Zara Baker experiences Hopi Ear Candles therapy at Revitalise
Hopi Ear Candles therapy is an ancient Indian ritual to relax and revitalise the body. I meet Sonia Campos at Revitalise in Hove to find out more about the alternative treatment as it’s largely unknown in western culture. Ask people about Hopi Ear Candles and they may have an idea of what goes on in the therapy because of the name. Misconceptions about the therapy include it simply being to treat wax build-up. The function of the candles is purely physical, as Sonia explains, but it’s to do with sound, scent and vibration to boost wellbeing. They can help those who suffer with headaches, migraines, stress, blocked ears and sinuses. The result is improved relaxation and calm.
The candles
The Biosun earcandles Sonia uses are carefully handmade with natural ingredients. Measuring 22cm, the candles are meticulously created with natural cotton, bees wax, honey and aroma essences. There are different candles to suit a client’s needs. The traditional fragrance candles Sonia uses are honey, sage and camomile. Eucalyptus and pine is a wonderful option if you have blocked sinuses or are recovering from illness, as improved nasal breathing is a result. The candles originate from the centuries-old culture of the Hopi Indians, hence their name.
How it works
A general health Q&A is also conducted at this point, as it is not recommended for patients with a perforated eardrum, inflammation in the ear, or if the patients is on prescribed medication. I lie on my side and the candle is placed in the ear. The sound of the flame creates a vibration that penetrates the eardrum. Sonia explains how this in turn, vibrates the inner ear bones treating it like an inner ear massage. The Eustacian tubes and sinuses are also reached, meaning blockages are broken down (mucus and earwax), meaning the body has an easier job of flushing waste through the lymphatic system. This form of detoxifying is incredibly beneficial to the body, whilst the essential oils work to promote calm and further increase wellbeing. Each candle takes about 10 minutes to burn down. It is never painful or unpleasant (though Sonia tells me to speak up if I am ever uneasy). It’s a strange sensation, just because it is different. It is very comfortable though, and once I adjust to the gentle sound of the candle burning, I focus on the scent of the essential oils to help me switch off. At first I feel very aware – which may be down to having a flame burning that I cannot see in close proximity. Quickly though, I relax and enjoy the sensation and think about what’s happening to both the ears and sinuses. Sonia is skilled and experienced in Hopi Ear Candles, and through her explanation and treatment, I come away having discovered a new holistic marvel.
Revitalise, 86 Church Road, Hove, 01273 738389, www.revitalise-u.co.uk
