Practice Philosophy

Integrative Bodywork

Experiencing life with the whole of our selves -- embodied experience -- is a result of connections created inside us that link our internal systems.  

Within my scope of practice, I am on purpose facilitating organismic integration; that is, connecting differentiated elements into a whole. 

Although focusing on the physical, Integrative Bodywork relies on Relationship, Movement, and perception of Safety.

Relationship

All bodywork can be seen as integrative.  Just as is listening to music, taking a walk with a friend, or swimming in refreshing waters, many of our daily life experiences can open us up to making the internal connections that enhance health.  What characterizes an integrative experience is the interweavings of relationship.

Whether that's a relationship between humans, between us and the environment, between the body's structural support and its organs, or among metabolic components --- key to fostering relationship is gauging not-too-much-and-not-too-little.  You can't force it. You can't just vaguely hope it happens.  You've got to listen, get involved, engaged, committed, where and when and at the level appropriate. 

Movement

When we're listening to the body, we ask,  "How much is just enough?" through engaging movement.  Where there is movement is life; stuck-ness (or too much movement!), a disconnect.  Disconnect can mean dysfunction, so often that's where treatment will focus.  It can also mean, "please go away, leave me alone," a way to conserve energy; a placeholder for rest in the approach/avoid continuum. 

When something isn't moving in the body we can move it on purpose, make contact and wait for subtle movements to emerge, make static contact and hold it still, sneak in from the side, or give it space -- no contact. Each approach has its uses. In any case, listening comes first.

Safety

Engaging effectively requires trust, a kind of permission.  A sliver of openness to something new.  When the body senses it's safe enough, therapy can then elicit physiological shifts that signal natural healing.  

Application to Practice

I work hands-on (for physical repair or supportive touch).  I educate through movement, enhancing the body's proprioception, and the mind's body-awareness.  I provide somatic therapy.

As I apply the principles of Relationship, Movement, and Safety in these three areas, my role as embodied therapist is then not magic-hands fixer, but empathic facilitator, resonant witness, exploring healing potential together with my client.