With the Raindrop Technique

by Hal Smith

The powerful Raindrop Technique, developed by Young Living founder D. Gary Young in the 1980s, uses essential oils and combines several modalities to support balance and transformation on a physical and emotional level. The process involves applying therapeutic-grade essential oils to the spine, neck and feet. The session lasts approximately 75 minutes, but the benefits can last several days. Three synergistic modalities comprise the Raindrop Technique.

Aromatherapy – The Raindrop Technique uses seven single essential oils; two premixed blends and one essential oil bodywork blend created during the session. It is congruent with the French application of aromatherapy where essential oils are applied neat (undiluted) to the body.

Vita Flex Technique – Vita Flex was brought to the U.S. in the 1920s by Stanley Burroughs. It is an ancient Tibetan modality promising “vitality through the reflexes.” The theory is based on the fact that slight pressure applied to certain reflex points in a specific manner creates a piezoelectric electric charge through the nerve pathways.

Feather Stroking – This is similar to a bodywork energy technique called effleurage, developed by Native American people.

Essential oils are dropped from about six inches above the spine, simulating raindrops, and the action is very relaxing and comforting. Young claims, “Since the oils have their own frequency, it is thought that they interact with a person’s electric vibrational field before even interacting with the nerve pathways. This can enhance the electromagnetic properties of the oils, as well.”

The Lakota tribe created feather stroking to simulate the healing energy of the Northern Lights, when they could raise their hands toward the light and breathe in the energy for transformational purposes.

According to Young, the Raindrop Technique helps to support the balance and realignment of the energy centers of the body. No manipulation, as with chiropractic, is performed. It supports the reduction of stress and minor anxiety, the body’s natural response to irritation and injury, and muscle relaxation. Other claims include immune system support, emotional wellness and release and toxin release.

Dr. David Stewart, founder of the Center for Aromatherapy Research and Education, wrote The Statistical Validation of the Raindrop Technique, based on research with more than 400 massage therapists and health professionals that used the technique. He concluded that almost all clients felt that it was a positive experience.

For more information, call Okra Charlotte, located at 1912 Commonwealth Ave., in Charlotte, NC, at 704-266-1443 or visit OkraCharlotte.com.

Hal Smith is the managing partner of OkraCharlotte and GumboGoods in Plaza Midwood. He is a licensed spiritual healer as well as one of the few certified Raindrop Technique specialists in Charlotte.