Have you noticed the whorls and circles in the trunk of a cut tree, how a cat will curl up and around itself to sleep within a tightly tucked ball, the spirals of sea shells, plant leaves, wave patterns in the sand left by the ocean’s waves…

But nature’s swirls also open and release. The tree sends branches out from its outer circles, the cat gets up and stretches and the sand patterns are impermanent.

The human body spirals….our dna spirals within, we have linings (fascia) around our cells, muscles, our organs, even our skin acts as a lining that holds us together. Our mind spirals with emotions that wind us up or loosen and relax us.

As living beings we can run into problems when we don’t take the time to loosen and open those spirals but instead, allow life’s continual and stressful grinds to wind us tighter…ever tighter.

We can begin to feel like a tightly wound spring ready to “boing” in uncontrolled patterns as we knock against those things around us and then lie in the place we land, still coiled and tight.

How do you think it would feel to “unwind from the grind”?

Do you think it would feel wonderful to open up and balance, from top to bottom, while still staying firmly grounded in YOUR present?

Acknowledging and honouring the individual and the pace at which they need to unwind, this session begins with some deep Breathe work and slowly moves into the subtle unwinding through Craniosacral Therapy (some clients will also draw Reiki and if you would like that included it will be).
Grounding the session with hand or foot Reflexology gives a sense of wholeness and harmony…it completes the process.
Throughout the session you have the opportunity to completely relax in the peaceful surrounds, the table is heated (if you wish), quite music is the subtle background, essential oils that encourage your unwinding, gently scent the air (you may also choose to not have scent)

Introductory Cost $135.00
(plus HST)

When all of the upper teeth rest slightly over the lower teeth, and the points of the molars fit inside the grooves of the opposite molars, a “perfect” mouth is the result. However, very few people possess this so-called “perfect” mouth.

If the malocclusion is hereditary, the result is a variation in size, structure and/or shape of the jaw and teeth. These factors commonly lead to teeth overcrowding and abnormal biting and chewing patterns that tend to get worse over time if not treated. Inherited aspects attributed to malocclusion include extra or missing teeth, too much or too little space between teeth, irregular size and shape of the jaw and teeth, and atypical formations of the jaw and teeth. Other reasons for malocclusion, if the condition is not hereditary, are excessive thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, prolonged use of a pacifier or bottle, tumors of the mouth and jaw, jaw fractures resulting from an injury, and unfitting mouth appliances, such as fillings, braces, retainers and crowns.

In order to determine the severity of malocclusion and if further treatment is required to correct the condition, the dentist will perform x-rays and acquire molds of the teeth. Common treatment options for malocclusion are as follows:

• Functional appliances such as braces, retainers, space maintainers, night guards, metal bands placed around the teeth, bonds attached to the teeth, and wires and/or springs to apply pressure to the problem area are often used if the positioning of the teeth is the problem. These functional appliances can be fixed or removable, depending on the severity of the case.
• If overcrowding is the issue, then teeth may be pulled or reshaped to open up space in the mouth.
• Dental appliances are either removed or repaired if they are the cause of the malocclusion.
• In the event of severe malocclusion, surgery may be the only option to correct the condition. The jaw itself may need to be reshaped, or plates and screws may need to be installed to stabilize the jaw bone.

Less common, though oftentimes equally effective, treatment options are holistic and homeopathic approaches, such as craniosacral therapy and vitamin and mineral supplements. Craniosacral therapy involves balancing the body’s craniosacral system, which includes the bones, nerves, fluids and connective tissues in the cranium and spinal area.

Treatment of malocclusion is important because it helps prevent further complications, such as tooth decay, periodontal diseases and temporomandibular joint disorders to name a few. Temporomandibular joint disorder, also referred to as TMJ, is a serious and often painful condition often caused by the physical stress of malocclusion and is related to the teeth and muscles of the jaw, neck and face.

CranioSacral Therapy:
Info from the Upledger Institute International

CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on approach that releases tensions deep in the body to relieve pain and dy

Related articles

• Definition: Craniosacral Massage (bellasugar.com)

You see, Miss C has been a regular client of mine since I opened my practice in 2008. Over time we’ve gotten to know each other fairly well. She is one of my many nurses that come to see me for bodywork. I know how stressful her job is and the toll that it takes on her. Not only on her body physically, but on her Mind and Spirit as well. But on this day it seemed not only was the Body telling me that she needed physical help, but her Spirit was carrying an emotional load that was crying to be released.

That day we decided to do some Deep Tissue for her neck and shoulders and some CranioSacral Therapy for her nervous system. So her body was happy to be able to release the stress and  tension from the deep tissue work and her spirit was happy to be able to release the emotional tension and stress within the nervous system with the CranioSacral Therapy work.

What really makes me feel good is seeing the transformation happen within the body as the physical and emotional tensions are released. Of course, when she got off the table, she mentioned how she needs to come see me more often.  We get so busy sometimes that  we don’t have the time to take care of ourselves. We will wait until the tension is just too much to bear that it effects us on so many levels.

As she floated down the stairs from my office in the loft I mentioned that she may want to consider taking a salt bath and to drink plenty of water. She told me she would and then go straight to bed. She called me the next day and said she had the deepest sleep that she had had in a long, long time. My heart smiled.

It is a true gift from the Universe to be able to do what I do. I am a Mind Body Spirit Coach. I listen to not only the person and their story, but I listen the their Body and Spirit as well. I have a tool box of modalities to draw from in my work.

I plan on posting more Tales from the Loft to share my experiences as to what it is I do. I love what I do and I love the people that come and see me. I have an arsenal of modalities to pull from and will be sharing more of that with you. I feel building a relationship within the community is important to me and sharing information is key so you know what we can do together to bring healing to the Mind, Body and Spirit.

Sending blessings from the Loft.

***To take a salt bath, add 1 cup of Epsom Salts (or sea salt) to a bath of warm water and soak for 10-15 minutes. Be sure to get your minimum of 8-10 eight ounce classes of water per day. After having bodywork done, be sure to drink 16-20 ounces of water. ***

Wherever Can I Get Education?

There are numerous faculties offering this treatment. The top rated three universities for learning this therapy are:

Arizona School of Massage Therapy – Phoenix
10000 N. 31st Avenue
Suite D-100
Phoenix, AZ 85051

Denver Faculty of Massage Treatment – Aurora
The Plaza at Aurora Shopping mall
14107 East Exposition Avenue
Aurora, CO 80019

Boca Magnificence Academy
7820 Glades Rd, Ste. 175
Boca Raton, FL 33434

How It Functions

Gentle, hands on approach to dealing with wellbeing concerns impacting the craniosacral system, craniosacral therapy has verified results. As the bones surrounding the brain are manipulated slowly and gradually, the passage of the fluid becomes clearer and with out interruptions. The system of the cerebrospinal fluid and membranes community from the 1 conclude of the spinal cord to the other and has a quite delicate equilibrium. Even the slightest bit of problems or pressure on this area can affect the central nervous system, major to gentle or provide harm, which can be hard to take care of. Practitioners of this treatment are essential to apply only extremely light stress that is equal to 5milligrams or the weight of a nickel coin to the affected regions in buy to release strain to the craniosacral location. Craniosacral remedy has established to be advantageous in situations like migraine, autism, colic, and youngster beginning.

Craniosacral treatment is a way to augment the natural capability of the overall body to heal itself from any type of stress or accidents. Due to its performance, this practice is gaining consideration and reputation when in contrast with other additional costly, choice therapies or health care therapies.

If the outside of your property looks dirty and dingy and you are pondering what to do about it, take into account pressure washing. Straightforward to do and cheap, this cleansing process can deliver your household back again to existence. You could be imagining you want to paint, or rebuild, or resurface, but you may well learn that all you will need to do is have these surfaces professionally cleaned.

Working with the right equipment, skilled strain washing can provide your household, driveway, sidewalks, pavement of all kinds and roof back again to existence and make them glimpse like new. The force of the drinking water blasts the dust away to leave the surface underneath clear and refreshing.

It will not only make your home appear more gorgeous and effectively cared for, it Job Listings in Boca Raton, FL will also additional than most likely protect you income in the extended operate.

However these selections are massive commitments, they might be the only approaches for you to efficiently make it by your interval of unemployment.

You want to go with a organization that will check with for no upfront costs and advises you to set up an account or profile with them and set up a PayPal account for your earning to be deposited in.

Our Veterans accepted the responsibility to defend America and uphold our values when duty called. 

Since October 2001, over 2 million U.S. troops have been deployed for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom in Afghanistan and Iraq.  Early evidence suggests that many returning service members may be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.

1 in 5 military service members return with a hidden wound of war – symptoms and repercussions of combat stress include depression, anxiety, misuse of alcohol and drugs, suicide, post traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, strains in family functioning, separation and divorce.

It is proven “increased exposure to combat is a factor in the rise of PTSD diagnoses.”  Experts have said symptoms increase as troops return to combat for multiple tours of duty.

Research shows how well PTSD suffers respond to CranioSacral Therapy.  The following are symptoms that showed significant improvement during a study of Vietnam Veterans done at The Upledger Institute:

• Insomnia
• Depression
• Flashbacks
• Panic Attacks
• Long-Term Fear
• Hyper-Vigilance
• Suicidal Thoughts
• Intrusive Thoughts 

The physical body stores trauma, CranioSacral Therapy attempts to release the stored trauma through very light touch.  Not everyone who’s been through trauma wants to talk about it, or take medications for it.  For those who are comfortable with a massage-like experience, CranioSacral Therapy is an opportunity to see if trauma can be cleared, lightly or substantially, using a different method.

CranioSacral Therapy’s gentle, hands-on approach releases tension deep in the body to relieve pain and dysfunction and improve whole body health and performance.  Clients often report a sense of deep relaxation during and after the treatment session.  A typical CranioSacral Therapy session is performed with the client lying fully clothed, in a supine position and usually lasts about an hour.

In honor of Veterans Day, I am offering complementary CranioSacral Therapy sessions to Combat Veterans until the end of November.  To schedule your appointment please call me today, (760) 214-3815.

I heard familiar voices, and smelled my Mama and heard her heartbeat as I was laid on her chest. I felt safe, and laid there for a long time. After a while my Mama put me near something soft and round, it smelled sweet and I tried to suckle on it . . . I did not know why, but, it seemed so natural.

After a while my stomach started to bother me – I had never felt hungry before. Inside my Mama’s womb I was constantly fed. I kept trying to suck on my mother’s warm, round, breasts, but, it was so much work for so little reward. Over the next few days I decided I preferred to sleep –  to conserve my energy.

Soon I realized if I sucked a few times milk would flood my mouth briefly. I liked that feeling and it tasted so good. I cried and cried when my Mama gave me a rubber nipple without milk instead of breastfeeding me, but, it relaxed me, and I drifted off to sleep.

My skin began to hurt, itch, and flake off . . . this had never happened before. I felt so hungry, but, I was too sleepy to cry for milk – it was too hard and painful to suck for it anyway.

One day Mama gave me a different type of rubber nipple; this one had milk in it. It was scary to drink from the bottle – I kept choking, and it was still a lot of work to suck the milk out, but, after a few days my belly felt full, and my skin felt comfortable, but, something else happened. My throat started to burn as the milk came back up, I did not want to lose that milk so I would swallow it back down and it burned again.

One day a man looked in my mouth, and then he put something hot under my tongue. It made my tongue feel funny, and Mama stopped offering so many bottles. I was happy that I could get more milk from her breasts . . . but I still felt hungry all the time, and my throat still burned. We saw another man who did something similar to my lip; I felt I could drink really well for a few days before things got worse and worse.

One day Mama started giving me bottles again after I breastfed, I felt less hungry, but some of the bottles tasted so bad, I think I heard someone call them “formula,” it made my tummy hurt, and sometimes all of it came back up my throat. One time so much came out Mama screamed!

Some time passed, Mama and Papa fought a lot and I sensed so much tension in my house. They kept using my name, and I felt it was my fault.

One day I had to stay in my car seat the whole day, we stayed at my Titi’s house far away. The next morning we had another long car ride to another doctor’s office. I had seen so many. I could not understand why.

The doctor looked in my mouth and then took me away, once again I felt something hot under my tongue. When the doctor brought me back I drank milk from Mama’s breasts. It felt easier, and did not hurt so much, though I still found it hard to coordinate sucking, swallowing and breathing. I often would forget to breathe and have to gasp for air. Feeding was still stressful.

Mama took me to a sweet lady who rubbed my head and did funny things with my body. Sometimes I did not like it, but, I felt better afterwards. It seemed like the more times she brought me there the easier it was to drink milk from Mama’s breasts and before long I was not drinking from many bottles at all.

I felt the tension in my home release, and even my tummy and throat stopped hurting for a while.

After more time passed I began feeling hungry again; my ears, tummy and throat began hurting too. I would cry for hours. I could tell something was bothering Mama, but, I did not hear her say much until she told Papa, “he thinks more frenum came forward from craniosacral therapy,” whatever that means. Mama started giving me bottles again. The bottles made my tummy feel full; I did not want to suck on Mama’s breasts anymore. It was too hard to get milk.

One day I had to ride in my car seat for a long time and went back to the doctor again. This time he put the hot thing under my tongue and my lip. When he brought me back to Mama I decided to try to suck on her breast. I found I could open my mouth wider and somehow that gave me more milk. I decided I would keep trying to suck on her breasts.

Mama would stretch and rub her fingers under my tongue and lip. I did not like the feeling of being held down and it hurt a little bit; but, I let her, because she always told me so calmly that she had to do this so I could drink easier. I trusted her.

We went to another kind woman who rubbed my head and neck and moved my body around. She talked a lot while she was doing this, and Mama asked questions. I did not understand what they were talking about, but, I think it made Mama feel happier, and I felt better too.

Another lady kept watching me eat. She talked to Mama a lot too, than she kept trying to put a tube in my mouth while I sucked on Mama’s breasts. I felt Mama was stressed and the tube felt funny so I decided not to breastfeed anymore. I was really hungry for a few days because Mama stopped giving me bottles. One day I decided I would try the tube. The tube had milk in it! After that, I decided I liked drinking from Mama’s breasts again. I liked it so much I drank from them constantly for a few days. It seemed the more I drank from them the more milk there was – this was new to me and I loved it.

Now I drink from Mama’s breasts all the time. My ears, throat, and tummy have started feeling better. I have even learned to say some words – I love the reaction I get! The tension in my house has relaxed and I can see how much Mama and Papa love each other – and love me. Things have been hard for me since the moment I tried to exit Mama’s womb, but, they are getting easier . . . and I know my Mama and Papa are loving enough to see me through whatever lies ahead.

What I appreciated the most about John Jeremiah Sullivan’s article was the insight into his personal experience as a client receiving bodywork. Oftentimes, we massage therapists and holistic health educators are quick to cite all the many physiological health benefits of massage. Lowering blood pressure, increasing lymph flow, immune system boost, increasing range of motion, decreasing aches and pains– these are all legitimate, medically proven benefits to receiving bodywork.

Sometimes it can be difficult to articulate the other piece– that making an appointment for a massage is making time to take our attention, so often outwardly focused on accomplishing tasks, maintaining personal or professional relationships, processing information about events in our communities or around the world, politics, projects at home or at work, etc., etc., etc., and turn that attention inward. In this way, we can experience the anatomy of emotion as it resides inside us. Sullivan says:

After all, even if there’s something inherently funny about massage, down to the very word, massage, there’s also something unavoidably intense about paying that much attention to your body, not as an abstract concept but as the physical dying fact of it, lying in all its animality like a study by Lucian Freud. At certain moments I missed my old mode, which was to proceed as if I had no body at all…

In order to tolerate sitting at a desk for 8 hours a day, not including that commute to and from work, it may require a little bit of droning out the messages from our body. In order to comply with societal norms, we are taught from a very young age to sit still, to complete tasks, to take things in passively. To accomplish this, we have to learn how to either manage our lives to include other opportunities for movement or for mindful stillness, or (commonly) we have to learn how to play by the rules and shut out messages from the body. This often to our detriment.

One recent client described to me how she had been working a string of 12 hour days, taking only two breaks a day to use the restroom. This kind of living pulls the life energy upwards from the body and fuels the brain, privileging its functions and awareness over the intelligence found throughout the body. We are amazing creatures, capable of such focus and will! But it’s important to give ourselves the opportunity to rest and to notice our own aliveness.

While receiving craniosacral therapy, the author also noted:

Whether something was being effected through the laying on of hands, perhaps through some unknown mechanism of the physical world, I can’t say. It seemed to matter less and less. Maybe that’s what massage is to a lot of people, those who don’t have chronic pain or migraines — it’s enforced meditation for those of us too distracted to meditate. You’re paying someone to meditate you. It’s not anything they’re doing, necessarily. It’s that they open a little window. They give you an excuse to lie there in silence and pay a deeper attention to the fact that you exist. The true value of shamanism may be a concealed one, that it holds us in place and says this.

Holistic health, a concept that includes a multiplicity of perspectives on health, includes this piece. Not only are we bodies with aches and pains, rheumatoid arthirits, or migraines, we are alive creatures, sensate beings that process the world around us. We are in relationship with the world, and we are in relationship with ourselves. Sometimes the greatest therapeutic benefit of massage is simply the opportunity it gives us to notice that we exist.

Thank you for visiting East Bay Massage.

]]> http://docbrenda.com/2012/10/31/enjoy-the-transition-to-fall-winter/ Wed, 31 Oct 2012 17:16:49 +0000 Brenda Trudell http://docbrenda.com/2012/10/31/enjoy-the-transition-to-fall-winter/ Fall and winter in the midwest can be a beautiful time. It is also a time to encourage us to slow down, relax, rejeuventate, listen to our bodies and simplify our lives. While I personally get a little sad seeing the hours of daylight shortened dramatically and the temps dropping suddenly, I also delight in wearing beautiful scarves, lighting yummy fall-scented candles, and being home earlier in the evenings to unwind from the day.

Fall is a time when people are more likely to catch a cold or the flu. There are many theories about why this happens. Vitamin D levels drop off dramatically with the shorter hours of sunlight. People tend to be more cooped up, sneezing and coughing on one another. Our selection of fresh fruits and veggies, high in antioxidants, decreases as the growing season comes to an end.

But I also feel that sometimes getting sick is just what the body needs. Of course nobody likes to feel sick, and serious illnesses can be quite scary, but getting over infections is what boosts our immune system, and teaches it how to work properly. We can’t tune up our immune system if it never gets a chance to work. Many people also notice how great they feel after coming out on the other side of an illness. Many children go through a growth spurt after fighting a cold. For others, it forces them to relax for a day or two, to do nothing but rest and give the body what it needs.

There is always a lot of hype about the flu shot this time of year as well. I have talked about the flu shot at length in the past, and most people know my stance on it so I won’t give it too much time here. But there are a few things you should know before you or your family decide to get the shot. First, it has not been shown to be very effective, in any population or age group. It has not reduced the severity or risk of death in the young or the old. It does not protect you from everything, and some years it may not protect you from anything if the strains in the vaccine are incorrectly chosen. In fact, a few years ago Canadian officials found that those who received flu shots consecutive years in a row were more likely to have had a more serious case of the swine flu that year, because their immune systems had been so weakened by previous shots, and they were not prepared for the more virulent strain. The flu vaccine can actually spread more flu virus, most notably with the nasal mist. One sneeze from a child can infect everyone around them. It has also NEVER been tested for safety or effectiveness on pregnant women, and even says so on the FDA and CDC’s websites. And there are still toxic chemcials in the vaccine, including thimerasol in the multi-use vials, that can pose serious health risks of their own.

A better way to deal with any illness, especially avoiding getting sick in the first place, is to use preventative measures that protect you from the majority of things that go around this time of year. And at least know that if you do get sick, preventative measures will at least keep you protected from a serious or deadly case. Vitamin D is probably one of the most effective things you can take to help you through this time of year. For children, the dose should be 35 IU’s per pound of body weight, with a slight increase in the dose if the child is ill or has been exposed. For adults, especially pregnant and nursing women, it is recommended to take 10,000 IU’s a day throughout fall and winter. This amount will also protect you from SAD, depression, fractures, and many other conditions. Vitamin C, probiotics, echinacea, zinc and other supplements can be very beneficial as well. Essential oils, such as Thieves, Purification, lemon, oregano, eucalyptus, and peppermint all have strong anti-microbial properties as well. Some can be taken internally, some can be used externally, others are great for diffusing or making your own cleaning and disinfecting products with. They are safe, effective and kill micro-organisms across the board. And better yet, germs do not build up resistance to them like they do to antibiotics, vaccines and other antibacterial cleaners.

There are also many wonderful teas that are high in anti-oxidants, and some that are very soothing if you find yourslef ill.  Garlic, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, onion, cilantro, and many other foods fight microbes and boost your immune system. A simple tea of hot water, lemon, ginger, honey and cinnamon can be very powerful. Avoiding sugar. alcohol, nicotine, caffeine and processed foods will also strengthen your immune system.

Many forms of bodywork are also beneficial for overall health and immune system balance. Chiropractic adjustments keep the nervous system functioning properly, which in turn controls the immune and digestive systems. It is important to keep our elimination systems working properly to excrete toxins and waste from infections. A healthy liver, kidneys, intestines and more are important for these toxins to be removed. Chiropractic adjustments have a positive impact on these organs, and also the lungs and sinuses. Many people notice an increase of drainage from the sinuses or a decrease in ear infections when getting adjusted regularly.

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine also have many ways to boost the immune system, by releasing stagnation throughout the body. Herbs may also be prescribed to correct deficiencies that impair the immune system. Massage therapy can release toxins and stimulate lymph drainage to boost the immune system and help the body purge the bad stuff. Craniosacral therapy can also help bodily fluids move easier throughout the body, clearing out toxins and reducing stagnation.

Far infrared sauna use has also been shown to stimulate the immune system, release toxins, increase bloodflow and increase metabolism, all of which help fight and prevent infections from micro-organisms. The warm environment feels comforting, especially in the winter. The immune system is encouraged to stimulate itself through bloodflow and increased lymphatic drainage. The warmth from the heat of the sauna raises the internal body temperature which in turn mimics a type of artificial fever. This stimulates the body’s immune system to turn on and get busy producing more of the different cells that can be used to combat foreign invaders. And because the infrared waves penetrate the tissues deeper, a more thorough cleanse takes place, and with the pores opened up, more toxins can be released with the heavier sweating. It is suggested to use the sauna for 30 minute sessions 3 times a week for the duration of cold and flu season.

It is also very important this time of year to stay hydrated, as it helps to remove and eliminate toxins. Being adequately hydrated also helps blood move through the body faster, allowing immune system cells to get to targets faster to destroy them. It also dilutes the number of micro-organisms in the body when you have a larger volume of water, which also makes it easier for the body to deal with.

With all of the other options available to help prevent and fight colds and the flu, it is important to realize that there are many ways other than the flu shot to protect yourself and your family this winter. Why not choose a combination of healthy alternatives to give the largest amount of protection against the widest variety of organisms that could infect you? Do not blindly follow outdated and misleading advice that may leave you or loved ones unprotected. Being proactive and covering all your bases will ensure the best outcomes.

Dr. Brenda Trudell is a chiropractor and owner of New Beginnings Chiropractic in two locations, Mount Horeb and Sauk City . The clinics focus on natural health, especially for women, pregnancy and children through chiropractic, acupuncture, massage, reiki, nutrition and more.  For more information, visit http://newbeginningschiropractic.net/  or contact her at brendatrudell@drtrudell.com. Follow her blog at http://docbrenda.wordpress.com/

People sometimes ask about the name Craniosacral Therapy and think it only refers to the head.  In fact, Craniosacral Therapy works with the whole person and changes may occur in body, mind and spirit during and after sessions.

When a Craniosacral therapist places her hands lightly on you, she is using them to listen to you in much the same way that a counsellor might listen to your words.  Your body responds to this sensitive touch by beginning to listen to itself.  A feeling that you have been heard in the truest sense of the word is a common experience during and after a Craniosacral session.

These are some of the words and phrases that people have used to describe their experience of Craniosacral Therapy:

“Comforting, inner peace, a sense of relief, deep stillness and relaxation, connection, feeling accepted, feeling more fully alive, put back in one piece, feeling whole again”.

Who is it for?

People may come for Craniosacral Therapy because they hace acute physical problems like headaches or bad backs, or long-standing problems both physical and emotional.  Others come for ongoing support in their busy lives and for help to meet life’s challenges.

Because it is so gentle and non-invasive, Craniosacral Therapy is suitable for everyone from newborns to the elderly.  Mothers and babies often come for problems associated with difficult or traumatic births.  Letting go of tension and fear held in the body enables both to settle into calmness.

Craniosacral Therapy supports your body’s innate ability to balance, restore and heal itself, as well as helping to reduce stress and build your underlying energy.  The practitioner senses tensions in the body and helps to release them in a supported and comfortable way.  During or after a session you may feel calm and energised, with increased clarity of mind and a feeling of well-being.

During a Session

Your practitioner will take a written case hisroty, listening with care to the reasons for your visit.  This part of the session is important, both for gathering information and to establish a good understanding with your practitioner.  The session typically lasts an hour, although this can vary.  You remain clothed and will usually lie face up or on your side, or you may be seated.  The practitioner makes light contact with your head, the base of your spine, and other areas, encouraging your body to relax and begin to make the changes it needs.  Because the body functions as a whole, your practitioner may focus on areas other than where your symptoms occur.

In the Longer Term

After a session there is occasionally a short period of adjustment as part of the healing process, where you may become more aware of symptoms.  Sometimes people report relief after only one or two sessions.  For long-standing problems further sessions may be needed.  Some people find they benefit from regular treatment over an extended period of time and say that, as well as noticing improvement in their physical or emotional symptoms, they feel that they have more awareness of their own needs and strengths, and their quality of life improves.

Craniosacral Therapy is available at The Ananda Clinic, 231 Hadlow Road, Tonbridge, Kent TN10 4LR 01732 850695.  For more information on our Craniosacral Therapist, Helene Boyse please visit our website www.anandaclinic.co.uk.  For more information on Craniosacral Therapy please visit www.craniosacral.co.uk the website of the Cranioscral Therapy Association.

Helpless parents are seeking solutions for their distractible, disruptive, and inattentive children but also teachers are requiring medical interventions for disruptive children without exploring other natural therapies such as healthy eating habits, behavioral therapy, acupuncture, or CranioSacral  Therapy. The prescription of Ritalin in American children has reached a new level in our society because the short-term use of this drug is connected with a 70-80 percent enhancement in symptoms. Thus, doctors are impressed with the “successful” Ritalin therapy as a result, children at the age of four are prescribed the drug, and it appears that this drug solves the problems of millions of parents and teachers. ADD is a very popular term, but the majority does not take a closer look at the causes of ADD; thus, the writer of this paper will take a closer look at Ritalin and its effect on the human body, the causes of ADD, and if living without Ritalin is possible.

Ritalin or methylphenidate is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant and increases the activity of CNS neurons such as dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is an important neurotransmitter that helps nerve cells to communicate with each other and is a key factor in motivation, feelings of happiness, fine motor control, learning, and memory.

Ritalin is a drug that is categorized in Schedule II, which means that this drug is currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, or is currently accepted medical use with severe restrictions. In fact, it has a high potential for drug abuse, and its abuse may lead to severe psychological and physical dependence. Other medications of Schedule II for example are morphine, cocaine, and methadone; consequently, our body cannot make the difference if it is cocaine or Ritalin.

The Physician’s Desk Reference notes that the following common side effects of Ritalin are insomnia, anorexia, headache, increased blood pressure and pulse, rapid heart rate, angina, cardiac arrhythmias. Consequently, one of these symptoms such as insomnia or headache will be treated with another drug that has other side effects. Only knowing these couple of facts about Ritalin the question arises: Who wants to give this drug to his child?

ADD may be caused by natural factors like minor head injuries or damage to the brain caused through birth or biological factors that influence neurotransmitter activity in the brain. For example, researchers measured the level of glucose used by areas of the brain and found out that certain brain areas use less glucose and may cause inattention and other symptoms of ADD. Our human body especially of a child is very vulnerable not only those toxins interfere with an appropriate metabolic cell operation but also deficiencies will prevent a good digestion and complicating further health problems. This reminds the writer of this paper on the following words of one her instructor, “You are what you eat” or “Your body is a magnificent machine”.  As Dr. DeMaria states, “cells are the basic structures making up all tissues and organs. Proper fat metabolism is necessary to create the proper material to make the cell membranes. Your body sends information along the nerve by way of the myelin sheath, which is made of fat. Interfering with this pathway may result in improper nerve function and brain information transmission.”

Natural therapies such as healthy eating habits, acupuncture, or CranioSacral Therapy support the body’s ability to heal itself. All the systems of the body are connected to each other, but modern health providers do not treat the body as a holistic system; instead, they are treating the symptoms while ignoring the root and causing an alteration of all the systems in the body. As a result, it is important to avoid eating processed food because the body has to work harder to break the food down, which means more stress to the body. Furthermore, there is a relationship of ADD and food sensitivities and reading labels very carefully is most for parents who have children with ADD. Dietary improvement like avoiding foods with preservatives, additives, or colors results in visible changes in short time without any side effects. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine that evaluates each child individually; moreover, acupuncture does sees ADD a complex neurodevelopmental disorder due to insufficient nourishment of the spirit. In acupuncture, needles will be placed at specific points along the body’s meridians and regulates the energy flow in these pathways because energy may be seen as being deficient in some areas and excessive in others. The only side effect after a treatment session may is inner calm and sense of well-being and a desire to sleep. CranioSacral Therapy is another natural approach and a gentle way of the body’s ability to heal itself. Not only CranioSacral Therapy directly affects the CNS but also it is a very gentle therapy and therefore well suited for children with ADD. “The craniosacral system is compromised of the brain and the spinal cord, the cerebrospinal fluid , which nourishes the brain and spinal cord, the surrounding membranes that enclose the brain, spinal cord, and cerebrospinal fluid, and the bones of the spine and skull that house these membranes.” The practitioner palpates the rhythm of the craniosacral system by placing the hand on almost any part of the body and adjusts the system using a pressure equal to a weight of nickel. The writer of this paper strongly believes in the effectiveness of CranioSacral Therapy and the only side effect may is a sense of well-being and a desire to sleep.

Overall, living without Ritalin is possible when parents, teacher, and health care providers are recognizing more and more that the nutritional status of our children is a key factor in coping with ADD, and western medication treatment does not address the problem on the root. In fact, parents are the advocates for their children and know their children better than the doctor, who is under pressure of the pharmaceutical companies, spends maybe 10-15 minutes with the child, and knows the more Ritalin is prescribed the more money they get from the insurance companies.

The trouble with always trying to preserve the health of the body is that it is so difficult to do without destroying the health of the mind. – G.K. Chesterton

References

Anderson, N., Peiper, H. A.D.D.: The Natural Approach. Safe Goods/New Century Publishing 2000                                                                                DeMaria, R.: Dr. Bobs Guide to Stop ADHA in 18 Days. Drugless Healthcare Solutions 2005                                                                               http://www.add.org                                                                                                                                                                                                            http://www.pdrhealth.com                                                                                                                                                                                                  http://www.justice.gov

Good thing I have a very persistent 7 year old daughter.
After a day of horseback riding at grandma’s farm last weekend she wouldn’t let me forget about the promise I had made about getting an appointment because she was in so much pain. At a workshop in June, Barbara Harper told me it could greatly benefit her based on her birth story. I knew it would, but.. well you know how life is.

Liv was posterior in labor and I’m guessing she came out that way since she didn’t have much room to turn with the cord wrapped around her neck 3x. I had a lip of cervix left and stalled at almost 10cm for awhile. There were many little signs that her head was asynclitic (or tipped).  More about posterior or asynclitic babies and what to do about it before or in labor here.

She’s always had neck, back, and body pains. She’s had trouble sleeping. Her immune system was low until the GAPS diet. She had colic. The list goes on and on…

In fact, here is a wonderful site I just came across with more info on CST and babies.

Now, GAPS diet has helped A LOT. But we were at a stand still. Until…

Thankfully I got an appt with a wonderful midwife at Portland MamaBaby Center whom is like a mentor to me… for the next day!! I knew she was absolutely perfect to work on Liv because of her spirit and gentleness. I was so excited for this! Perhaps even more than Liv – and that is saying a lot, she jumped up and down when I told her. This girl knows what her body needs…. and loves the one-on-one time.

So… we get to the appointment. Right away I am asked if her head was asynclitic. That’s when it dawned on me… probably!

The treatment was so gentle, I am always shocked when I hear how much of a difference it can make. Halfway through she becomes uncontrollably giggly! And then a bit wild. But it felt different. Different from the manic-like state that happens, like with an allergy or over-stimulation.

It was like a big ol’ release of emotions. Turns out her neck was crooked, which made her whole back and hips misaligned as well. Ah…. makes total sense now. Wow. And she most likely could have been this way since birth? Most likely. Talk about mommy guilt.

On the way out the door she holds my hand. And then skips… barefooted to the van.

Driving home, I was in tears from laughing so hard with her.

Later on that day she was very sensitive and teary. We did a lot of cuddling, math together, and she walked on my feet (an Autism or sensory therapy which allows them to tap into your senses). The next morning she had a headache for awhile.

But… ever since her treatment she has been more even-keeled emotionally, responsive, social, in control, not anxious, or obsessing over things as she used to. Could it be? I am astounded at the difference. I am enjoying seeing how much she is healing and my little girl emerge even more. I wish I would have listened to my momma gut sooner… Which is one reason I am blogging about it, so that more people like you can have the chance. If your child is one month or several years old, this could be of use. Don’t be discouraged because you didn’t do it when they were a baby – you can do it now! And reap the benefits.

And for some random fact:

For some weird reason the white thick film that was on her tongue is going away. A sign of yeast. Seems to be that her body was not able to heal more due to the alignment and tightness, or something…

One of the big lessons here is that if you are doing something like GAPS or another program and seem to be at a standstill for a longer period of time, perhaps there is something else to be looking into. I bet you if you listen to you or your child’s body, you can find what it is and continue on a path of healing and wellbeing.

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Craniosacral Therapy helps us to reach our full potential.

And dare I say… I think my daughter is mostly recovered from the tendencies of Autism Spectrum Disorder due in part to this.

Watch for our post coming soon on how parasite cleansing affected some in our household. Next full moon we’ll start cycle 1… Hoping it furthers healing even more. (Promise no pictures on that.)

Here is a video on CST that gives great information on what it is and how it works. (More than just for Autism as in the title.)

If you or a family member has tried it, what benefits did you see, if any?

The spouse went on saying, “She asked a few questions, had him lie down on the table and then lightly placed her hands along his spine and head for an hour.  I think my husband was sleeping most of the time!”

My friend responded, “So how is his problem now?”

“Well,” she said, “of course we are going back, because the problem is gone and I want to know exactly WHAT SHE DID!”

Often when I teach CranioSacral Therapy I demonstrate the techniques with the warning it may seem like the students are watching paint dry or grass grow. What I feel under my hands as lots of movement may visually look like nothing. Sometimes the patient may not physically feel anything but a sense of relief or calmness during a session. Afterwards they may report alleviation of symptoms or changes of some sort.

CranioSacral Therapy is a mode of evaluation and treatment viewing the patient as a whole and integrated system having innate healing abilities. By focusing on this internal healing ability, let’s call it the patient’s inner wisdom, the therapist then becomes a facilitator in a process solely directed by the patient.

So how does it work?

There is a core rhythm in the body that is created by the system surrounding the brain and spinal cord – the craniosacral system. This rhythm is a result of the movement of cerebral spinal fluid and is translated throughout the entire body. This whole body rhythm shows the therapist where there are restrictions by a lack of or asymmetrical motion in a specific area.

In most cases, by tuning into this craniosacral rhythm, a therapist (or more accurately, the therapeutic facilitator), is better able to evaluate the cause of the problem rather than focusing on the symptoms.  I view this rhythm as the “voice” of the patient’s inner wisdom – a type of body intelligence.

It is when “listening” to this “voice” of the body, I can follow the body tissue and access problems as deep as the patient’s body dictates. What is most fascinating about this listening/facilitating technique is it can be effectively executed with five grams of pressure (the weight of a nickel)!

In my practice I have found CranioSacral Therapy to have some profound effects on people of all ages.  I have used these techniques on newborns to help with their transitions from an intrauterine environment to the outside world.  I have also been honored to be present on the other end-of-life spectrum with patients transitioning through death.

Other patients have come for CranioSacral treatments with migraines, post surgery issues, low back pain, vertigo and dizziness, respiratory issues such as emphysema or COPD, digestive problems, dyslexia, edema, pregnancy issues and many other “dis-eases”. Most experienced relief from their symptoms and regarded the therapy as instrumental in their pursuit of health. Some patients received insights into other areas of their body that needed balancing.

It is my belief, as well as the belief of many other CranioSacral therapists, that the body, or rather the innate wisdom of the body, has the goal of homeostasis. Simply put, it is looking for balance at all times in any given circumstance. My job as a facilitating therapist is to increase the body’s ability to achieve that balance in whatever way it chooses.  I “listen”, I “follow” the body tissue, and I “create” an atmosphere or environment where the body has the opportunity to balance (maybe even “heal”) itself.

My general statement to anyone pursuing CranioSacral Therapy with me is this; if they feel absolutely no difference in their bodies, not necessarily a relief of symptoms, within three treatments, then this form of therapy, facilitated by me, may not be what their body needs at this time.  Maybe another CranioSacral Therapist or another modality of treatment should be looked into in conjunction with continued CranioSacral Treatment. No one gets out of balance due to one event, be that an accident, exposure to a bacteria or virus, or a trauma. It usually is a combination of several issues coming together at an opportune time causing imbalance. It makes sense then to accept the idea that it may take a combination of therapies to access homeostasis and health.

Dr. John Upledger, a highly regarded authority in the field of CranioSacral Therapy, summarizes this technique as therapy that “…accesses the total human being’s self-corrective and self-healing process. Further, this therapeutic approach attempts to maximize patient responsibility for their overall well being.”

At best, I can tell my patient’s spouse, yes indeed I was “doing” something by simply “being” where her husband’s body “told” me to be. As for his problem being gone, he did that!

I think its hard to come up with an “elevator speech” about craniosacral therapy (CST).  Historically, I find myself giving long descriptions that often don’t even make any sense to someone who isn’t a bodyworker.  My explanation has gone through several incarnations, and my new favorite is the way my most recent teacher, Fred Stahlman, described it.  It goes something like this:

Craniosacral therapy is an inside-out treatment approach that balances the nervous system and connective tissue to allow the body to tap into its innate ability to heal itself.

So…what does that mean?  For me,  there are two important points made in that sentence.

First: The treatment is inside-out.  In massage, I start on the surface, literally and figuratively.  I’m touching skin and effecting muscles, addressing what I find from general to specific, superficial to deep.  In CST, I’m going directly to the core.  Instead of making an evaluation by palpating things on the surface, like muscles and ligaments, I’m palpating a rhythm that is tied directly to the central nervous system.

I picture massage as being a little like a phone call made through a relay operator.  The message will reach its destination, but its filtered through an extra layer or two.  CST is like having a direct conversation, cutting through the third-party messenger.

Second: We’re tapping into the body’s self-healing ability.  In CST lingo, this is known as the “inner physician,” and I’m very fond of that image.  Whatever our medical philosophy, I think we can all get on board with the idea that our bodies want to be healthy and balanced.  In massage, I make a lot of really educated guesses about what’s going on in your body and how I can best affect a change.  Based on what I know about your medical history, lifestyle, and the way the human body works, I address certain muscles, joints and movement patterns to communicate the message to your body that its okay to let go.  While your body is really the one doing the work, there’s a little bit of ego involved on my part.  In CST, the ego takes a back seat.  Way, way in the back.  When I put my hands on a body in a craniosacral mindset, I’m not making any assumptions.  I may not even want to know about your medical history, or how you’re feeling when you walk in the room.  My hands are feeling whatever they feel, following the body where it wants to go, and letting it decide for itself how best to correct an imbalance.

There is a litany of things that CST is said to be helpful for, ranging from ADHD and depression to chronic migraines to strabismus.  If I was going to make my own personal list of who might be best suited for CST (which I am), I would say, for sure, anyone who struggles with headaches or back pain.  You might be a good fit if you have trouble sleeping, or if you sleep fine but don’t wake up feeling rested.  Because it is so settling for the nervous system, it works beautifully to induce a state of deep relaxation.  So, anyone who feels overstimulated, anxious, run down or super stressed out will probably benefit from the work.

There’s almost no one who isn’t a candidate for CST, but that doesn’t mean that its for everyone.   The touch is still and very light–in most cases, about the weight of a nickel.  Some folks are attached to the feeling of pressure, and laying still for an hour and receiving work that feels very subtle isn’t a fun time for them.

Different people experience the work in different ways.  For me, it feels deeply settling and has a quality of warmth and expansiveness.  I spend much of a session in a sort of twilight state, somewhere between sleep and waking, but definitely not fully cognizant.  I’m often unsure exactly where the practitioner is, even while being fully aware that they are near the table and touching me.  Other people have reported similar experiences.  Some clients of mine feel nothing much at all during the session, besides that its nice to lay down for an hour, but notice that they feel much better the next day, or sleep very soundly that night, or that instead of having a headache once a week, they now come three weeks apart.  Because the treatment works inside-out, as a client you’ll take what you need and your body will process the work in the way that’s most useful at that time.

For a better idea of what a session looks like, you can see a time-lapsed sample session here.  If you’re still curious, The Spa Room is offering $50 weekday sessions through the month of October, or 80 minute integrated massage/CST sessions for $110.

looking so old!

Rhena’s grandparents house was so beautiful, with one of the most beautiful yards so we used it as an opportunity to take some pictures…

trying to capture your cutie outfit… such a happy boy always!

& here is the whole crew! Danielle & Xander, Will & Nabi, Juli & Rowen, Tiffany & Rhena, Ashley & River, Sarah & Carter, us, and Vanessa & Emil – you have the best baby friends ever!

Saturday we kept ourselves busy while Daddy studied the first part of the day then we headed over to another friends house for some dinner & a play date with Amelie, Indi, & Xander! We left after dark which is a nightmare because you HATE the dark and being in the carseat at night is a guaranteed scream fest but you were sooo sleepy & after watching some elmo videos with Daddy you actually fell asleep!!!

We were dealing with a bit of sleep regression this week… naps shortened to 25 minutes tops and you weren’t really sleeping AT ALL in the night, waking every 10-45 minutes, crying, and just not able to sleep. Things are starting to turn around though and you have been nursing a lot more than usual so maybe its a growth spurt, or just some sort of phase… you have been in super high spirits though so it seems your teeth may finally not be bothering you anymore, yay!

Then, it was time to celebrate someone else’s birthday.. Daddy! We made him this adorable photo to start off his day…

Happy Birthday Dad!

I just had to include this outtake too, you dropped the letter & just started your usual crazy yelling at me, soo silly!!!!

Me & your Pa actually went out to dinner alone for the first time since you were born to celebrate his birthday, your grandma was so nice to come over to our house after work to stay with you but it didn’t go so well. You fell asleep for her but woke up prematurely I am guessing and were just inconsolable all night until you finally fell asleep on her chest. When we got home you woke up and boy were you HAPPY!!!! Strange boy… we had lots of things planned for you & her to do but I guess next time…. :/

You are sitting up on your own very well now so during the days while I do laundry I set you outside on the grass to play with the dogs and explore the grass… you are so big these days, yet still so little. This picture shows just how tiny you really are…

Well this was a collection of random happenings & thoughts for the week… We have an appointment with a Craniosacral Therapist today.. I have always wanted to get you adjusted but just never really got around to finding someone. This women was recommended to us by our great Chiropractor Dr. Jenny and I am really hoping it may help you sleep better… I will update you next week (:

It is mostly just me & you again this week pumpkin, I am off to think of some more fun things we can do. love love love love!

~ Homemade fish and chips with salad and homemade tartare sauce
~ Pork ribs with salad and mashed potatoes (using stock instead of milk)
~ Meatloaf and salad
~ Vegetable and pasta soup with homemade bread (time dependent; our local supermarket does some good artisan breads, if I’m feeling lazy!)
~ Chicken stir fry with rice
~ Slow cooked lamb shanks with red wine and cannellini beans

(Yes, I’m aware there are only six meals there; we’re going away for the weekend – yey!)

Last week, I fell off the wagon a bit (I blame the bag of Jaffas I found lurking in the pantry cupboard), so this week I’m 100% in.

My menu and shopping list reflect this, and even though I baked chocolate brownie over the weekend, it’s now off-limits for me. I’ve stocked the cupboard with snacks that I can eat, and have triple-checked everything to make sure there’s no sneaky milk solids hiding anywhere.

From my earlier experiences with going dairy free, I know what to look for in a product without really thinking about it, and that milk solids/products can appear in the most random things.

Salt & Vinegar crisps, for example :/

When Pickle had his immunisations last week, our doctor said that I’d know in a week if going dairy free was the answer. I already know that citrus and nuts are off-limits for now (as I look sadly at the grapefruit sitting in the fruit bowl, softly calling my name), so will keep playing detective until Pickle’s tummy is feeling a bit better.

We had success with our craniosacral therapy session last week, too…..call it pseudo-science or hocus-pocus if you will, but the change in my baby after that session was remarkable. The proof? The next morning, he woke happy, and when he *ahem* farted, there was no screaming. And for the past three nights, he has woken just once for a feed, and is waking cheerful instead of grouchy. The frequency of his power spews has also decreased, so regardless of whether there’s a scientific basis to this kind of therapy or not, I’m a believer.

Monica Dubay has greatly change my life for the better since I started seeing her on March 14, 2012. I have released enormous amounts of guilt, sadness, worry, fear, anger…because of my CranioSacral sessions with her. I have carried these emotions/symptoms with me since my first memory at age 4. I am now 44, I have been in psychotherapy on and off since I was 15. Monica has been more beneficial to me in the short time I have been seeing her than all the years I have spent in therapy. Monica is reliable, professional, and makes me feel very welcome at all of our sessions. I look forward to seeing her every time and always leave feeling like I have conquered yet another problem. Monica has also introduced me to A Course in Miracles. This has also changed my life. I truly feel like a better person emotionally and spiritually because of these lessons. I can’t say enough good things about her personally and professionally. I have recommended her to others and will continue to do so. I thank God for putting Monica in my life.

Deanne C. Rohde

Let’s go over some basics.  TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint.  We all have one (two, actually).  When all is going well, the many muscles and tendons of the jaw work harmoniously allowing us to eat, talk, bite, yell, kiss, and otherwise express ourselves.  When all is NOT going well, we end up TMJD (TMJ dysfunction) and we clench or grind our teeth, get gnarly headaches, achy necks, and other unpleasant symptoms.  So what can we do?

In some instances, jaw tension stems from energetic blockages, possibly resulting from unexpressed emotions, past trauma that’s been wound up and stored in the body, or not speaking our truth.  In this case, it might be helpful to ask yourself, “What is it that I’m not saying?  What needs to be said?”

Look at that nice open jaw…

TMJD could also be caused by general stress that we experience in everyday, modern life.  In terms of our evolutionary response to stress, our fight-or-flight response is meant to kick in when we’re being chased by a lion, not when we’re stuck in traffic and late to work.  That constant-on wreaks havoc on our TMJ, neck, shoulders, cranial bones, etc.  When this happens it may be time to see a bodyworker (psst…that’s me) to help unwind that tension.

A good bodyworker is highly trained in sensitive touch and the ability to read and listen to the client’s body.  They’ll know how to assess a client’s body and symptoms, what kind of pressure and how much to use, and what may be contraindicated in certain situations.

Through skilled and sensitive touch, a bodyworker can figure out which specific muscles and attachments are tight and work to release them.  They will also know what may need to be released before the “problem area” can be directly addressed.  For example, sometimes the pterygoids (tiny, vicious muscles deep in the TMJ) are tight because the piriformis (a large, vicious muscle deep in the hip) is tight.  In order to release the jaw, you may need to release the hips.

Pterygoids (the P is silent)

So if you’re experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms, or are just curious about bodywork and what it can do for you, I’m here to help!

On our trip to the Grand Titons & Yellowstone National Parks we planned to do a good bit of hiking.  All in all we hiked ~40 miles.

Day 1 was a ~14.5 mile beautiful hike to Lake Solitude.  I wore my standard hiking shoes (not the ones in the photo) and ended the day with my standard soreness and my standard blisters.

Day 2 we had a ~9.6 mile hike to Amphitheater Lake planned.  I decided to wear my five finger toe shoes on this hike and pack my standard shoes along, just in case.  By the end of the day I had no new blisters, no worsened blisters, my calves were SCREAMING and my feet were, what seemed to be,  a normal amount sore.  All in all, I deemed it success.

What I was to learn over the next few days though was that I broke loose the scar tissue from a healed bone break that had occurred in 1999.  The remainder of the trip I kept experiencing pain at the site of the break even after the muscle soreness of the feet and calves eased.

I told my husband that I was thrilled about this.  He confirmed how weird, but unsurprising, he thought it was that I was thrilled about pain in my foot.  I explained that scar tissue is fascia built in a chaotic and disorganized manner and often wrapped around stored entropic energy from an injury.  The scar tissue and the stored entropic energy impairs the healthy function of the body.  These shoes removed the protective ‘cast’ of a flat bottom shoe.  This allows me to regain the flexibility, fluidity and balance that are inherent to a healthy foot.

As I write this, one week after the scar tissue was first broken loose on the hike, my foot is back to pain free.  I’m excited to wear the 5 finger shoes again on the 8.5 mile hike that we have planned for this weekend.

(I know the upcoming hike so the following doesn’t apply.  For any unknown hikes I’ll still be packing my old shoes because the ‘reflexology’ effect of wearing these shoes on sharp stones is still a little more than I would want to do for a long hike)