Eileen Doody Therapies

20/11/2025

When you feel safe enough to release what has been carried for far too long. Had to share this beautiful post on bodywork, by The Body Artisans...

Most bodyworkers have heard clients say things like “I don’t know why I’m crying,” “I feel like something just released,” or “I suddenly feel lighter.” For years, we trusted our hands more than the textbooks and held space for what rose to the surface. Now, Polyvagal Theory gives us the science that explains what we have felt beneath our palms all along.

Created by neuroscientist Dr. Stephen Porges, the Polyvagal Theory describes how the vagus nerve perceives the world through sensations, tone, posture, breath, and touch. It shows us that emotional expression is not random; it is the language of the autonomic nervous system, shifting between states of protection and connection. The body releases emotions not because it is dramatic or fragile, but because it has finally found a moment when it feels safe enough to let its survival patterns soften.

When a client enters your space, their nervous system is already speaking. A body in sympathetic activation feels taut, warm, guarded, quick to brace. These clients often require a gentle, calming contact that signals to their system that it no longer needs to run or fight. A body in dorsal vagal shutdown has a different pulse altogether. It may feel heavy, distant, or unreachable. These clients respond to warmth, presence, and gentle, patient pacing that invites them back into their bodies without overwhelming them. And when a client is in ventral vagal engagement, the system opens. Breath deepens, tissues receive, and deeper work becomes possible. Their body is ready to reorganize the old patterns it no longer needs.

Understanding these states is not about labeling people; it is about listening to the stories their nervous systems are telling beneath the skin. Touch becomes more ethical, more attuned, and more transformative when we understand the state of the body and how to meet it. The Polyvagal Theory provides us with a language for what somatic practitioners have sensed for generations. It teaches us that emotional release is not a mysterious or mystical phenomenon. It is biological. It is the body stepping out of survival and into safety.

As bodyworkers, we do not force emotion out of the body. We create the conditions where the body feels safe enough to release what it has carried for far too long. The more we understand the vagus nerve, autonomic states, and Polyvagal Theory, the more skillfully we can support clients as they unwind, soften, tremble, breathe, and release. This is where art meets science, where intuition meets anatomy, and where the human body remembers itself through touch.

Tomorrow, I will dive deeper into Polyvagal Theory and how each autonomic state influences the emotional responses we observe on our tables. For now, know this. Emotions are not just thoughts; they are physiological and reside in the body.

20/11/2025

Reflexology is targeted work on the feet leading to deep relaxation...

Reflexology is much more than some people think it is. It’s calmer shoulders, deeper breaths, and your nervous system going, “Ahhhhhh, finally.” 💆🙌💜

   

18/11/2025

Lovely post on Frankincense essential oil...

15/11/2025

SomatoEmotional Release (SER) is part of CranioSacral Therapy. SER helps the body to release held emotions which are having a physical and mental effect on your wellbeing.

https://www.thelist.com/1233006/somato-emotional-release-the-holistic-technique-that-can-treat-both-your-body-and-your-mind/?fbclid=IwVERTSAOFJh9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAwzNTA2ODU1MzE3MjgIY2FsbHNpdGUBMgABHs9hiHLx5ROOKypZ8DWi2v3wyhRVnQ3PT7fdPcBLDvXXygF-EU9_xda3lZ0Z_aem_I7D2TqtqJmCqq6UlCWtDSg

Therapy can take many forms, and sometimes, it has nothing to do with clinical counseling. An example is Somato Emotional Release, also known as SER.

13/11/2025

Did you know that the orange tree is responsible for giving us three different essential oils? The fruit is cold pressed for Orange essential oil, the flower is distilled for Neroli and the leaves and twigs are distilled for Petitgrain. Petitgrain is often underrated and forgotten about, in my opinion. The name means "Little Grains" as, in centuries past, the tiny unripe oranges (looking like little grains) were picked when they were green and used to extract the oil. This practice gradually changed as it was uneconomical and the name was instead transferred to the oil distilled from the leaves. Petitgrain is also known as "poor man's Neroli" as it has many, though not all, of the chemical properties of Neroli and is more affordable. Therefore, its effects are similar to Neroli but its scent is more crisp, fresh and flowery. It is used quite a bit in the making of soaps, colognes and skin care products as it has antiseptic and deodorising properties. It has a balancing action, not only on the skin, but on the mind and emotions. It always has people commenting whenever I have used it in the diffuser at work. It blends beautifully with all of the citrus oils such as Orange, Lime, Bergamot, Grapefruit, May Chang, the florals such as Geranium, Lavender, Ylang Ylang and Neroli, the wood oils such as Cedarwood, Sandalwood, Pine, the grasses such as Palmarosa, Vetivert, the herbs such as Rosemary, Chamomile and even the spice oils such as Cardamom. It is very uplifting and anti-depressant in nature. If you feel in need of a "refresh", especially when recovering from illness, this is your oil. Petitgrain is calming, soothing and brings re-assurance. It can be helpful for insomnia as it is so relaxing and sedative to the nervous system. I tend to use it when people are feeling low or irritated. It's very good for SAD or "Winter Blues", if someone is recovering from an illness or a situation, or in need of mental and emotional strength and courage. It can sometimes smell a little sharp to some, so it is best when blended. Give it a try! Always use pure therapeutic grade essential oils best sourced from small, long-in-business, companies who supply practitioners. They usually have a banner on the Home page of their website to say they are a member of the Aromatherapy Trade Council. There are safety concerns when using essential oils so always dilute them and you can find out more online or in a good book on Aromatherapy. Or, of course, you can ask me below in the comments!



Image: Hans of Pixabay

11/11/2025

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Inspirology

09/11/2025

The hands can sense objects even before making physical contact. Post courtesy of CranioSacral Therapy Educational Trust.

A new study shows that humans possess a form of “remote touch,” allowing them to detect hidden objects in sand before making direct contact.

07/11/2025

Tinnitus is a common issue that brings people to try CranioSacral Therapy. The symptoms can be exhausting and frustrating, to say the least, and can be anything from ringing, buzzing, whooshing, hissing to music or singing. It isn't always clear what causes tinnitus but it can be a symptom of hearing loss, another health condition, medication, stress, trauma to the head, invasive dental work, allergies, mineral deficiencies, mould toxicity or anxiety. It may be due to something as simple as excessive ear wax. It can be in one ear or both. It isn't always heard in the ear either, it can sometimes be experienced in the head. It may be a damaged inner ear but often this isn't the case. It can be that various brain regions are involved in creating sounds in response to changes in nerve signals. So, you can see, this can be a complex thing to address.

With CST, we follow the body to where it shows us tension patterns and strains and guides us to where we need to work. It often is that working on releasing back, neck and shoulder issues can help to diminish the sounds. Working with the cranial bones, nerves and head would also involved. Tinnitus often has a big effect on sleep and this exacerbates the problem. Listening to background noise or music whilst going to sleep can help. Sometimes, working on eliminating inflammation in the body and taking adequate minerals can be helpful.

Below is a link to a simple set of exercises developed by Dr Alan Mandell, a Chiropractic doctor. These exercises can help to free up the eustachian tube and ear and may bring varying degrees of relief.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9S7dukWIn7k

Image: Gerd Altmann from Pixabay.

06/11/2025

6 Ways Clove Bud Oil Fights Viruses

Traditionally used in herbal medicine for its warming, purifying qualities, clove bud oil (Syzygium aromaticum) was often diffused in sickrooms or added to steam inhalations to help clear the air and support the body’s defenses. Its rich, spicy aroma signaled strength and protection—and modern research now echoes that wisdom.

These findings come from a new review published in 2025 (Chen et al.) on the antiviral potential of eugenol, the main component in clove bud oil. Researchers reviewed a wide collection of studies and compiled their findings. They found:

1. It blocks viral entry: Eugenol can attach to viral proteins—the parts that normally bind to our cells—and prevent the virus from getting inside. This means it can stop infection before it begins.

2. It slows viral replication: Once a virus is inside the cell, it hijacks the cell’s machinery to make copies of itself. Eugenol interferes with that process, weakening the virus’s ability to multiply.

3. It calms inflammation: Many viral infections cause inflammation—sometimes dangerously so. Eugenol can tone down this overreaction by blocking key inflammatory pathways in the body, especially the NF-κB pathway, which controls the release of inflammatory molecules.

4. It reduces oxidative stress: Viral infections often create oxidative stress—a flood of unstable oxygen molecules that damage tissues. Eugenol’s antioxidant power helps neutralize these free radicals and protect cells from harm.

5. It induces autophagy—the cell’s cleanup process: “Autophagy” is a normal process where cells recycle damaged parts. Some viruses hijack this process to help themselves replicate. Eugenol helps restore balance, preventing viruses from turning this system to their advantage.

6. It protects tissues from viral damage: Eugenol helps shield the body’s tissues from damage caused by infection. It can protect the heart, lungs, and other organs from viral inflammation and cell injury by stabilizing cell membranes, improving blood flow, and supporting the repair of damaged tissue.

Research is still evolving, but it’s fascinating to see modern science affirm what herbalists have known for centuries: the clove bud carries protective wisdom within its aromatic heart. While it doesn't replace medical care when it's needed, clove bud essential oil can be an important addition to your winter wellness routine.

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Share this post with a friend who loves natural remedies!

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Safety Note: Because eugenol is a phenol, clove bud oil can easily irritate the skin or mucous membranes. Always dilute it well in a carrier oil before topical application, typically at no more than 0.5% for general applications. That’s about 2–3 drops per 1 fl oz (30 ml) of carrier.

- We prefer to avoid using this oil for children under 10, or any person with sensitive skin.
- Avoid if you have a clotting disorder, are taking an anticoagulant drug, and after surgery.
- Avoid if you have impaired liver function.

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Chen, M., Nie, Y.-K., Liu, X.-Y., Liu, Y., & Guo, D.-Y. (2025). Antiviral properties of the natural product eugenol: A review. Fitoterapia, 185, 106674

04/11/2025

Ylang Ylang is also great for promoting a sense of confidence and helping those living with anxiety and agoraphobia.

Ylang ylang & alpha brain waves.

A single breath can change the way the mind moves.

Ylang ylang essential oil (Cananga odorata) has a lush, velvety aroma that soothes the senses, inviting the brain into a quieter rhythm. In several small human studies, simply inhaling the oil lowered heart rate and blood pressure, gentle markers that the body was shifting into a calmer state. Researchers also noted a reduction in measured stress levels and an increase in alpha brain waves—the same waves that rise when we slip into rest, meditation, or creative flow (Tan et al., 2015).

Ylang ylang is an amazing essential oil for sleep. But unlike heavier relaxants, ylang ylang doesn’t pull you into drowsiness. Instead, it softens tension while keeping your awareness active. The heart rate slows. The mind steadies. Thoughts untangle. There’s space to breathe again. This is an excellent aromatherapy oil if you have racing thoughts that won’t let you sleep.

Try diffusing ylang ylang while you journal, meditate, or wind down at day’s end. A simple inhale may be enough to guide your body toward ease and your mind toward peace.

Save this post to explore the quiet power of ylang ylang when you need a reset.

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Ylang ylang essential oil has a very strong floral aroma. Too many drops can shift from soothing into overwhelming (sometimes even leading to a headache). We suggest only using 1 or 2 drops at a time—in your aromatherapy diffuser, inhaler, or in a 1 fl oz (30 ml) topical blend.

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Tan, L. T., Lee, L. H., Yin, W. F., Chan, C. K., Abdul Kadir, H., Chan, K. G., & Goh, B. H. (2015). Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Bioactivities of Cananga odorata (Ylang-Ylang). Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM

31/10/2025

Oiche Shamhna shona daoibh (Happy Halloween). In the thinning of the veil; may the spirits of your ancestors bring you comfort and guidance.🍂🍄

Happy Samhain! Today we celebrate the end and the beginning of the Celtic New Year when the veils between the worlds are said to be at their thinnest. It is a time to celebrate rebirth in the midst of death and darkness and is said to be the best time to communicate with the Otherworld or our wise and well Ancestors (though every day is a good day for that too!).

Samhain is a celebration of endings. It is named after Samana, a pre-Christian God, also known as the Grim Reaper or the Leader of Ancestral Ghosts, an Underworld God who in ancient Celtic times was known for his regenerative aspects but through the spread of Christianity became known as something to fear.

This time is also associated with witches who are often portrayed negatively and with fear. The word "witch" is derived from an Anglo Saxon word " witan" which means "to see". The Crone, an aspect of the Goddess, was respected as holding the most power in the tribe as the post-menopausal woman was considered to be very wise. She often held the ancient wisdom surrounding plant medicine. She became feared by the Church who turned her into a scapegoat for any disaster or misfortune in the area. Hence, people no longer turned to the deep feminine healing wisdom.

The dark is a much needed time of the year to regenerate; to rest, root and internally strengthen ourselves. This is the time to gather the seeds of our intentions and nourish them in the dark months ahead. Traditionally a time of feasting, eating harvest fruits and storing seeds, these are some other ideas for celebrating:

* A Fire Ritual. Write out all the beliefs, attitudes and ways of being that you wish to release at this time. These can be written on different bits of paper to be ritually thrown in the fire whilst you say aloud what you are letting go of. The fire can be a safe fire outdoors (a mexican chiminea is great for such an occasion!), an indoors fire or safely burning the paper in a lidded pot. If using the pot, take the ashes outdoors and bury them in the earth for transmutation.

* Light a candle to symbolize the light within yourself - your spiritual flame which you will attend to in the long dark nights ahead. Determine what would best nourish you physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually in the coming months and journal about it.

* You could decide to make a special altar or shrine to your well Ancestors. The ancient unnamed ones who carry the Light. This altar would be separate to any other altars you may have in your home and doesn't need photos but items that hold resonance for you which help to remind and connect you with your Well Dead asking them for help and guidance.

* On this day, some people set an extra place at the table in order to share their meal with the remembered dead and to honour connection with their ancestors.

* If there have been losses for you during the year, now is a good time to reflect on them and let them go. You could light a candle, name the losses and reflect on any lessons or gifts that may have come from the experience(s).

* Journal about your dreams and visions for what you might like to create in the year ahead. These will incubate in the coming dark months.

Enjoy!💗

Artist - Samantha Symonds