frequently asked questions
Herbalism
How does herbal medicine work?
When practiced from an energetic perspective, herbs are used to treat the deeper underlying cause of illness and not merely eliminate symptoms. Herbs help to facilitate the natural functions of the body and restore its internal balance. Some ways this is done is by regulating digestion, supporting the nervous system, and toning specific areas of the body.
How long does it take for herbs to be effective?
There are a variety of factors, such as how long the condition has existed, the severity of it, the dosage of the herbs, and most importantly how diligently treatment protocols are followed. You must take the herbs as instructed to see results. You may experience relief within a few minutes, or it may take months for more deeply seated illness.
How do I take the herbs?
Herbs are available in a variety of forms, the most common being tea, tincture (an alcohol extract), and capsules. Some other ways to take herbs are in medicated honey, vinegar, and glycerin, as well as oils and salves for external use. And of course in cooking! There are still many more wonderful ways to use herbs for your health.
Are herbs safe?
Yes, although it depends on the herb. They are safe when used in the recommended dosages for the appropriate purpose and in an appropriate way. One of the most important things is to be certain to use high quality herbs from a reputable source that grows organically or uses ethically wildcrafted herbs. According to the World Health Organization, "Currently, the majority of adverse events related to the use of herbal products and herbal medicines that are reported are attributable either to poor product quality or to improper use."
Can I use herbs in combination with standard medical treatments and care?
Certainly. It is important that you provide all the information about medications that you take in order to ensure the proper herbal formulation for use in conjunction with your other treatments. Oftentimes herbs can be used to ease any side effects of your medication.
Hypnosis
How does hypnosis work?
Hypnosis works by accessing your unconscious mind, the place where you store your life experiences and the impact they have made upon you. It is also where you have the most power for deep change, as well as access to your imagination and intuition. Unlike the conscious mind, which is logical and judgmental, the unconscious part of the mind is much less rigid, and thusly less limited. This allows for reframing undesirable or problematic “information” and the ability to change and reorient your habits and ways of thinking and feeling.
How do I know if I can be hypnotized?
A very high percentage of people are hypnotizable. The most important thing is that you are willing! No one can hypnotize you if you don't want it. The defenses in your conscious mind will resist and it will not work.
The depth of hypnotic trance is different for each person and can vary from session to session. It is a learned skill, and the more you experience it, the deeper and faster you will go into the receptive state of hypnosis. However, even a light state of hypnotic relaxation is sufficient enough to successfully bring about transformational change.
What does it feel like to be hypnotized?
It is a deeply relaxed and calm state of the mind and body, similar to a meditative state or the way it feels just before you fall asleep. You may feel sensations of lightness or heaviness, tingling, or time distortion. The most certain thing is that it’s a wonderfully pleasant experience!
Will I remember everything?
You are completely conscious while in the hypnotic state of deepened relaxation. If you do fall asleep, your subconscious will still retain the messages delivered during the session.
Most people remember everything that happens while in hypnosis, but it could seem foggy if you went into a particularly deep state. You may remember things later that you were not consciously aware of immediately following the session. Ultimately, you will remember anything that you want to remember.
Is hypnosis safe?
Hypnosis is a completely safe and natural relaxed state of mind. You are aware and in control at every moment and can choose to open your eyes and stop the session at any time. You cannot be made to do something against your will, nor can you get stuck in a hypnotic state.
What is hypnosis used for?
It is most commonly utilized to help you to do something that you currently cannot or to stop doing something that you currently do.
As well, it can be used to alleviate symptoms of medical conditions. Hypnosis is also employed for past-life regression, although I do not offer that service.
How many sessions does it take?
Everyone responds differently. Some individuals may see results after 1 or 2 sessions, while others may benefit from a series of 4 or 5 sessions. The important thing to remember is that it is a process, and it may be unrealistic to expect lasting results in just one session. Be prepared to set reasonable goals.
The efficacy rate of hypnosis is directly related to the level of self-motivation you bring to the process. If you are attempting to change for someone else, then there is a much lower likelihood of success.
Why do some hypnosis services only come as a package?
This is done to ensure that you are committed to the process of change and invested in the time it can take to see the results you seek. There is a significant increase in success when the full program is completed.
What do I need to do to prepare for a hypnosis session?
Come with an open mind and a willingness to make a change. Wear comfortable clothing, and refrain from caffeine 2 hours prior to session, as it can hinder your ability to relax.
Reiki
How does Reiki work?
Reiki is a special kind of subtle universal healing energy. It does not come directly from the healer, but is channeled through those attuned to it. Reiki has a intelligence all of its own, and guides itself to best serve the needs of the receiver. The Reiki energy is naturally directed to areas where the recipient has chi (life energy) blocks. It raises the vibrations in and around the body causing negative energy to clear away. It works by clearing, strengthening and healing energy pathways.
How is a treatment given?
The client will start on their back on a massage table. There will be a moment of silence as the Reiki energy is called to flow. You will then be scanned with the hands for energy blocks. The session begins, usually at the head, and going down to the feet. The Reiki will be channeled through the hands placed either directly on the body or hovering just above it in the auric field. Sometimes you may flip onto your stomach halfway through the session. Sometimes the use of crystals will be employed and placed upon the body to assist in the healing.
What does it feel like?
The experience varies from person to person, but most everyone feels a sense of deep relaxation. Sometimes when a block is released, there may be a hot or cold sensation. You also may feel a tingling, a sense of floating outside the body, have visions or even just fall asleep. At the end of the treatment, one feels refreshed and positive.
What can be treated with Reiki?
Although gentle, Reiki is very powerful. It has a positive effect on all manner of illness, and can be used in acute or chronic conditions. It is always helpful and can improve the efficacy of other therapies, as well as reduce side effects from treatments such as chemotherapy & radiation. It generally increases the rate of healing after illness or surgery. There are no absolutes, but most certainly, it is a wonderful form of stress reduction, which innately improves health and wellbeing.
Are there any side effects from a Reiki treatment?
Reiki is guided by spiritual consciousness and therefore can never do harm. The energy adjusts itself as needed, and it is always helpful and always safe.
How do I prepare for a session?
The best results are achieved by simply finding a calm and relaxed state within yourself, and enjoying the soothing energy as it flows through you. Come wearing comfortable clothing and do not eat a large meal less than an hour before your appointment.