In Curanderismo, the indigenous healing tradition of the Americas, it is believed that disease is caused by social, environmental, psychological, physical, and spiritual factors. Sessions combining energy movements and hands-on healing with the use of prayer, consecrated plants, incense and aromatic waters, as well as Pláticas (heart-to-heart talks) and other healing rituals, help release stagnant or negative energy in order to promote good health and a positive mental attitude.

Unofficial curanderas are often found in Mexican American neighborhoods of the United States -- usually an older woman that may have some knowledge of herbs and folk remedies, and who may also have other abilities such as clairvoyance which they use as part of their practice. Often they are also asked to conduct special ceremonies to purify, bless, consecrate and harmonize a client's living and working environment. These rituals are especially important if the family has experienced a death, unexplained illnesses or chronic job losses. Curanderas never impose their will on another. Their goal is to heal, harmonize and protect those who seek their help.

Grace Alvarez Sesma has been in private practice as an energy healer and teacher since 1993. Born in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, she is of mixed heritage, Mexican/Yaqui.

Growing up her family used curanderismo remedies for healing fevers, stomach aches and other ailments (one of her aunts was a local Curandera and an uncle a Huesero). It was much later that she answered the call of the Medicine to formally study the healing wisdom of her ancestors. Since then, Grace has studied with several indigenous healers from Mexico as well as the United States; her principal training is with Yaqui/Lacandon Maya Medicine Man, Tezkalci Matorral Kachora of Mexico.

She is the founder of MANA of Imperial Valley-California, which promotes the advocacy and leadership of Latinas and is a 1993 Fellow of the National Hispana Leadership Institute, a collaborative project of NHLI and Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government. In May 2006, Grace was privileged to participate in the gathering of the 13 International Indigenous Grandmothers Council, which took place in Huautla de Jimenez, Oaxaca, Mexico.

A humorous and inspiring speaker, she lectures at the University of Southern California-San Diego, San Diego State University, and other institutions.

Grace is Adjunct Professor at Arizona Western College in Yuma, Arizona where she teaches "Exploring Native American Medicine Ways: Learning from, and Honoring, Indigenous Healing Traditions."

She is available for private sessions, consultation and lectures.

"My goal is to use my innate gifts of healing, heart-centered spiritual counseling skills and shamanic training in order to bring about renewed health and harmony for my clients -- both personally as well as in their home and work environment. Persons who consult me, whether it is for curanderismo, readings or reiki training, can be confident that their spiritual beliefs will be respected and all information disclosed during their session will remain confidential."

A respectful blend of healing traditions, curanderismo, as Grace practices it, draws from Mexika (Aztec) and Mayan healing practices.

To relieve the physical, emotional, and spiritual manifestations of illness or other non-health related problems, Grace may utilize one or all of the following:

Pláticas. (Heart to Heart talks) This is an opportunity to speak from the heart to clarify issues, resolve old hurts and free blocked energy in order to move beyond current unsatisfactory situations (for example with family, love, or work).

Limpias (Cleansing). This is a spiritual cleansing that may be done by "sweeping" the physical and energetic body with a bundle of herbs and aromatic waters, or a sacred feather to remove negative energies. A fresh unbroken raw egg may also be used and is rubbed over the body, broken, and placed in a glass of water, allowing the curandera to "read" the person's energy so the treatment can be individualized. Sometimes, a baño espiritual (spiritual bath) or indigenous massage may be indicated.

Limpias may also be done in the home or business in order to bolster the personal purification ceremony and enhance qualities of harmony and environmental well being. Limpias can be done alone or prior to hands-on energy healing or massage.

Soul retrievals. These ceremonies may be appropriate for persons who are suffering from Susto, literally “fright,” better known as soul loss, which can be caused by early abandonment, traumas such as rape, or unresolved grief for loved ones lost by death or divorce. Soul retrievals allow people to reclaim lost parts of themselves so they can be fully integrated and present.

Healing ceremonies. These ceremonies may include holding or burying symbolic items (for example, pictures, clothing or other items), fasting, prayer, chanting, dancing or drumming. This can at times include participation in a temazcal (sweatlodge).

Please note: Grace Alvarez Sesma is not a physician, therapist, nurse or psychiatrist. You should continue taking any medication that has been prescribed to you by your doctor. These services are not meant to replace medical or psychological diagnosis and treatment. It is recommended that you see a licensed physician or licensed health care professional for any physical or psychological ailment you may have.

Reiki Treatments: in person and in-absentia.

Reiki training for beginners to advanced students.

Angel Readings for empowerment and guidance in person or by telephone.