The Manupractic Institute
specializes in training in the following
styles of manual therapy:
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Structural Integration
Structural Integration is a method of deep manipulation of the connective tissues of the body. The intention is to create a system of postural restructuring and movement re-patterning in order to promote ease and balance in posture, with a corresponding effect on the mind.
The Ten Session Series is a sequence of ten one hour sessions, each emphasizing specific regions of the body. It is a process of re-organizing the body and re-patterning movement. The Ten Session Series is based on insights into anatomical, physiological and kinesthetic relationships with respect to the way a body relates to itself, and to the field of gravity.
Neuromuscular Therapy
Neuromuscular therapy is a specialized form of deep tissue massage in which digital pressure and friction are used to release areas of strain in the muscle. These areas of strain are called tender or trigger points and are the cause of muscular pain symptoms.
Neuromuscular therapy is used to treat many different soft tissue problems. The following list is a small example of issues that may be helped by neuromuscular therapy:
Lower back pain, upper back pain, carpal tunnel like symptoms, sciatica like symptoms, hip pain, headaches, plantar fasciitis, calf cramps, tendonitis, knee pain, iliotibial band friction syndrome, jaw pain, tempomandibular joint pain (TMJ disorders).
Manupractic Massage
Manupractic massage is an eclectic blend of techniques and principles from various disciplines, including Esalen massage, modern American massage techniques, Hawaiian lomi lomi massage and Thai yoga massage. Despite its varied roots, Manupractic massage can be distinguished by the type of strokes it uses to connect and unify the entire body. Another important aspect of this therapy is the approach taken toward each client as a whole person, not as separate parts to be manipulated. Unlike outcome goals in other forms of massage, the practitioner’s primary goal in this approach is not the removal of localized pain or tension, though this is typically accomplished. Instead, the aim is usually to induce deep relaxation, integrate mind and body, and enhance total body awareness.
Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage
Lomi Lomi massage is one of the oldest and most profound forms of massage. The word Lomi Lomi simply means 'Hawaiian massage'. It is a unique healing massage
derived from the ancient Polynesians and more specifically the master healers of Hawaii.
Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage techniques usually commences with stillness and silence between the therapist and client, where therapist will rest their hands gently on the clients back.
The massage techniques are given in fluid, rhythmic motion using full hands, forearms as well as the palms. Some people have described this technique as feeling like gentle waves moving over the body. Another feature is that different parts of the body may be massaged at the same time, for example the therapist will work upon your shoulder and lower back or upper leg at the same time.
This assists the recipient in deep relaxation as it is impossible or at least extremely difficult for the brain to focus on the two different areas at once. Lomi Lomi massage strokes help to free the energy, make the body soft, promoting free and abundant flow of life energy in the recipient. Gentle stretches of the body and gentle rotations of the joints are therefore also incorporated to assist the release of tension and assist the flow of energy, once again not forcing, but feeling the level of the client’s resistance or comfort.
Dance-work or hula movements, combined with the breath-work of the practitioner, is also an important and integral aspect of Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage techniques.
Traditional Thai Massage
Traditional Thai massage is a unique form of oriental bodywork dates back to ancient times over 2,500 years ago. It is carried out in a meditative mood, enabling the practitioner to concentrate on the client's energy flow, which benefits the client as well as the practitioner. Nuad Bo Rarn, as it is known in Thailand, means Ancient Thai Massage. This powerful bodywork is originally from India, and many of the Thai stretches resemble the Indian yoga asanas. It also has Chinese influences such as acupressure. It works along the energy lines throughout the body known as 'sen' lines in Thai, which are similar to the Chinese meridians. In the last ten years, Thai massage has evolved enormously and is becoming increasingly popular worldwide.
Some examples of Structural Integration, Neuromuscular Therapy, Manupractic Massage, Hawaiaan Lomi Lomi Massage and Traditional Thai Massage
