex Technique – The Vita Flex Technique is a highly specialised form of reflexology developed by Stanley Burroughs, stimulating and supporting each gland and organ. Essential oils are applied to areas of the feet that correspond to various body systems, helping to alleviate tension, bodily imbalances, and more.
The spinal cord is thought to be the centre of energy distribution throughout the body, which is why it plays such an important role in the Raindrop Technique. -
Feather Stroking - This is similar to a massage term technique called effleurage. However this technique was actually termed by the Native American Indians.
What does a Raindrop treatment entail?
During a Raindrop treatment the client removes their shoes, socks and top and lies comfortably on the treatment bed. The treatment is split into two parts:
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Specially selected essential oils are layered on the clients feet in a reflexology massage, triggering various pressure points to aid the body's healing mechanisms
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The same oils are the applied on and around the spine, combined with feathering and various massage movements to aid absorption into the body.
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At the end of the treatment a warm wet towel is placed on the clients back. This pushes the oils deeper into the body, increasing their effect.
A Raindrop treatment lasts around 1hr 15mins, although I always schedule an additional 30 mins in the event the client is in need of further relaxation, or wishes to discuss anything, following the treatment.
If this is your 1st visit to Ahmyo Healing, please add an additional 15 mins for the consultation process, prior to the treatment.
Where does the term Raindrop Therapy originate from?
Essential oils are actually dropped from about 6 inches above your spine, simulating rain drops. It feels like a rain drop gently striking your spine, and it is very relaxing and comforting. It is thought that the oils interact with a person's electric field before even penetrating the skin of the back, thereby, enhancing the electromagnetic properties of the oils as well.
Origin of Raindrop Therapy
Raindrop Therapy is the result of combining ancient Lakota wisdom with the latest in essential oil research. It was developed based on techniques taught to Gary by a Lakota medicine man. By integrating gentle massage sequences with specific essential oils, this experience balances energy, releases toxins, and facilitates open energy flow throughout the body.
Read more about the History of Raindrop Therapy here.
Benefits of Raindrop Therapy
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Balance and harmonise the energy and structural systems of the body
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Improves circulation
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Produces deep relaxation and facilitates the release of stubborn emotions, aiding emotional well-being (Releasing Emotional Patterns with Essential Oils - ISBN 9780966138139)
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Works to unwind tight and sore muscles, tendons, and ligaments
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Enhance immunity and cleanse the body of toxins
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May help to reduce spinal inflammations and kill viruses that hibernate along the spinal column
Essential Oils used in Raindrop Therapy
Blood gives our body life, essential oils are the life of plants. They can have healing effects on the body, especially the ones that are specifically chosen for this technique. When applied to the body, the oils are absorbed into the skin and travel down through the dermis levels into the interstitial fluids. They are helpful in fighting bacteria and viruses that travel through the body. Essential oils have also been known to improve the immune system.
ORAC - Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity is a method of measuring antioxidant capacities in a substance.
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Valor – Spiritual alignment is essential to overall health and well-being. Valor essential oil blend empowers the mind and increases self-confidence, courage and self-esteem in the face of adversity.
Combining the balancing properties of Spruce, Rosewood, Blue Tansy and Frankincense essential oils, this blend aids in visualising and attaining self-empowerment. By renewing and endowing users with more self-confidence, Valor can help people reach their fullest potential. It has also been found to help energy alignment in the body. -
Oregano (Origanum compactum) – is a key oil in the Raindrop Technique. It works in conjunction with Thyme to strengthen the immune system and to attack bacteria and viruses. It may also act as an antiseptic for the respiratory system, help balance metabolism and help strengthen the vital centres of the body. Its fragrant aroma is said to promote feelings of security.
Oregano has an approximate ORAC of 153,007 (TE/L). -
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) – works in conjunction with Oregano to support the immune system by attacking any bacteria, fungus, infection or virus that may be present. It may also help one overcome fatigue and physical weakness after an illness.
Thyme is a potent antioxidant, registering an approx ORAC of 159,590 (TE/L) -
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) – is relaxing to spastic muscles and is stimulating to the nerves and to the adrenal glands. Inhaling Basil can refresh the mind, restore mental alertness and combat mental fatigue.
Basil has an appropx ORAC of 540,000 (TE/L) -
Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) – is used for its anti-bacterial, antimicrobial and diuretic properties. In addition, it may function as a decongestant for the circulatory and lymphatic systems. Inhaling Cypress can profoundly influence emotions, creating a sense of security and grounding.
Cypress has an approx ORAC of 243,120 (TE/L) -
Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) – may remove discomfort associated with the inflammation of bones, muscles, and joints. Its primary (natural) constituent, methyl salicylate, has a cortisone-like activity. It may also help cleanse the lymphatic system. Inhaling Wintergreen can increase awareness in the sensory system.
Native Americans chewed Wintergreen leaves to increase endurance when running or during hard labour.
Wintergreen has an approx ORAC of 1,018,439 (TE/L) -
Marjoram (Origanum majorana) – is used to relax spastic muscles, soothe the nerves, relieve cramps, aches and pains, and to help calm the respiratory system. Inhaling Marjoram can have a calming and warming effect on the mind.
It was known by the Romans as the "herb of happiness" and by the Greeks as "joy of the mountains".
Marjoram has an approx ORAC of 1,390,055 (TE/L) -
Aroma Seiz – a highly antispasmodic blend of essential oils that may help to relax sore, tense, or inflamed muscles.
It combines the comforting properties of Basil, Marjoram, Lavender, Peppermint and Cypress essential oils -
Peppermint (Metha piperita) – is used to calm and strengthen the nerves, reduce inflammation and is highly effective when dealing with conditions related to the respiratory system. It also has a synergistic and enhancing effect on all other oils. Inhaling Peppermint can stimulate the conscious mind and support mental accuracy.
Peppermint has an approx ORAC of 373,455 (TE/L) -
V6 Massage Oil – is used to nourish the skin and dilute the oils if required. It is a complex blend of antioxidant vegetable oils.
Basil, Cypress, Wintergreen and Marjoram can be altered with other Young Living oils and blends to give a more tailored treatment for the Client e.g. for breathing difficulties they can be replaced by Eucalyptus, RC (blend formulated for healthy respiration) and Raven (blend formulated to support healthy lungs and sinuses).
Are there any side effects?
Because the Raindrop Technique encourages detoxification of the body, someone may experience some mild side effects. The best advice is to drink plenty of water before and after a session.
While some may experience detoxification, others may feel relaxed, have heightened awareness or may feel peaceful. It is really on a case by case basis, and depends on so many factors.
Read about other Raindrop experiences or submit your own here.
Is there any validation to support Raindrop Therapy?
David Stewart, the Founder of the Centre for Aromatherapy Research and Education (CARE), published a book entitled
The Statistical Validation of the Raindrop Technique (ISBN 978-0934426381). It is based on the results of a questionnaire where over 400 massage therapists, chiropractors, Raindrop Facilitators and others who used the technique responded.
I have a copy of this book for clients to look through before or after a treatment.
97% of the clients receiving Raindrop Therapy felt that it was a positive experience and that they felt better after the session.
Well, over 99% said they would have another session. Approximately 90% felt an improvement in their well being and 86% felt their emotions improve.
If you are interested in Raindrop Therapy or any of the other treatments available, please feel free to contact me, or dive right in and book a treatment and experience the benefits for yourself.