Contributing Authors
Should aromatherapy and massage be a part of health care?
As a trained nurse and aromatic medicine practitioner, I would like to share with you what a difference aromatherapy and massage can make to the quality of life for people with chronic illness, the elderly, the palliative, their families and carers.
Incorporating the benefits of aromatherapy with touch is powerfully incredible (or incredibly powerful). As we journey through life, our needs change. Aromatherapy and the essential oils work with you through all stages of that journey.
The power of smell
Our sense of smell is powerful and immediate – your body chemistry reacts with the chemical constituents in the plants – essential oils being the life blood of the plants. This assists you in selecting the essential oils you require. If you like the aroma, then this indicates that it is the best oil or blend of oils for you. Smell association is also a factor in selecting the oil. Aroma often conjures up feelings, events etc from the past that you are comfortable with.
The role of aromatherapy in palliative care
Palliative care aromatherapy and massage work together to bring comfort and quality of life to our palliative client, family and friends alike. It is often difficult for people to say those three words – ‘I Love You’. A gentle hand massage combined with a delightful, beautiful aromatic smelling essential oil or blend does just that! This is proactive in bringing family and friends together while encompassing and sharing the end of life journey of your ‘loved one’. An example of an essential oil blend that I often use in these instances is a combination of:
Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) – for letting go of any anger, frustration or grief
Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) – calming, slows and deepens the breath
Petitgrain (Citrus aurantium/amara) – soothes and relieves anxiety
Be aware, however, that in choosing essential oils, that the medication/s that your client is being administered, do not contain the same chemical constituents – the elimination pathways being the same! Avoid essential oils that are contraindicated and also be aware that oil and water do not mix and that the ingestion of essential oils is not advised unless under the supervision of a qualified aromatic medicine practitioner.
Discover the difference these actions described above can make. Enjoy the art of blending. There are so many wonderful combinations with multifunctional chemical properties for many different ailments and uses. It is lovely to receive and equally as good to apply.
Working holistically on the physical, emotional and the spirit – a wonderful adjunct to conventional treatments.
Aromatherapy for Health Workers and Carers will be held on the Sunshine Coast Campus on July 18 and 19.
BRAVE – Back to School with Essential Oils by Susanne Turner
Is your child needing a little support going back to school or starting something new?
I graduated from Aminya Natural Therapies with a Diploma in Clinical Aromatherapy and late last year released a range of I AM bath soaks, foot soaks and Mood oils.
All products have been formulated with pure essential oils sourced from a range of excellent suppliers, and follow a theme of I AM .. designed to encourage reflection, self awareness , self love, and discussion around the I AM’s that we are creating for ourselves.
Mood oils include – I AM Calm, I AM Free, I AM Enough, I AM Peace, I AM Beautiful, I AM Travelling, I AM Focused, I AM Loved and I AM Sleepy.
Each bottle contains an affirmation and a reminder.
I am BRAVE mood oil has been gently formulated with children in mind and is available in a 10ml Roll on Bottle.
This perfect little back to school blend contains Australian Jojoba oil, Australian Lavender, Frankincense and Juniper Berry and is a gentle reminder that you or your loves ones can choose courage and be brave. Lavender was chosen for its calming properties, Frankincense for its support with fear, insecurity and anxiety, and Juniper because energetically it encourages determination, confidence and protection.
Roll on a little on their wrists as they start the day and remind them …..
Breathe.
Deep Belly breathing communicates to your body that you are safe and are going to be okay, Breathe slowly and deeply. You can even count quietly in between breathes as you do this.
Rise.
Shoulders back, stand tall. You can do this. Putting your shoulders back helps you to feel stronger and enables the deep breaths to get right down into your stomach. Stretch if you need to.
Accept.
It is okay to be scared and brave at the same time. Accept yourself for what you are feeling. Accept the situation.
Voice.
It is okay to communicate to someone how you are feeling. Connect with someone who may be able to help. Your voice matters. It is also really important to be kind to yourself and to tell yourself that you are going to be okay
Exhale.
Feel your worries float away as you exhale. Make your exhale ( that’s the bit where you let your air go out of your belly) longer than the breath you take to fill up your belly) Exhale for as long as you can. This can take practice – and that is okay too. You can do this.
Products are available on Susanne’s Website. www.iamoils.com.au
From Diesel Mechanic to Body Mechanic – follow your dream career…
Words Krishna Everson
When I caught up with Jesse McKinnon he was preparing to take part in ‘Trail to Triumph’, a gruelling 250km, 3 day Ultra Marathon, to raise money for Mesothelioma cancer research. Jesse had only taken up running a year ago, but it didn’t take long for me to realise that he isn’t easily fazed by challenges, and is committed to personal growth and being a better father, husband and individual.
Jesse’s personal development journey had begun 6 years ago, after a period of extensive travel, finding love, and starting a family.
“The big catalyst for change was first meeting my wife, I wanted to be better for her and then we had our first child, was a big kicker. That’s when I realised I really wanted to have them grow up and not have a father who’s going to a job where he’s not fulfilled, and just going and getting it done, I wanted to lead by example, and do something I was actually passionate about.”
Jesse is soon to graduate from Aminya Natural Therapies Academy with a Diploma in Remedial Massage Therapy, and has started his own therapy business Myosync.
I asked Jesse how he first became interested in massage. “I was looking towards something in training or therapy of some sort. I had been interested in professional boxing which was a performance thing, and I was interested in how to make things work better, because of some little injuries I had. I started reading about the body, and trying to learn how I can make myself function pain-free. I got to the point where I was reading anatomy and physiology text books for kicks and doing little online courses and stuff like that. My wife Elysha was like ‘you’re reading text books, you need to do something’. That was my aha moment. I drove past Aminya Academy and saw the building, and went and saw Denise (the Principal). I’d almost given up trying to find somewhere that was flexible, where I could also get my health fund registration to claim health rebates.” Jesse hasn’t looked back!
I asked Jesse what he thought was important for happiness. “I think good relationships with friends but family as well. Relationship with your partner is massive, communication. I’ve also noticed since I’ve gone down the path of changing careers that it is a massive factor as well. I feel like I can’t be happy when I’m not fulfilled and purposeful in my work, where you spend most of your life.”
This article first appeared in Holistic Bliss Magazine – you can view the original article here: https://issuu.com/nessfinn/docs/holistic_bliss_nov_vol_107/16
Are you Coughing to be Heard?
Irritation to the throat and lungs causes a cough as a natural healthy response to rid the body of the irritant. Most of us cough now and again, but coughing can become uncontrollable and be a sign of an infection in the airways. Coughs can be productive in order to expel mucus, however a dry cough is non-productive.
Coughing is a wonderfully noisy condition. The whole household can hear you coughing, so this symptom can occur because we feel the need to be heard. We want attention. “Listen to me” says our cough, “I am irritated”.
Write out the following affirmations and post them on your bathroom mirror. As you brush your teeth morning and night repeat these words to yourself:
- I am listened to and understood
- I express myself easily and clearly
- I have room to breathe.
Use a humidifier to keep the air moist. Even bowls of water stood around the room can help, but you will need to refill every few days as they will collect dust.
Eating the right foods can help too. Licorice tea can help make a cough more productive. Slippery elm powder in a glass of water can help a dry cough. Soups have been shown to be good for coughs, especially chicken soup. Spicy foods can have an expectorant effect.
Keep Vitamin C levels high by consuming lots of kiwis, blueberries, citrus fruits and broccoli. And don’t forget to drink plenty of water.
Avoid dairy products as these can encourage mucus production as can bananas, oats and wheat products in some people. Caffeine in tea, coffee, chocolate and cola should also be avoided as they can contribute to dehydration.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Elizabeth Hughes is the founder of Your Body Has The Answer Pty Ltd and was Head of Progressive Kinesiology in the United Kingdom. She graduated from Warwick University in England, with a B.A. Honours degree in Psychology and Education.
As well as running a busy private health centre, teaches the nationally recognised Diploma of Kinesiology. She is an Advanced Australian Bush Flower Essence practitioner, has studied Cranio-sacral therapy and Aromatic medicine.
She is author of the comprehensive self help books YOUR BODY HAS THE ANSWER and YOUR CHILD’S BODY HAS THE ANSWER which guide you through common health conditions and how to treat them naturally.
Essential Oils for The Cold and Flu Season
Each of us will suffer through the runny noses, persistent coughs or aches and pain of the cold and flu at some stage in our lives. When we are run down, we become susceptible to the dreaded lurgies and illness will always come at the most inconvenient time.
Essential Oils for Symptom Relief
Essential oils really stand out when it comes to symptom relief. They have a natural affinity with our respiratory system and have the ability to reduce congestion and thin out mucous, reduce our cough response, ease the pain of fever and kill off air borne bacteria. They can also ease that desolate feeling that only a bad snuffle can produce.
Tailor Made Aromatic Chemistry
Knowing your aromatic chemistry really pays off at times like these. We can tailor our blends to suit individual needs and use nature in a directed way. Bring out the 1,8-cineoles and feel the benefits. Cineole-rich essential oils will reduce inflammatory reactions and prevent the spread of infection. Terpene alcohols are excellent choices for chronic bronchitis. Monoterpene alcohols will be pleasantly uplifting and safe and antiseptic.
Recently I developed a very bad flu, which was lovingly passed to me from my beloved. I was stressed out, overworked and then out action for 2 weeks!
My 5 Oil Response List and How I Use Them
I have included my 5 oil response list and these choices are a mix of essential oils which I have a personal affinity for:
- Myrtle Myrtus communis
- Lemon Citrus limon
- Eucalyptus Eucalpytus radiata
- Honey Myrtle Melaleuca teretifolia
- Pine Pinus sylvestris
It’s possible to mix and match depending upon your situation, and I like to swap each oil synergy every 48 to 36 hours in order to avoid sensitisation. I also have found anecdotally, that by rotating my blends, their efficacy improves – or I feel a sense of improvement, at least. Let’s face it – when struck by flu, any positive mood enhancement is a plus! This is how I used my experience in Clinical Aromatherap
Myrtle Myrtus communis and Lemon Citrus limon combined at a 1& dilution for a chest rub and foot rub and applied 3 times a day for three days eases head congestion, warms the chest and soothes the cough response. I used Olive Oil out of my pantry as a base.
Eucalpytus radiata is a wonderful inhalation that eases catarrh and decongests the head. I added 3 drops to a cup of Magnesium sulphate and added it to the bath for the relief of aches and pains. As I had my flu when the weather was still warm, my choice was cooling to my body, and clearing to the mind. Inhalations significantly improved my respiratory function.
Note for Asthmatics and Small Children: Do always be careful with Eucalpytus oils though, People who have Asthma, or small children under 5 years of age should choose their oils carefully. Eucalyptus can actually be too much for some people, so start with minimal doses and work your way up if unsure.
Honey Myrtle Melaleuca teretifolia eases congestion and kills air-borne bugs. 4 to 6 drops added to a electric oil vapouriser gets rid of that ‘sick smell’ and brings a sense of freshness. Even though I was snotty and miserable and feverish, I felt clean. I find Lemongrass Cymbopogon citratus will have a similar effect, even though my preference is to use the herb over the oil.
Pine Pinus sylvestris is a safe and gentle decongestant and disinfectant which contains 50 to 97% monoterpene hydrocarbons. It is suitable for prolonged use and is one of the best oils to clear cold phlegm from the lungs. Sometimes I would add this to my bath and I added drops to my Shower Gel base and used it on a face cloth in a steaming shower at night. It was less stimulating than a Eucalyptus oil, and similar in its decongestant effect.
This was my healing kit, which allowed me to sleep with only one pillow at night and without cold and flu medication. My body was able to heal itself naturally and the infection did not travel from my head. My room smelled prettier than it could have, which was an added benefit.
Choosing Your Own Essential Oil Kit
When choosing your own essential oil kit it is important to choose oils that will possess a wide range of properties. Your choices should be antifungal, antibacterial, antiseptic and antiviral. They should also be immunostimulants.
Rest and proper nutrition should help with the rest.
Reflexology – what is it and how can it help?
A lot of people ask me, what is reflexology?
Reflexology is the ancient treatment of the feet – dating back thousands of years from many cultures of greater Asia, the Middle East and Egypt. Old graphic texts show people massaging the feet of others in various ways. These texts also show various maps of the feet and the relationship to the organs and major joints of the body.
Many forms of treatment took place including massage, oils, and the use of instruments, sticks, stones, knuckles, brushes and the like.
The modern form of reflexology is similar with attention given to our soft skin as these days we tend to wear better shoes than ancient people did. It involves specific massage techniques which stimulate the reflex points of the feet in relation to the organs and joints.
What is reflexology good for?
Apart from the obvious – (it’s great for your feet!); research studies have shown that reflexology is very effective for constipation, diarrhoea, anxiety, depression, and during uncomplicated labour to bring balance and improve efficiency of contractions.
I have also helped people with headaches/sore neck/hips/knees/back using specific reflexology points to alleviate pain and soreness from those areas. They are usually amazed at the result. The great thing is I can then teach them how to massage those points at home and continue the treatment for themselves.
Students of reflexology are surprised with wonder at how effective reflexology is when they are learning and experiencing it for themselves on a regular basis.
Reflexology is a mostly gentle, non-invasive way to treatment many common complaints of pain and discomfort without the use of drugs. That’s why more people are interested in learning more about it.
About the author:
Kirsty teaches reflexology for Aminya Academy www.aminyaacademy.com.au
Kirsty is an experienced therapist and teacher with a studio business in Strathpine called Caring Cottage.
How to lose weight from a Kinesiological perspective
Weight loss is an issue for many in our community. After the holidays most people are feeling a bit sluggish and looking at fasting, detoxing, and joining a gym.
Although the answer may seem simple: eat less and exercise more, the reality is far more complex. For lasting success, psychological factors, hormonal factors and dietary needs must be explored and a holistic approach taken.
Kinesiology allows you to get to the root cause of why you have put on weight and why you are struggling to lose it.
I find with my clients that the cause is often emotional. Layers of fat can be seen as layers of protection. If you feel frightened or insecure you can put on weight in self-defence.
Could carrying weight make you feel less attractive and therefore safer?
You may have put on weight because you want to be noticed.
The bigger you are, the more attention you receive. Has someone ignored you or rejected you recently or in the past?
To dissolve some of the emotional and psychological factors that could be holding weight on your body try the Australian Bush Flower Essence – WILD POTATO BUSH – It is for feeling heavy and physically encumbered and will help you feel light and revitalised. You can easily buy a bottle of this in the health food store or pharmacy.
Affirmations can also help you feel more positive about losing weight. Repeat the following sentences to yourself morning and evening:
- I achieve the perfect weight for me easily
- I am always noticed and respected
- I am safe and secure at all times
I write the affirmations on sticky notes and pop them on my bathroom mirror so as I clean my teeth morning and night I use that time to read and repeat them.
I hope you will embrace a kinesiological approach to your health and start to shed some heavy layers both emotionally and physically from your body.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Elizabeth Hughes is the founder of Your Body Has The Answer Pty Ltd and was Head of Progressive Kinesiology in the United Kingdom. She graduated from Warwick University in England, with a B.A. Honours degree in Psychology and Education.
As well as running a busy private health centre, teaches the nationally recognised Diploma of Kinesiology. She is an Advanced Australian Bush Flower Essence practitioner, has studied Cranio-sacral therapy and Aromatic medicine.
She is author of the comprehensive self help books YOUR BODY HAS THE ANSWER and YOUR CHILD’S BODY HAS THE ANSWER which guide you through common health conditions and how to treat them naturally.
Remedial Massage and Private Health Insurance – getting value for money
It’s a new year and that means most health funds reset – time to check your cover!
Do you know what you’re getting cover for when you signed up for private health insurance?
There are a lot of people who have ‘extras’ or ‘ancillary’ cover on their private health insurance who are not taking regular opportunities to avail themselves of the rebate for remedial massage.
When, for example, we signed up for health insurance with our current provider, we stated that we would like cover that includes rebates for regular massage therapy. When the calculations were done, the salesman stated that our level of cover equated to the ability to have a discounted massage every 2 weeks.
“Sweet!” I thought. Because I usually have a remedial massage every 3 weeks to manage ongoing myalgia issues. So now I just have my regular appointments made every three weeks, stay healthy and happy (happy wife, happy life, right?)
But how do you choose a quality massage therapy provider and how do you know they are providing that services and not just a ‘back-yarder’?
Here are a few things to look for when considering a remedial massage therapist:
Are they a registered member of a natural therapies association?
Look for associations such as Australian Association of Massage Therapists (AAMT), Australian Natural Therapies Association (ANTA) and (AMT).
If these are not readily visible on the person’s advertising, then simply ask, or look them up. The associations have their registered members listed.
A registered massage therapist has undergone an industry recognised and accredited training, has a current first aid certificate and public indemnity insurance.
Are they registered with HICAPS?
HICAPS is a financial scheme which allows the holder of participating health insurance cards to claim their rebate ‘on the spot’ and the consumer simply then pays the gap directly to the provider.
Whilst this is not mandatory, it demonstrates a level of commitment to the industry by having made the steps to be recognised by the big health insurance providers. Medibank Private currently governs the status quo of massage therapy in the HICAPS arena.
HICAPS is also convenient for consumers as they can pay for everything with card – health insurance card and credit cards. No cash necessary.
So check out your private health insurance to see what you can get as a rebate for massage therapy – it’s easy, just ask for a quote! If you ‘re considering a particular therapist it’s also okay to ask what their fee is so that you can get a corrected quote from your provider. That way you know how much gap fee you’ll need to pay. Makes the treatment a lot more enjoyable when you know what the bill will be and not getting a surprise at the end!
Have a great week!
Kirsty is an experienced remedial massage therapist who owns and operates a studio business at Strathpine called Caring Cottage. You can contact her anytime for more information or go on the webpage www.caringcottage.com.au
Evoking the spirit of Christmas with Essential Oils
Christmas can be a time of joy but to many it becomes a time of stress. The following are a choice of Essential Oils that I use to help me get through the festive season.
I use it as a vaporiser blend and have it vaporising in my diffuser 24 hours a day.
It conjures up feelings of past family Christmases, Mum’s home cooked pies and Christmas pudding. The Christmas tree which was chosen from the choice of real trees from the grower up the road and midnight mass at the local church, lovely childhood memories.
Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica)
- Sedative to the nervous system
- Stimulates circulatory system
- Helps with nervous tension
- Stress related conditions
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
- Useful for nervous exhaustion and stress related conditions
Scotch Pine ((Pinus sylvestris)
- Stimulates and aids the adrenals and nervous system
Lemon (Citrus limon)
- Lifts the spirit a great tonic and quencher
Frankincense (Boswellia carterii)
- Sedative / tonic
- Good for letting go of anxiety and fear
- Modifies the sweetness of a blend in an intriguing way
About the Author: Denise Lynds has been managing director of Aminya Natural Therapies since 2004, and is based at Head Office on the Sunshine Coast. She has had 26 years of nursing experience in Australia and overseas, and along with her team, has successfully incorporated aromatherapy, reflexology and massage programs in over 150 health facilities, helping to bridge the gap between allopathic medicine and natural therapies. Denise was part of the team to develop the Advanced Diploma of Aromatic Medicine now being delivered at Aminya.
