Philosophy
Approach
My approach to Bodywork treatment uses the clients' experience of their problem as a guide rather than an idea that i know more about it. Chinese medicine and acupuncture take this view as central to diagnosis. Working with acupuncture and bodywork techniques in this person centred way is bringing me toward a synthesis in my training.
I consider my clients' experience and understanding of their problem important since it is they that have the experience and whose lives are affected by the problem.
Mind Body and Spirit
In much Eastern thought the mind body and spirit are seen as inherantly related. The concept of a difference in nature stems from western thought alone, from Arisotle to 17th century philosophers like Descartes.
The mind influences the body, and the condition of the body affects the mind; just think about how pain can make you feel emotionally. The skills i have aquired in acupuncture and bodywork techniques give me means to help resolve problems on these levels, to work toward a more balanced state of being.
The Labyrinth Symbol
The labyrinth occurs in cultures throughout the world in a spiritual and symbolic context. It can signify a rite of passage in life and as such an important journey to adulthood or greater understanding. The story of Theseus and the Minotaur can be viewed in these terms, he enters the labyrinth and defeats the beast within to gain a benefit.
Treatment of any kind can be seen as such a journey. Starting at one place in your life, going through a process of change, (be that loosening tight muscles or overcoming depression) and reaching a new, improved state of being.
This labyrinth design is also nearly symmetrical. I like this as it represents balance, yet not absolute balance. People are not symmetrical or perfectly ordered either, and many who come to me are seeking balance in their lives.
The human body is inherantly unstable, so problems are able to develop. However it is important to acknowledge that this instability also allows us to adapt, including getting better. The balance sought in the system should be a dynamic moving process in order to be maintained in the long term.
The pattern can also be seen as a mandala, which is used to focus the mind in meditative practice. Again people often find focus through treatment and it reminds me of the focus and intent necessary to be a good practitioner.