We were lucky to catch up with Aileen Lane recently and have shared our conversation below.

Aileen , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

I have always felt called to be of service to others. For over 28 years, I was an Occupational Therapy Practitioner working in a variety of settings including, the state-run Infant-Toddler Program, Inpatient Rehabilitation and Acute Care for adults, Special Education for the School System, and outpatient Pediatric clinics.

It was during my last job in Boise, Idaho where I was introduced to Upledger’s CranioSacral Therapy while working with children with special needs. CranioSacral Therapy is a wonderful modality that we used with Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy and Physical Therapy at the clinic.

When I decided to live full-time at our home in Sedona Arizona in 2020, I decided to leave OT and focus my practice on CranioSacral Therapy by opening up my own business, Sedona Kokoro Healing after graduating from Sedona School of Massage in 2021.

I took a risk by leaving the stability of OT and I was stepping into unfamiliar territory. I was no longer dependent on others to provide me the steady stream of clients and benefits of the job. I also took more risks by only offering CranioSacral Therapy and Reiki instead of massage.

Happily, I have seen a steady increase of clients seeking the gentle, but powerful healing of CranioSacral Therapy as well as an interest in learning Reiki. I currently have Reiki students not just in Sedona, but also in Los Angeles and Boise – all studying Komyo ReikiDo, the Japanese Branch of Reiki (No Western Influence).

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My training in CranioSacral Therapy is through the Upledger Institute , founded by Dr John Upledger. CranioSacral Therapy was developed by Dr Upledger following extensive scientific studies from 1975 – 1983. CST is a gentle, hand-on method of evaluating and enhancing the functioning of a physiological body system called the craniosacral system – comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. CST has been shown to be beneficial for a variety of symptoms including: migraines, chronic pain, central nervous system disorders, concussions, Alzheimers, autism and sensory processing, chronic fatigue, depression, fibromyalgia and other connective-tissue disorders, TMJ, PTSD, and sleep challenges to name a few.

The most common feedback I receive from my clients are how deeply relaxing CST is, as well as how profound this work can be for them. Sometimes, CST may bring forth emotions and help release trauma – physical, emotional or mental.

Because of how strongly I believe in the healing through CST, I have continued my studies even further through the Upldeger Institute. I recently became Techniques Certified in CranioSacral Therapy which involved extensive studies and passing written, oral and hands-on exams. I also serve as a Teaching Assistant for their CranioSacral Therapy 1 classes.

Another area of my practice includes another gentle modality – Reiki. I am a Practitioner and Teacher of Komyo RekiDo, a keep-it-simple Reiki system founded in Kyoto Japan by a Japanese Buddhist monk, Inamoto Hyakuten. This Japanese Branch of Reiki does not have any Western Influence and most closely aligns with how the founder of Reiki, Usui practiced Reiki.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

Absolutely. My career in Occupational Therapy has been very fulfilling and stable for many years. No matter where I lived in this country, I have always been able to find work in this field. And most importantly, it was through OT that introduced me to CranioSacral Therapy.

Even though my area of practice have changed – during my career in OT, I have worked in a variety of settings as well – they all have one thing in common….to help others heal. I feel it is important to check in with myself to see how I can further enhance and expand my skills. It’s easy to fall into a familiar pattern because if feels safe and comfortable. However, if we do not take time to re-evaluate ourselves periodically and make changes, how will we ever grow? Do not let fear get in the way of pursuing your dreams!

Can you talk to us about how your funded your firm or practice?

I initially started my practice in my home using an extra room to see my clients. I supplemented my income by working a 2nd job 4 days a week as well as doing contract work as a therapist for other companies. It was challenging to find balance for sometimes I found myself working 14 days in a row. And being your own boss, requires learning boundaries and balance. When our tenant left our Casita, attached to our home, my husband encourage me to move my practice there. It was a risk he was willing to take in not having that additional income from renters.

Having a separate space from our home made a huge difference. I began advertising wherever I can, including Google and at local grocery stores and coffee house. I began asking my regular clients to leave a Google Review if they felt called to do so. After being in my own private space for 6 months, I have tripled my income. I also believe that when you have your own space, it changes the energy.    

Contact Info:

• Website: www.sedonakokorohealing.com
• Instagram: @sedonakokorohealing
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sedonakokorohealing