Acupressure
Developed in
Asia over 5,000 years ago, acupressure encourages the natural flow of chi
(energy) to promote the body’s natural healing power. While similar to
acupuncture in treating blockages of energy, acupressure stimulates
specific points on the body with finger pressure rather than needles.
Acupressure can treat a wide variety of conditions, from general stress to
specific pain, and is often combined with massage. Various forms of
acupressure include Jin Shin Jyutsu, Do-In and Shiatsu.
Acupuncture
A traditional
Chinese medical treatment that has been practiced for over 5,000 years in
Asia, acupuncture has recently become more popular in the West. Through a
thorough diagnosis, involving overall health and lifestyle questions and
the taking of various pulses, acupuncturists treat the whole person by
stimulating the flow of chi (energy or life force) in the body. Most
often, this is done by inserting very thin needles into some of the 800
energy points located along meridian lines that run throughout the body.
Acupuncture can treat a wide range of ailments and may be used in tandem
with other modalities.
Alexander
Technique
Developed over
a century ago by the Australian actor F. M. Alexander, this bodywork
technique seeks to identify unconscious patterns of thinking that bring
about restrictive movements and postures. The Alexander Technique focuses
on re-educating the body and mind to bring about greater awareness and
levels of energy through freedom of movement, balance and coordination.
Alexander used these techniques to cure himself of chronic laryngitis.
While the relationship of head, body and neck are of particular importance
in this technique, the whole of the body and mind is affected.
Applied
Kinesiology
Developed in
the mid-1960s by chiropractor George Goodheart, this diagnostic system
incorporates muscle testing to supplement other examination procedures.
Drawing on principles from Western medical science as well as from Chinese
medicine, acupuncture and massage, Goodheart observed large muscles
corresponding to bodily organs; as such, weakness in various muscles could
be used to indicator disharmony in the body. Based on the belief that
“body language never lies,” Applied Kinesiologists diagnose through
muscle-testing procedures and incorporate direct feedback from the body
into treatment plans.
Aromatherapy
The medicinal
and therapeutic benefits of essential oils derived from plants and flowers
has been known since ancient times. Aromatherapy utilizes the application
of essential oils in order to induce a deeper sense of well being — from
reducing stress and soothing jangled emotions to refreshing the body and
clearing the mind. When inhaled, the pungent, sweet or refreshing aromas
affect the limbic area of the brain. Aromatherapy is also used in
conjunction with massage and acupressure, thus providing additional
healing effects as the oil penetrates through the skin.
Ayurveda/Ayurvedic
Healing
Ayurveda is a
Sanskrit word meaning “science of life.”
This system of natural medicine began in India over 5000 years ago.
It may be the original holistic health approach, as Ayurveda describes
health as a state in which body, mind and spirit are all in perfect
balance, as nature designed them to be. Gentle, noninvasive and
comprehensive, Ayurvedic healing works to correct root causes of
imbalances rather than surface symptoms. Thus, rather than treating
specific illnesses, Ayurvedic practitioners look to the whole being of an
individual, incorporating diet plans, herbs, supplements, massage, yoga,
aromatherapy and other treatments as part of an overall health and healing
regime.
Bach
Remedies
British
physician and homeopathist Edward Bach (1886-1936) believed that one
needed to “treat the person, not the illness.”
Through his practice, he observed disease as an effect of
disharmony between body and mind, and symptoms of illness as external
expressions of negative emotional issues. A great lover of nature, Bach
enlisted the healing power of plants to treat emotional problems in his
patients. By intuiting the healing power of various plants, he formulated
the Bach flower remedies, which are the basis for most other modern
flower-essence systems. (See Flower Essences)
Biofeedback
Biofeedback is
a therapeutic technique that allows individuals to monitor their own
physiological processes so that they can learn to control them. In this
sense, biofeedback is an educational process involving active
participation wherein the client learns (via feedback from machines) to
both identify his or her own physiological processes and control them. For
example, some individuals have learned how to alter their brainwaves
through biofeedback. Biofeedback is often used for conditions in which the
brain is not working as well as it might, including learning and attention
problems, as well as in treating chronic pain and mood disorders.
Bodywork
Bodywork is a
general term that includes a wide variety of massage and movement-based
healing modalities. Some approaches focus on organizing and integrating
the body in relation to gravity. Others work with the manipulation of
muscles and soft tissues with an aim to correct flow of blood and lymph or
ease of movement. Many practitioners use a variety of techniques, or may
even blend one method with another.
Chinese
Medicine/ Traditional
Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Chinese
medicine is an ancient medical system based on a complex and intricate
view of the Universe wherein everything is interrelated. TCM practitioners
understand the mind and body as an interconnected energetic system that
can neither be separated one from the other, nor from the universe itself.
Practitioners of this system focus on treating the patient and not the
disease. Treatment for illness may include acupuncture, herbs and various
energetic movements, while diet and exercise are utilized to promote and
maintain health.
Chiropractic
Derived from
the Greek word ‘cheiro,’ meaning hand, chiropractic is the practice of
manually adjusting the spine to improve and maintain health. Although
Hippocrates emphasized that “one should look to the spine for the cause
of disease,” modern chiropractic was not developed until the late 1800s
by a Canadian healer. Chiropractic is now a popular form of holistic
health care that aids in pain relief, prevention of disease and
maintaining optimum wellness without drugs or surgery.
Colonic
Hydrotherapy
Colonic
hydrotherapy cleanses and detoxifies the colon through a gentle washing of
the large intestine. During this therapy, the client relaxes as purified
water is run slowly into and out of the colon. The entire colon tract is
cleansed of toxins, wastes and bacteria, while the abdominal area is
gently massaged by this technique. Sessions usually last an hour, during
which time two to six liters of water flow into and out of the large
intestines. The goal of this therapy is to remove waste, stimulate and
hydrate the digestive system, and enhance wellness.
Craniosacral
Therapy
Originally
developed in the 1930s by osteopath William Sutherland and expanded by
other experts such as Dr. John Upledger and Dr. Alain Gehin, Craniosacral
therapy relieves tension between the cranial plates and intracranial
membranes with gentle, sensitive pressure. Craniosacral therapists assist
in opening areas of restriction and encouraging a more rhythmic, balanced
flow of the cerebrospinal fluid, which moves in a tide-like manner around
the spinal cord. Highly effective for specific problems, such asmigraines,
TMJ, vertigo and sinus trouble, this technique also promotes a balanced
and healthy response throughout the entire system.
Deep
Tissue Massage
By using direct
pressure, compression, and friction applied either along or across the
grain of muscle tissue, massage therapists are able to reach deeper
portions of the thick muscles of the body and often individual muscle
fibers. This type of deep massage is more specific than Swedish massage,
focusing on individual muscles, and tends to involve both slower strokes
and greater pressure. Deep tissue massage is mostly used to release
chronic muscle tension and congestion in problem areas.
Ear
Candling
Believed to
have originated in India, ear candling is done with a hollow, cone-shaped
cloth candle. The cloth is waxed and often includes an herbal coating. The
small end is gently inserted into the ear and the larger end of the cone
is lit. Heat from the top causes a rising column of herbal smoke that
warms the pores of the ear canal, softens earwax, and soothes the eardrum
while regulating ear pressure. The vacuum pulls debris, fungus, bacteria
and earwax into the cone. There is no heat or pain involved, and users
often describe a soothing sensation. Ear Candling is designed to detoxify
the ears, sinuses and other systems while relaxing the recipient.
Energy
Work
Energy work is
a broad term for a variety of healing techniques that focus on moving,
manipulating, restoring or balancing the flow of energy in the body.
Energy workers are trained to sense energetic blockages and facilitate the
flow of energy within the body. Energy work may or may not involve actual
touch, and often emphasis is focused more on emotional and spiritual
levels rather than physical, though all levels of a being are affected in
energy treatments. Reiki, Therapeutic Touch and Polarity therapy are all
examples of energy work.
Feldenkrais
Developed in
the 1950s by atomic physicist Moshe Feldenkrais, this method of bodywork
involves deepening body awareness. In “awareness through movement”
exercises, one is guided to develop neuromuscular awareness, increase
flexibility of mind and body, and enhance coordination. Although the
program is designed to help everyone, Feldenkrais himself was noted for
working with people suffering from a variety of neuromuscular
disturbances, and the method may thus be especially be helpful for those
with neurological and movement disorders.
Feng
Shui
The ancient
Chinese study of achieving balance in nature and one’s environment, Feng
Shui translates as “wind and water.”
Feng Shui practitioners look at the geography of one’s home or
business and seek to achieve a harmonious placement of furniture and
objects within those environment in order to affect a positive impact on
finances, health, emotions, relationships and more. On a larger scale,
Feng Shui enhances our awareness of the natural order of the universe and
the power of nature.
Flower
Essences
Derived from
the healing energy and life force of plants, flower essences are designed
to stimulate inner strengths, encourage balance and guide one to greater
levels of self-awareness. Each flower essence emphasizes a particular
strength and vitality of life energy. By matching the emotional needs of
the client to the “teaching” of various flower essences, old patterns
may be cleared away as vibrational levels are raised. Flower essences are
also particularly potent in facilitating changes from one level of energy
or way of being to another.
Healing
Touch
Utilizing both
hands-on and energy-based techniques designed to sense, balance and align
the human energy field, Healing Touch focuses on healing at all levels:
mentally, spiritually, emotionally and physically. One of the foundations
of Healing Touch is the idea that all healing is self-healing, that
physicians and practitioners may encourage and facilitate healing, but
that the body is the true healer. Healing Touch practitioners focus on
re-activating the mind-body-spirit connection so that the body may engage
the deeper levels of self-healing.
Holistic
Practitioner
Holistic health
is based on caring for the whole person, including his or her physical,
mental, emotional and spiritual aspects. Holistic practitioners emphasize
safe, noninvasive treatments that address the core causes of disease or
imbalance in the body rather than focusing only on symptoms. Practitioners
utilize a wide variety of modalities including, but not limited to:
massage, acupressure and other bodywork techniques; nutritional
counseling, herbs or supplements; exercise, stretching and yoga;
meditation, breathwork and emotional counseling.
Homeopathy
German
physician Dr. Samuel Hahnemann founded this alternative system of medicine
in the early 1800s. Homeopathic physicians treat the whole person, and
thus begin diagnosis with discovering the full range of emotional,
physical and mental symptoms the individual is experiencing. Treatment
usually consists of very small doses of one homeopathic medicine that
addresses all symptoms. A central principle of homeopathy is the Law of
Similars, which states that disease is cured by medicine which creates
similar symptoms. In this way, an individual’s natural defenses are
engaged and balance is achieved.
Hydrotherapy
As its name
implies, hydrotherapy utilizes water for therapeutic purposes. Making use
of the buoyancy, turbulence and warmth/cooling effects of water,
hydrotherapy is often used to reduce pain, stress and stiffness, as well
as speed recovery after injury. General relaxation and healing are also
major benefits of hydrotherapy. Techniques vary widely from hot and cold
compresses to steambaths and whirlpools to colonic irrigation. There are
several specialized forms of hydrotherapy, such as Watsu, a form of water
shiatsu in which one is massaged by a therapist while floating in a large
pool of warm water.
Hypnosis/Hypnotherapy
Modern
hypnotherapy evolved from the work of Austrian physician Franz Mesmer
(1734-1815). It involves evoking a state of focused relaxation, where the
subconscious mind is opened to suggestions. The hypnotherapist offers
suggestions designed to help the client achieve a desired goal, such as
losing weight, stop smoking or alleviating pain or depression. Several
sessions may be needed to achieve one’s goal. Hypnotherapy may also
include regression or progression work, wherein future positive outcomes
and possibilities are visualized or discovered.
Infant
Massage
Massaging
infants dates back to ancient times, particularly in Asian and Pacific
Island cultures where babies were regularly massaged at bath time.
Popularized by French natural childbirth physician Frederic Leboyer, and
brought to the US by yoga practitioner, Vimala McClure, infant massage is
now increasingly taught to Western parents as a means of bonding with
their newborn. Incorporating nurturing touch, gentle massage and
one-on-one interaction, this method encourages infant health with
demonstrable physical, emotional and neurological benefits.
Iridology
Established in
the late 1800s in Hungary, Iridology is the practice of evaluating the
health of the entire body through the eyes. Iridologists analyze the
unique pattern of each iris in terms of mapped corresponding zones that
represent the organs, glands and functions of the body. Used by
homeopaths, naturopaths, nutritional therapists, herbalists and others,
Iridology is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic technique that can alert you
to potential health problems.
Jin
Shin Do
Translated as
the “the way of the compassionate spirit,” Jin Shin Do is a synthesis
of Japanese and Chinese acupressure techniques along with a bit of Taoist
philosophy. Practitioners apply gentle fingertip pressure to various
points along the body in order to affect muscle tension, improve
circulation, balance the emotions and elevate one’s spiritual sense of
being. Exercises may also be included to help release both physical and
emotional tensions.
Jin
Shin Jyutsu
A system of
acupressure involving very gentle touch, Jin Shin Jyutsu is geared toward
harmonizing life energy in the body. This ancient art was revived in the
early 1900s by Master Jiro Murai in Japan and brought to the United States
in the 1950s. Jin Shin Jyutsu utilizes holding various “energy locks”
along the pathways of the body in order to balance mind, body and spirit,
and can be applied as a self-help method or by a trained practitioner.
Lomilomi
Massage
Hawaiian for
“rub rub,” Lomilomi is a form of massage derived from the practices of
ancient Hawaiian healers. Margaret Machado, a Hawaiian-born nurse,
formalized the technique in which short, gentle strokes are used in a
fashion somewhat similar to Shiatsu. Pressure with the fingers, forearm
and elbows is also used. Lomilomi is spiritual in nature and emphasizes
the spirit/body connection.
Lymph
Drainage Massage
Originally
developed in Europe as a treatment for lymphedema disease, this technique
focuses on improving the flow of lymph throughout the body. Lymph Drainage
Massage consists of light, rhythmical massage that encourages the drainage
of lymph from nodes (or glands) located throughout the body, whose
function is to neutralize bacteria, cancer cells and other infectious
organisms. Lymph Drainage Massage can thus assist in helping the body to
detoxify, and is especially helpful when lymph circulation and/or the
immune system has been compromised.
Magnets/
Magnetic Field Therapy (MFT)
Though magnets
have been used for healing since ancient times, only recently have
controlled studies shown the effectiveness of magnetic field therapy. As
the human body both contains magnetic material and is surrounded by
magnetic fields, it can be profoundly influenced by magnets. Common uses
include wearing or sitting/sleeping on magnets to relieve fatigue, stress
and headaches; reduce swelling, stiffness and joint pain, particularly
arthritis; and improve blood circulation as well as general energy levels
and feelings of well being.
Massage
One of the most
basic of all natural healing techniques, massage is based on the
remarkable power of touch. Although there are a very wide range of massage
techniques and modalities (from Swedish massage, acupressure and deep
tissue work to rolfing, reflexology and Sports massage), general benefits
include: enhanced relaxation; reduction of anxiety and tension; increased
flexibility and tissue elasticity; improved circulation and range of
motion; improved immune system functioning and energy flow; and an
increased feeling of health and wellbeing.
Mediation
Mediation is a
dispute resolution process in which a neutral third party meets with the
disagreeing parties in order to assist them in settling their dispute.
Mediation is task oriented, with a goal of allowing each party to speak
their case in light of reaching agreement. In addition to being more
timely and cost-effective than legal battles, mediation allows individuals
and groups to work out their own agreements in a supportive, cooperative
fashion. Mediation may be used in everything from business disagreements
to divorce proceedings.
Meditation
Although there
are many different forms of meditation, most are designed to recharge the
body, heighten clarity and insight of daily life, and calm the mind. Many
meditative techniques involve concentrating on an object — an image, a
sound or word, or the breath. Over time, random thoughts begin to diminish
and one moves beyond thought patterns. The benefits of meditation include
a rejuvenation of awareness and a more calm, focused and peaceful mind.
Physiological effects include lower blood pressure and heart rate, and an
overall feeling of peace and wellbeing.
Medical
QiGong
An Oriental
healing art (also known as Traditional Taoist Healing or Qi Healing),
Medical QiGong is a mainstream form of treatment in Chinese Hospitals,
along with acupuncture and herbs. Using meditation, cultivated Qi and
other energetic techniques, Medical QiGong treats all health issues within
the three energy bodies: spiritual, emotional, and physical. Medical
QiGong practitioners usually perform hands-on body and energy work in
addition to teaching clients different meditations and qigong exercises to
help assist in normalizing energy patterns.
Midwives
Midwives are
trained professionals who educate, counsel, care for, assist and support
the mother throughout her childbearing cycle. Before childbirth, the
midwife monitors the physical, psychological and social wellness of the
mother as well as providing her with education concerning prenatal care.
During childbirth, the midwife provides hands-on assistance throughout
labor and delivery. Most often natural childbirth is emphasized and
technological, chemical and clinical intervention is kept to a minimum.
Midwives also offer postpartum support.
Movement
Therapy
Movement
Therapy is a general term that refers to a wide range of both Eastern and
Western movement techniques designed to promote health and well being
physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Some movement
techniques evolved from the realm of dance, others began as self-defense
techniques, and still others evolved from spiritual and meditative
practices. The benefits of most movement-oriented therapies include
greater ease and range of movement with improved balance, muscle tone,
strength, flexibility and coordination; increased self-esteem and
self-image; greater conscious awareness and mental clarity; and overall
improved health, vitality and wellness.
Myofascial
Release
Fascia is the
complex web of tissue that surrounds, wraps and holds muscles in the body.
Because it is found throughout the body, a tension in one part of the
fascia can affect other parts. Myofascial Release is used to find and
release the restrictions of muscles and fascia that have been affected by
inflammation, tension and trauma. Practitioners position clients so that
the strains, restrictions and distortions of the fascia can unwind, thus
improving overall function of the body. This technique yields greater
mobility, flexibility and range of motion as well as increasing overall
health and wellness.
Naturopathy
Naturopathic Medicine
Based on the
principle that the body has natural abilities to heal itself, Naturopathic
medicine views health as an integrated wholeness of physical, mental,
emotional and spiritual well being. In addition to supporting the inherent
healing capabilities of each individual, naturopathic physicians identify
and treat the cause of the problem (rather than the symptoms) and
emphasize prevention as the best “cure.”
They may draw upon a wide range of natural healing modalities aimed
at stimulating the body’s own defense system, including nutritional
counseling, homeopathy, herbal medicine, acupuncture and massage.
Naturopathic medicine may be used to treat nearly every health condition.
Neuromuscular
Therapy (NMT)
Utilizing
massage, trigger points and other soft-tissue manipulation techniques,
Neuromuscular Therapy works to eliminate the cause of pain patterns and
balance the body’s central nervous system with the musculoskeletal
system. By locating and release spasms and contractions in the body, the
practitioner helps to restore postural alignment and greater flexibility,
rebuild injured tissues and encourage blood and lymph flow. NMT helps in
the recovery of both acute and chronic pain syndromes by enhancing the
function of joints, muscles and overall body movement. In addition, this
technique aids in releasing endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.
NeuroLinguistic
Programming (NLP)
Developed in
the mid-1970s by an information scientist and linguistics professor,
NeuroLinguistic Programming is a kind of “software for the brain,”
designed to show people how to change (or “reprogram”) their thoughts,
feelings, and actions via mental exercises. In the area of healthcare, NLP
may be applied to discover core unconscious negative thought patterns
(such as about one’s illness) as well as changing one’s mental and
emotional responses to those patterns so that a more positive, healing
process may occur.
Osteopathy
Doctors of
Osteopathy (D.O.) are fully licensed medical doctors who incorporate
osteopathic medical techniques into their practice. Most often, Doctors of
Osteopathy choose to focus on preventative medicine and the use of natural
alternatives rather than standard Western medical practice, though they
may also use osteopathic techniques in conjunction with the more
conventional forms of allopathic medicine. Osteopathy is based upon the
manipulation of the body to lessen pain and enhance the body’s own
natural healing powers. Osteopathic techniques include cranial treatment,
myofascial release, as well as lymphatic and soft tissue approaches.
Pilates
method
The Pilates (pul-LAH-teez)
method was developed in the 1920s by German-born skier, boxer, gymnast and
physical trainer, Joseph Pilates. This exercise system consists of a
series of controlled movements that engage both body and mind through
proper breathing, good posture and intense concentration. Although many of
Pilates’ first clients were professional dancers, he designed this
method to promote physical harmony and balance for those of all ages and
physical conditions. Benefits include a strengthening of the immune
system, streamlining and lengthening of the body, release of negative
thoughts and increased energy.
Polarity
Therapy
Founded by
Osteopath and Chiropractor, Dr. Randolph Stone, in the mid-1920s, Polarity
Therapy is a holistic method of treatment based on Ayurvedic and Chinese
medicine, yoga, acupuncture and shiatsu techniques. Emphasizing the
interconnection of body, mind, emotions and spirit and the flow of the
human energy field as the underlying foundation of health, Polarity
Therapy utilizes gentle body manipulation, holding of pressure points and
a connection of positive and negative energy poles. Designed to improve
the flow of energy through the body and assist in healing and relaxation,
Polarity Therapy may be used in conjunction with other therapies.
Qigong
In Chinese,
“Qi” or “Chi” means life energy while “gong” means work,
effort or achievement. Qigong (chee gong) is thus the practice of using
chi for health and self-healing. Formerly kept secret, the physical and
mental practices of Qigong were handed down for thousands of years in
China, when ancient adepts of Qigong sought to increase their internal
energies. Qigong involves meditative movements and breathing exercises
designed to rediscover these internal energies. Benefits include a
reduction of stress, harmony of mind and body, and improved health,
vitality and joy of life.
Rebirthing
Developed in
the early 1970s by Leonard Orr, Rebirthing is a gentle breathing technique
designed to reduce stress, increase energy levels, and release pain and
negativity in the mind and body. Rebirthers guide individuals to breathe
in a manner that increases energy in the body, which stimulates the
body’s ability to cleanse and release limiting core issues held by the
mental and emotional patterns (many of which are traced to birth issues or
early childhood). “Connected breathing” techniques are also used to
dissolve these patterns, thus freeing one to experience the present with
greater vitality and joy.
Reflexology
Although foot
massage was a healing technique used in ancient China and Egypt, it was
not until the early 1900s that American doctors first developed the idea
that all parts of the body (including glands and organs) could be treated
via pressing specific reflex points on the feet or hands. By stimulating
energy flow of the body from these pressure points, Reflexologists are
thus able to relieve stress, improve functioning of all systems of the
body and encourage overall health.
Reiki
Reiki (ray-kee)
is the Japanese word for “universal life energy.”
The Reiki practitioner act as a conduit for transmitting this
universal healing energy through gently placing his or her hands in
specific positions on or above the recipient’s body. This system was
developed in the 1800s by Master Usui, a monk living in Japan, and was
first brought to the United States in the 1930s. Reiki treatments are
designed to relieve pain, bring deep relaxation and healing to the body
and aid in spiritual growth.
Rolfing
Also known as
Structural Integration, Rolfing was developed in the 1930s by Dr. Ida
Rolf. Rolf maintained that when one part of the body is out of alignment
(through stress or trauma), the rest of the body attempts to compensate,
thus weakening the entire structure. Through loosening and manipulating
myofacial tissue (a protective layer covering muscles) in a series of ten
sessions, Rolfers encourage clients to move more freely and be more
balanced and integrated in wholeness. In addition, individuals may become
more conscious of their body movement patterns, especially ones that
create tension and misalignment.
Shamanic
Breathwork
Shamanic
Breathwork is a unique
process created by Linda Star Wolf (Founder of Venus Rising of AIWP
Institute for Shamanic Healing Arts) as a tool to connect with the Healer
Within. Special breathing
techniques combined with music allow one to enter a natural altered state
of consciousness in which the ego is released and the subconscious reveals
whatever healing or enlightenment is needed at that time.
During the session, bodywork, rebirthing, Soul Return and/or Reiki
may be utilized by the certified facilitator. After the session, artwork
and group or individual processing may help in assimilating the
experience. Though each person’s journey is a highly individualized
process, those undertaking Shamanic Breathwork may experience heightened
senses, bliss states, past life recall, intense emotional states, release
of dysfunctional life patterns or addictions, and more.
Soul
Return (Soul Retrieval)
Soul loss
occurs when one experiences a traumatic event, such as incest, abuse,
loss, accident, surgery, miscarriage, stress of combat, etc. As a result,
a portion of one’s psyche can dissociate, leaving a feeling that an
essential piece of oneself is missing, fragmented, or disembodied.
This, in turn, can lead to the manifestation of a variety of
symptoms: discontentment, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder,
anxiety, somatic disorders, memory loss, panic attacks, addictions, and
more. In the Soul Return
process, a trained practitioner journeys into the client’s energy and
seeks to bring those fragmented, dissociated parts back into the conscious
level to be reintegrated. Many
people report regaining a feeling of wholeness and reconnection with life;
some describe this as a sense of “coming home.” The symptoms connected
with the soul loss may diminish or fully resolve.
The Soul Return thus begins a process which enables the client to
move forward on his or her healing path.
Shiatsu
Meaning
“finger pressure” in Japanese, Shiatsu was developed in Japan over
5,000 years ago. It is an energetic form of acupressure that involves the
rhythmic pressing of acupressure points located along the body’s
meridians (or energy channels), as well as stretching and opening those
energy meridians in order to promote health and healing. Shiatsu sessions
may also include gentle rocking and range of motion manipulations. While
Shiatsu may be used to treat pain and illness, it is also commonly used
for relaxation, release of tensions and to maintain overall general
health.
Soft
Tissue Release
Unlike general
relaxation massage, Soft Tissue Release focuses more specifically on
muscular imbalance. Practitioners apply pressure to a muscle at the same
time that muscle is being stretched. This technique is designed to engage
the nervous system, encouraging it to reprogram muscle memory so that
muscles return to their normal tone and length. In addition, this has a
correcting effect on other muscular imbalances. Soft tissue release is
especially helpful for back problems, car accidents, repetitive strain
injuries and sports injuries.
Sound
Healing
Sound healing
is a general term that includes chanting, toning, and/or harnessing the
vibrations of the voice or musical instruments to stimulate the body’s
natural ability to heal itself. It is widely known that sound vibrations
have an ability to boost the body’s immune system, lessen pain, lower
blood pressure, and reduce stress and tension. Sound healers work to key
into the body’s natural pulse, pattern and cycle of resonance in order
to move, balance and free energy patterns in the body. Sound healing is
often used in addition to or in conjunction with other therapies.
Sports
massage
This
specialized form of massage is primarily geared to help serious athletes
achieve peak performance and greater endurance. Also designed to reduce
fatigue and muscle tension, promote flexibility and prevent injuries (or
reduce recovery time), sports massage may be used before, during and after
athletic events. Sports massage utilizes a variety of massage techniques,
from classic Swedish strokes to cross-fiber friction and various pressure
point modalities.
Structural
Integration
(See Rolfing)
Swedish massage
Often called
“traditional” massage, this collection of techniques was developed in
the early 1800s by a Swedish doctor as he studied physiology, gymnastics
and various massage forms from Europe and Asia. Swedish massage is
designed to relax muscles via long gliding strokes and a variety of other
motions, including kneading, friction, tapping and shaking. Because this
type of massage affects all layers and systems of the body, it is an
effective technique for most ailments. It also improves circulation as it
promotes general relaxation, health and wellbeing.
Tai
Chi Ch’uan (Taijiquan)
Also known to
the West as Tai Chi, this exercise system engages movements of the head,
eyes, arms, hands, body, legs and feet in coordination with one’s
thoughts and rhythm of breathing. Tai Chi is designed to encourage
wellness and vitality through the circulation of chi (or life energy)
throughout the body. The exercises involve slow, graceful movements and
can be practiced by young and old alike. Although many of the Tai Chi
movements were originally derived from the martial arts, this system has
become more of a meditative exercise meant for achieving relaxation,
tranquility, clarity, peace and overall health.
Thai
massage (Nuad Bo-Rarn)
Practiced for
over 2500 years, the traditional massage of Thailand was originally
developed by Buddhist monks. Thai massage is designed to be both
stimulating and relaxing. It involves pressure on energy meridians along
the body along with a variety of stretching movements that resemble yoga
postures. The pressure stimulates the movement of energy in the body while
the stretches increase flexibility, help to release both deep and
superficial tension, and encourage a balanced, natural flow throughout the
body’s energy system.
Therapeutic
Touch
Developed in
the 1970s by nurse and professor Dolores Kreiger, Therapeutic Touch is
based on the idea that the human energy field extends beyond the skin.
Practitioners don’t actually touch the body in this technique,
therefore, but the energy field that surrounds the body. By stimulating
depleted and/or blocked energy fields and by smoothing the flow of erratic
energy into a balanced pattern, practitioners restore health, encourage
relaxation, and promote a deeper sense of well being.
Touch
for Health
Based on the
principles of Applied Kinesiology as developed by chiropractor George
Goodhart, this system of energy balancing utilizes muscle testing along
with acupressure and massage of reflex points to correct physical and
emotional imbalances and relieve stress and tension. As an integral part
of this system, muscle testing is used to reveal weaknesses in the body
before symptoms are manifest. By touching and holding reflex points, the
practitioner seeks to rebalance the body to a state of health.
Trager
Developed by
medical doctor Milton Trager, this system utilizes light, gentle movements
to facilitate the release of deep-seated physical and mental patterns. By
gently rocking, jiggling and stretching the body, practitioners encourage
their clients to experience the possibility of moving lightly,
effortlessly and freely. While especially helpful for those suffering
chronic tension, Trager also helps individuals increase physical mobility,
expand awareness and mental clarity, and achieve deeper states of
relaxation and wellbeing.
Trigger
Point and Myotherapy
Both of these
techniques are designed to alleviate pain, muscle spasms and cramping. By
locating and pressing the “trigger points” of muscles, the therapist
introduces new blood flow into the area and helps deactivate the nervous
system response of pain and spasm. The pressure applied to trigger points
is short (usually less than 10 seconds), can be briefly painful, though
brings great relief to the area. Myotherapy focuses on reducing pain and
soothing muscles. These therapies are good choices for individuals with
acute or chronic muscle tension.
Tui
Na
Tui Na (twee-na)
is a healing technique that incorporates various aspects of massage and
muscle/joint manipulation with elements of Chinese medicine, including
acupressure points and moxibustion. Practitioners work with the pulses of
meridians, or energy pathways, that run through the body and work to
balance chi (energy) within the body. Sometimes this is accomplished by
stimulating an exchange of energy between practitioner and patient.
Vibrational
Healing
Vibrations are
wavelengths of energy that move through the different states of our being.
Vibrational healers understand that all is energy, though colored by
different frequencies of vibrations. That is, every thought, emotion and
state of being is continually shifting with unique vibrations of energy. A
vibrational healer may use a variety of energy work modalities to help the
client uncover greater levels of awareness within as well as achieve his
or her own optimum level of energetic balance.
Visceral
Manipulation
Often used as
an effective complement to other forms of medicine and bodywork, Visceral
Manipulation focuses on the interrelationship of the internal organs to
the body as a whole. Practitioners follow a simple set of gentle
procedures to free restrictions of the organs, thereby increasing health
and vitality. In addition to promoting the health of all internal organs
and balancing the whole body, visceral work may facilitate emotional
healing work.
Yoga
There are many
different types of yoga — from Hatha Yoga (which focuses on postures and
breathing) to Bhakti Yoga (meaning path of devotion). The word “yoga”
means union. The roots of Yoga go back about 5,000 years to India, where
traditionally the goal of yoga is union with God or one’s true self. In
the West, most Yoga practices focus on meditation, physical postures and
various breathing exercises. The benefits of Yoga include greater
self-understanding and well being, in addition to mental clarity and
improved physical fitness.
Watsu
See hydrotherapy
Zero
Balancing
Developed by
osteopath and acupuncturist Dr. Fritz Smith in the 1970s, Zero Balancing
is a treatment that works to balances the physical structure of the body
with its energy fields. Central to this practice is the theory that every
individual has an unseen energy body that surrounds the physical body.
When injury to the body occurs, healing on these two levels does not
necessarily occur simultaneously. Using gentle fingertip pressure at key
areas of the skeleton (often on foundation joints), practitioners
encourage stronger, more balanced energy fields throughout the body.
