Logos, Pathos & Mythos
Logos - Time
Bodywork requires heat, friction and most importantly time. When our bodies stiffen, the connective tissue (fascia) restricts mobility requiring even more time, more friction and more energy to improve flexibility and reduce discomfort.
My purpose is to make the most out of our time when you book an appointment. You will notice an increase in time with focus on longer sessions. You can now choose between 90 or 120 minute sessions. The goal is to compound the benefits of bodywork with more time, more friction and more energy over a short period of time. Getting a massage every few months offers short-term relief, however the goal is to create lasting change in the body through intentional, compounded work.
I also now offer a shorter 45 minute massage for those who need bodywork on a specific area or are apprehensive about trying our services for the first time.
Pathos - Awareness
The nerves in your body engage the muscular system to react or to relax. The electrical pulses between the nerves and brain stimulate the muscles into movement or can signal the muscle to tighten into knots and stiffness. The signals and electrical pulses produce the physical awareness of our bodies. Bodywork and touch bring our attention to the areas of discomfort so that we can then release that tension and enter into a relaxed state.
Bodywork is meta-physical. Our thoughts including our subconscious are trans-mutated from electrical pulses into feelings of stress or relaxation. Bodywork uses the same circuitry but in reverse by relaxing the body and 'untangling' your thoughts in your mind through intentional, therapeutic touch.
There are 4 brain waves with beta waves being the most active and responsive. Alpha waves occur when you are focused, calm and relaxed. Delta waves happen during deep sleep. The last type is Theta, which is a dream-like state of consciousness where the best healing happens via the mind/body connection. It is during the state of consciousness that your mind and body are more receptive to incorporate change at a psycho-somatic level. Feel free to ask questions if you're curious about what all these words mean.
Mythos - Going Forward
The physical aspect of bodywork won't remove your bad habits or posture on its own. It is your responsibility to become aware of your body, its movements, and how to strengthen the 'problem' areas. Awareness is what I offer with bodywork, and it is the first step to grounding and embodying.
The body is made to move dynamically. I recommend incorporating daily physical training with intentional movements that engage your body. Forget weights for now, movement is strength training, and can be practiced through the soft bending of the spine or an invigorating twist of the torso. It's about the flow, the movement.
Any martial art technique is great for strengthening your core. Tai Chi, Chi Gong, etc. Pilates and yoga also strengthen the body's core through intentional movements. Walking is great for holistic health but I encourage you to think about stepping with purpose and intention. It takes time, but when you pay attention to how you walk, you can learn how to engage your entire body in the graceful, natural movement that was made for you.