Massage Modalities - Types of Massage Techniques
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Acupressure- Ancient healing art that uses fingers to stimulate key points along the meridians to activate the healing response. Acupressure and Acupuncture use the same points but acupressure does not use needles. Symptoms are considered to be an expression of the condition of the body as a whole. ( Holding a point on your foot may assist in relieving a digestive problem.) It is believed that tension in the muscles blocks the flow of energy (chi) not only in the muscles but in the associated internal organs.
Alexander Technique - Developed by F. Mathis Alexander (1869-1955) an Australian actor in the early 1900's. Alexander developed the technique to assist in voice projection as he had lost his voice on stage before an audience. Doctor's treatments failed, so he began investigating what he might be doing that brings it on. He found that he tightened certain neck muscles when he talked which he found to be damaging to his voice. Alexander believed our natural functioning is impeded by faulty habitual patterns of thought and movement which are transmitted via the nervous system to the musculature causing inappropriate tension and distortion in the musculo-skeletal system. According to Alexander, all movement flows from one basic movement- the lengthening of the spine. It is not a system of exercises, but rather a learning process in which the student becomes able to identify and inhibit the faulty patterns. Training to become a teacher is 3 years.
Anma massage- general form of Chinese Qigong massage which uses 361 energy points or (tsubos). "an" means press: "mo" means rub; "anma" means massage.
AMMA Therapy - (translation: Push, Pull) Developed by Tina Sohn. The technique uses deep tissue, friction and touch along the meridians to stimulate healing. Tina Sohn has discovered some powerful energetic points. The therapy also uses detoxification, herbs, vitamins and therapeutic exercises.
Applied Kinesiology (AK) - (not to be confused with traditional academic kinesiolgy- the study of how muscles move) Discovered by George Goodheart, a chiropractor in Detroit MI in 1964. AK uses muscle testing to evaluate and restore balance to the body.
Muscle testing evaluates the quality of the muscle response not the strength. Muscle groups share energy pathways with internal organs and therefore every organ dysfunction appears in related muscles. Muscle weakness can be a result of misalignment, nutritional deficiencies and allergies. AK also uses nutrition, manipulation, diet, acupressure, exercise and education.
Aromatherapy- The use of essential oils which are extracted from herbs, flowers, resins, woods and roots which produce a therapeutic aroma to stimulate healing. Aromatherapy may be used with massage or done alone. The quality of the oil is what makes the difference. Oils that are distilled from wild or organic plants are the best and also most expensive. Essential oils are often diluted with other filler substances to make them more affordable and hence less effective. Some of the effects that oils produce include relaxation, energy stimulation, immune system support, hormone stimulation and increased circulation. Many oils are also found to be anti-bacterial and anti-viral. A good aromatherapist will have many years of training and experience. There is much to know about which species of plants are best for what situations. If someone is saying they are doing aromatherapy, check their schooling, credentials and experience.
Aston-Patterning- Developed in 1977 by Judith Aston, a former Rolfer who developed structural patterning for the Rolf Institute. She has a background in dance and movement education, but was really drawn to bodywork because of 2 auto accidents she was in. Combines movement coaching, education, bodywork, ergonomics and fitness to unwind the body. The bodywork is a form of myofascial release and the sessions are followed up with movement to maintain the changes. The treatment is done with the clients body in the position of the least amount of stress. Her theory is based on the idea that the body is not symmetrical as Ida Rolf supports. Rather, the body is asymmetrical with internal organs that are on different sides and muscle strength is different on each side due to brain dominance. The work attempts to respect the asymmetry and allow it to move rather than try to change it. The certification program has a three level format that includes movement and bodywork.
Ayurvedic Massage- Ayurvedic is a system of health and medicine used in India. Ayurveda means "life knowledge" or "right living". The basic theory is that there are there basic bodytypes or tridoshas. There are three different types of massage for each tridosha. They have a system similar to meridians called Marmas. There are about 100 of these points and are said to be the source of the vital life force. There is one type of massage that is part of detoxification system from India called Pancha Karma, in which the body is cleansed inside and out to remove toxins. Most use Sesame oil which has a heating and stimulating quality.
B Bowen Therapy- A subtle and gentle muscle/ nerve/ connective tissue technique developed by Thomas Bowen of Australia. The work is non-invasive and performed through the clothing. Treatment consists of a specific sequence of rolling moves done across superficial muscles, tendons and nerves. A theory of how it works is similar to the theories of homeopathy. The therapist is introducing techniques that act as a microscopic irritant into the system (because they are so gentle and affect the parasympathetic autonomic nervous system). The nervous systems is alerted by these moves and reflexively responds, reorganizing deeper structures. There are specific instructions that accompany this therapy consisting of many do's and don'ts, one of which states that stronger application of any massage, heat or ice, after treatment will cancel the self correcting response. If the irritant has been soothed away, the body no longer has a compulsion to reorganize for it is the surge of parasympathetic energy that accounts for much of the healing response. Breema- Breema is known as "the art of being present." Breema bodywork and Self-Breema exercises are safe, nurturing, and energizing, using natural movements and the relaxed weight of the body instead of force. They create balance and harmony between mind, body, and feelings, and provide an ideal opportunity to work with and experience the Nine Principles of Harmony. These universal principles are the key to Breema’s vitalizing effects on both practitioner and recipient, and to discovering a new openhearted, open-minded relationship to life. Breema sequences are received fully clothed on a padded floor. Embodiment Training - The work of Will and Lyn Johnson. Will, a Rolfer and practicing Budhist, uses meditation, breath, diet to develop awareness of the body and mind. Feldenkrais- Developed by Moshe Feldenkrais (1904-1984), Israeli physicist, mechanical engineer and the first European to earn a black belt in Judo. He developed this method out of his own need to heal a knee injury. Feldenkrais believed that awareness had to be experienced, not taught verbally. His main premise was "Unless we know what we are doing, we can not do what we want". Clients are called students as it is a process of unlearning restrictive habits and replacing them with efficient, graceful movement. Awareness through Movement is the movement part of Feldenkrais. The bodywork part is called Functional Integration which involves treating the nervous system primarily through the skeletal structure by using hands on, painless manipulation. Full training 3-4 years. Jin shin do - Translation: "the way of the compassionate spirit" Derived from acupressure. Developed by Iona Marsa Teegarden in the 1970's. Practitioners meditate to develop their intuition and deeper selves. Gentle fingertip pressure is applied along points to balance the energy "chi". Focuses on the deep release of armoring through gentle yet deep finger pressure. Incorporated Taoist breathing methods, and some Reichian theory. Kinesiology- Discovered by George Goodheart, a chiropractor in Detroit MI in 1964. Uses muscle testing to evaluate and restore balance to the body. Muscle testing evaluates the quality of the muscle response not the strength. Muscle groups share energy pathways with internal organs and therefore every organ dysfunction appears in related muscles. Muscle weakness can be a result of misalignment, nutritional deficiencies, and allergies. Uses nutrition, manipulation, diet, acupressure, exercise and education. Many people have gone on to develop their own work with different aspects. Looyenwork-Developed by Ted Looyen, a dutch born counselor/bodyworker from Australia, whose back problem was helped by Rolfing. He studied other techniques and went on to develop his own technique that was not as painful as Rolfing. Uses body reading to discover the root of problem and movement re-education to increase the flow of energy. Uses connective tissue techniques to remove adhesions. Lymphatic drainage- Developed by a Danish doctor, Hans Vodder when he noticed that swollen lymph nodes and colds and infections were connected. His wife was a massage therapist. Together they developed a system to massage the lymph nodes. It was introduced into America in 1982 and has been used with many types of aliments including inflammation, edema, arthritis and sprains/strains. Technique uses strokes that flow with the fibers of the muscles, because the lymph flow follows that path. Also uses breath and movement to break up the congestion. Sometimes used in Sport massage applications and injuries. Myofascial Release- There are many methods of myofascial release. It is used to evaluate an treat restrictions in the body's connective tissue (muscles and fascia). Connective tissue includes tendons, ligaments, cartilage, fascia, periosteum, joint capsules and the surface linings of the organs and vessels in the body. Connective tissue forms a continuous net throughout the body. Fascia is a complex supportive web throughout the body that affects all components of the muscloskeletal, nervous and visceral systems. Myofascial release can be used to treat chronic pain, injuries, general aches and pains. Fascial restrictions occur after after injuries, chronic contraction of the muscles due to stress or repetitive contractions. Neuromuscular therapy (sometimes referred to as trigger point therapy)- Uses advanced concepts in triggerpoint therapy to return the body to normal neuromuscular balance. Has both European and American origins. In Europe, Stanley Leif started the work in the 1930's and passed it on to his cousin Boris Chaitow, his son Peter Lief and Leon Chaitow. The American version comes from Raymond Nimmo, DC,(The Receptor Tonus Method 1996), Janet Travel and later Paul St. John and Judith Walker Delaney. O On-site/Chair Massage- Massage done fully clothed and seated; Generally geared toward corporate or business settings. The ideal situation is to persuade the company to pay for this service for their employees on a regular basis. Much can be done to reduce repetitive strain injuries and mental motivation. The Massage Bar is one of the most successful business setting up stations in airports. Orthopedic Massage- Massage systems developed by Osteopathic techniques. Rosen Method- Developed by Marion Rosen who studied breathing and relaxation techniques extensively. The work is about transformation by improving alignment and flexibility using non-intrusive touching, verbal interaction and breathing. The body protects itself from painful past experiences by separating from it's true self. Shortness of breath and chronic muscle tension are a result of this protective mechanism. Strain Counter strain- Developed by Lawrence Jones, DO. The work focuses on joint dysfunction and treatment of such problems by passively putting the joint into its position of greatest comfort. The malfunctioning muscle is shortened by placing a mild strain (stretching) to its antagonists. His tenderpoints are located in the deeper muscle, tendon and ligament structures. Tui Na- A comprehensive system of therapeutic massage and passive/ active joint
Berrywork- Developed by Lauren Berry who was a registered physical therapist . He looked at the body in terms of a structural engineering problem that could be fixed and often thought of himself as more of a mechanic. He began learning at the age of 6 from a neighbor who was a physician and osteopath. He then worked on his mother with great success. His neighbors all became clients. At an early age he wasn't really sure what he was doing, but he began studying anatomy and physiology. He became friends with a boy he fixed who's dad happened to be head of the coroner's office. He gained access to autopsy rooms and studied cadavers extensively. His work is carried on by his students.
Bindegewebs massage/Connective Tissue Reflex Massage- Developed by Elizabeth Dicke, a German physiotherapist, in the 1930's. The work is based on the theory that any disruption or imbalance in any part of the body affects the entire system. The theory uses reflex zones or dermatomes of the connective tissue to locate problem areas. Certain areas on the body have sensory/motor neuron links to the spinal cord where they reflex with the neurons of the organs.
Bioenergetics- Developed by Alexander Lowen who studied with Wilhelm Reich. Bioenergetics is a way of looking at personality through the body and its processes. The work is based on the premise that all bodily cells record emotional or energetic reactions. Movement can stimulate the repressed energy and release the energy. Breathing, exercise and psycho-therapy is used to heal and release the blockages that are created in the body.
Breast Massage- Massaging the breast tissue was once thought to be too sexual in nature, now is a necessary treatment for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. The ribs under the breasts and along the sides of the breast need to be cleared of toxin buildup. The sternum, clavicle and armpit area are addressed to facilitate lymph flow. Massage can also be used to assist in recovery of mastectomies and breast surgeries.
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Chi Nei Tsang- Holistic approach to Massage, treating the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects. Most of the bodywork is done on the abdomen, to optimize the functioning of the internal organs.
Connective Tissue Massage/Bindgewebs massage- Developed by Elizabeth Dicke of Germany. Technique consists of light strokes focusing on the superficial fascia between the skin and muscles. The tissue is hooked with the fingers of the therapist and dragged or pulled, stretching the skin. No oil is used and the work often leaves a mark somewhat like an abrasion or burn. Working in one area of the body causes a related effect at another area.
Continuum- Developed by Emile Conrad based on her background in movement and dance. Continuum has been successful in working with paralysis and spinal cord injuries. Her system takes into account that the body is 80% water and has emerged from the undulating, watery environment of the embryo. From this she developed a method of movement based on the wave-like movement of the water flowing through our bodies. The method focuses on intrinsic felt movement, not imposed patterned movement. Using breath, movement, sound and meditation, the participant is able to get in touch with their own cranial wave.
Cranio-sacral Therapy- A technique developed by many (Upledger, Milne, Sutherland) to correct cerebral and spinal imbalances or blockages. The treatment is geared toward moving the soft tissue, correcting cerebral and spinal imbalances to improve the functioning of the central nervous system. This system consists of working with the soft tissues, membranes, energy, and cerebral fluids surrounding the cranium, spine, and sacrum. Because of the creation and re-absorption of cerebral fluid there is a dynamic rhythm which radiates through out the body. The rate, amplitude, symmetry, and quality of this rhythm gives distinct information about the health and functioning of the entire body. By monitoring the cranio-sacral rhythm through palpation (subtle touch by the practitioner), the therapist can locate the part of the body which may be holding physical or emotional trauma. Once identified, further application (gentle compression and stretching) stimulates the body to make corrections and readjustments in the form of physical movements or emotional release. Cranio-sacral therapy takes many years of practice and learning to be a qualified practitioner. It is my personal opinion that theapists taking a weekend workshop are not qualified to call themselves a cranio-sacral practitioner. True expertise comes with years of practice and learning.
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Deep Tissue Massage- Massage applied to the deeper, core layers of the body often using the elbow as well as the usual thumb, finger and fist pressure. Greater awareness is often needed to go into the deeper tissues without hurting the client. Deep tissue work helps with chronic pain and injury rehabilitation.
DO-IN - Taoist system of stretching, bodily postures, movements similar to hatha yoga. Introduced to US by Michio Kushi. Chinese Taoist monks first noticed that it was instinctive for a person to touch or hold and injured or painful body part. Nutrition is absorbed from the air and surrounding energy.
Equine (horse) Massage- The techniques of massage and bodywork are applied to horses of all disciplines of riding ( dressage, hunter/jumpers, western, endurance, eventing). For injury rehab, injury prevention, training, abuse recovery, or just be nice to your horse. You don't need to be a licensed massage therapist in most areas, but having the background and education will make the best therapist.
Esalen Massage - Basically swedish massage influenced by the early leaders of Esalen, Charlotte Selver and Bernie Gunther. Teaches the therapist to approach the client with a quiet mind, bringing out the intuition and being fully present. It integrates a philosophy of mind, emotion, and spirit along with the physical manipulations that Swedish offers. It carries an attitude of intimate touching (non-sexually), caring, energy awareness, emotional and spiritual healing. Parts of the philosophy concern the following: 1) touching is a basic need (as essential as air, food, or water), 2) caring about others is natural, 3) getting in touch with one's own body leads to a more effective way of loving and relating to others, and 4) that healing comes from within as well as from the outside. The actual movements are light and focus to induce deep states of relaxation rather than relive specific tension as in Swedish.
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Geriatric Massage- Massage therapy geared toward the aging population and their specific needs. Geriatric massage presents a challenge, because many of them have physical problems that complicate and interfere with diagnosis and treatment of any single illness. Diseases of one organ system place stress on other systems. Many older people also have nutritional deficiencies because of limited incomes, poor dental status, and other problems. The elderly also run increased risks of complications from surgery, and convalescence takes longer because damaged tissues recover more slowly. The longer periods of bed rest can also lead to pneumonia, bedsores, and circulatory disorders. Medications are metabolized more slowly, as well, and their effects are prolonged in the body. Massage can greatly assist and bring relief from the above listed problems and by preventing strokes, relief of joint pain, and remove toxins from lymphatic system that may otherwise increase disease.
Hakomi- Developed by Ron Kurz in mid 1970's. Hakomi means "How do you stand in relation to these many realms" in the Hopi Indian language. Body based psychotherapy to assist clients in accessing their core beliefs that influence their behaviors. Hakomi Integrative Somatics enables people to discover the habitual, automatic attitudes (both physical and psychological) that form the basis of their patterns of experience. Full training 1 1/2 years.
Hawaiian/ Lomi- Lomi- Originated in the Hawaiian Islands, based on the traditions of the Polynesians and Pacific Islanders. Lomi-Lomi is one of the most beautiful forms of massage treatments as it looks more like a dance done by the practitioner. There are many forms of Lomi Lomi that originated with different families. When giving a massage you are supposedly massaging 5,000 years of ancestors. A session begins with a ritual asking the client what results they want from the session. The massage technique itself consists of graceful, sweeping arm movements and ceremonial music. The elbow and forearm are used along with fingertip shiatsu like pressure point work. Development of the practitioner is main focus using breath and acknowledgment of a Higher Power.
Hellerwork- Developed by Joseph Heller who was a student of Ida Rolf's and the first president of the Rolf Institute in 1975. He was an aerospace engineer before getting into bodywork. He also studied bioenergetics and gestalt theories along with Aston-Patterning before he set off on his own. He devised an 11 session structural integration process combining it with voice dialogue techniques. Sections of the body are worked on as you talk about things relating to that area such as "how do you hold yourself back" when back work is being done.
Homeopathy - Holistic method of stimulating the body's life force based on Samuel Hahnemann's Law of similar's. Homeopathy means to treat with something that produces an effect similar to the suffering. Remedies are made with diluted mixtures of plant substances that when given full strength may cause the problem or imbalance. The higher the dilution the stronger the remedy. Symptoms are the attempts of the body to heal itself. Repressing them with drug therapy causes the root cause to remain. Homeopathy is not the same as Naturopathic Medicine. Naturopaths usually practice Homeopathy.
Hydrotherapy- They use of water as therapy. Water can be used in many ways and forms as a treatment method. Ice therapy, heat therapy, steam, baths, poultices are just a few of the ways. Can be done in a treatment or done by the client at home to continue healing.
Infant Massage- Massage that addresses the special needs of infant. Much research has been done to show that touch is very beneficial when done at an early age. It stimulates growth and is nurturing to the soul. Techniques can be done to stimulate digestion and calm an upset baby.
Iridology - Eye analysis that detects warning signs of physical, mental and spiritual imbalances. Started by Hungarian physician, Ignatz Von Peezlvy and carried on by Bernard Jensen among others. The various patterns found in the iris correlate to different organs of the body. Used to detect weak organs, glands and tissues, lymphatic congestion, poor assimilation of nutrients.
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Jin Shin Jyutsu- means 'creator's art through knowing and compassionate man" Using the lightest of touch or no touch (energy facilitation) to balance the flow of energy in the body. Practiced with the client fully clothed. Uses pulse diagnosis to determine blockages.
Kahuna Healing- Huna is traditional Hawaiian healing. Huna means "that which is hidden" Kahuna means "the keeper of the secret"
Lomi-Lomi/Hawaiian massage- Originated in the Hawaiian Islands, based on the traditions of the Polynesians and Pacific Islanders. One of the most beautiful forms of massage treatments that looks more like a dance. There are many forms of Lomi Lomi that originated with different families. When giving a massage you are supposedly massaging 5,000 years of ancestors. A session begins with a ritual asking the client what results they want from the session. The massage technique itself consists of graceful , sweeping arm movements and ceremonial music. The elbow and forearm are used along with fingertip shiatsu like pressure point work. Development of the practitioner is main focus using breath and acknowledgment of a Higher Power.
Looyenwork Institute
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Medical Massage- Fairly new branch of massage focusing on treatments of injuries, pathologies and rehabilitation. There has been some talk of having medical certification in order to work with physicians, bill insurance and working with the health care systems of today. It is important to participate in the process of developing this field so all modalities are included. Will this affect practitioners right to bill insurance companies? What about modalities such as structural integration, reiki, or polarity that heal injuries in other less direct ways?
Myotherapy- Bonnie Pruden's trigger point release therapy that is followed by re-education of affected muscles to its normal resting state. Extensive 1300 hour training program with 45 hours of training every 2 years to maintain certification.
Naprapathy- A system of bodywork founded in 1905 by chiropractic professor Oakley G. Smith, author of Modernized Chiropractic (1906). It includes nutritional, postural, and exercise counseling. Naprapathic theory holds: (a) that soft connective tissue in a state of contraction can cause "neurovascular interference," (b) that this "interference" may cause "circulatory congestion" and "nerve irritation," and (c) that reducing this "interference" (primarily by hand) paves the way for optimal homeostasis. Treatment focuses on the contracted connective tissues mainly near the spine. Uses repetitive, rhythmic, thrusts to gently stretch the contracted tissues.
Ortho-bionomy- System of working with reflexes developed by Arthur Lincoln Pauls in the 1970's, who was a Osteopath and Judo instructor. He studied the work of Lawrence Jones. Orthobionomy means "correct life study" or " science of laws pertaining to life". The system uses gentle, relaxing movements and comfortable postures to ease the body into positions that unblock tensions and release muscular patterns. Gentle, non-intrusive, non-forceful movements encourage natural structural realignment and balance. In Ortho-bionomy, movements and gentle manipulations find the position of comfort in response to a pain then accentuate that release. When in pain, the body tends to adopt certain positions to accommodate. Ortho-bionomy places the client in the most comfortable position that helps alleviate the pain, then works from there to release the core problem.
Home exercises and body awareness exercises are given to the client to be done at home to reinforce the treatment. Training is a 500 hour program.
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Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy- Developed by Therese Pfrimmer of Canada in 1940's as a result of her battle with paralysis. Pfrimmer therapy is detailed cross fiber friction that stimulates circulation and regenerates the lymphatic flow. The work enables free flow of lymph and blood as well as improving joint movement and removal of waste products/toxins from muscle tissue. Training is a 2 week course.
Pilates- Pilates is a method of movement and execise developed by Joseph Pilates. The exercises focus on development of the core muscles and work to lengthen the muscles while strengthening them. Pilates is also sometimes called "The Method" as there is some controversy over the rights to the work.
Polarity- Developed by Austrian born Randolph Stone in the 1920's. Stone was trained in chiropractic, osteopathic medicine, naturopathic medicine and Ayurvedic methods. he also studied Yoga extensively. Polarity theory is based on the principle that every cell has both negative and positive poles and the body is gently manipulated through touch or holding of tissue. The top and right side of the body have positive charges and the feet and left side have a negative charge. The practitioner places their right hand on the negative charged parts of the client and the left hand on positively charged parts. Integrates bodywork, diet, simple exercises (polarity yoga) and self- awareness. Emphasizes the connection of the body, mind, emotions and spiritual connections. The intention is to balance the energy in the body, toward the ultimate goal of uniting body, mind, emotions and spirit. Training is a 430 hour program.
Postural Integration- Jack Painters work developed from his training in Rolfing. Focus on the unity of tissue, feeling and awareness using breathwork, deep fascia manipulation, emotional expression and meditation. Training consists of a 3 year program: the first 2 years are supervised instruction, the 3 year is supervised internship.
Pregnancy Massage- Massage therapy techniques geared toward the expectant mother. There are many health concerns and complications to take into consideration when working with a pregnant woman. Most techniques are done in the side-lying position as they are unable to lay prone. In most cases massage can be done right up to and including delivery.
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation- Developed by Dorothy Voss. Use of controlled movements to stretch, lengthen and re-organize the muscle. based on Sherrington's Principle of reciprocal innervation: when the agonist is firing and the affected joint moves, the antagonist group will be inhibited.
Q - R
Radiance Breathwork/Movement therapy- The work of Gay and Kathyln Hendricks to resolve birth trauma and release unresolved emotions that are held in the body.
Radiance Technique- Supposedly the true science of Reiki by Barbara Weber Ray
Reflexology- Massage that deals with the feet and hands, treating reflex points. Sometimes referred to as "zone therapy" because of the specific zones in the feet, hands and ears. The bottom of the foot and the palm of the hand mirror the body. The toes reflect the head and neck; the balls of the feet correspond to the chest, lung area and shoulder; the arch covers the diaphragm to the pelvic area; the heel corresponds to the pelvic area; the inner (medial) side of the foot reflects the spine; the outer (lateral) foot reflects the arm, shoulder, hip, leg, knee, lower back; the ankle corresponds with the pelvic area and reproductive organs. Stimulating certain areas may not directly "cure" the aliment, but the points may increase the energy to the organ or related area to assist in healing. Many experienced reflexologist can predict deeper underlying problems from what they read in the feet.
Reiki- Japanese word for "universal life force". The practitioner channels the universal energy. The reiki energy enters the practitioner through the top of the head and exits through the hands, and is directed toward the client.
Rolfing® - 10 session system of bodywork developed by Ida Rolf in the 1970's. Ida was a biochemist and practiced yoga for 30 years. Works to rebalance posture and balance in the body. There are many different versions of the work that are being passed on.
Rubenfeld Synergy Method ®- Body centered psychotherapy developed by Ilana Rubenfeld from many disciplines such as the Alexander technique, Feldenkrais, Gestalt, Hypnotherapy of Milton Erickson. This method uses many techniques including verbal expression, movement, breathing, posture, awareness and sound to access repressed emotions. The body is the sacred sanctuary of the soul. Also uses some Aura analysis and dreamwork.
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SHEN- Specific Human Energy Nexus Physioemotional Release Therapy. Developed by Richard Pavek whose background was in Gestalt work, electronics, chemistry, aeronautics.
Shiatsu-A Japanese healing modality similar to Chinese acupressure utilizing a Japanese
healing philosophy of ki (life energy). Shiatsu literally means "finger pressure". This form of acupressure is a combination of many different techniques including pressing, hooking, sweeping, shaking, rotating, grasping, vibrating, patting, plucking, lifting, pinching, rolling, brushing, and sometimes walking barefoot on the patients back, legs, and feet. It is applied
with comfortable pressure to all parts of the body with thumbs, palms, and elbows where the body is gently stretched to loosen joints and muscles. Shiatsu treatments promote good health by strengthening the body and stimulating its self-healing abilities. It is traditionally performed on the floor with the client comfortably lying on a futon with both client and patient dressed comfortably in a kimono (Japanese robe). Shiatsu is considered a special kind of
dance between giver and receiver where a unique rapport develops between the practitioner and client because shiatsu relies on the simple but powerful experience of touch to awaken the client's own self-healing powers. This "touch communication" between practitioner and client is foundational to all healing methods. When the independence of ki is restored to a free flowing state throughout the body, it touches the physical, emotional, and spiritual sensitivity of the person, and the natural healing flow is restored.
Somatics- Developed by Thomas Hanna building on his work with Moshe Feldenkrais. Sensory motor amnesia is the memory loss of muscles groups due to habitual movement patterns. We lose awareness and feeling in such areas. The goal of Somatics is to reawaken them through the use of movement and awareness.
Soft Tissue Release- Stuart Taws- Sports injury technique developed by Stuart Taws while working with the British Athletic Team. Uses techniques to break up chronic scar tissue adhesions and followed up with specific stretches that involve 3 different levels.
Soma Neuromuscular Integration- Developed by Bill Williams, one of Ida Rolf's first students, in 1978. Combines structural integration with psychological therapy to realign the body, mind, spirit.
Sports Massage- Massage applied to serious athletes for training, injury prevention, rehab, pre and post event strategies. You have to know what you are doing to work with athletes as their life depends on their bodies. Working too deep before an event may leave them weak and unable to compete. They work themselves to exhaustion and do it all over the next day.
Stone Massage ( Hot Stone Therapy) - Smooth, warm stones are placed upon the body and moved in a fluid motion. The stones have a vibrational power of healing as one is reconnected with the earth and with themselves. The practitioner uses the stones as a tool, but usually integrates traditional forms of massage in the session as well.
Structural Integration- Originally developed by Ida Rolf. Other therapies have used her work as a basis of their programs and combined it with other techniques. 10 session series of treatments to balance and align the body with the gravitational field.
Swedish Massage- Probably one of the most well known and popular massage techniques in use. Swedish Massage is a collection of techniques designed for relaxation, using massage oils to reduce friction. Many of the therapeutic effects include increased circulation, increased flexibility, removal of lactic acid and toxins, relaxes nervous system, and stimulates the skin. Techniques can be modified to treat injuries and muscular related problems.
T - Z
restoration originating in China. The system may include categories of general massage, trigger release, strain/ counterstrain, soft circular manipulation, angular maneuvers, moxibustion and cupping techniques. The eight main categories utilizes the following techniques: tui - push, na - pull, an - rapid and rhythmic pressing, tao - strong pinch with pressure, nie - kneading, nien - nipping, mao-rubbing, and pai - tapping. This modality of massage is a part of traditional Chinese Medical practice and as such must utilize the Five Directions of Diagnosis to be effective in rendering treatment. Of the five main diagnostic directions; Asking, Looking, Feeling, Listening and Smelling, only the first three apply strongly to Tui Na therapy as a treatment modality. The patient must be questioned thoroughly in terms of his perspectives of how and when the syndrome first arose, the practitioner must utilize visual diagnostic skills to determine any physical imbalance and/ or possible joint subluxation, and the practitioner must gently probe the injured/ painful area to determine the nature of the imbalance of subluxation should one indeed exist. The final two directions of diagnosis apply primarily to internal imbalance, but Tui Na deals almost exclusively with physical/ structural imbalance only.
Thai Massage- Often known as Yoga for Lazy people! It is a combination of gentle rocking, stretching and movements to loosen joints and muscles. It is usually done on the floor with the client laying on mats.
Therapeutic Touch- A healing form developed by Dr. Dolores Krieger, Ph.D., R.N., Professor Emerita of New York University and her mentor Dora Kunz. Unlike most other modalities, it does not involve any physical contact. It utilizes the human energy field or human aura that extends beyond the skin. The idea is that the aura is abundant and flows in balanced patterns in health but is depleted and/ or unbalanced in illness or injury. Practitioners believe they can restore health by empathetically sensing and adjusting such fields. It is a consciously-directed process of energy exchange during which the practitioner uses their hands as a focus over the patients body and gently manipulating the body's energy flow thereby stimulating and enhancing the patient's own natural healing abilities. Nurses have been drawn to this therapy as it is easy and safe to perform on patients in hospital settings.
Touch For Health- Type of Applied Kinesiology developed by John Thie, DC. Uses Muscle testing to determine weaknesses in structure. Treatment is to strengthen the weakness and/or release the tightness in the opposing side.
Trager Work - Developed by Milton Trager (1908-1997) who was a boxer, acrobat, physician and an initiate of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. He was training as a professional boxer at 18 and his trainer gave him a rub down after each treatment. One day he offered the trainer a rubdown and the trainer was a amazed at his hands. Based on gentle, non-intrusive movement to facilitate the release of deep physical and emotional patterns. The hook up was his trade mark. It was a natural state of being similar to a meditative state to connect the practitioner with the energy of the client. Mentastics is the movement part of Trager work.
Visceral Manipulation- Soft tissue manipulation of the internal organs to separate adhesions.
Watsu- Shiatsu done in a warm pool of water. The water allows for movement that is not possible in gravity. This also allows client to feel supported while moving. The technique uses gentle stretching, rocking, rolling, and swaying.
Zentherapy®- Developed By William "Dub" Leigh, from his experience and training with Rolfing, Feldenkrais, and Zen training in Hawaii. Regular trainings held around the world. There is a 5 weekend training to learn the 10 session series and a 4 weekend Triggerpoint Anatomy® training.
Zero Balancing- Developed by Fritz Smith, in 1975 after years of studying. He is an Osteopathic doctor, a Medical doctor, and acupuncturist. He studied Rolfing, Yoga and eastern meditation techniques. The method works to align the physical body with the energetic body. Treatments are done with the client fully clothed and is done in a seated position progressing to a reclining position. The energy of the body is evaluated by the practitioner. The skeletal system is the main focus of the treatment as this is where the deepest and strongest currents of energy exist. The session lasts approximately 40 minutes. Training in Zero Balancing is a 100-150 hour program.