Modalities of Massage Part 10

28 12 2011

So far we have reviewed 49 different modalities of massage and we still have over 20 left to delve into. For the casual reader I hope this has given you some information on different modalities being practiced that may be able help you alleviate pain, experience personal and spiritual growth, and even heal body issues that you thought were unable to be helped. For the trained therapist, I hope this overview has inspired you to learn more about your field and possibly study new and different modalities that may be helpful to your clients. If there is an issue that you may have missed you can find all the “Modalities of Massage” listed at www.pivotalhealthblog.com

Last week we finished our discussion with The Rosen Method. This week we will begin with The Rubenfeld Synergy Method. The Rubenfeld Synergy Method is a combination of The Alexander Technique with added components of Gestalt Psychotherapy, The Feldenkrais Method and Erickson Hypnotherapy. Developed by onetime orchestra conductor, Ilana Rubenfeld, The Rubenfeld Synergy Method was born out of her own frustration at finding a therapy for her arm and back spasms. The Rubenfeld Method responds to the needs of the body by using gentle, intentional touch, imagery, movement, active listening and verbal interaction to facilitate the healing of the body and mind.

Shiatsu Massage is the most widely known form of acupressure and in Japanese means “finger pressure” and has been a practiced form of healing for over a thousand years. Shiatsu can be used to treat pain and illness, to relax the body, and maintain general health. To accomplish this Shiatsu uses steady, rhythmic pressure on specific points along the body’s meridians using fingers, hands, elbows, knees and even feet to apply pressure that will unblock and stimulate the flow of energy.

Another ten session modality is Soma Neuromuscular Integration. Soma Neuromuscular Integration was developed by one of Ida Rolf’s first students, Dr. Bill Williams in 1978. Dr. Williams developed this therapy to refine Rolf’s work by creating an easier, less intrusive way of working with fascia and muscles. Soma Neuromuscular Integration incorporates movement training and awareness tools to promote greater access to the functions of both hemispheres of the brain.

Posted By David Fried, Custom Craftworks
Modalities of Massage Part 1
Modalities of Massage Part 2
Modalities of Massage Part 3
Modalities of Massage Part 4
Modalities of Massage Part 5
Modalities of Massage Part 6 
Modalities of Massage Part 7 
Modalities of Massage Part 8  
Modalities of Massage Part 9 

This research is a review of the literature and is not a claim about the function or performance of any products sold by Pivotal Health solutions.


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Modalities of Massage Part 9

21 12 2011

Happy Holidays everyone. As we continue our journey into the modalities of massage therapy and I would like to thank those of you who have made a point to keep up with our discussion. To those of you who have not been able to read one or more of the series you can always go to www.pivotalhealthblog.com to review previous week’s blogs about massage or a whole host of other health and wellness blogs written by experts in their fields.

Today we begin our review of modalities with Rebalancing. Rebalancing is a modality that requires 10 sessions and utilizes a combination of deep tissue massage, joint tension release, verbal dialogue, and energy balancing to relieve physical pain, emotional holding patterns and to enhance relaxation. Rebalancing was developed by a group of long time body therapists working under the guidance of a spiritual teacher named Osho. The idea was to create a new modality that would use the best of the presently existing modalities.

Reflexology is an acupressure type technique performed on the hands and feet and is based on the ancient oriental theory that meridian lines carry energy throughout the body. Reflexology is based on the understanding that each part of the body has a corresponding reflex point on the feet. Stimulating that reflex point causes the flow of natural energy to the related organ. Reflexology was developed and popularized in the U.S. by Eunice Ingrahm in the 1930s.

Reiki in Japanese means universal life energy and is a healing technique of transmitting life energy by placing the hands gently in specific positions either on or above the body. This laying on of hands is designed to relieve the pain, restore vitality, heal illness and aid in spiritual growth. Reiki was introduced to the U.S. in the 1930’s by Hawayo Takata.

Rolfing or structural integration was pioneered by American biochemist Dr. Ida Rolf in the 1930’s. Dr. Rolf believed that when one part of the body is out of alignment then it affects the alignment of the rest of the body. By manipulating the fascia, Rolfer’s are able to assist the body by reorganizing, lengthening and integrating itself into wholeness.

The Rosen Method is based around gentle touch, breathing and verbal interaction and was developed by Marion Rosen, a physiotherapist that noticed clients that verbalized their sensations and emotions during treatment improved more quickly than those who did not. Utilizing hands that “listen” rather than manipulate, the practitioner applies gentle touch. As practitioners touch the body where tension is held in and thus where breath does not move freely, it reminds the muscle and memories that they can freely release. The Rosen Method is used both for personal growth as well as to relieve physical pains.

Posted By David Fried, Custom Craftworks
Modalities of Massage Part 1
Modalities of Massage Part 2
Modalities of Massage Part 3
Modalities of Massage Part 4
Modalities of Massage Part 5
Modalities of Massage Part 6 
Modalities of Massage Part 7 
Modalities of Massage Part 8  

This research is a review of the literature and is not a claim about the function or performance of any products sold by Pivotal Health solutions.


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Modalities of Massage Part 8

14 12 2011

This has been an enlightening journey we have been on in learning about the different modalities of massage and how they affect the body, mind and spirit. How massage can not only relax and rejuvenate the body mind and spirit, but also how it can heal the body against all odds is amazing. A great example of the body being healed by massage would be Therese Pfrimmer, who developed the Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy modality and will be the first modality in our discussion today.

Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy, one of the first forms of deep muscle therapy, was developed in the 1940s by Therese Pfrimmer. Therese Pfrimmer had studied at the Swedish Institute in New York and discovered that using strong strokes across the fiber of the muscle, rather than along the length of the muscle fiber improves circulation of the lymphatic and vascular systems, frees adhesions and helps to cause corrective changes in the muscles on a cellular level. This discovery led to the reversal of her paralysis. The story of the development of this modality is one of the most moving I have ever heard and makes me ask, is there anything a good massage can’t do?

Polarity Therapy is a widely used modality that through the touch of the practitioner connects the positive and negative poles to improve the flow of energy through the body which assists in healing and relaxation. Polarity Therapy was developed by Randolph Stone, a chiropractor and osteopath. He combined his knowledge of Ayurvedic Medicine, Chinese medicine, Yoga, Acupuncture and Shiatsu Techniques to develop his system. Stone thought of the body as an electromagnetic energy system that carries electrical like charges. With his knowledge of other healing techniques he would encourage proper diet, yoga and self awareness to maintain well being.

Postural Integration was developed by Dr. Jack Painter, who recognized that the body traps negative emotions. Dr. Painter’s technique pays particular attention to the fascia and the release of emotional blocks in a psychotherapeutic manner. Dr. Painter developed a 10 session system that consists of deep tissue techniques, movement and breath work.

Pregnancy or Prenatal Massage not only relieves tension and aches, but helps to reduce swelling, reduce fatigue, enhances energy and soothes the nervous system. As any mother will tell you, pregnancy places strong demands on the body and needs to be nurtured and pampered.

Posted By David Fried, Custom Craftworks
Modalities of Massage Part 1
Modalities of Massage Part 2
Modalities of Massage Part 3
Modalities of Massage Part 4
Modalities of Massage Part 5
Modalities of Massage Part 6 
Modalities of Massage Part 7  

This research is a review of the literature and is not a claim about the function or performance of any products sold by Pivotal Health solutions.


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Modalities of Massage Part 7

7 12 2011

We are at about the half way point with our overview of the different modalities of massage therapy, and it is no surprise to me how much I have learned in this overview, but that is not the only objective. I hope that you have been finding new and interesting information or have been reminded of modalities that you may not have thought about in a while. Either way, I hope that all the readers are getting as much out of this overview as I have been getting. Now let’s continue our overview by starting with Myofascial Massage.

Myofascial Release Therapy is the manipulation of the fascia, which is a kind of tissue that holds together all the muscles, arteries, bones and organs. Myofascial release works by the manipulation of the fascia that connects and surrounds muscles. The fascia responds to the trained touch to release the adverse effects of inflammation, tension and trauma. This modality was developed by John Barnes in the late 1960’s.

Myotherapy is a method of relaxing muscle spasms, improving circulation, and alleviating pain. Myotherapy works by defusing “trigger points”. Trigger points are knots of muscle tension that often transfer pain to other parts of the body. Developed by Bonnie Prudden, the myotherapist alleviates the spasms by pressing on appropriate trigger points by means of fingers, knuckles, elbows, or body tools to return the affected muscle to its normal resting and relaxed condition.

Narapathy is a gentle massage of connective tissue designed to restore the flow of energy through the body to optimal levels. Holistic in nature Narapathy pays attention to nutrition, lifestyle, diet and movement. Developed by a chiropractor in 1907 one of the prime focuses of Narapathy is the attention to the ligaments that encase the spinal column.

Ortho-Bionomy is a gentle massage and is often referred to as the most homeopathic of bodywork therapies. Developed by British osteopath Authur Pauls, Ortho-Bionomy uses gentle manipulation and movements to find the position of most comfort in response to pain. Once located, the practitioner will work from there to release the core problem or issue.

Oshiatsu Massage was developed in New York by Oshi is the product of years of practice. Oshi is a world renowned speaker and educator.

Posted By David Fried, Custom Craftworks
Modalities of Massage Part 1
Modalities of Massage Part 2
Modalities of Massage Part 3
Modalities of Massage Part 4
Modalities of Massage Part 5
Modalities of Massage Part 6 

This research is a review of the literature and is not a claim about the function or performance of any products sold by Pivotal Health solutions.


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Modalities of Massage Part 6

30 11 2011

I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving and that we all found something to be thankful for, now back to our studies and overview of the modalities of massage therapy. Another thing that I have noticed while writing about the modalities of massage is that not all modalities are developed in far off and exotic places, but much closer to home. A good example of this would be the Boulder College of Massage Therapy and its’ development of Integrative Massage.

Integrative Massage was developed at The Boulder College of Massage over 20 years ago and is based on the work of Wilhelm Reich. Integrative Massage assists in the release of emotional issues that are trapped in the body. This is accomplished by long strokes that are used to move energy from the head down and out through the hands and feet. Deep breath work is also used in the aid of the process.

Jin Shin Jitsu is a non massage form of shiatsu that uses 26 pressure points that are known as energy locks where fatigue, tension or illness can hold energy. By applying prolonged, gentle, pressing of these points or movements of the practitioner’s hands over the areas without contact the body and mind are brought into harmony. This modality was developed by Jiro Murai in Japan.

Lomilomi Massage is a technique that has been handed down from ancient Hawaiian healers. Lomilomi, meaning “rub rub” is spiritual in nature and was developed by Hawaiian born nurse, Margaret Machado. Two techniques that that will identify Lomilomi Massage is the emphasis that is placed on the spirit/ body connection and the use of the forearms and elbows as a massage tool. The strokes are similar to shiatsu techniques of Japan, but are much shorter and more gently applied.

LooyenWork is a system that works with the core emotional issues a client may be experiencing. One of the main tenants of LooyenWork is the belief that pain does not heal pain, therefore while the effect is deep, the massage is gentle. LooyenWork was developed by Dutch born counselor Ted Looyen who now practices in California.

Lymph System Massage is designed to remove bacteria and toxins from the body and was developed by Danish doctor Hans Vodder, who noticed the connection between Lymph System blockage and colds, infections and other ailments. Dr. Vodder reasoned that by massaging the Lymph System would be beneficial in the removal of toxins in the body. Lymph System Massage is a specific technique that massages the Lymph Nodes and Lymph System using light rhythmic strokes. The strokes are always with the muscle fiber rather than across the fiber as the lymph system runs in the direction of the muscle fiber.

Posted By David Fried, Custom Craftworks
Modalities of Massage Part 1
Modalities of Massage Part 2
Modalities of Massage Part 3
 Modalities of Massage Part 4
Modalities of Massage Part 5

This research is a review of the literature and is not a claim about the function or performance of any products sold by Pivotal Health solutions.


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Modalities of Massage Part 5

23 11 2011

As we move through our overview of the different modalities of massage I am amazed that newer styles of massage are often combined with or take their roots from well established or traditional modalities. A good example of this would be Hellerwork, and that will take us back into our overview.

Hellerwork follows the principals of Rolfing but has more emphasis on dialogue between the client and practitioner. The overall goal of Hellerwork is to empower clients to grow and experience more freedom and energy in their lives. This is accomplished with releasing patterns of stress and movement exercises designed to eliminate bad habits and move with greater ease and flexibility. Hellerwork was developed by Joseph Heller, the first president of the Rolf Institute.

The Hemme Aproach stands for history, evaluation, modalities, manipulation and exercise. Developed Dave Leflet the principals are taken from physical medicine, osteopathy, chiropractic and physical therapy.

The Holographic Technique was developed by Chloe Wordsworth and is a six step process of body/ mind healing. Holographic Repatterning identifies life-depleting patterns through kinesiology and transforms them into life-enhancing patterns by means of numerous modalities based on movement, energy balancing, sound, light breathing, and many more.

Hoshino Therapy is an official medical therapy in Argentina and is a particular form of acupressure. It recognizes 250 acupuncture points that correspond to the bio-mechanical functioning of the body.

Hot Stone Massage was developed in the Middle East for use in health spas. The stones are heated and positioned on the body and are gently moved about with light pressure on the warmed stones.

Infant massage is becoming more and more popular. It is taught to new mothers as a way of bonding with their newborn and promoting infant health. Infant massage incorporates nurturing touch, reflexology, and massage in a fun one on one interaction.

If there is a modality of particular interest to you I invite you to search for more information on the following websites:

www.massagetherapy.com/glossary/

www.earthspirittx.com/definitions.html

altmedicine.about.com/od/massage/a/massage_types.htm

www.massage-therapy-benefits.net/types-of-massage-therapy.html#axzz1c1SGp3ZT

Happy Thanksgiving  from Custom Craftworks and Pivotal Health Solutions

Posted By David Fried, Custom Craftworks
Modalities of Massage Part 1
Modalities of Massage Part 2
Modalities of Massage Part 3
 Modalities of Massage Part 4

This research is a review of the literature and is not a claim about the function or performance of any products sold by Pivotal Health solutions.


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Modalities of Massage Part 4

16 11 2011

So many modalities, so little time! When I began this series of modalities of massage I thought it would be a great way to both blog and learn about the differences in types of massage. I also thought it would be a series that lasted for about a month or four weekly blogs, but as I get further and further into the different modalities, I am finding that this seems like it will be the series that never ends. We may be discussing modalities well into the spring. That in and of its’ self is part of the wonderment that is massage, that there is so much to learn and know. It is truly a case where a practitioner will never stop learning. If there is a modality of particular interest to you I invite you to search for more information on the following websites:

massagetherapy.com/glossary/

Earth Spirit Therapies

10 Most Popular Types Of Massage

Types of Massage Therapy

If you are unable to find information you are looking for please contact me and I will try to point you in the right direction to get more information. Now back to our discussion…

Equine Massage is sports massage for horses, yes horses. Like human athletes, horses will perform better have increased performance levels and endurance during an event. These techniques increase circulation, enhance muscle tone, and increase range of motion. In the event of an injury Equine Massage will calm the horse and improve the rate of recovery.

Esalen Massage was developed at the Esalen Institute in California and is a variation of Swedish Massage. The main differences between Esalen and Swedish Massage are that while Swedish Massage focuses on pain relief and increased mobility in specific joints or muscle groups, Esalen Massage concentrates on the body as a whole and tries to unify the entire body, mind and spirit.

Haelan Massage is a modality that helps people with physical illness to participate in their healing from a more holistic perspective. Haelen Massage combines therapeutic touch, psychotherapy and counseling to help with the healing process.

Hakomi Therapy uses the tools of touch, massage, movement education, energy work and mind-body awareness that leads to awareness of unconscious beliefs and attitudes that drive behavior and responses.

Join me again next week where we will continue our journey into the modalities of massage by beginning our discussion with Hellerwork.

I will end with a quote from Dr. Norman Winkfield of Winkfield Health Studios and Richard J. Daley College – “Everybody ought to be massaging somebody”

Posted By David Fried, Custom Craftworks
Modalities of Massage Part 1
Modalities of Massage Part 2
Modalities of Massage Part 3

This research is a review of the literature and is not a claim about the function or performance of any products sold by Pivotal Health solutions.


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Everyone has a remedy.

11 11 2011

As we head from fall into  the colder winter months, I find myself “sick” for the first time in a year or so. I am not one to use antibiotics or other drugs if I don’t have to, but the sniffle turned into a headache and sore throat, which turned into an ear infection, and that unfortunately required antibiotics. I passed this lovely little bug to my husband, too. Last night we ordered a pizza with garlic, red onions, jalapenos and pepperoncini trying to fight off this illness. Did it work? I am not sure. Did I get a very weird look from the teens at the pizza place? Absolutely. Why did I do this? When I lived in Baltimore, our receptionist swore by boiling red onions and garlic and drinking the vile broth for pretty much every cold, flu or  stuffy nose outbreak in the office. The way I felt last night- anything was worth a try.

It seems everyone has advice when you are not feeling well. Everyone has a remedy – some work and some don’t . Some work for certain people and not for others.  I have collected a few natural remedies that have been shared with me, and I , in turn would like to share them with you.

1. Gargle with salt water for a sore throat.
2. Colloidal Silver for a sore throat. This one has absolutely worked for me in the past. I even used it when I had strep overseas. Colloidal Silver is available at any health food store. There is a spray form but also lozenges.
3. Chicken Soup. I’m a vegetarian, so I do mushroom broth. Point being – any warm broth will do: it promotes airway secretions and has a calming action on inflamed tissue.  It also breaks up mucous.
4. Steam. Boil water and create a towel “tent” over it and breathe it in – this can help a stuffy head.
5. Vitamin C, and lots of it. I like the burst of energy it gives.
6. Hot and Cold Packs: A warm pack on my sinuses or a cold pack on my forehead either helps with  congestion or takes the edge off of a headache. I like to keep a few handy of the type that can be both heated or cooled.

Hopefully, you will find some comfort in these suggestions. We all know washing hands often will help prevent getting ill in the first place, but sometimes this isn’t as easy to do as it sounds, like when you are traveling. In that case, do your best to avoid touching your face with your hands too much. An ounce of prevention, after all, is worth a pound, I mean pizza, of cure.

In Good Health,
Teri J Sura


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…no but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night!

10 11 2011

Many times over, while doing a seminar, I am frequently asked the question if I am a doctor and could I give them an adjustment?  My favorite response to that is…….”No, but I stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night!”  Now this punch line came from a Holiday Inn Express commercial (years back) and was implying by staying at a Holiday Inn Express you were making a very smart decision that would make you even smarter than normal.    Although, I do routinely stay at a Holiday Inn Express, not because it makes me feel smarter, but for knowing the quality of Hotel that you get in pretty much anywhere you travels take you…….and for a guy who likes to eat…..the hot breakfast in the morning is pretty good!

Anyway, where am I going with this?  The real question is where are you going?  As the Holidays draw near many people travel for the Holidays and do not take the necessary precautions of seeing their chiropractor for an adjustment or their physical therapist for a treatment or their massage therapist for a massage.  There have been plenty of times at seminars that I witness people very uncomfortable because of the strains it takes on the body to travel.  There is nothing that can ruin a trip to see loved ones over the Holidays than feeling crappy and aching while you’re there.  Take the necessary steps to make it an enjoyable trip, prepare your body for the battle of travel and see your Healthcare professional before you leave and before you leave the office make sure you set your return visit for when you get back!

Have a safe and Happy Holiday season as you travel!

Post by Ron Heiser, Pivotal Health Solutions


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Modalities of Massage Part 3

9 11 2011

As we move forward learning more and more about the different modalities of massage, I can’t help but think about a book I would like to write, Massage Modalities and Me, How I Came to Receive Massage Therapy in Every Modality Practiced. After having reviewed each modality used in massage, I have found I really want to experience each so that I can compare and distinguish the differences and effects of each type of massage. This would be a very worthwhile venture I feel, but now back to our discussion on the different modalities. If there is a modality of particular interest to you I invite you to search for more information on the following websites:

www.massagetherapy.com/glossary/

www.earthspirittx.com/definitions.html

altmedicine.about.com/od/massage/a/massage_types.htm

www.massage-therapy-benefits.net/types-of-massage-therapy.html#axzz1c1SGp3ZT

If you are unable to find information you are looking for please contact me and I will try to point you in the right direction to get more information.

Chi Nei Tsang, developed by Chinese Taoist, performs work mainly on the abdomen with a deep, soft touch to train the internal organs to work more efficiently and improve energy flow. Chi meaning energy and Nei Tsang meaning internal organs is used to help carry energy flow while performing spiritual practices.

Core Energetics, started by Dr. John Pierralcos in 1971 takes Bioenergetics to a more spiritual level. In this type of Bioenergetics the core is the inner self. It was developed to create a deeper experience and identification with ones energy and feelings. This is made possible by bringing movement and consciousness to the body.

Craniosacral Therapy, developed in the 1900’s by William G. Sutherland and later refined by Dr. John Upledger, is the understanding and treatment of issues related to poor cerebrospinal fluid flow. This modality is particularly useful in treating a wide range of issues such as ADD, nervous disorders, and insomnia. Cerebrospinal Fluid flows throughout the spinal column and is essential to the central nervous system. When the flow of the fluid is limited or confined motor coordination impairments and balance become effected. Craniosacral Therapists are trained to recognize this blockage and assist in the facilitation of restoring flow in the restricted areas.

Deep Tissue Massage is used to reach into deep portions of the thick muscles and individual muscle fibers. By using deep muscle compression and friction the therapist is able to release toxins and deeply held patterns of tension.

Posted By David Fried, Custom Craftworks
Modalities of Massage Part 1
Modalities of Massage Part 2


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