Transformational Healing Massage
and Therapy Services
Rainbow
Therapy | Flower Essence Therapy | Swedish
Massage | Deep Tissue Massage
Barefoot
Shiatsu | Injury Rehab | Manual
Lymph Drainage | Treatment of Lymphedema
Geriatric Massage | Medical
Message | Reflexology | Reiki |
Therapeutic Touch
Infant Massage Instuction | Caregiver
Training | Pregnancy Massage | Teenage
Massage
Breath Therapy | Color Therapy | Healing Sounds |
Creative Visualization | Aromatherapy
Spiritual Massage
RAINBOW THERAPY
Was
first developed and put into practiced in 2003 by Laurel Gerber in
Mt Shasta. Rainbow Therapy is a healing session great for assisting
a client through interpersonal issues, life changing events, processing
trauma, releasing, clearing and spiritual healing. By unblocking
and balancing the body’s energy fields, the client has access to healing on all levels of functioning emotional, physical, spiritual, and mental. The body, mind & spirit
is able to RESTORE, TRANSFORM, RESTRUCTURE & RELAX. Rainbow Therapy integrates a combination of modalities
and techniques that are intuitively guided for profound interpersonal
transformation and healing. Some of the modalities used are: organic
essential oils, herbal hot packs, creative visualization, stone/crystal
therapy, flower essence, sacred geometry, color therapy, sound, prayer,
breathe therapy and a variety of body and energy work. Some
of these include physical
therapy, manual lymph drainage, Swedish/American massage, reflexology,
deep tissues, barefoot shiatsu, Tibetan and Ayurvedic manual techniques,
Reiki & Therapeutic Touch.
This
healing session resembles a rainbow. Rainbows teach us how to look
at more than
one aspect. It teaches there are many different
rays to our body and life. Rainbow teaches how these rays
can be balanced and blended to reflect a beautiful radiant whole. All
the aspects of your being are reconnected and balanced together
harmoniously to display a vivid rainbow of color within the electromagnetic
field (aura), just as rays of sunlight reflect off water crystals and transform into a burst
of color creating a rainbow. This is done through many difference
aspects of healing energy and techniques listed above. The
rainbow is proof that it is possible to bridge one energy to another. They
bridge water and light to create color. They
bridge heaven to earth representing hope and promise
for a bright future. RAINBOW THERAPY BRIDGES HEAVEN--spirit--our
subtle bodies, prayers, visions, hopes, dreams and intentions, to EARTH--our
physical body and our tangible reality.
Color
Therapy is often used in the session. Some clients have experienced
their inner sight or third eye opening which in turns displays
vivid multi-colors and visual images as if watching a movie screen. Each
session is unique to the individual’s intention. No one will
have the same exact experience. Read the testimonial page
which is constantly being updated. Try a new experience.
Give yourself a special gift. Create
space to RESTORE, TRANSFORM, RESTRUCTURE & RELAX.
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FLOWER ESSENCE THERAPY
Flower essences provide wonderful
tools for healing, emotional support and personal growth in an area
of practice
known as 'Vibrational
Medicine'. Flower essences
are
subtle liquid extracts, generally taken in oral form, which are
used to address profound issues of
emotional well-being, soul development, and mind-body health. While
the use of flowers for healing has many ancient antecedents, the
precise application of flower essences for specific emotions and
attitudes was first developed by an English physician, Dr. Edward
Bach, in the 1930's. Doctor Bach began using flower essences
to treat underlying emotional conditions of his patients, which
he believed was the true source of their illness. Today,
flower essences are gaining world-wide professional recognition
for their significant contribution to holistic health and wellness
programs.
Laurel offers flower essence consultations recommending specific
remedies. She also combines them in her Rainbow Therapy treatment
by applying them to specific points on the body via drops and/or
misting. The success of your treatment depends on your complete
honesty in identifying your soul issues and patterns. A remedy
will be selected based on your information. Laurel uses Demeter-certified
Biodynamic flower essence from FES Flower Essence Society.
Refer
to www.flowersociety.org.
Flower Essences are 100% safe and natural and
work in conjunction with herbs, homeopathy and medications. They
are safe
for everyone, including children, pregnant women, pets,
the elderly and even plants.
"Health depends on being in harmony with our souls"
Dr. Edward Bach, M.B., B.S., M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., D.P.Hback
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SWEDISH MASSAGE
One of the most commonly taught and well-known massage techniques, Swedish
massage is a vigorous
system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation.
Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the
heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. The disrobed
client is covered by a sheet, with only the area being worked on exposed.
Laurel uses a combination of kneading, rolling, vibrational, percussive,
and tapping movements, with the application of oil, to reduce friction
on the skin. The many benefits of Swedish massage may include generalized
relaxation, dissolution of scar tissue adhesions, and improved circulation,
which may speed healing and reduce swelling from injury. back
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DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE
Techniques which utilize deep tissue/deep muscle massage are administered
to affect the sub-layer of musculature and fascia. These techniques
require more advanced training and a more thorough understanding
of anatomy and physiology. The muscles must be relaxed in order to
effectively perform deep tissue massage, otherwise tight surface
muscles prevent Laurel from reaching deeper musculature. It helps
with chronic muscular pain and injury rehabilitation, and reduces
inflammation-related pain caused by arthritis and tendonitis. It
is generally integrated with other massage techniques. back
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BAREFOOT SHIATSU
Developed
in Japan, shiatsu is a finger-pressure technique utilizing the traditional
acupuncture points
of Oriental healing. Similar to acupressure, shiatsu concentrates
on unblocking the flow of life
energy and restoring balance in the meridians and organs in order
to promote self-healing. 
The
client is placed on a special body cushion on the floor and Laurel
uses her feet to apply pressure along the meridians. The treatment
brings about a sense of relaxation while stimulating blood and lymphatic
flow. The benefits of this treatment may include pain relief and
a strengthening of the body’s resistance to disease and disorder. back
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INJURY REHAB MASSAGE
Laurel is specially licensed and trained as a physical therapy
assistant with extensive rehab background. She uses medically proven
techniques to assist the body recover from traumatic injuries during
the rehabilitation phase of healing. This may include but is not limited
to, assisting the body in decreasing inflammation, decreasing pain, improving
range of motion, releasing trauma out of the tissues/cells and decreasing
recovery time. back
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MANUAL LYMPH DRAINAGE
The strokes applied in manual lymph drainage is intended to stimulate
the movement of the lymphatic fluids in order to assist the body
in cleansing and decompresses blocked lymph vessels. This is a gentle,
rhythmical technique that cleanses the connective tissue of inflammatory
materials
and toxins,
enhances
the activity of the immune system, reduces pain, and lowers the activity
of the sympathetic nervous system. Requires advanced training
and precise movements. www.klosetraining.com , www.nortonschool.com. back
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TREATMENT OF LYMPHEDEMA:
Complete Decongestive Therapy
The most effective and least invasive treatment for Lymphedema
is a four-step process called Complete Decongestive Therapy. The length
of
treatment varies, depending on the severity of the lymphedema.
Step 1: Skin Hygiene and Care
To eliminate bacterial and fungal growth, using antibacterial washes
and low pH skin lotions. Dry carefully between skin folds.
Step 2: Manual
Lymph Drainage (MLD)
Laurel, a specially-trained therapist, redirects the lymph fluid too
healthy lymphatic pathways thereby decompressing blocked lymph vessels,
allowing the effected area to return to near normal size.
Step 3: Bandaging
and Compression
Layered low-stretch bandages and special padding are used for maximum
success in providing counter-pressure to prevent the affected area
from refilling following MLD.
Step 4: Remedial Exercises
Special exercises further promote venous and lymphatic flow by activating
the muscle, lymph, and joint pumps against the compression bandages.
Click to read
a newsletter (PDF) from the Associated Bodyworkers
and Massage Professionals ~ "The Benefits
of Lymphatic Massage".back
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GERIATRIC MASSAGE
Geriatric massage, with its focus on the elderly, addresses the psychological
and physiological aspects of aging and its associated diseases. Bodywork,
often limited to a shorter time span, is performed in residential
care facilities.
MASSAGE
FOR SENIORS
Bodywork
Improves Quality of Life
Almost 35 million Americans are age 65
or older, and about 2,000 more reach this age every day. As the U.S. demographic
shifts to an older
population, it's important to find ways of helping our elders maintain
their health and vitality. Massage for seniors is gaining importance
as an alternative therapy to increase quality of life, and many massage
therapists are getting special training to better serve this growing
population.
Seniors' Special Needs While similar in technique to other forms of massage,
geriatric massage considers the special needs of the elderly. The specialty
trained practitioner knows about positioning for greatest comfort and
will often have the client rest in the same position for the entire
massage. Mobility challenges may dictate the massage be done in a bed
or wheelchair. The therapist may also work both sides of the body at
the same time to enhance body awareness, or only work hands and feet,
if the client prefers. Sessions may be limited to 30 to 45 minutes,
as older clients often do better with shorter, more frequent, massages.
The geriatric massage therapist is aware of health issues associated
with aging and how to safely work with this type of client and with
associated physicians. Consequently, the practitioner is able to individualize
the massage service based on the client's health, mobility, and comfort
level.
Benefits of Geriatric MassageA recent study conducted at the Weaver's
Tale Retreat Center in Oregon looked at the effects of massage for
elderly clients. The results of the two-year study showed that participants
experienced a decrease in breathing rate of 50 percent and an improvement
in range of motion, posture, body awareness, skin color, and muscle
tone. Furthermore, it is well documented that caring touch benefits
emotional well-being in seniors -- a population at greater risk of
suffering from depression.
Massage therapy can add to the quality of a senior's life, both physically
and emotionally. Consider booking a session for someone you love, and
make a difference in their life.
Compliments of ABMP
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MEDICAL MASSAGE
Medical massage addresses the psychological and physiological
aspects of diseases and injuries. Bodywork, often limited to a shorter
time span, is performed in a hospital setting. Laurel has 7 years experience
working with infant through geriatric patient populations as well as
diverse diagnosis.
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REFLEXOLOGY
Based on an ancient Chinese therapy, reflexology involves manipulation
of specific reflex areas in the
foot, hands, and ears that correspond
to other parts of the body. Sometimes referred to as zone therapy,
this bodywork involves application of pressure to these reflex zones
to stimulate body organs and relieve areas of congestion. Similar
to acupressure principles, reflexology works with the body’s
energy flow to stimulate self-healing and maintain balance in physical
function. Developed in the United States in the early 1900s, this
technique is used today to reduce pain, increase relaxation, and
stimulate circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids. It is especially
useful in stress-related illness and emotional disorders. Reflexology
is also convenient in cases where an area of the body is traumatized
or diseased to the extent that direct manipulation is not appropriate. back
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REIKI
Buddhist
in nature, reiki (pronounced ray-key) is the combining of universal energy
with individual energy to open pathways of healing. It teaches
that disease is not separate from the body; it is the body out of
balance. Rediscovered by Japanese Buddhist and Christian scholar
of theology Mikao Usui around 1921, this energy healing method involves
placing the hands on or just above the body in order to align chakras
and bring healing energy to organs and glands. Laurel is trained
to
access and serve as a channel for the life energy, uses a passive
touch that some clients experience as warmth or tingling. The hands
remain in position for 3 to 5 minutes, alternately covering 10 to
12 positions over the body. Treatments work by dissolving or eliminating
toxic energy and substances from many levels of one’s being,
whether it is physical, emotional, or mental. This works to strengthen
the harmonic flow of energy within the body.
Member of Reiki Page
Directory at: http://reiki.7gen.com/directory back
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THERAPEUTIC TOUCH
Developed through the collaboration of a nursing professor and a spiritual
healer, Therapeutic Touch is based on ancient energy healing methods.
Practitioners, primarily nurses, are trained to feel or sense energy
imbalances in the client and to use laying on of hands to disperse
blocks and channel healing forces to the client’s body. Laurel
uses a light touch or holds the hand above the body, with the client
generally seated. Meditation is used by Laurel to center herself
and strengthen her connection to the client’s
energy system. Therapeutic Touch has been applied in an assortment
of medical situations, including the care of premature infants, ICU
and emergency room patients. It is known to induce a state of relaxation
within minutes. Therapeutic Touch is considered safe because 
of
its gentle, noninvasive approach. back
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INFANT MASSAGE INSTRUCTION
Laurel teaches parents how to properly massage their infants. Infant
massage is also utilized in hospital neonatal care units. This specialized
form of touch is successful, not only in the critical weight gain
of premature infants, but also in creating a strong bond between
parent and infant and exposing a young child to the benefits and
pleasures of touch.
www.iaim-us.com/ back
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CAREGIVER TRAINING
Is a specialized one on one training to teach caregivers and family members
(parents, sibling, aunts, uncles, grandparents) how to massage or
give reflexology to their patients and loved ones. This is basic training for someone with no experience. There is no certification. It will give you the knowledge and experience to
offer healthy nurturing healing touch. back
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PREGNANCY MASSAGE
Customized for the mother-to-be. Special cushions and positioning
are arranged for mother’s complete comfort. Pregnancy massage
is ideal for relieving discomfort from aching muscles, stress and anxiety;
Relieves fatigue; Reduces stretch marks and swollen ankles; Relaxes
muscles to improve rotation of breech presentation. It also is beneficial
for improving circulation to the organs and tissues that are being
compressed. Relieves
Back & Sciatic Pain, Relieves Neck Pain & Headaches. back
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Specific and sensitive to the
needs of a young person going through the transition from child to adult. Teenagers can be self conscious
and shy of their bodies requiring education and feedback to build self
esteem. Laurel’s
approach to teenage massage helps a young adult understand and accept
healthy nurturing touch, as well as, assists teenagers to manage stress,
reduce impact of emotional/hormonal transitions, relieve muscle tension,
improve sleep and study patterns.
EASE ADOLESCENT ANGST
While teens may be less likely than their parents to go to a
massage therapist, there are plenty of reasons why this age group should
be encouraged
to give it a try. The benefits of massage are well documented, among
them relief of muscle tension, lowered stress hormones, increased sense
of relaxation, improved immune function, and even a heightened ability
to concentrate, according to studies conducted by the Touch Research
Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine. But for teenagers,
there's an additional payback.
The teenage body is in the midst of transformation -- exponential growth
and development in a rapid period of time. On the physical side, teens
may be at increased risk for aches, pains, and injury. Many teens strain
their bodies with competitive sports, get erratic sleep, and consume
a less-than-optimal diet. Massage can help muscles recover from overuse,
and help balance the body and maintain that stability.
Perhaps even more crucial, teen massage can help improve body image and
sleep patterns, and contribute to decreased depression, anxiety, and
stress. This keeps a teen connected to her body, even as it morphs
in confounding ways. "Many teens are self-conscious, and not happy
with their bodies," says Eeris Kallil, massage therapist and shiatsu
instructor at the Boulder College of Massage Therapy, in Colorado. "Massage
can help teens stay grounded." Bodywork has also been reported
to help mediate eating disorders, a growing concern among teens.
Another potential plus: A beneficial, therapeutic relationship can develop
between bodyworkers and teenagers during the years when adolescents
need adult confidantes, but keep parents at a distance. The practitioner
can become a supportive, trusted adult in a teen's life. And the session
itself, according to Kallil, can be a way to deal with all the physical
and emotional turmoil of this tender age.COMPLIMENTS OF ABMP. back
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The use of respiratory exercises to open lung passages, oxygenate the blood, and cleanse the body by eliminating gaseous toxins. The client is encouraged to breathe deeply while Laurel works the appropriate muscles. Breathe therapy can ease anxieties and reduce stress. back to top
COLOR THERAPY
An ancient system using specific color rays to treat the body and mind,
color therapy is based on the notion that organs and systems vibrate
at certain frequencies. By applying a particular color ray on an
area, the correct vibration can restore health. back
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HEALING SOUNDS
The use of sound to create balance and alignment in the physical body,
the energy centers (chakras), and/or the etheric fields. It is a
vibration applied by an instrument or the human voice, and can be
understood as a field of energy medicine. back
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CREATIVE VISUALIZATION
Also known as guided imagery is a relaxation system utilizing imagination
and thoughts to improve one’s physical, mental, and emotional health. Often involving a process of listening to music or a person voice, the participant can take hold of imagery, symbols, and deep feelings to stimulate the body’s
immune system, fight disease, and improve their overall health. Many
seriously ill patients have used this technique to imagine the destruction
of their disease and/or disorder. back
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AROMATHERAPY
The use of essential oils (which are extracted from herbs, flowers, resin,
woods, and roots) in body and skin care treatments is known as aromatherapy.
Used as a healing technique for thousands of years by the Egyptians,
Greeks, and Romans, essential oils aid in relaxation, improve circulation,
and help the healing of wounds. Aromatherapy diffusers are utilized
to fill the massage room with the scent of the oils. Specific essential
oils are blended by Laurel and added to a carrier oil, such as Vitamin
E, coconut & sesame, to be used during the massage. Each of the
oils has its own unique characteristics and benefits. Use of this
technique declined as the modern pharmaceutical industry developed.
Laurel uses only organic certified essential oils from www.simplers.com and www.shastalavender.com. back
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SPIRITUAL MASSAGE HEALING
Spiritual massage healing is a form of divinely inspired and divinely
guided healing. It consists of prayer, love, anointing with oil, and
movements derived from the laying-on of hands. It is the practice of
one’s faith and conscience. Without prayer, there is no spiritual
massage healing. However, each practitioner does spiritual massage
healing their own way, which may vary from one client to another. Laurel
is an ordained Minister of the Universal Life Church. back
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