By Tammy Kilby
For the Times
DARLINGTON — With the holidays nearing, as well as the hustle and bustle of everyday life, there is a need for peace and calming for many. Clients who are familiar with Michelle Haas know what to expect when they open the front door at 315 Main Street, Darlington. The Driftless Shaman is an environment like no other, offering natural healing, botanicals, and treasures.
Those who have yet to venture into the cozy cove can expect to be immediately with a friendly smile and the calming voice of Haas. Healing scents waft from a diffuser, while a water fountain mimics the sounds of a trickling stream. The botanicals and nature photos are strategically placed on the walls. Every detail, color and element was all planned out with natural healing in mind.
“I understand how crucial it is to have a quiet, cozy place where interruptions are minimized,” Haas said. A nurse for 14 years, she understands there is a need for an environment that encourages physical, emotional and spiritual healing.
Attending Edgewood College, Haas earned her CNA, RN and BSN degrees. She was worked in such places as Bloomfield, Madison, and Minneapolis; before getting homesick and returning to the Driftless area in Southwest Wisconsin.
Growing up outside of Cobb on a multi-generational family farm, Haas learned invaluable lessons about life. Her experiences as a traveling ICU nurse opened her eyes to the needs of those around her. Now an in-home hospice nurse, Haas has answered the calling to those who are seeking natural healing methods.
The three services the Driftless Shaman offers are aromatherapy, Reiki, and M-Technique. Aromatherapy is the most popular. Clients can browse through a large assortment of essential oils that not only entice the senses, but also engage the individual in feelings of peace and calm.
Whether a customer admires the smells of lavender for relaxation, citrus for energy, or something in between; the fragrances can be purchased right off the shelf.
Offering a blend of scents is something that Haas finds is encouraging for those who are looking for that one scent that pulls all their favorites together in one bottle. Oils are not the only form to receive these fragrances, as she also offers facial mists, soaps and lotions that can be individualized to the person’s wants and needs.
Reiki is a relaxation method that was developed by Japanese Buddist Mikao Usui. It is a hands-on and hands-off method in which positive energy is used to relax the client.
The M-Technique was designed and patented by Dr. Jane Buckle, a British RN, PhD as a means of holistic communication. It is different than a massage, as it engages pressure points as it follows a set protocol and pattern.
All three services offered at the Driftless Shaman encourage relaxation, positive natural healing, and peace. Reiki and M-Technique are done in a safe environment, not shared with thoroughfare, as the shop is uninterrupted duration of the appointment.
When asked about upcoming goals, Haas said, “In 2024, I’m looking to add classes and events to my calendar. I’m passionate about teaching relaxation methods that can help my clients.”
Haas has a kind heart, which shows when talking with her, especially as she encourages healing and growth. Her blog, ‘Redbird Vine’, keeps readers engaged and kept up to date with future events, and can be found on her website: driftless.shaman.com.
Appointments can be booked by calling Haas at 608-215-8340. Customers can stop in and check out all the trinkets and unique gifts that Haas has to offer, such as plants, books, teas, mugs, candles, stones, crystals, lotions, facial sprays, cleansers and moisturizers, as well as plant-based make-up. Gift baskets can be made to individual’s specifications, as well as gift certificates of all price points.