Emotional Release Therapy

A more specialized form of deep tissue massage, emotional release therapy targets not just the physiological symptoms of muscle tension but also the emotional and psychological causes. Poor posture, one of the main culprits for incorrect spine alignment and the cramping, tired muscles that result, isn't always just due to environmental factors. Sometimes it has been picked up from one's family and friends from childhood; sometimes it develops as a reaction to certain forms of punishment and/or emotionally charged situations. Slumping shoulders and a rounded spine can result from low self-esteem, fear and depression, and occasionally simply the memories of previous negative experiences.

Memory and emotion have a powerful effect on the human body, more so than most people realize. Traumatic and stressful situations in life have the tendency to manifest in the body as tight, contracted muscles. Painful lumps and knots form as a physical response to the body's emotional state. And sometimes, long after the immediate emotional chaos has quieted down, your body is still holding on to the physical consequences of those feelings. Emotional release therapy involves both deep tissue and trigger point techniques, concentrating on small areas for longer periods of time. Intense, targeted pressure on certain tight spots can be painfully overwhelming, and cause repressed or stored emotions to surface.

In addition, some of the principles of reiki are also incorporated into this therapy. Not only are the negative emotions allowed to surface and dissipate, the therapist concentrates positive energy into her touch to replace the unhappy energies, with the purpose of leaving the client feeling lighter, happier and far less burdened by the end of the session.

Because this is an extremely intensive therapy, both physically and emotionally painful, it requires a high level of trust between therapist and client. There must be a willingness on the client's part to explore and express past and present trauma and worries, including financial anxieties, relationship problems, even unpleasant and sometimes crippling memories. Due the the very personal nature of this type of therapy, it is not always possible for every client to experience it... and sometimes it may occur when neither the therapist nor the client has intended it!