HARMONY offers and teaches several healing modalities which are helpful for people living with dementia. You’d pay a great deal for these services at a practitioner’s office, but I include them in in-home visits and trainings. All can be performed while the person is sitting or lying down and fully clothed.
I received my acupressure and reflexology training from the Utah College of Massage Therapy, and my Reiki Master Teacher certification from the Healing Light Training Center, and I have a certificate in aromatherapy.
Acupressure
Acupressure (like acupuncture) is still around after 5,000 years because it works! I started using it with people who didn’t like massage, and ended up using it with everyone. It can help relieve emotional and physical distress and help restore the circulation of the chi (life force). I often focus on points that help relieve grief and anxiety, both fairly universal experiences for people living with dementia and their caregivers. I also enjoy teaching families and professionals how to use acupressure with their loved ones and themselves.
Reflexology
With reflexology one influences different organs, areas and systems by working corresponding areas on the hands and feet. It’s surprisingly effective and very relaxing. (And as they say: if the feet are happy, the whole body is happy!)
Aromatherapy
I love aromatherapy. Essential oils are one of Mother Nature’s kindest gifts. Lemon stimulates the mind and is antimicrobial; neroli helps depression; lavender brings you up if you’re down and down if you’re too up. Every essential oil has an effect physically, mentally and emotionally, and their scents can trigger feelings and memories. They’re called “essential” because each carries the essence of the plant from which it comes. Care must be taken when using aromatherapy with seniors because some oils can interfere with medications (grapefruit, for instance) and many are too strong for thin skin. But high-quality oils, properly applied, can improve mood, appetite, focus and much more.
Reiki
Reiki is a form of energy work which originated in Japan, and involves directing the flow of energy through the practitioner’s hands and into the client. Clients’ stuck energy can be released, sluggish energy moved, and frantic energy settled. Even people who don’t “believe” in Reiki will tell you it’s very relaxing and invites meditation. But it can do much more. Try it yourself! I’m trained in Usui Reiki.
HARMONY wishes to remind you that I am not a medical professional and of course do not prevent, diagnose, or treat any disease.