If you are new to massage therapy and curious about how structural integration can help to release years of chronic pain, then continue reading! First, allow me to explain what structural integration is so that you have some context to expand on!
Structural Integration Deep Tissue Bodywork is a therapeutic massage technique focused on aligning and balancing the body's structure. This form of bodywork typically combines deep tissue massage with principles of structural integration, aiming to release tension, improve posture, and enhance overall body function.
During a session, I use slow, deliberate strokes and targeted pressure to work on specific muscle groups and fascia, helping to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and promote relaxation. The session might also involve assessing your body's alignment and addressing imbalances or restrictions. Stretching is implemented throughout the service - think of yoga poses and me doing ALL the work while you concentrate on breathing and expanding your lungs. I perform these restorative yoga poses daily myself (join my Tuesday and Thursday classes on ZOOM to learn how you can do the same!). I integrate Reiki into my sessions to support the nervous system and ease the mind. EVERY single session builds on the other and no two sessions are the same. As the body expands, new methods must be used. Breaking up the body's pattern is necessary to reset and re-train the body to function properly without pain or limitations. Myofascial release (MRF) is often beneficial for those dealing with chronic pain, injury recovery, or postural issues, and can provide a holistic approach to physical well-being.
After finishing my foundational massage therapy training at Elizabeth Grady School of Esthetics and Massage Therapy in 2008, I quickly discovered that I desired to focus on the interconnection of our physical, mental, and emotional bodies. Before my training, I majored in psychology and sociology while in college, so I knew that the body was only experiencing what the mind perceives. The physical discomforts were related to the mind and body being in conflict. The conflict between the two can be related to one's lifestyle. injury, trauma. etc. This "conflict" creates patterns (repetitive movement) in the body and the body responds by actively involving the fascia. The fascia is a system of connective tissue that encases our body parts and binds them together. Primarily of collagen, fascia can be thought of as a cushion casing for your body's tissues. It surrounds muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments and gives them shape. Fascia also connects your skin to the tissue that is directly beneath it. (www.Verywellhealth.com,)
Fascia is located all over your body, and while it surrounds all tissues, it can be divided into three distinct types based on location. Types of fascia include:
Superficial fascia: This type of fascia is associated with your skin.
Deep fascia: Deep fascia surrounds your bones, nerves, muscles, arteries, and veins.
Visceral fascia: This fascia surrounds your internal organs.
Parietal fascia: Parietal fascia is present in the pelvis and lines the walls of the body cavity.
Scientists have revealed that the fascia is now considered to be the largest organ of the body. YES, you read that correctly! Researchers are still puzzled by how the fascia becomes gel-like one minute and then can become restricted and harden over time. As research continues to develop, we store energetic patterns in our tissue.
If you would like to experience a structural integration bodywork session, I encourage you to book a session with me. I look forward to supporting you and sharing resources beyond what is on my website.
See you on the massage table!
Reference and Resources Used:
The National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, Volume 16, Issue 1, January 2012, Pages 67-75.
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