Structural Bodywork

Posture and structure are governed by the fascial system integrating our bones, muscles, organs, nerves, blood vessels and lymph systems. The fascial system not only determines our posture, accumulating evidence suggest that this system actually represents the acupuncture meridians providing energetic communication and information throughout our body.

Emotional stress, repetitive movements, diet, injuries and aging take their toll on our fascial system by shortening and thickening the fascia layers - resulting in various patterns of structural imbalance. In addition, our bodies are constantly pulled by the gravitational force and over time, this exacerbates compensation patterns resulting in pain, poor posture, gait problems and restrictions in the flow of movement in our joints.

Restrictions, adhesions and other malfunctions occurring in the fascia can contribute to disease, illness, emotional illness and pain in our body. My style of Structural Bodywork (also known as “channel dredging”) implements manual techniques similar to those used in "Rolfing" and Structural Integration. However, these techniques are targeted to soften adhesions and removing blockages in the acupuncture meridians to enhance the flow of energy and improve body structure / symmetry.

The removal of adhesions and blockages in the fascial meridians, also can create major shifts in emotional and physical wellness. Other benefits include: improvement in body awareness, greater sensitivity to the gravitational force, feeling lighter, more fluid, energetic, and grounded.

The Fascial Net and Pain

Damage to the fascia can result from many causes including: repetitive use, stress, poor diet, injury, poor posture and aging. When fascial malfunction occurs, the fascial net becomes “glued down” to the surrounding muscles and tissue. These restrictions can impair blood flow to the muscle, thus depriving the tissues of oxygen resulting in pain. Nerves that normally penetrate the fascia to stimulate muscle activity also become trapped in the restricted fascia and lead to pain and tension. The manual techniques used in Orthopedic Massage lengthen, broaden and hydrate the fascial net and restore structural balance to the body. After these changes occur, restrictions in the flow of energy and the surrounding tissues are reduced. The fascia normalizes and pain and discomfort are eliminated. In addition, conditioning the fascia allows the body to return to a more normal and vertical structural alignment. To learn more about fascia, click this link and view the slide show.