LMT, RYT
Lombard
(630) 495-8988
pamelak9@sbcglobal.net
www.anahata9.net
Ayurveda, Yoga, Massage

Services

Describe your services:
Ayurveda Consultations — determining constitution (doshas) through pulse, face and tongue reading~ then a written evaluation is given to determine the quality of the 5 elements (earth, water, fire, air, ether or space) An overview of Ayurveda is given then a specific diet and lifestyle discussion takes place. Guidelines and a food list are provided for taking home and implementing, over time.

This in depth evaluation brings out what imbalances exist and how to rebalance using food as medicine, one and on half hours. Monthly Ayurveda Community group is offered as well as a 12 class schedule ‘Ayurveda for Health’~ held periodically throughout the year.

Abhyanga~ a warm medicated oil massage pacifying the specific dosha(s) is the focus.
Shirodhara~ Shiro translates to head and dhara to flow~ warm medicated oil is released in a slow stream on the forehead, bringing deep relaxation to the nervous system. This method offers calming of the mind and body with healing qualities surfacing.

Healing Arts – Massage Therapy, Yoga (posture and meditation practice), Reiki, Reflexology, Ortho-Bionomy (TM), Stone Therapy, Ear Candling. I offer a Family Practice including infants, pre and peri-natal therapy.

Yoga is offered as a private or group class, prenatal is welcome.

How does your healing modality work?
Balancing the body, mind & breath along with the 5 elements
The offering is a safe, sacred space for clients to move into their inner world, reaching the depths of their wisdom, their peace. I provide facilitation of this process as the client releases patterns that keep them from optimum health. The timing is different with each individual. As our relationship grows, trust builds and deeper levels are reached. They are moving from the inside out and I am moving from the outside in. As we meet, this symbiotic relationship offers a new pattern to enter into their body mind. It is as if we a setting a new groove towards harmony. The body continually seeks a homeostasis position and by supporting the parasympathetic (calming) part of the nervous system through therapy, wholeness can be restored. Through any of the modalities I offer, clients find which is the most effective and respond in their own time.

How do you see your services evolving over the next three years?
As Ayurveda continues to become a well known practice, I see myself in a teaching role as well as a continuing practitioner. I would like to offer Ayurveda retreats so individuals can have a living experience of a diet and life style change that is fun and healthy.
I’m expanding into programs of Ayurveda into allopathic medical offices, Yoga centers/studios, corporate locations and other healing arts centers. This interest includes ongoing as well as a one-time frequency.

The combination of a private Ayurvedic Consultation, Yoga therapy, Shirodhara and abhyanga is dosha balancing and quite effective. I aim to continue to offer this as a healing practice as well as classroom instruction.
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Benefits

What are the benefits/results people see?
Through the Ayurveda practice, clients are experiencing more energy, deeper sleep, clarity, symptoms of illness diminishing and weight balancing is occurring (from 15 to over 40 pound loss are the current statistics).

Generally, people experience a confirmation of diet and life style changes. This can be so affirming as we look to the 5 elements and offer methods to bring in harmony. This is simple, but not necessarily easy (what is asked is to change patterns). The older we are, more challenge may step in. Support is available with follow up appointments, telephone calls and emails.

Through relaxation of body, calming thoughts and deeper breathing, a sense of well being returns along with a lighter attitude about life situations or conditions. Some find clarity of mind, love in their heart and peace in their soul. What a gift this is to witness.

Why do people come to see you?
Curiosity, acute and chronic symptoms are common reason for people to make an appointment for Ayurveda. Those having surgical procedures are interested in balancing the body and mind before and after (including dentistry) as well as women during pre and peri-natal pregnancy. There are also the situations where the interest is in chakra balancing of the energetic body which is a focus of Reiki. Those who have Yoga interest range from beginning curiosity to reconnecting with a practice they put aside for many years. Primary impetus is for stress reduction (cortisol managing with relaxation for adrenal glands, cholesterol managing through liver cleansing) and then forming a new relationship with their mind and body. All in all, there is an openness to learn something that is nutritive and supportive.

Who is an ideal client?
One who takes responsibility for their health and is open to changing habits. Those who listen to their bodies and honor what they hear are able offer these different patterns for themselves. This is a blessing to facilitate the healing process.

What makes you different/good at what you do?
From my own personal healing, these treatments and practice have created a healthy environment. I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1984. By 1991, I moved into the healings arts field. As a practitioner, I have had no reoccurrence of the M.S. symptoms since 1986. Through this Ayurveda healing experience (a change of diet and life style), I have moved to a healthier existence. With this experience, I find these alternative methods of healing beneficial for me and I so enjoy sharing the possibilities of changing patterns to create wellness. Being on this journey is my life’s calling and I am happy to answer to this.
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Philosophy/Approach

Describe your healing philosophy:
Entering into a healing space is an individual decision and each of us takes our own responsibility. I respond as a facilitator, offering ideas and tools to shift energy and release areas of holding. I encourage people to become aware of their relationship with themselves by listening to the physical body and observe the subtle bodies (mind, breath, feelings and emotions). How we relate with ourselves is expressed to others as well. Taking a look at this is helpful in a healing process. Some courage and sense of humor is needed as this may bring quite an adventure along the way. Thank goodness we have therapy (this includes Yoga) to support us as we go through this path called life. Developing our own practice of good health through diet and life style is key to living well.

Describe your style or approach:
I primarily move from the viewpoint that each person is their own healer. From this vantage point, I cannot repair anything that is not ready~ this up to the each individual. They must be committed to taking part as I support, facilitate and offer techniques that may be useful. Compliance with a daily routine is crucial. This prepares each of us for optimal health of which I am interested in assisting those who are taking their care seriously.

Why do you do what you do?
One of my mottos is ‘Treat Yourself Well’. A Healings Arts practice offers a day to day connection with good health. This is a lifestyle for me, rather than a job. Bringing peace into my life and then sharing brings me joy. Coming to a place of understanding and deepening the relationship I have with myself has been an on going journey. Delving into the darker areas to explore and review then bringing this into light for healing, has been my path since the early 90’s. With myself and support of others I am able to grow and develop spiritual maturity. My intention is to assist others who have this interest of deeper connection to wholeness. As I grow with the experiences of life, I am then able to offer what I have embodied from a deeper level. Overcoming obstacles with acceptance and forgiveness along with humor and music ring a continuous melody in my world of wellness.
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Education/Background

Education/Training:
Center for Therapeutic Massage and Wellness, Wellness Massage Training Institute, Marie LeDuc (Reiki Master/Teacher), Kripalu Yoga Center (for Yoga and Ayurveda), Xi Yuan Hospital (Beijing- for Qigong training), Mali, West Africa (cultural and spiritual journey) JIVA Institute, India (extended Ayurveda training)

Years Professionally Practicing:
Established in 1991

Contributions/Publications:
Article for Chicago Wellness Magazine , YOGA FOR TRI-ATHELETES & MARATHON RUNNERS, June 2005

Quoted in Kripalu Yoga- A Guide To Practice On and Off the Mat, by Richard Faulds and Senior Teachers of Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health, ‘05
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What to expect

Describe a typical session:
With Ayurveda Consultations, I talk with the individuals so I begin to understand why they are interested in Ayurveda and what challenges they are experiencing. If they wish to continue, paperwork is filled in and brought to the appointment we have arranged. An in depth discussion takes place regarding their history, a pulse reading is taken, the face and tongue are read, a pH factor is determined then a written evaluation for dosha determination is given. A further discussion about how Ayurveda aligns with the 5 elements and what is being disclosed for that individual to pay attention to, is of interest. An overview of Ayurveda is shared and then guidelines for each person is written up for take home implementation. The focus remains on diet and life style considerations. (simple, but may not be easy)

For massage therapy appointments, I listen and observe. While giving therapy, my hands listen for the client’s signals and follow the flow that is appropriate. This is a way to communicate without words, suggesting releases to blocked areas at whatever levels they occur (physical, mental, emotional and spiritual). With the use of sound, (toning, singing bowl or CD) a frequency is utilized as vibration harmony is maintained. Marma points are stimulated during Abhyanga and Shirodhara in order to provide a further release. The medicated warm oil is dosha balancing and oh so nurturing.

Stone therapy is quite effective with the heat radiating from the stones as well as the weight of them resting on the body. I sense these stones actually pull toxicities out of the body.

During a Yoga class, I lead from a therapeutic view for both private and groups. Breath and postures are offered for a balancing climate of the doshas and seasonal apropo. Students are reminded to take care of themselves and position themselves according to what their body is telling them.

In a Yoga group practice, if someone is not in favor of what I am demonstrating, they are encouraged to do something different. I often play the harmonium (Indian instrument) at the end of class for relaxation. I do believe this resonates at a deep healing level. Taking care of ourselves is the theme. Learning about limitations as well as healthy challenging can bring relief. I primarily practice and teach Kripalu Yoga style, known for focus and compassion. We breathe, feel, relax, watch and allow ourselves the experience.

Reiki is also an important part of my practice. The chakra system has been of interest to me and I find this is core energetics.

Prenatal and perinatal care is offered for Ayurveda, Therapeutic Massage and Yoga. This is selective therapy and postures based on which trimester mom is in or post delivery. Taking part in a rejuvenating and nutritive program is helpful for the preparation of labor and delivery. I also focus on the reflex points to encourage labor on or after the due date.

Whatever is supportive comes forward and is welcome. Background music is optional and often supports therapy, so I take requests. Be aware that homework may be given.

How long is a typical session?

Describe your office or treatment room:
Colors representing the stability of earth and the flowing energy of water elements- a sense of the Southwest as well as a flavor of the East. Welcoming plants, fresh flowers and a scent of sage and cedar cleanses the air. The warm glow of a candle burning representing the transformation process, suggesting old patterns releasing and a Shirodhara pot hangs in the corner~ offering the copper glow of good health.

How should someone prepare for a session?
Ayurveda is described as the Science of Life, so arriving just as you are is perfect. Being open to listening as well as contributing brings our connection that much more together. Any paperwork filled in comes along and we review together.

Yoga Classes: The Yoga classes at Anahata Center are designed for the individual who is interested in connecting with their body and mind in a healthy way. This is a supportive approach for preventative health care and many curative conditions. As the body calms and relaxes, tension and stress now can release. Our instructors continue to study and practice Yoga so they maintain a high level of expertise in order to guide others in their own practice. We enjoy questions and prefer to give each individual as much attention as possible in their experience. Refrain from eating 2-3 hours prior to class and wear loose clothing, props are provided or bring your own, if you like.

Beginning or Introductory classes: these classes are designed for the very first Yoga class experience, all levels welcome

Aroma Restorative or Restorative: for all levels of Yoga experience, rejuvenating the body and mind with passive postures and essential oils

Gentle (Therapeutic) Yoga: for all levels of Yoga experience and particularly focused on recovering from surgery or injury, chronic or acute conditions

Moderate Yoga: for those with some Yoga experience (6 months or more), breathing techniques are a part of the practice

Meditation: all are welcome, this is a time dedicated to practice silence and ask questions about meditation

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Logistics

Office hours/days of the week:
~ Up Coming Classes & Programs ~

Anahata Center 929 S. Main Street #106 Lombard 630/495-8988~ anahata9.net

MONDAY

Moderate Kripalu Yoga 6:15-7:45PM with Pamela Myers AyC, LMT, eRYT $15 per class, monthly discount Private & Prenatal classes available

TUESDAY
Anusara Yoga 7-8:15PM with Veronika Onofrejova (multi level) $14/class monthly discount

WEDNESDAY
Gentle Therapeutic Yoga 9-10:15AM $14 per class, monthly discount with Linda Troutman

Introduction to Yoga 5:45-7PM (gentle Anusara) with Veronika Onofrejova

Moderate Vinyasa 7:15-8:130PM $14 per class, monthly discount with Linda Troutman
(the 4th class of each month focuses on Restorative Yoga rather than Vinyasa)

THURSDAY
Nia 10-11:15AM with Catherine Ehret, $14/class, monthly discount

SATURDAY
Moderate Anusara Yoga 8:30-10AM with Veronika Onofrejova $15 per class, monthly discount

SUNDAY
Hatha Yoga and Meditation~ 9-10:30AM with Gina Pernini (multi level) $15 per class, monthly discount

2nd & 4th Sunday of each month Introduction to Yoga~ Complimentary Community Class~1-2PM with Lauren or Jenna, no fee

PROGRAMS

AYURVEDA for HEALTH Usually Thursday evening classes 6-8PM, various instructors~ presenting food for health with recipes, field trip Indian market, history, methodology~ support in diet and life style changes, pre-registration is recommended (one class may be held on a Saturday afternoon as we make a market trip)~ Yoga Alliance CEU’s approved

AC (Ayurveda Community) First Friday of each month~ 6-7PM~ with Pamela ($5 optional, first time has no fee) monthly meetings for diet and life style support in making healthy changes

DRUM/DANCE/ CHANT monthly on Saturdays at Anahata Center~ Canyon Drum (Starved Rock) during Summer Solstice ~ check anahata9.net or facebook

THE WHEEL OF THE YEAR ~ 8 Sundays with Karen Tlusty, $15~ throughout the year~ for reaching inner potential~ guided meditation and aromatherapy

Fee Range
These prices are for private classes and therapeutic massage (sliding scale)
half hour
$45-60
one hour
$65-80
one and one half hours
$90-105
two hours
$120-135

Ayurveda Consultations $135-$150 (sliding scale)

Abhyanga~ warm medicated oil massage for dosha balancing
Ayurveda Medicated Massage
1 hour $105-$120
1 ½ hours $135-$150

Shirodhara Appointment are taken in 30, 60 and 90 minute intervals
Fees are $65, $115, $165, respectively

Reiki is a 90 minute appointment, $90-$105

Take Insurance?
I give receipts to clients that includes a procedure code which can be processed for their reimbursement.

Cancellation Policy?
Yes, 48 hour notice or send a replacement, emergencies are exceptions
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Closing comments

What else might someone want to know about you?
I’m a part of circles that others may hold interest – Drumming/Chanting, Women’s Circle and I connect with cows and those that manage Golden Guernsey in the western suburbs~ a great source for raw milk!
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