Raindrop technique is a massage technique that is related to aromatherapy. Created by Gary Young, it was inspired by the massage techniques of the Lakota Indians. The raindrop technique massage offers muscle relaxation, improvement of the immune system and alleviation from chronic body pains.
Many body aches and ailments are attributed to the presence of viruses and bacteria. The raindrop technique targets these pathogens and flushes out toxins from the body. This reduces inflammations and thereby puts an end to the bodily aches. The raindrop technique massage is used to treat spine curvature and joint problems.
In preparation for the raindrop therapy technique, the client undresses and lies facedown on a massage table. The massage therapist drops some essential oil along the client's spine, at the shoulders and on the arms and legs from a distance of six inches (15.2 cm). As the oil is made to fall on the body in a rain of droplets, this technique is called the raindrop technique.
The idea behind the raindrop technique is to use the electromagnetic properties of the oil on the electromagnetic field of the body to bring about a structural and electrical alignment of the body. Pure, undiluted essential oils are used for the massage. This includes seven essential oils and two blends of therapeutic oils.
The essential oils used are oregano, thyme, birch, basil, peppermint, marjoram and valor. Of these, oregano and thyme have anti-viral properties, peppermint is useful as an analgesic, and marjoram works as an anti-spasmodic. Birch aids in bone repair, basil is a muscle relaxant, and valor is used for both relaxing muscles and aligning the spine.
The essential oils may sometimes cause rashes on people with sensitive skins, so it is a good idea to keep some ordinary oil around. If there is a rash, it is advisable to stop using the essential oils and use the ordinary one.
The oil is lightly massaged on the body using a light finger massage technique called Vita Flex. Then a hot towel compress is placed on the oiled body and covered by dry towel. Care should be taken that the hot towel does not get too hot. This is followed by more light massage.
The entire massage takes around 45 minutes, but the positive effects of it continue to benefit the client for up to a week. It is rather like recharging the human batteries. Aligning regular raindrop technique sessions with a nutritious diet and proper exercise can lead to a well-balanced, healthy body.
Raindrop techniques can be self-taught through practice and experience. People interested in this therapy can also undergo raindrop technique training with a professional masseur. Training can also be obtained through the Center for Aromatherapy Research and Education (CARE).