Ange kindly invited me along for a complementary Reiki treatment. I hadn’t had Reiki before although I was very intrigued and keen to find out more……
Ange (aka the Reiki Angel of York) has a treatment room in her home in Acomb, there was free space to park right outside.
Having not met Ange before, I warmed to her immediately. She came across as a lovely, down to earth mum, who has a talent for making people feel comfortable and at ease immediately. She was very easy to talk to and I didn’t experience any feelings of awkwardness which you expect when you meet someone/do something for the first time, but not in this case.
Ange showed me to her treatment room upstairs, a calm space perfect for winding down. I took a seat on the couch and Ange spoke to me a little more about Reiki – it’s a Buddhist holistic healing system which works with our spiritual and physical energy. It involves gentle touch (head, feet, legs) and hand movements above the body. Nothing intrusive, therefore it’s suitable for adults, children, animals and safe during pregnancy.
She explained the many reasons why people may choose to have Reiki and the benefits it can bring, such as: aiding recovery after an operation/injury, balance, harmonise and detoxify our system, promote relaxation and sleep, improve concentration levels, reduce stress levels, reduce anxiety, aid in the releasing of emotions, expressing oneself, promotes positivity and mental well-being.
She also mentioned the various experiences people can have during the treatment, so nothing was unexpected.
Ange made me feel very in control of the whole experience, right from the word go. I chose the aromas for the room with her guidance (I went for Frankincense and Lavender – lovely!), I decided on music or not. I was encouraged to stop / re position / have a drink / pop to the loo at any time necessary to make me feel comfortable.
I then laid on the comfy bed with a blanket, the room smelt lovely and the calming music was playing. I had taken my shoes/ coat off but other than that remained fully clothed. I then closed my eyes and didn’t open then again for an hour.
I could sense Ange moving very slowly around me, at times she would place her hands on me very gently (my head, knees and feet) at other times her hands would be above me or moving around me. For the first few minutes I struggled to switch my busy brain off, but then I started to focus on the music and became much more immersed in the experience.
I noticed various sensations throughout including a feeling of warmth where Ange was. At times I felt my legs were floating off, but no they were flat on the bed. I could sense a warm layer above me and the music and aroma added greatly to the soothing experience.
I felt looked after, spoilt even. Some time for me, just me, to have the time and head space I needed. I got a rest from the lengthy to do list and housework and all the other jobs that come with looking after a family. I felt peaceful and my head felt decluttered. I felt a million miles away from the usual chaos and in a warm soothing bubble I would have happily stayed in all day!
When things did eventually have to come to an end Ange gently spoke and brought me back to the room, I sat up when I was ready and had a glass of water.
We all know we need to set aside time for ourselves in this busy fast paced, world. Being a parent is hard work! It’s a constant juggling act and how often do we really get time just for us, to relax, recharge and heal in whatever way is needed?
Well I did today and I’m definitely better for it.
I’d fully recommend a visit to Ange, whether it’s a well deserved experience for yourself or a gift for someone who has everything or doesn’t necessarily want/need more “stuff” but could greatly benefit from a new experience instead. It’s also a tick for supporting a local business this Christmas time.
Thanks again Ange, for the perfect treat in this busy build up to Christmas.
For more information contact Ange:
T: 07721637804
https://yorkcommunitywellbeing.org/ – Ange is also working with the York Community well-being project. Set up to facilitate access to therapy & wellbeing opportunities for people that due to circumstances/cost may not otherwise be feasible.
