Holding space without judgement.
Wild experiences through class and beyond!
Back in April I was approached by the midwest rep from Alliance of International Aromatherapist (AIA) to offer a special class to support communities that have been affected by trauma.
I said, “Sure! I can offer space for a warm fuzzy experience.” that offers support without judgement.
Her focus was on the trauma that many people have experienced here in MN, specifically in the Minneapolis area over the last 6 years. At first this class was for (AIA) students and members.
It soon shifted to being open to anyone that has gone through hard moments over the last 6 years. What happened in the city didn’t stay in the city, it rippled out and affected lives in so many different ways.
I agreed to this class because I have experienced a variety of scenarios with clients. When the nervous system is on high alert and when we continue to hear or experience moments that trigger us, our bodies get stuck.
Aromatics and Singing bowls can help your system “reset” to a degree. This was the goal. To help people find their way back to a neutral state so they can get back to moving forward in their life.
Our bodies are not designed to process the amount information that is coming at us. Then with the added need to discern the information, it adds a new layer of challenge to the process.
The midwest rep Jackie would cover the science behind aromatics and share relatable stories. I would play my bowls and educate about music theory.
This class was nearly full! One person couldn’t make it and wanted to pay the way forward (how amazing!) and I reached out to a client that I felt guided to because they would benefit in experiencing the class.
It was blowing my mind how supported this class was becoming and then even more so from what happened during and what came afterwards. It had a life all its own, something to notice and respect.
The amount of feedback I received showed just how important the experience was. How much people are craving community and education, especially facts. We covered questions about essential oil companies and what to look out for. I covered music theory and how it connects with the brain and body.
I have held back on getting into what I do and how it differs from MLM aromatherapy companies so I wouldn't disturb or upset those that might not be ready to hear it because of their involvement. However, there are things I know that are straight facts and truth and if I'm asked about it, I'll share.
This class showed me that people are looking for honesty and the science behind aromatherapy. There's a lot that people just aren't aware of and probably wouldn't be aware of unless they've done the education I have or because the big companies have pushed their own messages forward and it's been louder than the real stuff. My intention is to educate and allow you to make your own decisions. I will begin to weave this into classes.
Anyway, back to the class.
I was approached the day after class by Jackie to co-author an article for a written journal. She would cover the aromatics and I would cover music theory.
I said yes and then asked for two days to process that step forward. Long story short, I wrote my piece of the article and it was accepted! It will be in the June addition of Alliance of International Aromatherapist Journal.
Overall, the class was a hit and I was so blessed to be a part of sharing what I love. I am grateful for the doors that opened from it and am excited to talk more about aromatherapy from my perspective.