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Therapies for the Adventurous
Although some people attribute dramatic changes to them, I would not
recommend using these healing methods as the primary means of addressing a behavior or
learning problem. If they do not appeal to you, feel free to ignore them. However, they are
safe, fun, and can be helpful in relieving stress and creating an atmosphere
conducive to healing. If one of these methods strikes a chord with you or
your child, try incorporating some of its elements into your life.
Gemstones and Crystals
Stones have a visual and tactile appeal-- they can be handled by children
without breaking and can be a pleasant alternative to metal or plastic
toys. Stones and crystals are thought to channel and focus healing
energy. It is known that the crystalline structure of some stones
draws, focuses and emits energy (quartz crystals power watches and
computer chips!).
The only rule is to choose stones and crystals that you are attracted to.
Carry one in your pocket, or place it on your desk or bedside table.
Below is a list of a few favorite stones and some of the healing energies
associated with them.
| Mineral | Effect |
|---|
| amethyst | Helps still the mind |
| aventurine | Promotes balance and well-being; speeds healing |
| hematite | Increases self-esteem |
| howlite | Calms communications, encourages emotional expression |
| obsidian | Deflects negativity |
| pyrite | Strengthens mental capacity; helps develop positive attitude |
| quartz crystal | Increases awareness; promotes healing on many levels |
| rose quartz | Assists in expressing feelings of love |
| tiger eye | Develops will power |
| turquoise | Balances emotional expression |
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Flower Essences
The 38 Bach Flower Essences were developed by Edward Bach,
a British homeopath, who discovered how
certain flowers influence emotional states. Unlike homeopathic
remedies, flower essences are chosen based only on
psychological, and not physical, symptoms. They are sold in liquid form
in dropper bottles. Usually, a few drops are dissolved in a glass of water; drops
may also be placed directly under the tongue. They can be taken whenever symptoms
appear, and can be combined with other flower remedies. Some
Bach Flower Essences that may be useful with children are
| Essence | Symptoms relieved |
|---|
| Rescue Remedy | Helpful in emergencies and stressful situations |
| Cerato | Lack of self-confidence |
| Cherry Plum | Irrational, violent, or angry behavior |
| Clematis | Spacy, unable to concentrate |
| Gentian | Easily discouraged, pessimistic |
| Heather | Self-absorption, incessant talking about self |
| Mimulus | Fearful, shy, over-sensitive |
| Rock Rose | Terror, panic, nightmares |
| Walnut | Transitions and life changes, including puberty |
| Wild Rose | Apathetic, lacks motivation |
Natural food stores usually carry the Flower Essences, as well as
brochures and books explaining their use.
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Feng Shui
Have you noticed that some rooms make you feel comfortable, while others make
you ill at ease?
Do you find that when your desk is cluttered, your thoughts are jumbled?
Have you been surprised at how plants can enliven a dull room?
The Chinese recognize the impact that room, building, and architectural
arrangements can have. Feng Shui is the ancient art of systematically
manipulating the environment to achieve positive effects. By carefully
arranging and orienting furniture, plants, mirrors, and other objects, Feng
Shui practitioners believe they can increase the flow of positive energy, and
promote health, happiness, and success.
According to Feng Shui, minor modifications can often create a more
harmonious environment. You may wish to consider the following when arranging
your child's room or study area:
- Be sure the child's bed or desk chair is not placed directly
beneath an exposed beam.
- Do not position the child's desk in such a way that his back is
to the door, as this could result in restlessness and
attention problems while studying. Instead, place the desk in
such a way that the child's back is to a solid wall and he
can see the doorway without turning.
- Place beds so that the door can be seen easily, but do not
have the foot of the bed pointing straight at the door. This
is a very bad bed position, according to Feng Shui, and
tends to drain energy.
- Bedroom mirrors should not reflect toward the bed. This can result
in insomnia, sleep disturbance, and restlessness.
- Avoid having too much clutter near the bed. This can cause
restlessness and difficulty with decision making and with
starting new things. Don't store things under the bed.
If some of the above cannot be changed, Feng Shui practitioners suggest
ways of using mirrors,
crystals and plants to minimize negative effects. See the
Resources page for books about Feng Shui.
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Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the practice of using fragrant plant essences to affect
moods and health and relieve stress. Examples of commonly used essences are
lavender, jasmine, peppermint, lemon, sandalwood, sage, spearmint, and
rosemary.
Aromatherapists stress the importance of using natural,
high-quality essential oils, rather than synthetic fragrances. A few
drops of the essence
can be placed in a diffuser or an aromatherapy lamp; in a bath; in
vegetable oil for use as a massage oil; or can simply be placed on a tissue
and inhaled when desired. They should not be taken internally, nor should
they be applied directly to a child's skin.
To learn more about aromatherapy, see the books listed in
Resources.
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© 1999-2000, Ruth Donnelly, unless otherwise noted. Photo credits: Lenore Spitznagel