tending The Root

MY STEAM STORY

I began pelvic steaming as a “DIY” user to resolve chronic and complex pelvic issues. These were painful and irregular periods, infections (BV, HPV, UTI, pilonidal cysts), painful sex, vaginal scar tissue, “abnormal” paps, prolapse, and general pelvic pain tied to emotional pain from various forms of trauma (sexual trauma, a traumatic vaginal delivery with 3rd degree tearing and childhood trauma: spanking/ paternal abandonment/ cultural assimilation/ exposure to domestic violence.)

Steaming on my own for about a year without shared community knowledge was fun but wasn’t helping the complexity of issues I had going on. My 3-year course of study at the Peristeam Hydrotherapy Institute, guided by Keli Garza, has given me an in-depth knowledge of the many complex issues that can occur in the pelvis, both externally and internally. Creating and implementing an advanced steam has given me pain free menstruation, as well as resolved almost all of the issues I came to steaming with. I have found that steaming can positively affect our reproductive system, digestive system, endocrine system (hormones), lymphatic system (water retention, edema), circulatory system, and nervous system, as it is an entirely holistic practice! I am now trained to provide advanced steam plans for those who are pre-menarche through post-menopause, as well as those without periods, pregnancy loss, hemorrhoids, constipation, prostate issues, ED, infections/STIs, trauma, and general pelvic pain.

I am continually amazed at what healing takes place with this gentle, soothing method. I am enchanted by the process of combining the elements of water, heat (fire), and plants because it is so simple and natural, yet is powerfully effective care. I could not get this depth of care and healing in a standard gynecological setting, even though steaming complements most medical situations.

I have been growing medicinal plants and practicing with them for the last 20+ years.  Folk Herbalism has become a constant safety net in my family, the plants taking care of us, as we take care of them. Pelvic steaming and other forms of herbal medicine are currently considered alternative methods in Western healthcare. Access to them provides equity and inclusion for those who do not fit into the Western model of health care⎯ another reason I am passionate about upholding effective folk practices! 

I also offer steaming support for those with AD/HD, Autism and depression, and co-occurring conditions such as sensory processing and hyper-mobility who often have specific challenges in maintaining new practices. My services are trauma informed, and queer inclusive.