Massage

Cancer Treatment and the Holistic View

Posted on by Holistichealthcarewx

Most definitions of cancer broadly conform to the current NCI definition: “Cancer is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body.” 

By Dr Catherine W Dunne MSc. D. (Hon), Reiki Master (RGMT), M.H.I.T: Master Acupressure, Practitioner of Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Deep Tissue/Myo-fascia Massages, Infrared Treatments, Vibrational Sound and Colour Therapist, Tissue Salt Advisor, Pendulum Healing Dowser, Chakra Practitioner , Tao Cosmic Healing Practitioner, Practitioner of Plant and Herb Medicine and Nurse.

These definitions tend to describe what cancer “looks like” or “does” but do not describe what cancer “is” or “has become.” 

Hi, and welcome to my today’s post. My intention is not to discuss the treatments for cancer. My intention is to discuss the “side-effects”; how the diagnosis and treatments affect the person, and why it is important to offer holistic approaches during those times.

I have a client who has breast cancer.
The diagnosis, as expected, was a shock to the “system”-self and family and friends. Once the diagnosis and type was confirmed, everything has been and still is happening very fast.
The more I think about this, the more I conclude, that because from time of diagnosis to treatment is a highspeed roller-coaster-ride, it is actually good that this happens so fast. If you are given too much time to think and dwell on the idea of having cancer, too many boxes filled with questions, cans of worms, are opened … and time is of the essence … how long would it be, before you’d make the decision this is “good” for you? Would it be too late?

She is a very optimistic person. With a Pharmaceutical background, she was aware of the chemical side-effects. But she decided to embrace it and face it full on. She started to look for holistic practitioners near her, having studied all the profiles, she was amazed to find someone less than 6 minutes up the road from her, and someone who is a practicing Medical Professional. This is Ireland.

From hereon in, I shall refer to her as Yvonne. I am protecting her identity.

Yvonne rings me one day asking for a Reiki session. I gave her an appointment. The following week we met for the first time. Yvonne explained her journey to me; how Breast Check had a cancellation and had rung her, asking if she was free that afternoon to attend … her planned appointment wasn’t due for another 5-6 weeks. This is October 2023. She works close by and agreed to go.

Yvonne is very spiritual. But more so secretively. She had a hunger to learn something along the holistic paths, not quite sure what though. Work is taxying. Very demanding. No longer satisfying. Yvonne had already looked into meditations, started reading up on the powers and benefits of crystals, before the call from Breast Check came, offering her a cancellation appointment.

Butterfly

Yvonne started her first chemo treatment at the start of December and had another before Christmas. Yvonne’s first visit to me was some time in November. She had done “her homework” in regards to Reiki and knew what to expect. The first 30 minutes we just talked about the diagnosis itself, how she felt about it, and her family … still sinking in … but determined not to allow cancer to get the better of her. I introduced myself to her, given her my background history. I explained that while Reiki is Energy Healing, with all the various types of Energy Healing under my belt, today it is difficult for me, JUST to do Reiki – in the traditional sense, I mean. I also explained that the terms “Healer” and “Therapist” when it comes to these type of therapeutic treatments have never sat well with me, and that I haven’t come across a term I like. And if you, the reader, are a Reiki Practitioner, you know we are not Healers, but Conductors.
I explained I will start off today’s session as a typical Reiki session, but as I also do ByoSen, if I pick up something, I will give that part of the body my 100% attention. Was she happy with this?
This first session was not long after the biopsy and was awaiting it’s result. Still sore.

My hands are very sensitive. I knew why she was here and knew what to expect in the chest area. I felt the cancer in her breast. I felt it large and strong (how big in size it actually was, I couldn’t tell you, but it’s EGO was large and strong!) What I hadn’t expected was the energy around her ovaries. Dark and hungry, is how I would describe this energy. Made me feel sick in my stomach. (Downside of being an Empath).
I explained to Yvonne what I was picking up and that I did not believe the cancer to be in the ovaries, but the breast cancer is on the Mama gland pathway and so connected to the ovaries – energetically for now. I also explained, that for that session, I wanted to remove this energy from the ovaries and “retract” it and confine it only to the breast. But, this was Friday and next Friday was surgery and I wanted her back on Tuesday before that surgery. I felt this cancer to be strong minded and if not curtailed, would get a run … Yvonne agreed to return on Tuesday.

Just to give you an idea, the energy over her ovaries was palpable 3 feet above her abdomen. 3 feet up. I forced it down and away from her ovaries with great effort.
Just as we were finishing up, something caught my attention. I looked around to see what it was … and there on the window was a butterfly, flying up and down the window inside the treatment room. I was surprised to see on and said out loud:” wow, there is a butterfly … ” and Yvonne, laid there, smiling at me and said: “I thought I had heard wings flapping … this is amazing! Too amazing to be a coincidence“. The question mark on my face must have been visible to her. Yvonne went on to explain, that earlier in 2023 a close friend of hers had died. A butterfly was with the coffin all the time. This friend was a great believer in butterflies.

Excerpt of the meaning of Butterflies in the spiritual sense:

Butterflies represent transformation, rebirth, freedom, and hope in different cultures and traditions.
In many cultures also, butterflies symbolize the soul’s journey after death and the process of spiritual evolution.

When she returned on Tuesday, Yvonne told me she had told her friends about the butterfly and they couldn’t believe it either. Remember, it’s winter.
Yvonne made herself comfortable on the treatment couch. I examined her and the energy was back over the ovaries, weak, but back.
What happened next was a first for me. Yvonne felt it, I felt it and struggled at first with it.
I managed to capture the cancer’s energetic body and forced it back on itself. I managed to “crack” this cancer’s large EGO. I felt sick to my stomach, heaving, but carried on. I was now down on my knees, holding on to this energy … no way on God’s given Earth was I letting go. AA Michael and Raphael were there and the Butterfly. The room flooded with an electric blue and I knew I was doing good. I was doing right. It felt like 30 minutes, and when all was completed, 1.5 hours had passed. This “big headed, ego driven” cancer now was no larger than a walnut.
In 3 days she was having surgery. Mastectomy was last resort, if cancer, as per CT scan, really was that big.
I texted Yvonne before Christmas, how did the surgery go?
“All went well. All good. Surgeon surprised at size … was much much small that expected!”
Brill! Merry Christmas, and I’ll see ya in January. C.


Chemotherapy

Eight rounds of Chemo, followed by 15 radiotherapies! Good Lord! That’s a lot of toxin the liver has to work through.
Next week is round 6.
Hair is starting to thin out after round two. Still in relatively good form and eager to learn all things to do with Complementary therapies.
Round 3. Noticed the tiredness setting in. Yvonne informs me that she has great support from families and friends.
Round 4. Viral infection. Cancelled.
Round 4. Looking to get wig made, doing a lot of meditation, son is keeping her busy with school. She is actually taking the cancer now as a “sign” that she had to spend more time with son and help with school.
Round 5. First Triple treatment. Was told will cause pins & needles to hands and feet, including numbness. If unable to send text messages, to report back. Needless to say, the whole worlds is texting her…. lol. Me too and offered her a wellness treatment on me.
Round 6: next week.

For today, Easter Saturday, I gifted her a Wellness Session. A full body massage including facial, but at her request, left out head massage. 2 hours. Reflexology Hand and Foot massage. Lymphatic Drainage. Acupressure on sciatica. Aromatherapeutic back, neck and shoulder massage. Facial with massage. And all with homemade balms and creams and infused oils.
Yvonne arrived and I seen her struggle. Her body clearly was aching all over. Hoovering hurts her. Gets triggered when asked “how ye doing?” “is there anything I can do for ye?“
Feeling very peri-menopausal. Hot flushes and then freezing cold. Moody. Forgetfulness. And now numbness in left foot. Pins & needles in toes and fingers.
All the while she’s explaining her woes to me, I see a fragile person in front of me, who is putting on a brave face. And she only today “copped” the notion of what it means to be an Empath. Today came as a blessing to her. Today came at the right time for her. “How did you know I needed this?” …
2 hours later, she felt light like a feather. Her posture was straight and positive.

When Yvonne starts her radiotherapy, it’s Monday to Friday with weekends off for 3 weeks. This is in June.
I won’t be able to give her face to face support, but will, between now and June, set up something for her, to draw on … and then there is always Distant healing, right?

Here in Ireland, Reiki in hospital setting is fit only for End Of Life … why? That is beyond me. Anybody going through cancer deserves better.
Why can I not sit with her for those 3 hours of Chemo and offer Reiki and Reflexology? I may not even end up giving 3 hours to her, I may share myself to those in the same room as her. Reflexology, Foot and hand massage goes a long way, when you are feeling low, mood wise.
You do not need to be an Empath to feel/see what’s needed. Look into your heart and see what you would like to have, when more or less living in “lockdown” scenarios during chemo~ and radiotherapy. Think about it: 8 sessions Chemo at fortnightly basis, pause, then 15 sessions Radiotherapy, Monday to Friday x 3 weeks.

Two more things I wish to highlight:
1) today I let the butterfly out and sat it on a dandelion.
2) I am not charging her.


Catherine
CWD 30 March 2024/Ireland


The Grandmaster – The Term, does it exist?

Posted on by Holistichealthcarewx

Grandmaster … what is a Grandmaster supposed to know or do? Can you only be a Grandmaster of one Modality and not another, despite being similar in nature?

In the run up to Easter, I had a week off work and whilst “pottering around”, getting house ready for Easter … I spent time on this exact question.

Let’s take the most popular Modality, one that EVERYBODY is now doing and feel the need to achieve everything yesterday: Reiki. And yes, I am a Master/Teacher in Reiki, and I have been continuously studying and practicing Reiki since my first attunement in 1983. I “only” achieved my Master /Teacher status in 2014.

And while many associations never accepted me teaching Reiki online My Way and long before Covid Lockdowns, I find it quite astonishing, how these so-called Reiki Institutes can change their minds, right? By the way, my way of online studying, you had to, and still have to work hard for it. It takes weeks. Feedbacks and more. You don’t achieve your title from me within hours of you having read the PDF and accepting a Chi Ball like many do and those who bought in to it, wonder why it isn’t working out how they had imagined. But this is a subject for another blog … 😉

So my question is: Can one be a Grandmaster and if so, can one be on of a generic term/title/subject?

What I am trying to ask here, take me for example: I have been doing energy work since my teens. I started with a Pendulum and over the years became proficient with them. Since my teens, I have also had a huge interest in Chakras and so studied them, having read many books and through Reiki. Today, I combine Reiki with Chakras by using my Pendulum. Studied Touch for Health – Dr John Thiel and Cosmic Healing – Mantal Chia (Master). When studying Chakras and Cosmic Healing and Daoism and Touch for Health and Reiki, Prana … you soon discover, each corner of the world has the similar Healing Modality, just called different. Who taught whom, if at all, may be questionable, but I guess Jesus was THE Great Grandmaster in Energy Healing.
Herbalism, Essential Oils, homeopathy, Sound Therapy, Colour Therapy, applied pressure therapies such as Reflexology and Acupressure and Meridian manipulation by Acupuncture, and not forgetting the most multi-modalities under TCM and Ayurveda, to me are all Energy Healing Modalities. How the harnessed energy is applied to the client – as long as you don’t use your own – in the broader term is irrelevant, but relevant to the treatment required and applied for this client, at this moment, and the reason for treatment.

What is expected of a Grandmaster of Energy Healing Systems, if such a term should really exist?
– to know everything?
– to teach one or more modalities?
– be always available, not just to clients but to current and former students?

If you are a Master/Teacher of Reiki = Rei = Universal Energy and Ki (Chi/Qi) = Life Force and a Master in Chakra Treatment, Pendulum (Frequency) for Healing, Acupressure, Crystal Therapy, a frequent Practitioner of Dao Cosmic Healing, Kinesiology, Reflexology, Sound (Vibrational) and Colour (Frequency) Therapy, and even Massages … does this make you an overall Master or Grandmaster of Energy Healing Systems?
I’d like to think the latter, but I am open to suggestions. Let’s discuss this.



I am also the author of Reiki 19 & 20 of the Reiki Grandmaster Series (non-traditional). Those two symbols and attunements came to me as I was studying Ho’oponopono. There you go, another Energy Healing System I had forgotten to mention above. But during my annual leave and pondering on the Grandmaster concept, another symbol came to me. But this one is different all together. It is not a symbol to be attuned to. If you are truly a Master in your multi-modalities and apply several during your healing session in combination for several years, I believe you are “given” your symbol. Like a Name. It is YOURS and YOURS alone. When I started to apply this symbol at the start of my Reiki Sessions, not only have I felt the energy flow through me and not only does the client’s body “speak to me” loud and clear, but the client also describes an energy moving through them, like never felt before. And they would have come to me in the past.

So my conclusion is that if you “rush” learning weekend workshop/online pdf Reiki, just to get the certificate for Reiki 1 & 2 and then after 21 days pick up Reiki 3&4 (4 doesn’t really exist but in modern times, Reiki Master/Teacher = 3a and 3b = the setting up of business … you go figure), just so that you can be called RMT, you have not learnt a whole lot! Where is your gained knowledge coming from? What experiences have you gained? Have you discovered subtle energy feedbacks from your client? Have you found a common energy pulse each human organ emits? Can you feel the energy of a sick organ before the client knows about this organ being unwell? What has a Reiki Master Teacher learnt to have earnt that title within a space of what, 6 weeks? I rest my case.

I have gained many experiences, certificates, and diplomas of various energy healing modalities over the past 38 years. I would like to think, I have earned the Title Master/Teacher of Energy Healing Systems, whilst being a RMT.

You are a perfect soul. You have everything you need already inside of you

And if you are a Reiki Practitioner for 5+ years, why have you not taken the next step and become the Master/ Teacher in Reiki?

Happy Easter Monday 2023.

Warm Wishes to you all.

Catherine

CWD April 10th, 2023, Ireland

Healing the Seven Chakras with Herbs

Posted on by Holistichealthcarewx

by Catherine W Dunne 06 Dec 2022 Ireland

Healing the Seven Chakras with Herbs

As you may know by now, my passion are the Chakras. There is so much to them that still have not yet been discovered.
Many of you are aware of vibrational medicine. For those of you not familiar with this, Vibrational Medicine is not just Sound Frequency therapy.
Everything around us is Energy. To quote Einstein, as I do in many of my online courses:

ENERGY = VIBRATION + FREQUENCY

Sound, colour, perfume, flavours, toxicity, potency, cells, matter, liquid, light, magnetism, air, living, dead, ….. all are a form of Energy.

Plants have been used as medicines for thousands of years to cure various ailments, gain wisdom and to help us connect with nature. There are scripts from 2500 BC about various plants and their healing properties. In India, there are several Vedas that mention about treating diseases using herbs and plants. Plants have vibrational frequency that is in tune with our body and psyche. These vibrational qualities of plants can assist in balancing, healing and energizing the seven major chakras. The components of herbs interact with our energy system and remove toxic elements from our blood, enhance blood circulation and regulate the flow of oxygen. If one uses the herbs appropriately, one can maintain a balanced state of mind, body and spirit, Here are some of the common herbs associated with the seven chakras –

First Chakra – Root Chakra – Dandelion Roots

Root Chakra is located at the base of the spine. It connects us to the earth because that is where we receive all of the vital nutrients essential to our survival, and it is also where body toxins are released. The root chakra doesn’t just ground us physically, it also grounds us temporally by keeping us in the present moment. An imbalanced root chakra can lead to problems in the legs, feet, rectum, tailbone, immune system, depression, autoimmune deficiencies. Dandelion root tea are found to be highly effective in the treatment of depression, gallbladder, or high blood pressure. Adding in foods like: carrots, potatoes, parsnips, radishes, onions and garlic, and anything else that roots itself, can have a soothing effect for our root chakra.


Second Chakra – Sacral Chakra – Gardenia flowers

Sacral Chakra is located below the navel near the abdomen between the ovaries for women and near the prostate gland for men. The fundamental quality of this chakra is pure creativity, attention, sensual expression, unencumbered by the ego. When this Chakra is blocked it can lead to eating disorders, urinary tract problems, reproductive disorders, occasional headache, fever, and emotional imbalances. Calendula is an easy to grow herb that enhances your creativity in all areas of life. Another herb which is highly beneficial for the sacral chakra is Gardenia. One can put Gardenia roots and oil to multiple use, and its flowers are found to be very soothing for the senses as well, no wonder it’s also known as the happiness herb. Sandalwood helps in curing many kinds of infection as it instigates new cell growth. You can apply sandalwood oil on your body before taking a shower or you can use it to create a good aroma in your house. Other herbs & spices that are beneficial are Coriander, fennel, liquorice, cinnamon, vanilla, carob, sweet paprika, sesame seeds, caraway seeds.  

Third Chakra – Solar Plexus  – Rosemary Leaves

The 3rd chakra or the solar plexus chakra is the power centre of emotions and positive self-control. If this chakra is blocked we tend to feel unworthy and have a low self-esteem. Our emotional state is one of depression and anxiety. We tend to be doubtful and mistrusting toward others. This can lead to a plethora of physical problems: poor digestion, ulcers, diabetes, liver or kidney problems, anorexia, bulimia, and even intestinal tumours. To unblock the energy flow, one can use lavender, bergamot, or rosemary oil. Bergamot is great for the digestive system as it quickens the procedure of digestion causing less strain to the intestinal tract. In Mediterranean region, people consider rosemary as an essential herb for the stomach and intestines. One can put rosemary leaves in several dishes, or you can use rosemary oil to cook dishes. Marshmallow too relaxes the third chakra and softens our efforts to control life. It helps you to relax your diaphragm and reconnect to our breath. Other useful herbs & spices are Anise, celery, cinnamon, lily of the valley, mints, ginger, mints (peppermint, spearmint, etc.), melissa, turmeric, cumin, fennel.  

Fourth Chakra – Heart Chakra – Hawthorne Berries

Heart Chakra is the centre of love, compassion, and forgiveness of our body’s energy system. When this chakra is blocked, we tend to feel disconnected and have trouble loving ourselves and others. We tend to experience poor circulation on the physical level, lack empathy on the emotional level, and lack devotion on the spiritual level. Many issues of love, grief, hatred, anger, jealousy, fears of betrayal, of loneliness, as well as the ability to heal ourselves, and others are centered in the fourth chakra. A tea or tincture of Hawthorne berries increases trust in the process of life and encourages you to feel safe following your heart. It also helps to strengthen the heart and blood vessels. You can also use Cayenne, jasmine, lavender, marjoram, rose, basil, sage, thyme, cilantro, parsley for a healthy heart.

Fifth Chakra – Throat Chakra – Red Clover Blossom

Throat chakra is largely responsible for self-expression and communication. When this chakra is clear our speech becomes uplifting, wise and we can communicate our intent clearly. An unbalanced throat chakra leads to thyroid problems, laryngitis on the physical level, co-dependency on the emotional level, unclear thoughts on the mental level, and insecurity on the spiritual level. We often speak without thinking and have trouble expressing ourselves in an authentic way. It is also responsible for nervousness, fear, and anxiety. Red clover blossoms assist in allowing a free flow of communication and self-expression. A cup of red clover tea can unlock the emotions and thoughts that are waiting to be spoken. Research conducted by the University of Maryland Medical Centre, shows that lemon balm is capable of healing several ailments including thyroid. Eucalyptus oil is another beneficial oil for decongestion, simply rubbing few drops of oil on the throat will help. Other herbs & spices that can help with the throat chakra is Coltsfoot, peppermint, sage, salt, and lemon grass.

Sixth Chakra – Third Eye Chakra – Eyebright Flowers

Sixth Chakra or the Third Eye is associated with intuition and the pineal gland. Eyebright When this chakra is blocked we tend to lack in imagination and intuition resulting in poor decision making and self-deception. Physically, third eye weakness may manifest as eye/ear problems, headaches, migraines, insomnia, or even nightmares. Mint, jasmine, and eyebright are herbs used to open the sixth chakra. Eyebright helps to see both the light and dark sides as part of the whole and is also used to cure eye problems. Mint has been found useful in curing depression, migraines, and memory loss. It also increases connectedness between mind and body. These are the herbs & spices that can energize and heal any imbalances in the third eye chakra, Juniper, mugwort, poppy, rosemary, lavender, and poppy seed.

Seventh Chakra – Crown Chakra – Lotus

The Crown Chakra connects us to the universal divine energy. This chakra is associated with wisdom, enlightenment, and transcendence. When our crown chakra is cleansed and open we experience divine union and cosmic love, stretching out forever. Our unique frequency is in tune with the cosmic orchestra. When our crown chakra is blocked or closed we feel disconnected spiritually, as though we are living without any direction or purpose. On a physical level, it can lead to depression, nervous system disorders, migraines, amnesia, ADD, dyslexia, and in the most extreme cases cognitive delusions and mental illness. Lavender flowers and lotus assist in opening your seventh chakra. Lavender brings you into alignment with divine wisdom on a daily basis and is a popular herb for enhancing meditation. While lotus leaves and stems are widely used in Japanese and Chinese cuisine, and each part has its own set of benefits. Lavender is your best bet because it works well on all the chakras. You can include plants in your life through taking herbs internally in the form of tea, or externally as a bath or aromatherapy, you can enhance the benefits by consciously connecting with their vibrational qualities.


Hope you enjoy this little “nugget” of information.

As mentioned above, I teach online courses. I have a very detailed courses, maybe too detailed…. 😉
Chakra – Energy Healing
In this one you would begin this journey by studying the 7 Major Chakras in our body.
Exploring the causes of blockages, hyperactivities and their effects on us. Students will learn how Essential Oils and Foods benefit the Chakra, learn about the maintenance and balancing of our Chakras by uses of Yoga. Moreover, students will challenge their own perceptions about the causes of illness and what it takes to heal.
Armed with this understanding, students will begin to interact with the energetic system of the body to understand how to read, interpret, and heal illness.

I teach this via the facebook “classrooms”, something, we the teacher of Aumvedas Academy, have been doing since 2016.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog. I do appreciate your feedbacks.
Until my next blog, enjoy your week.

Catherine

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Christmas Gift Voucher available

Posted on by Holistichealthcarewx

  • Upper Body Massage
    upper back, shoulder, neck massage    : €30/30 min             €50/60min
  • Hawaiian Full Body Massage: Full body Massage with hot oil.
    €70/60min              €80/60min with added Essential Oils
  • Deep-Heat Tissue Massage: Using Infrared Therapy Lamp and massage to target soft tissue injury or treat trapped nerve pain or sore joint.
    €30/30min
  • Aromatherapy Massage:Therapeutic, ralaxing Upper Body Massage
    €40/30min               €60/60min
  • Reiki: €50/60min
  • Reiki and Chakra Balancing: Assessment of the Chakras and Balancing/Clearing/Re-energising Chakra(s) with Reiki.
    €60/60min
  • Intuitive Energy Healing: Intuitive Healing is allowing me to assess
    your body and decide which treatment or a combination of treatments, to use. This may include Vibrational Therapy and/or Acupressure/Pendulum/Oils….
    €130/120-150min

Who heals the Healer?

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Doctors, Nurses, Therapists, Clergy, and other Healing Providers

CWD 25/10/2022 Ireland

Who heals the Healers?

We are all in danger of burnouts, but Doctors and us Nurses really do “feel” that pulling at the very essence of our being.

These are very stressful times and many are sick. Physically and emotionally. Usually you would attend your Family Doctor – GP for physical or organic help, or you may attend a Clergy or Therapist for emotional help … or, God forbid you end up on the hospital trolley in A&E (ER). And as you are now in their presence, looking for help, have you given the Healthcare Provider – Doctors, Nurses, Therapists, Clergy – a Thought of Your Time? Who Heals the Healer?

We are by no means immune to cases coming in and some touch us profoundly and we “bring it home”; something we were all taught, never to do. And to quote Rag’n’Bone Man: “I’m only human after all” – at the end of the day, that is exactly who we all are: Human.

Healing for Healers is a unique approach to address compassion fatigue, to listen to your body, and to connect to your inheritance. This includes both your inherited burdens and the true gifts of your lineage. You learn how to release what does not serve you, repair deep wounds, restore balance to the body, and replenish your energy and life force. As healers and care providers it is imperative to have a safe and containing place to receive this kind of support. It is possible to give and care for others while still honouring and providing for your own needs and health. 

Example once told to me:

 “Your healing space feels very relaxing and soothing. I think my patients would feel comfortable here“, said Dr. Emily Rawlings, as she stands in the middle of my office and looks around. She came to learn about my integrative practice of psychotherapy and intuitive healing as a resource for her patients. Her attention turns to the large coloured painting on the wall of a multi layered heart. She comments on how beautiful it is and how appropriate for the work that takes place here. She pauses for a moment. “I should also come here but it so hard to find the time for myself.” A tear wells up in her eye and she quickly wipes it away as if to dispel the unexpected sting of emotion. “Many of my patients are so ill and I come home so tired”. She lets out a deep sigh. “I get afraid that there won’t be enough left of me for my kids. Sometimes I just feel numb.” I notice her momentary sad and defeated expression. She then straightens out her slightly bent body and looks back at me with the composure of a strong competent doctor. 
The kind of Tired that Dr. Rawlings is talking about is not the kind that gets better with a good night’s sleep. Hers is a compassion fatigue. This is a tiredness that lives in our hearts and in our bodies from the empathy that we express for the people we are treating every day. It can take too much out of us emotionally when we are “feeling” with our patients their fears and their feelings of desperation. How can we bring support and caring to our patients when our own inner energetic container is over full? As healers and care givers it is vital to have a mechanism to replenish and restore ourselves. We also must release any lingering feelings that we unintentionally hold on to from our patients. Dr. Rawlings continues to provide her heart felt caring through her will, drive, and commitment to healing. With a depleted body, she pushes beyond, past her ‘tired’, ignoring her body’s aches, pains, and signals to listen. 



Thirty plus years ago, I chose a path that led me to care for people who were suffering deeply. The suffering had many forms such as severe burns, physical and emotional violence, and severe mental illness. People needed so much support to navigate the difficulties that life sent their way. Along with the feelings of pride, fulfilment, and joy that I received from this meaningful work, I also experienced the heaviness that comes from sharing in the depths of the human condition. I felt courageous and gratified that I carried this burden for so long without really knowing its impact. As my life became more complex and dense with responsibility, the heaviness increased. I desperately needed to address it. 

Energy healing along with deep body listening and body dialogue offered me this opportunity. I was guided to connect with my body by sensing and feeling what it was holding. I was also guided to learn how to release this holding.

During this process I discovered that I was not just a great holder but I was what I call, an ‘inherited holder’. This means one who comes from a long line of strong women holders. How then could I give up my ‘inheritance’? This made it more difficult to discern what was truly serving me in my life and what burdens were not really mine.

What is an Integrated Practice of being a Nurse and Intuitive Energy Healing?

The Intuitive Energy Healing approach to therapy recognizes that throughout our lives, our bodies store memories and traumas in the form of blocks. These blocks or ‘stuck’ energy impact both our physical and emotional health. Negative energy stored for long periods of time manifest as symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, pain, and illness. They also arise as struggles in relationships, in the work place, and in creative expression. Hidden beneath layers of energy blocks are unconscious beliefs formed from earlier life experiences which limit our capacity to make real or healthy choices.

Together the healer and client identify where the blocks are held, discern the underlying beliefs, and find the pathways for release. During this process the client may experience significant and unexpected changes which create openings for growth and healing. The client and healer reflect upon the process and content of the session, building connections between body and mind.


What can I expect in a typical session? 

What Methods are used?

Every Intuitive Healer has their own methods and usually it is what they are most comfortable using.
In my case, I use Reiki Energy, Divine Energy, Chakra Energy, Radiesthesia Energy, Colour and Sound Vibrational Energies, Crystal Energy, Acupressure, Aroma Therapy and Massages, to name a few. I may only use two or three, or all of them; this depends on the client’s need for therapy. I am guided and follow intuition.

A typical session begins with traditional talk therapy focusing on those concerns which led the client to seek treatment. In order to deepen the work, we move to an energetic exploration of the body enabling client and healer to identify and clear blocks which are obstacles to healing. The body work may incorporate components of breath work, vocalisation, visualisation, guided imagery, movement, and hands on or hands over energetic healing. The healing moves back and forth between identifying and releasing blocks, and the reflection, understanding and integration of what has occurred. Sessions often close with a take-home exercise individually designed to help the client internalize the discovery process. A session can last up to 2 hours. Most require up to three such sessions to reach their goal, others feel the effects after the 2 hours.

If this resonates with you, call and leave a message, send and SMS or PM me directly – I will get back to you. Catherine.

Many thanks for taking the time reading this blog.
CWD 25.10.2022/Ireland

What is Lomi lomi Massage?

Posted on by Holistichealthcarewx

What is Lomi lomi Massage?

Lomi Lomi massage
Lomi Lomi massage
Lomi Lomi, traditional Hawaiian massage

Lomi lomi is a traditional Hawaiian massage that uses a combination of massage techniques, nut oils, and sometimes elements of prayer, breathing and dance to restore energy and soothe the body. It is also known as the ‘loving hands’ massage. This name helps to explain its principles – the massage works gently yet deeply into the muscles with continuous, flowing strokes, allowing the recipient to relax and give in to the nurturing touch.

Lomi lomi works from the belief that memories are not just stored in the brain and mind, but also in every cell of the human body. The long, continuous strokes of the massage are designed to help the body let go of its old patterns and behaviours, which can cause as many stresses and strains as muscle tension.

Hawaiian Lomi Lomi

‘Lomi lomi’ translates to ‘rub rub’ in Hawaiian, and reflects the broad, flowing strokes made with the therapist’s fingers, thumbs, palms, arms and elbows. Macadamia, palm and coconut oils are usually used as moisturisers in lomi lomi massage, to keep the strokes smooth and to nourish the skin.

Many believe that the healing art of Lomi lomi was brought to Hawaii by the earliest Polynesian settlers, while others believe that it is deeply infused with the practice of ‘living aloha’ – a carry-over from ancient Hawaii and the mystical land of Mu. The Hawaiian lomi lomi massage can also be referred to as Kahuna bodywork.

Benfits of Lomi lomi massage

Lomi lomi aims to treat the body and mind as one whole being. It is thought to:

  • release tension
  • assist blood and lymph flow
  • eliminate waste and stimulate toxins
  • rejuvenate the body
  • instil a sense of peace, harmony and wellbeing.

In Hawaii, lomi lomi is used to treat children with upset stomachs and soothe women in labour. A lomi lomi therapist will not aim to heal themselves, but to be the facilitator for healing – to enable healing to take place.

Before you go

The nature of lomi lomi means that you probably won’t be able to wear very much, so check with the spa about what you can bring. Bikini bottoms are usually OK – or the spa might even provide disposable paper pants – not a fashion item.

It’s worth remembering that the oils used in massage are not kind to hair or make-up, so you might not want to return to work straight after your treatment. But that’s fine – if you clear your diary for the afternoon, you’ll be able to spend longer in post-lomi lomi heaven.

Avoid eating heavy meals or drinking alcohol in the hours leading up to your massage.

Precautions

Your therapist should ask you about your medical history before your treatment begins. It’s important to tell them if you are – or think you may be – pregnant.

What to expect from a lomi lomi massage

Traditionally, lomi lomi massage is performed with the recipient lying on a hand-woven mat on the floor. However, you may find yourself on a conventional massage table, or lying directly on the vinyl of it. Instead of being covered with towels, you might just have one towel or a small sheet to preserve your modesty. These steps are taken to avoid interrupting the continuous flow of the massage.

The Lomi lomi healing practice usually begins with a period of stillness between therapist and recipient, sometimes with the therapist’s hands resting lightly on the recipient’s back. During this moment of stillness, a traditional lomi lomi practitioner would say a blessing or prayer, asking for whatever healing is needed.

The therapist will work intuitively with your body, with fluid, rhythmic strokes to release and shift tensions. There is no set format for the massage itself, so no two Hawaiian massages are the same. The treatment may be slow and relaxing or faster and more invigorating, depending on how your body responds. You might find that the therapist massages two different parts of your body simultaneously – this is to stop your brain from focusing on any one area and therefore helps to aid relaxation. Sometimes, lomi lomi is carried out by two therapists at once to intensify the effect.

Your massuese may make full-body or under-body strokes, lightly stretch your limbs and carefully rotate your joints. These techniques are thought to free up your energy flow, and she will perform them very gently, staying within your comfort zone and level of resistance.

Don’t be surprised if your therapist – particularly if she is a traditional lomi lomi practitioner – hums at various points during your massage. Humming is supposed to create amplified and vibrating energy, promoting the release of blockages within the body. Dance techniques and hula movements are important, too, in keeping the energy flow high.

Hot tip!

One of the luxuries of any traditional massage is the thought of its geographical origins. Think of lomi lomi as your own little piece of Hawaii, imagine yourself in a treatment room next to miles of sandy beach and feel its holiday-effects work their magic!

Afterwards

You will feel blissfully relaxed after your Hawaiian massage, and nurtured from top to toe. Make time to wallow in the afterglow, and have a dip in the pool or a leisurely shower before you return to the real world. If you’re lucky enough to be in Hawaii, why not sit yourself between sand and ocean and let the waves lap you into a deeper, warm, luxurious calm.

Different kinds of lomi lomi massage

Lomi lomi massage is an intuitive skill, so no two treatments will be the same. Some forms of lomi lomi use baths, bone-adjusting techniques and even humming and dancing.

Some variations include:

  • ‘A’e’: ‘a’e’ is Hawaiin for ‘walking the body’. In this form of lomi lomi, the therapist balances herself with a pole or ceiling bar while she gently walks the length of your body
  • Four-handed treatments with two therapists

To book a 1 hour massage call or sms on WhatsApp 0851103506