Indications and symptoms
Emotional blockages
The method is valuable thanks to easy access to the blocked emotional material, to the feelings and emotions that we do not allow ourselves to express in public, or with our significant others.
Energy loss
The task of the work with this phaenomena is to establish contact to the reason that leads to the constant leak of energy. Then to heal it through “re-recording” the basic patterns of reactions, stored in the body, and not being accessible to the conscious mind.
Consequences of traumatic events
The technique helps to finally address the client to his or her own internal adaptation mechanisms, that are not working properly due to resistance coming from emotional or traumatic blockages in the body.
From mere relaxation requests to the support of rehabilitation in circumstances of heavy emotional or physical trauma. The approach is focused on restoring balance on several levels.
Mild effect on the physical body: palpation, slow, non-forced movements,
better access to resources. This effect is mainly oriented on readjustment and reintegration.
Some events and situations can deprive us of energy. Restoration of stability, supporting the free flow of energy – this is the second layer in Integrative Bodywork
Restrained emotions not allowed to be expressed may influence the onset of persistent symptoms of stress and emotional instability. Emotional fatigue leads to manifestations of depression-related symptoms.
Working with emotions, releasing blockages, helps to align the state. Reconnection to the emotional content that was not accepted earlier, to the inner strength that was somehow put aside in order to fulfil other important goals. This is the third layer on which the work is done.
Unwillingness to accept changes that can be associated with the rigidity of the belief systems frequently causes body symptoms, sometimes delayed, or accumulated. A sequence of Integrative Bodywork sessions makes it possible to restore connections within the structure of beliefs, gradually mastering a more open look at the situation of life choice.
What creates our identity? Our lifestyle?
It’s mostly the way we feel towards other people, perceive our own body and our abilities. Aging changes this, experience impacts this. Slight imbalances influence our self-perception even deeper then we would expect.
The technique can be implemented for the wide scope of symptoms from chronic pain to emotional instability, burnout and post-trauma symptoms.
Mainly the work is focused on slight readjustments facilitated on physical (muscles, tissues), emotional, intellectual (structure of beliefs) and energy layers.
Resources are available within ourselves. Regaining resilient, stable access to them is a good result of a sequence of bodywork sessions.
Working with Denis has been really beneficial to both my mental and physical well being. He has a wealth of knowledge, experience and training in massage therapy and bodywork which has allowed him to tailor a program specific to my needs. As a runner, his use of thai yoga techniques has been very helpful in relieving the soreness in my muscles and joints. As well, I feel a much stronger connection between these parts of my body and my mind both during and after our sessions. I often find myself in a very deep state of relaxation during our sessions where I feel or sense things that give me comfort, such as a happy childhood memory or a calming place. Denis took the time to understand what I needed and was able to facilitate mind-body connectivity, which strongly contributed to my overall health and wellness.
Evie Cavis, Coordinator, McGill University, Montreal
Timing and setting
Usually a session lasts between an hour and two. I offer to choose whether to stick to 70 minutes time limit or to go beyond. The work is done on the massage table or on the massage mat. Сlient is fully dressed. I would suggest to have some relatively comfortable clothes, not too tight so that it’s possible to relax.
Process description
The work is generally smooth, it has mild relaxing effect. It’s more about creating space for a change, rather than pushing toward it. Palpation and movements are generally very slow, helping to align and release the tensions. Minor conversations between the therapist and the client are taking place from time to time. Physical pressure and forced movements are avoided. Like in constellations work, I use releasing phrases when it’s appropriate. In other moments there’s just a light contact with the body area with hands on. There are no forced movements or physical stretching (sometimes there are barely movements at all).
Client-therapist relations
Earlier than the session will begin, I will need to maintain a secure supportive space for the client. Engaging, non-directive communication between therapist and client is essential for successful therapeutic work. During session a client may share with me the “internal picture” of an evolving process, though it is never obligatory.