What is Biodynamic Massage?
Biodynamic massage is a form of massage that addresses both body and the mind. It affects all aspects of our being - mental, physical, emotional and spitirual - using a wide range of techniques.
Unlike other forms of massage, Biodynamic Massage techniques do not work to make changes to the body. Instead, the therapist uses techniques to invite and encourage the body to let go of tension and emotional pressure. This includes skin, connective tissue, muscle and bone - as well as the subtle levels of the human energy field.
By inviting rather than manipulating, the client begins to feel a stronger sense of self and a deeper connection with themselves which, in turn, helps them to cope and maintain inner stability through life’s challenges.
In each session, I select the technique(s) best suited to meet your emotional and physical needs on that day, as well as longer term. One client may experience biodynamic massage as extremely gentle and calming, another as energising and enlivening.
We work together in an atmosphere of curiosity, awareness and acceptance to invite a natural movement towards health and wholeness.
How does it work?
Biodynamic massage is grounded in an integrated approach to health which recognises the connection between repressed emotions/energy and physical health.
It can be a helpful complementary therapy for those with psycho-physiological or stress related symptoms such as headaches, aches and pains, anxiety, insomnia, depression, arthritis, post-traumatic stress as well as autoimmune disorders. It’s also for those who feel ‘a bit under the weather’ or that something isn’t quite right, but where there is an absence of diagnosable condition.
The intention of biodynamic massage is to:
• bring the nervous system into balance between excitement and relaxation
• release habitual holding patterns
• tone and strengthen frozen or collapsed tissues
• restore free and spontaneous breath
• make the body a stronger container for emotional and energetic charge
Benefits that clients may feel include:
• deep relaxation, letting go of tension and worry
• more balanced emotionally and able to cope with life’s ups and downs
• relief from chronic symptoms such as headaches, tension, pain, digestive problems and insomnia
• a greater connection, value and trust in their bodies
• increased energy and zest for life
History of Biodynamic Massage
Biodynamic massage was first developed in Norway by Gerda Boyesen. As a clinical psychologist and physiotherapist she became interested in the effects of massage on people’s mental health.
Boyesen’s unique contribution was discovering how we digest unexpressed emotions and the after effects of stress through the digestive organs.
In biodynamic massage therapy, the therapist will often use a stethoscope to listen to the client’s peristalsis for feedback on how they are responding to the massage and where to go next.
FAQs
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In the first session I will ask you a few questions to hear a little more about your life and medical history. All consultations are strictly confidential.
During the massage you can be fully or partly clothed, as you wish. Comfort is paramount and privacy is ensured throughout the session.
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Biodynamic massage is suitable for people of all ages. You do not have to be ill or have any particular symptoms to benefit from biodynamic massage.
It is particuarly suitable for those who are feeling stressed, fragile, fragmented or shut-down and anyone looking for a highly attuned and sensitive massage therapist.
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Using a stethsocope helps me listen to sounds which help guide me to know where to go next.
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Biodynamic massage doesn't use oils because it creates a barrier on the skin between the client and the therapist.
The scent of the oil can also take the client away from the experience of the massage - for that reason, there is also no music or candles, as you might find with some other forms of massage.
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Biodynamic massage works with all structures of the body i.e. skin, connective tissue and muscle.
Therefore, sometimes I might work lightly and other times more deeply. I will always check in and make sure you are comfortable with the pressure I'm using.
Got more questions? Get in touch!