Let me introduce myself… ?My name is Joyce Magner and I am a Reiki Master Practitioner here at Indigo Dragon. I was diagnosed with autoimmune disorders at an early age. At the age of 10, I was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. It kept progressing throughout the years to full adult Rheumatoid Arthritis. It wasn’t until later in my life that I became aware of natural, holistic, and complementary ways to treat my RA. I’m very aware of these holistic methods because I use many of them myself.

Here are a few of my personal favorite ways to combat RA symptoms and live a healthier active lifestyle of wellness, even while I cope with RA.

1. Essential oils

Essential oils and aromatherapy have been used for thousands of years and are mentioned in the Bible. I’m sure you’ve heard of frankincense and myrrh? They are used to help relieve many symptoms particularly those conditions caused by RA. I find lavender works well for relaxation. Peppermint and eucalyptus use topically help me with pain relief. There’s another great essential oil-based product that I rely on called Cool Azul, a topical pain relief cream or Deep Relief roll-on that I get from Young Living Essential Oils. Always be mindful of how you use essential oils. Pay attention to any instructions or warnings on the product’s package, and consult an expert or the manufacturer when in doubt. Typically, I use oils topically and aromatically for my own needs. Topically, they often help with pain. Aromatically, they help relax me and improve my mood.

2. Acupuncture

An ancient remedy that has stood the test of time is acupuncture. It’s a part of traditional Chinese medicine but has made its way into Western medicine as well. During an acupuncture session, an acupuncturist uses very thin needles on certain points of the body. Usually, the needles aren’t inserted very deeply. Each needle coordinates with a body part, body system, or organ. The needles balance out or interrupt the flow of good and bad energy in the body, also known as the body’s chi or qi. I absolutely love it and recommend it-so long as you go to a certified practitioner. It isn’t scary and it isn’t painful. I have gone to my acupuncturist during a full on flare up and can receive immediate relief. It definitely helps with pain, stress, and my overall wellbeing.

3. Massage 

I don’t know how I would manage without a monthly deep tissue massage. Many people with RA find various types of massages helpful. I find that it not only helps with the tension and stress within the body but the gentle stretching helps my joints to have more movement and my body gains more flexibility. There are different types of massages ranging from hot stone massage to relaxing spa-like massages, trigger point massages, deep tissue massages, and more. Find a massage therapist that fits your needs and one you feel comfortable with because touch is personal but massage is so healing to the body as long as you are able to relax and know that you are in good hands and the therapist understands your pain and comfort tolerance. This routine is important for my self-care with RA. 

4. Reiki/Energy Healing

Like acupuncture, Reiki is based on the belief that essential life force energy runs through each person, and disruptions in energy flow can cause pain and other problems that are physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Reiki promotes vitality and healing by facilitating the delivery of this universal life force energy to a person which is also referred to as “biofield” therapy. By “laying hands” on specific parts of your body or even just positioning hands slightly above your body, a qualified Reiki practitioner can get you to relaxed state in order to help calm your nervous system,  relax muscles and unblock the energy flow which in turn reduces physical tension, pain and fatigue. Anxiety and stress are also reduced, helping to unblock and release emotional pain. RA is one of the reasons that I decided to learn about Reiki and become a practitioner myself. I am able to give myself Reiki treatments not only on my painful joints but it helps me to be healthy in mind, body and spirit.

These are just a few of the natural, holistic and complimentary ways that have helped me deal with not only the RA but also Myasthenia Gravis and Graves disease symptoms. Instead of wondering how long it will take me to get out of bed in the mornings, I am waking up and wondering what wonderful adventure I will experience today. Life is great! I am fortunate to find all of these services at Indigo Dragon and now proud to be a part of these amazing group of people by offering my services as a Reiki Practitioner.