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Methods of Application of Deep Tissue Massage Therapy
There are many various levels and planes of fascia that
can be accessed through the application of specific pressure. The major
method of access regardless of the type of stroke one uses in deep tissue
therapy is through the intent behind the touch.
You can use the following general rules for focusing your
intention to access the various levels of fascia.
- Direction of pressure is determined by the direction
of the resistance in the myofascial structure. Press directly into the
resistance of pull from the resistance depending on the intent.
- Depth is determined by the level of the tissue to be
treated and the minimum amount of pressure required to engage the resistance
in that tissue.
- Duration is determined by the rate of release in the
muscular reflexes and the rate of change in the ground substance of the
connective tissue.
- Pressure is applied only to the minimum level
necessary to obtain access to the tissues and is necessary for the self care
of the therapist.
- To develop effective techniques, the practitioner
must develop skill in palpation of the musclo-skeletal system and fascial
structures.
- Deep tissue massage/bodywork is only a tool to set up
a framework for developing a therapeutic relationship which is really the
core of healing. The practitioner who is aware of their codependent
tendencies and other dysfunctional behaviors will be the most successful and
effective. The process of peer supervision can support the therapist
in this process.
- Practitioner awareness is necessary when doing deep
tissue massage. Proper body mechanics and using the weight of one's
body to apply pressure is one part of awareness. The other is the
awareness of one's self (see #6 above)
- Intuition needs to be activated and always improved
upon to stay as present with the client as possible. Intuition is a
combination of applying knowledge and experience while you are staying
present with what you are feeling in your own body as a result of the
interaction with the client.
-
The practitioner needs to stay present to observe
physical, emotional, mental and spiritual changes taking place in the
clients body.
- The best form of feedback is how you feel (not the
client). We are always reacting and responding to others based on our
own needs at the time. You are a mirror for the receivers of the deep
tissue massage. Use your feelings to guide your touch.
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