Where Yoga and Bodywork Meet

bigBuddhaIt has always been my opinion that rather than trying to “fix” a person, good bodywork enables the Body-Mind to function so that it can do its own healing.

Besides technique, intention greatly influences the outcome. The state of mind of the practitioner and how he directs his energy will greatly affect the results.

With this in mind, I have designed my practice so that I work with only three or four people daily, giving them my full attention, rather than the “factory” approach used in a lot of commercial institutions. People have to be “seen” as individuals with their own unique needs rather than just body parts to be worked on.

A good session gives someone a feeling of deep well being: “Wow… this is how I can feel!”.

This often motivates the client to participate in their own healing. Clients are encouraged to choose an activity that they enjoy, and do it regularly. While one person may choose to dance, another may prefer yoga or tai chi. Whatever the activity, the most important thing is that the client is having a good time while being active.

Contrary to popular belief, bodywork does not put the person to sleep. Rather, one feels deeply relaxed yet energized at the same time. As expansion happens in the body, new ideas, feelings and insights can enter the mind.

Bodywork done well does not deplete the energy of the therapist. This is an important point, as therapist “burn out” seems to be endemic today. It is of vital importance for any bodyworker to continually “refresh” their energy through spiritual practice, yoga and exercise, ultimately benefiting themselves and, of course, the client.