BODYWORK

The body with its aches and pains and myofascial tension tells the story of our lives. From the moment we are born, and perhaps even in utero, we are expanding and contracting in response to our experiences. Over time we develop habits that make their way into our structure, posture, and body language. Stress leaves its mark on the body as well as the psyche.

For many people, the body is a more direct pathway into their inner world than talking, and touch can help them access it more easily. Here we're not involved so much in analyzing experience as being with it. Whether it be sensations in the body, feelings and emotions, memories, or deep, quiet states of relaxation, the process is one of opening to what is happening and increasing awareness.

By using conscious touch and presence, I contact the whole person, inviting them with my hands and being to drop into a state of relaxation and unwind from within. I focus in on the places where they have chronic muscle tension or where the breath is not moving. Usually I will ask if there's a particular area that needs attention.

Holding the space for whatever wants to emerge into awareness, I share my impressions and encourage the person to deepen into and speak from their own experience. In this way, they can discover what is true for for them in that moment. Sometimes, however, it is only after getting off the table and going about the day that things will bubble up from within.

I offer this bodywork as a modality in itself or in conjunction with psychotherapy, depending on the needs of the person. Some people need more time to verbally process what comes up in a session in order to integrate it fully. Others do well integrating on their own.

See Calendar for information about free lecture/demonstrations.