Most patients who come to Ikigai Wellness have acute and chronic aches and pains, whether as the primary complaint or as a by the way. Gentle bodywork modalities as listed below are often incorporated into almost every acupuncture treatment for further alleviation of pain in the body. Each of the modalities below are used to help soothe tension in the muscles and fascia while bringing calm to the nervous system, allowing the body to enter a deeper state of rest (and therefore, healing).
Craniosacral Therapy
Using an Osteopathic approach, this gentle hands-on technique releases tensions and restrictions within the central nervous system through manipulation of the joints of the cranium, spine and sacrum. It improves whole-body health, pain and dysfunction and may even have a positive effect on mood, stress management and other emotional distress.
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Myofascial Release
Relaxation of the muscles and fascia (the thin layer that holds our body together below our skin) is achieved by tuning in directly with the fascia to restore suppleness, movement and diminish adhesions from trauma ultimately reducing pain and improving recovery from injury.
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Shiatsu
Shiatsu utilizes dynamic movements such as rocking, pushing, pressing and percussion of the body to relax the body’s muscles and help restore the movement of Qi in the body. Shiatsu may be targeted to specific muscle groups or meridians along the body to open up those channels, reducing pain and muscle tension in the body.
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Cupping
Cupping is a classical Chinese medicine technique which utilizes glass cups which are placed strategically on the body with a suction that is created with a flame. Cupping helps reduce stagnation and promotes the circulation of Qi & blood, improves pain and muscle recovery. For this reason, cupping has become popular with sports-related injuries and therapy. Cups may be left stationary for a short period of time or may be moved along the meridians of the body creating a massage effect.
Cupping may leave marks on the surface of the skin that may last 3-10 days. |
Sotai
A Japanese system of neuromuscular re-education and structural integration utilizing gentle movements against light resistance with slow mindful breaths. This system of bodywork identifies subtle stress held within the body and works to relieve these, reducing pain and allowing better movement. It also activates the parasympathetic nervous system, creating the necessary internal environment for the body to heal and reconnect with the mind.
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Qigong Tuina | Yin-Yang Channel Pulsing
Yin-Yang Channel Pulsing, also known as Qigong Tuina, this system is based on the energetic contraction and expansion of Yin-Yang theory helping the body to release tension through its own internal pulsing of Qi along meridians.
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