Healing Arts
I provide a wide variety of bodywork modalities, as well as nutrition counseling. Please click on the links below for more information about each modality.
Myofascial Release
MFR was developed by John F. Barnes, PT as a highly effective means of working with structural issues in the body. This modality works with the fascial system (connective tissue) to unlock holding patterns that create chronic pain and tension, and restore function, flexibility, and strength. What makes MFR unique is its focus on listening to your body, rather than attempting to follow a protocol of treatment. Myofascial Release techniques range from very gentle to deeply intense, depending on what you need at the time. This approach is excellent for recent and old injuries, pain, headaches, structural alignment issues, and even emotional issues. MFR affects your whole being – mind, body, and spirit.
Zen Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork facilitating balance in the flow of Qi (energy) throughout the body. In this system, any pain, tension, or illness is viewed as an energy imbalance and is treated using light or deep pressure and stretching along energy channels called meridians. The Zen approach departs from traditional Chinese medicine with the addition of kyo/jitsu theory, which can be loosely translated to emptiness/fullness. Imbalances are treated systemically by encouraging areas of blockage to disperse and fill up areas of need, somewhat like removing a dam from a river and allowing the stagnant water to flow. This holistic approach can assist you in finding balance physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Massage Therapy
Traditional massage therapy (often called Swedish massage) is designed to relieve muscle tension and increase circulation throughout the whole body. Oil or lotion is applied, and techniques include long, fluid strokes, kneading, and stretches. Deep specific work may be added to a general whole body treatment to break up adhesions in muscle and connective tissue, or to release trigger points – the “knots” that send pain radiating out when they are pressed. “Regular” massage is great for stress relief, relaxing at the end of a long day, and when you just need to be nurtured.
Wholistic Nutrition
Nutrition is so much more than just what you put in your mouth. With wholistic nutrition counseling, explore your relationship with food, learn to use food as medicine, and discover how richly satisfying eating healthy can be. Counseling sessions may be focused on a particular goal such as weight loss or gain, on influencing a medical condition, or for general health enhancement. The wholistic approach is about real food, unprocessed and unrefined, full of flavor and nutrients. It is not about taking away your favorite treats; instead the focus is on adding more healthy foods. Nutrition counseling sessions may be in person or over the phone.