Hi all
I think to make promises of healing to an individual at a time when they are at their most vunerable is outrageous and am in total agreement with you Tricia as to how we should present it as intension not a promise.
Wether a client comes to me for healing, massage or both I state from the outset that I will do my best to improve their condition within my scope of practice, and that I will be guided by their feelings/thoughts of change not by mine. And that this is their judgement on a session by session basis = no need to sign up for 10 sessions at discounted rates as they will know if its working or not in 1 to 4 sessions.

I don't know if it is in my bio, but I am also a substitute teacher and I guess sometimes after a day of wrestling kids away from disputes, it's easy to hear that in other areas. I hope no one has taken offense to anything I've written. I was starting to wonder what techniques beyond positive thinking would truly be a help for scleroderma. I am sure there are people in my area that must need help with this and managing the pain coming from it. What known treatment helps the most??

Not hijack the thread, but with my scleroderma, I like just about any treatment. I avoid deep tissue however cause my muscles aren't as strong as they used to be. But, because of my work and workouts, I tend to be tight, so a firm deeper than traditional Swedish can be good. My wife, who also has scleroderma, takes only light pressure. She ususally can't lay flat due to gastro problems (me too). It just depends on what kind of day we're having. Always ask and check what meds are being taken.

Tricia, I know I don't take any offense to anything you've written. :)

Tricia,
Try this link. If it doesn't work, you may have to join Medscape. It's free and they give facts. Enjoy!

Dear Choice and group
Thank you Stephen for inviting me to this group..
MY goodness Choice the Fascia gods sure seem to have it out for you. Living with both Lupus and Scleroderma (PSS to us lingo type of guys) .
I would really encourage you to read as much of Helene M. Langevin MD work. SHe and her team have been doing great work in the area of expanding our understanding of your two challenges. I have included a brief bio and couple of her publication citations at the end of this posting. She works mainly out of the College of Medicine, University of Vermont. She is very easy to talk with and is a powehouse of information. She will be onew of the key note speakers at the Massage Therapy Foundation CIM Research Conference and would be well worth seeing.

Hope you find this info usefull
Yours
Don Solomon, RMT (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

Bio and Pubs
Dr. Helene M. Langevin received an MD degree from McGill University, followed by a post doctoral research fellowship at the MRC Neurochemical Pharmacology Unit, Cambridge, England, residency in Internal Medicine and fellowship in Endocrinology/Metabolism both at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD. She studied acupuncture at Tristate Institute of Acupuncture and at Worsley College of Classical Chinese Acupuncture. She currently is a Research Associate Professor of Neurology, Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation at the University of Vermont and is the Principal Investigator of two NIH-funded studies investigating the role of connective tissue in chronic pain, acupuncture and manual therapies.

Some Related Publications:

1.Bouffard NA, Cutroneo KR, Badger GJ, White SL, Buttolph TR, Ehrlich HP, Stevens-Tuttle D, Langevin HM. Tissue stretch decreases soluble TGF-beta1 and type-1 procollagen in mouse subcutaneous connective tissue: evidence from ex vivo and in vivo models. J Cell Physiol. 2008 Feb;214(2):389-95.
2.Langevin HM, Rizzo DM, Fox JR, Badger GJ, Wu J, Konofagou EE, Stevens-Tuttle D, Bouffard NA, Krag MH. Dynamic morphometric characterization of local connective tissue network structure in humans using ultrasound. BMC Syst Biol. 2007 Jun 5;1:25.
3.Langevin HM, Bouffard NA, Churchill DL, Badger GJ. Connective tissue fibroblast response to acupuncture: dose-dependent effect of bidirectional needle rotation. J Altern Complement Med. 2007 Apr;13(3):355-60.
4.Langevin HM, Sherman KJ. Pathophysiological model for chronic low back pain integrating connective tissue and nervous system mechanisms. Med Hypotheses. 2007;68(1):74-80
5.Langevin HM. Connective tissue: a body-wide signaling network?. Medical Hypotheses. 66(6):1074-7, 2006.
6.Langevin HM. Bouffard NA. Badger GJ. Churchill DL. Howe AK. Subcutaneous tissue fibroblast cytoskeletal remodeling induced by acupuncture: evidence for a mechanotransduction-based mechanism. Journal of Cellular Physiology. 207(3):767-74, 2006.
7.Langevin HM. Bouffard NA. Badger GJ. Iatridis JC. Howe AK. Dynamic fibroblast cytoskeletal response to subcutaneous tissue stretch ex vivo and in vivo. American Journal of Physiology - Cell Physiology. 288(3):C747-56, 2005.
8.Langevin HM. Cornbrooks CJ. Taatjes DJ. Fibroblasts form a body-wide cellular network. Histochemistry & Cell Biology. 122(1):7-15, 2004

The Woman with the black hair in the bob style haircut is Helene at the close of the 2009 Fascial Congress in Amsterdam, Holland.

Looks like Tom Myers in that first seat.

Thanks Don for the info.

Thanks Don, Hi Choice, I really hope she can do something to help you !
We have such a great buncha people on this site !
I hope you all feel as privilaged as I do to have found it .

Indeed, Mike you are right. It is Tom sitting on the far right while Dr. Moshe Solomonow PhD, MD (Hon) dances a jig during another of his insightful and entertaining diatribes. at the close of the 2nd Fascial Conference in Amsterdam, Holland
So, from right to left are Tom Myers, Andrey Vleeming, Peter Huijing, Robert Schleip, Harriet Hall, Leon Chaitow, Helene Langevin and Thomas Findley (at the podium)

Thanks Don. Wish I had been there! It looks like the whole gang really enjoyed it!

Thanks, Steve...the whole community is awesome. Not to step on any toes, but I'm not really looking for any help. After 27 years of learning to cope, I'm comfortable with my pains and limitations. I know that might sound strange to some. But I am more in tune with my body than I ever have been. I know what is healthy for me. I know what works for me. I take care of myself...physically, mentally, spiritually...better than most "healthy" people. I am no longer interested in running to every doc, specialist, alternative healers (legit or not) to find a miracle. I've seen people do that. I did that early on. Your life becomes this search and you don't enjoy life any more. If something came along and it sounded interesting to me, I might take a crack. If Helene Langevin came out my way, I would love to talk to her. I definitely will read some of her work. Hope people understand. Keep throwing things out here.....who knows?

Choice, it sounds like you have you house in very good order....and a window left open.

*nod* Choice, I hear ya. I spent a decade dealing with a very nasty case of Crohn's disease, and if you spend all your time and energy looking for something to "fix" your health issues, you have no time (or energy!) for life. Good on ya.

Thanks Erica, at age 54 I feel like I'm finally figurin' things out.

Lots of interesting discussions over at this site about energy. Great site to join and find out about how things are with the EBP e... They really want your input.

Lots of Medical Reiki info at http://www.reikimedresearch.org/

I am all in favor of energy work as part of massage but the public should never be sold a massage under the title of massage therapy. Thoughts?

Something in this statement isn't quite right . . .

good catch Erica...

I was trying to say,

If we are doing massage we are always doing energy work, aware or unaware... but if we set out to do just energy work we are definately not doing a massage. I have seen many a massage therapist fail because they focused their practise more on energy work and left too much of the massage experience out. The dissapointed customers vote with their feet and never come back. So I think it is important NOT to promote energy work as massage. Hope this makes better sense. :}

*laugh* Yes, Rudy, much more so. Thanks for the clarification. :D

I integrate reiki, cranial work, lymphatic drainage, myofascial work Heart Centered Therapy, and Shamballa Multidimensional Healing to accelerate my client's healing. Most of my practice is working with clients who have various trauma histories, and they hold the energy of their experience all over their bodies. If I can't clear them energetically, the other work I do will not be as effective. My practice, Phoenix Healing Arts is located in Boston, Mass.

WOW! What great discussions. In June this year I will be practicing for my 50th year. I never realized that I was doing energy work until years ago a wise old woman on the big island told me that she appreciated my use of Reiki during her session. I was so focused on using my educational attributes to "heal" her physical issues that I was unaware until that moment that there are powerful energy forces at work when we massage or even just shaking hands at a meeting. I am confident that many of us have been introduced to someone who we just didn't feel comfortable being close to. Could it be that our intuitive spirit was saying "be aware that this may not be a person that is in a space right now that can facilitate good for you? " What I see today is a great deal of emphasis being placed on the "medical" outcomes that may result from specifically designed techniques of massage. It would appear that we, as a profession, that we are being guided into treating the symptoms presented by those who seek our services instead of facilitating a focus on the causes. Many of these causes are directly connected to holding onto the accumulation of stress. Although our clients come to us for some relief of the discomforts they are feeling, they really want it to just go away long term and to me that means that there needs to be resolution of the causes of their discomfort. We also need to provide education that they can use to continue to be well. In my view, treating symptoms is what the traditional medical community does and sometimes they do it very well and sometimes their training and objectivity prevents them from getting to the bottom line cause. There appears to be something in our energy fields that will either allow someone to receive our touch or to shy away from it. I know that there are medical and massage professionals in my life who I will totally surrender too or even allow them to do brain surgery and those I won't simply based on how I feel about them in that moment. Could it be that their energy field is saying something that their brain is not? I think that it is just my intuitive senses saying that I should be aware that their energy is not meshing with mine in the moment or there is something about their agenda or intent that just isn't where I feel comfortable about it. What I think is missing in medical/clinical massage field is the connection that exists between the physical and the energetic (emotional) dynamics of our health issues. In my practice I utilize the vibrational qualities of music chosen by the recipient to touch the emotional energy fields of their physiology, which is also in a constant state of vibration. This merging of musical vibration, their energetic vibrations and the application of vibrational touch in time to the music seems to place the recipient in a position to actually be willing to participate in their own healing process. After the session they indicate that they were unable to focus on their negative issues, either physical or emotional. Instead they indicate that they felt a strong desire to release the pain and only needed to be allowed the non-judgmental freedom to do so. Although I haven't done a formal biological study on this process, it would appear that there is an increase in the release of endorphins and a reduction in the release of the stress hormones. I think that the true intent in healing practices of every kind should be focused on relaxing the emotions connected to the issues presented, be it as a result of a car crash or just the stress of every day life. When we a species begin to care more about those we are guided to help, then maybe they will begin to care more about helping themselves. The rewards are truly greater when we give our true selves to our healing works. The sad thing is that many massage and medical professionals are the last ones to receive a massage on a monthly basis. Credentials and an advanced education are fine but a massage practice that does not include dedicated focus, honesty, solid ethical & moral conduct, and heart based intent to facilitate for the total well being of the recipient will only make money and serve our egos in the short term, it shouldn't be the energy source that guides us. It is my hope that more therapist will come to realize the gift that they hold in the power of their energy that comes from using their Heart and Hands to touch. My recipients chose the name for my business which is "Heart 'N' Hands Massage". It is one of the highest compliments I have ever received. Be Well within and Keep Touching!

Thank you Dustin!

Thanks Dustin

This where the rubber meets the road. We are always moving energy when we massage, whether we choose to be conscious about it or not. Consciousness brings greater freedom, in my experience.

You are so right Dawn! I have found that there is a whole new level of creative energy that comes from the realization of the freedom.

I hope anyone doing research on energy work will submit abstracts and present posters or/and presentations http://www.massageprofessionals.com/forum/topics/call-for-posters-and

Dawn (and then Mike),

This is the Rubber meeting the road. For years, too many folk, I have been known as Rev Rob the Russian Rubber.

I think your remark misses the mark by only a tiny bit, Dawn. I think we more than move energy, I think we are massaging the energy, stimulating the kinetic and electric energy that moves and stimulates the body. Chemical energy is troublesome to our work, so far as I am concerned.

I came to my conclusion after volunteering for a year working with late stage Alzheimer folk. Alzheimer folk leave their physical and mental bodies behind and essentially remain kinetic/electric, out of touch both inside and outside their bodies, coming back only on occasion, stimulated by an outside energy field. It is amazing to be looked at as a brother, father, son, friend, colleague or neighbor within a very short period of time as an Alzheimer folk caregiver. Worse case is when they even lose the capacity to know anyone is there, gazing out with no juice in their eyes;

An all day gross anatomy workshop pushed me the rest of the way into believing all massage work is energy work rather than some massage being energy work. We did no dissecting. We had four specimens in different levels of dissection. Red dead meat, much like what you find in the refrigerator section of a market is what I was dealing with. Whatever ever propelled the cadaver under my hands was just not there. That experience working with cadavers took me off the agnostic list regarding spirit.

I know there is spirit. What that spirit is composed of and where it goes, I don't know, nor do I feel a need to know. I think something leaves the body. I thnk that something is trapped in the physical body. One of my favorite chants I learned when reading materials from Paramahansa Yogananda's SRF is,

Make me the Sea
From a Bengali Song

So may it be, my Lord—
Thou and I, never apart;
Wave of the sea,
Dissolve in the sea!
I am the bubble;
Make me the sea!

I like the concept of cosmic consciousness or a cosmic sea rather than a corporeal "Lord". In any event I want to stay in my bubble riding on the wave of the sea for a bit longer. At 60, I feel like I am just getting started.

Mike,

Now I will owe you two things. I promised to share a few photos and the interview I did with Auntie Margaret and now I will promise to share the results of my research relating to energy work.

Researching is what I have been going through of late. I've been researching where The Flammia Touch mostly comes from. I know what I know but have forgotten where much of it comes from. I am resurrecting and rereading my favorite dead gurus. It was their work that led me to working with Alzheimer's folk.

Incoming client... I need to get my energy running and my thinking brain shut off. Does anyone set themselves up in such a way the work is a working meditation with the person at their fingertips the object of their meditation?
http://tinyurl.com/ycg3lbl

Rev Rob the Russian Rubber

Hi Rev,

Thanks! I look forward to our discussions! There is much to learn and I live to learn!

I use lymphatic, visceral, reiki, and swedish. Sometimes I will add PROM, stretching, or myofascial The kids I work with are usually sound asleep at the end of that!

Looking foreward to interacting with this group. I've been caring for patients since 1971 as a Registered Respiratory Therapist, Registered Nurse, Certified Healing Touch Practitioner, Clinical Hypnotherapist & Reiki 2. I also am advanced trained in EFT/MTT (Emotional Freedom Techniques/Meridian Tapping Techniques & Biofeedback.

Hi Rev, Terry, Wendy and Steven great to have you in the group :)

AARP Bulletin has a great article in the April issue about fighting Cancer with Energy work.

Hi Everyone! I'm so excited about my new research paper on the link between zodiac signs and energy work! I was hoping to conduct a survey to see if I can find statistical evidence to support my theory! Please help me by taking 5 minutes to complete the survey! The explanation of the study is on the first page. I REALLY REALLY appreciate it and it would be SO helpful to me! :) Thanks a lot! www.surveymonkey.com/s/V9PT2Y8

Astrology & Energy Healing - Presentation Posted (paper on the way)! See my website at it's new URL: www.healingmassagetherapy.org

Hi Laura,
Lying on the floor with tennis balls on both sides of the spine will help to loosen the muscles. Work them up and down the back. Lying on your side you can position ballsjust above the pelvis to help loosen. They can even be used to work the subscapularis. Smaller balls work better for the ribs. Good luck.

You could also try stretching your psoas. if you are by yourself it is easiest to do this on your massage table. Make sure it is wide enough that it won't easily tip to the side. You can also do this on the bed where you sleep. Move way over to the side of the bed so your hip is just on the edge. Angle your body slightly onto the bed or table. Then let your leg dangle off the edge of the table, you can even pull your heel towards the floor if it feels okay. I suggest looping a belt or rope around your dangling food so that when you are ready to bring your foot back up to the surface you can use the rope to assist rather than activating that muscle you have just stretched out.

good luck

The Hatha Yoga posture Trikanasana, or triangle is helpful for limbo-pelvic issues, including short tight iliopsoas and quadratus lumborum. The posture has several variations, so try them. Or, try side-lying with a bolster/pillow helping to support the space between the ribs and pelvis stretching the other side.

I do traditional Asian Bodywork. While in Asia there are energy forms such as Qi Gong that are only energywork, bodywork is never without energywork. In Asian systems it just is not considered that the body can be worked without Qi. Unless bodywork is done very mechanically it is also energywork. In Asian Bodywork positions and applied pressure are used to aid the flow of Qi and unblock congestion.

Hi Daniel

it might be fair to say the west has been a bit slow in understanding/acknowledging

the 2 are nearly always united........at least we are moving in the right direction:)

EXPLORING CHAKRAS-July 23 & 24 2011, Lafayette, La.

When our chakras (energy centers) are in balance, we function at a much higher rate of health and well being.  An exploration of the energy field will assist in learning about any imbalances that may contribute to problems in our lives and how we can return to a state of balance. This knowledge is valuable in understanding the mind, body connection with ourselves, our families and our clients. Aura photos will be taken during the workshop and information about what the colors mean for you will be available. An energetic technique using light touch will be learned during this class.

Synergistic Healing

I'd like to extend an invitation to join my massage and/or energy directory.  The basic listing is free.

Synergistic Center Massage Directory

http://massagebodywork.idigitaledition.com/issues/20/

Page 62 An interesting article in M+B by David Laurterstein.

"This leading educator writes about the rich synergies possible when practitioner and client blend art and sceince, energy and structure and health and care.:) "

 

Unique and Exciting Exploration of your chakras and aura

            EXPLORING CHAKRAS-Nov.12 & 13 9AM-4PM, Lafayette, La.

                     $225 includes 2 aura photos and lunch-12 CE hours

When our chakras (energy centers) are in balance, we function at a much higher rate of health and well being.  An exploration of the energy field will assist in learning about any imbalances that may contribute to problems in our lives and how we can return to a state of balance.

This knowledge is valuable in understanding the mind, body connection with our families, our clients and our selves. An energetic technique using light touch will be learned during this 2day class.

Aura photos will be taken before the class starts and after having energy work done the second day.  Amazing transformations!

www.SynergisticCenter.com

This class will give you a toolkit of suggestions, techniques and practices that will give you a deeper, and richer, relationship to life. 

                           Personal transformations are possible!

OPEN TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES!

Exciting and Unique Upcoming CE classes, Lafayette, La.

Feb.11 & 12, 2012, Energetic Trauma Release and Mind, Body Self care strategies

Pamela Miles Reiki and research page 68 http://massagebodywork.idigitaledition.com/issues/23/

Pamela's web site http://reikiinmedicine.org/

Introducing my Three New CE Home Study Courses:

ETHICS OF ENERGY HEALING: 2 CE Hrs.

www.shirleyknapp.com/ethicsenergyhealing_hs_course.html

DEVELOPING YOUR INTUITION: 3 CE Hrs.

www.shirleyknapp.com/developyourintuitionhomestudycourse.html

HEALING THE HEALER: 3 CE Hrs.

www.shirleyknapp.com/healingthehealerhomestudycourse.html

 NCBTMB Approved Provider for Continuing Education # 450819-08