By: Heather Gamin, LMT, 200 RYT, Hoola Fit Instructor

The Raindrop Technique is a therapeutic practice, where the therapist uses aromatherapy to aid in the health of the client. Aromatherapy works by impacting the amygdala, an almond shaped structure within the brain that plays an important role in emotions. The amygdala works with our ability to process fear.  When we are in a fearful state our bodies are operating in the sympathetic nervous system. Our breath becomes rapid causing an increase of oxygen.  The increase of oxygen causes our blood pressure to increase. This is the body experiencing the flight or fight response. This takes a tremendous amount of energy from our bodies, and our body has a difficult time with functions of digestion, and other functions of the parasympathetic system. The amygdala is easily penetrated by scents making essential oils a quick tool to restore the body to parasympathetic or rest and digest state.  

Raindrop technique was inspired by the Native Americans, specifically the Lakota people of North Dakota. When the Lakota made their journey to Saskatchewan and Manitoba to witness the Northern Lights. The part of this population that felt ill or had complicated health problems would stand facing the lights, and deeply inhale. As they breathed in the air, and allowed it to pass down their spine, affecting other areas of their bodies, there was an energy exchange and many experienced dramatic healing effects. When a border was made, separating Canada from the United States, the Lokota people could no longer migrate. The Lokota people started to use effleurage (a basic massage movement) along with the practice of mentally processing energy with the intent to heal the body.  The Raindrop Technique combines the use of essential oils with effleurage with the intent to bring health back into the body.

The Raindrop Technique uses nine therapeutic-grade essential oils, to lift the spirit and restore the body to a parasympathetic nervous system state so that respiratory discomfort and digestive upset is eased. Along with these benefits Raindrop Technique also works to reduce inflammation, support the immune system, relax stressed muscles, and relieve the body from joint discomfort. 

Raindrop Technique was given its name for how the essential oils are applied to the skin. As the client lays on their stomach, the therapist will dispense the oil like drops of rain to the spine. It is then spread along the spine using featherweight pressure to stimulate the spinal nerves. The therapist also applies the oils, similar to Reflexology, to the feet using vita flex points to balance energy.  The Raindrop Technique takes about 45 to 60 minutes to perform.  

Oregano: this oil is used to stimulate cell receptors and activate energy centers along the spine. It is often used in natural cleaning products, as it is believed to have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties. I personally love using oregano to combat sickness as it is believed to stimulate the immune system.

Thyme: The best time to use thyme is after an illness as it may help with overcoming fatigue and exhaustion. Thyme is often used in vape rubs, and mouthwash as it is believed to have purifying agents. This oil is considered to be anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and  antifungal,  

Basil: Throughout history basil was used to help manage pain caused by migraines, and to aid in fighting throat and lung infections. This aroma could be used to fight mental fatigue. 

Cypress: Cypress has been used by those that are looking to improve circulation, and respiratory health. Like all oils that come from trees, cypress is great oil to use to ground yourself energetically. It can give a sense of security and ease feelings or loss.

Wintergreen: The fragrant influence of wintergreen could stimulate awareness in all levels of the sensory system. Those who are epileptic should not use wintergreen. Wintergreen has been used as an anti-inflammatory aid, and has the potential to reduce blood pressure, and is often used in ointments for musculoskeletal problems.

Marjoram: Romans referred to marjoram as the “The herb of happiness.” They believed it increases longevity.  The intent behind using marjoram is to help calm the nervous system. I often use marjoram in my therapeutic massages as I believe it aids in muscle relaxation and helps relieve painful joints. 

Peppermint: Peppermint is one of the oldest herbs used in the aid of digestion. This oil has been thought to have the potential to aid in reducing inflammation. This fragrant influence purifies and stimulates the conscious mind.  

If you would like to book a Raindrop Technique, all of the therapists at Sacred Transcendence are trained in this technique and understand how to safely apply oils to the body. As amazing as aromatherapy is, those wanting to explore aromatherapy should follow all safety guidelines, and should never put essential oils in their eyes or ears, as well as have a firm understanding of how to properly dilute essential oils before applying them to the skin.