Animal Raindrop Technique
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What is Raindrop Technique®?
Raindrop Technique is a gentle yet powerful technique inspired by ancient Egyptian and Native American energy principles. These are combined with ancient Tibetan reflexology, various massage techniques and the power of therapeutic-grade essential oils, to create a truly unique and wonderful experience.
Raindrop Technique is a holistic modality which focuses on the entire back and neck, as well as the spinal reflex points along the feet/hind legs. The penetrating effects of the essential oils allow the benefits to be felt throughout the entire body.
It is a treat to all of the senses, and to body, mind and spirit. Originally developed for humans, Raindrop Technique has been adapted to animals of all shapes and sizes, including dogs and horses.
This technique works both physically and emotionally. The massage components of Raindrop Technique allow a profound release of muscular tension, enabling the body to balance and realign itself. It’s highly recommended for animals of all ages, and is particularly beneficial to competition animals and those in their senior years.
On an emotional level, the aromas of the essential oils facilitate a deep state of relaxation and inner connection. This can be particularly helpful for any animal that is experiencing separation, loss, fear or aggression. It’s also the perfect modality for any animal coming from a rescue situation.
How will my animal feel afterwards?
Every animal responds differently to Raindrop Technique. The most common thing you’ll notice is how deeply relaxed they become during the session, and how calm yet energised they can be after their session. Other benefits include increased mobility and flexibility, and a more balanced emotional state.
However, as with any type of body work, in rare situations some animals may experience discomfort during or after the session as their body realigns and emotions are released. Make sure you communicate your animal’s experiences to your practitioner, so they can offer helpful suggestions.
When Raindrop Technique is performed on a horse, it’s common to see small lumps appear along the back. This is called “welting”, and is typically a sign of toxins being released from the body during the massage steps. It causes no discomfort, and generally subsides within 24 to 48 hours.
The Four Steps of Animal Raindrop Technique
1
Valor Balance
2
VitaFlex Technique
3
Raindrop on the back
4
Various massage techniques
How long does the session go for?
Ask your practitioner how long you should set aside for the session. Typically the technique takes 45 to 60 minutes. An extra half hour may be needed for the first session, to discuss your animal’s health history. This will be used to tailor the session to your animal.
How often can they receive Raindrop Technique?
The greatest benefit is felt when your animal receives weekly sessions for the first 2 months, then fortnightly sessions for the next 2 months, then monthly sessions on an ongoing basis. There may be times they need more regular sessions than this, especially if they are going through a challenging time.
Pregnancy
If there is any chance your animal may be pregnant, please advise your practitioner before the session. You will be sent special Pregnancy Forms to read and sign. If your animal is pregnant, you are encouraged to seek advice from your Veterinarian before the session.
Top Quality Essential Oils
Raindrop Technique is performed using only 100% pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils from Young Living®, which are guaranteed to be free of any and all chemical adulteration. We choose these oils because your animal deserves the best!
Young Living is the largest producer of therapeuticgrade essential oils in the world, with a range of over 200 premium essential oils and blends, as well as nutritional, personal care and natural cleaning products containing essential oils. This includes a range specifically designed for animals. Speak to your practitioner to learn more about how these products may assist you and your animals or to place an order.
Chemical Exposure
In our modern world, it is impossible to avoid chemical exposure. Pesticides, herbicides and other chemicals like chlorine and fluoride are found in our animal’s food and water. Chemicals are also absorbed into their body from commonly used products such as chemical shampoos, flea and tick medication, worming and vaccinations. These chemicals build up in your animal’s body over time, creating acidity and paving the way for inflammation and disease. Diet also plays a large part in their state of internal health.
Because of the relaxing effects of Raindrop Technique and the stimulation provided by the massage steps, it is possible for your animal’s body to go through a detox process after a session, especially if their channels of elimination are not working optimally (urine, bowels, breath, skin). They are a good candidate for this if they:
- Are an older animal
- Have had a high level of chemical exposure
- Have had a long-term or recent acute illness
What does a Detox mean?
If chemicals are released by the body faster than they can be eliminated, your animal may experience one of more of these indicators: Tiredness, increased thirst, strong smelling sweat/stools/urine, changes to bowel movements, skin rashes (incl. scurfing and/or welting), and emotional changes. Most of these indicators pass within a day or two. If they persist or you’re concerned about their response, have a discussion with your practitioner. In some instances, further checks by your animal’s Veterinarian may be recommended.
Helping to Reduce these Symptoms
Your practitioner is guided by the information provided in your animal’s Health History Form, and will tailor the technique based on this information. This includes minimising any likelihood of detox. Ensure all relevant details are noted on this form, to give your practitioner the best insight into your animal’s emotional and health history. Your practitioner may also recommend oils or supplements to further support your animal.
Health History
You will be asked to complete an Animal Health History Form and a Release & Indemnity Form before your animal’s first Raindrop Technique. This provides valuable information which will be used to tailor the session to their specific needs. Make sure you provide all relevant information on these forms.
Preparing for the Session
Where possible, avoid the use of topical treatments (including sprays and shampoos) for 3 days before your animal’s session to avoid any chance of interaction with the essential oils used. If you wish to shampoo your animal during this time, we recommend Young Living’s AnimalScents Shampoo or Thieves Household Cleaner (both of which are all-natural and plant-based). Ask your practitioner for more details.
Your Animal’s Comfort is Important
So that your animal will have the best session possible:
- Raindrop Technique will be performed in a well ventilated and shaded area, with sufficient space for your animal to move around if it wishes. For optimal benefit, a quiet environment is advised, where distractions and interruptions are minimised.
- Some of the essential oils used in Raindrop Technique may be warming to the skin. These may be diluted with a vegetable (carrier) oil, to minimise the likelihood of discomfort to your animal. If your animal has particularly sensitive skin and experiences any prickling or heat on their skin from any of the essential oils, your practitioner will apply additional carrier oil to quickly soothe the area.
After the Session
- Ensure your animal has access to shade and clean water, and has room to move around. Raindrop Technique encourages the body to align, so many animals will lie down, roll or stretch after a session.
- Avoid exposing their skin to direct sunlight for 24 to 72 hours after a session if photosensitive oils have been used on their back. You’ll be given the option prior to the session of whether you want these oils used. These are optional extras to the technique.
- It is recommended to avoid working your animal for 48 hours after the session (eg. riding or high energy competitions). You may elect to wait 7 days after the session before attending a competition, in case a detox in the form of welting or scurfing were to occur
Emotional Rebalancing
Whilst most animals appear physically and emotionally balanced after a Raindrop Technique, it is possible for emotions to come to the surface during or after the session. The practitioner will support your animal if this happens. Please discuss any concerns with your practitioner before the session begins.