Delve into the realms of holistic healing and somatic practices as we sit down with Julianne Eanniello, a seasoned practitioner in reflexology and somatic healing techniques. Join MysticMag as we explore the transformative power of reflexology, the intricacies of somatic healing modalities, and Julianne’s profound journey towards wellness and self-discovery.
For those unfamiliar with the field, can you please explain what reflexology is and how it works?
Reflexology is a scientifically proven integrative health practice that utilizes gentle to moderate pressure to stimulate nerve endings on the feet, hands, and outer ears. These map a reflection of the body, corresponding to the different organs, muscles, and systems throughout the body. It is a holistic approach that enhances circulation, promotes stress reduction and relaxation, improves immunity, reduces pain, and assists the body in achieving optimal functionality.
A session involves removing only the shoes and socks and lying comfortably on a bodywork table. I cleanse the feet with warm, soothing water, then start working the reflexes on the feet. If someone has specific health concerns, I will work the reflexes that correspond to that issue. The amount of pressure I use is up to the client – some prefer light, gentle touch and others like deeper work. I also give clients the option to use a lavender eye mask, and there is relaxing music playing in the background.
Reflexology can benefit anyone who wants to maintain or improve their health, those who spend a lot of time on their feet, those with chronic or acute pain or health issues, and anyone seeking relaxation, stress reduction, rejuvenation, or self-care.
While no specific results are guaranteed, of course, most people find the sessions deeply soothing and relaxing. Often, people report the symptoms they came in with have been alleviated or greatly reduced.
How did you get into this line of work?
I’ve been a holistic health practitioner for more than 25 years, and a spiritual seeker since I was very young. I always wondered who am I and why am I here. This set me on a path of searching – for what, I wasn’t exactly sure. In my 30s, I discovered and became certified in energy practices like Reiki and Reconnection. The death of a young relative brought up more questioning, and I was drawn to inner spiritual and emotional work like The Journey and The Living Inquiries (now the Kiloby Inquiries), all of which I became certified in. I developed severe health issues in my early 40s, and it took almost 10 years before I was finally diagnosed with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue by a wonderful doctor when I was living in CA. His protocol, along with my own inner work, has helped me get well so that I could continue doing the work I love.
In CA, I co-owned and ran an addiction treatment center using the Kiloby Inquiries. When I moved back to RI a couple of years ago, I began reconnecting with old friends. One was Kelly Urso, my Reflexology teacher. I was receiving a session from her and she mentioned that she had a class starting soon. I instantly knew that I had to take it! My inner guidance has never let me down. I completely trusted that this was the right next step for me, and I’ve been loving it ever since!
What are the Kiloby Inquiries?
The Kiloby Inquiries are a presence-based, somatic emotional processing method that uncovers and processes the root of our pain and suffering, whether physical or emotional. It is an inner exploration that reveals our deepest fears, unhealthy beliefs and longings, and the life experiences where these were formed. It involves welcoming and allowing our thoughts and feelings rather than trying to push them away. When they are truly seen and acknowledged and we are able to stay fully present to them in the moment, then they naturally move on. We feel lighter and more free, as well as gain the capacity to be more present in our lives. More recently we’ve been working with emotional repression, using methods that give voice to the emotions that we’ve repressed for various reasons.
Many find freedom in their lives when they are willing to dive deeply into the unknown depths of their being and face what they are afraid to face. It is a life-changing process and is done in a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental, and loving way.
How can TRE® help people with stress and PTSD?
TRE, or Tension and Trauma Release Exercises, is a somatic release process designed to release tension, stress, and trauma that is stored in the body. It works with the fight/flight/freeze response in the nervous system to discharge built-up stress hormones and relax muscular tension. TRE activates a natural, neurogenic tremoring response, which allows the body to return to homeostasis. This tremoring response is a safe, automatic response that calms and balances the nervous system. For example, we might notice when we’re stressed that we unconsciously start tapping our feet nervously. This is one way the body discharges the pent-up energy.
In TRE, we intentionally induce tremoring or shaking throughout the body. We begin with some gentle movements to relax the body, which then gives way to allowing the body to shake, tremor, and release, bringing the body and nervous system back to balance. Those with chronic stress and PTSD have holding patterns in the body that can be released through this process. Many report improved sleep, happier and healthier relationships, relief from chronic pain, improved emotional stability, improved energy, and a larger capacity to deal with the stressors of daily life.
What other services do you offer?
Around 2015, I started to develop an authentic movement practice that I now call Natural Flow Movement. The essence of Natural Flow Movement is that of allowing the body to flow freely in whatever way it needs to, gently flowing and moving with the subtle energies of the body, allowing it to undo and release any contractions, blockages, or areas that feel stuck, physically or emotionally. Many feel lighter and more free, both physically and emotionally, as a result of this practice.
Is there anything else about your work that you’d like to share that we haven’t covered?
My passion has been the embodied, somatic practices that come from deep, internal exploration. I’ve used, and continue to use, all of these practices in my own life and for my own healing. When I started out on this path all those years ago, I didn’t expect that I would get to this place of feeling deeply at home and comfortable with myself. I am grateful for all of it and happy to share my experiences with anyone who is open to them.
For those looking for Reflexology, I offer sessions in Mystic and Groton CT, and in Westerly RI. Information and scheduling is online at SeascapeReflexology.com.
Inquiry, TRE, or Natural Flow Movement can be done online or in person. Information and scheduling is online at InquireWithJulianne.com.
