Using my name as an acronym is probably the best way to describe what I’ve strived to achieve an integrated approach to bodywork. My bodywork is based on several of the following modalities: Looyenwork, Sportsmassage by Jack Meagher; Athletic Massage by Rich Phaigh; and CranioSacral Therapy by John Upledger.
I am a certified LooyenWork practitioner, incorporating a variety of techniques that include the following: Body Readings; Painless Deep Tissue Body Therapy; Intrinsic Muscle Mobilization; Movement Re-education
Body Readings
"Body reading" is a sophisticated form of observation derived from a study of exercise physiology, kinesiology, anatomy and neurolinguistic patterning (NLP) that identifies those areas which when released will produce the greatest benefit. These "body reading" skills allow a LooyenWork practitioner to go beyond the symptoms to the root of the problem. The most appropriate techniques are then used to effect a fundamental change and healing.
Painless Deep Tissue Body Therapy
"Painless deep tissue body therapy" is what enables a LooyenWork practitioner to gently move below tension at the superficial level to release tightness at the deepest level of the body. After hundreds of hours of training and 11 years of extensive experience, I have the skill and sensitivity to do this without being invasive or causing pain. Understanding that pain perception varies, I work within each individual’s comfort zone.
Intrinsic Muscle Mobilization
"Intrinsic muscle mobilization" releases the deep structural muscles of the neck, spine, and hips, allowing them to return to a balanced state. By centering the body’s core in this way, stress in the structural support system is released and the surrounding musculature is relaxed.
Movement Re-education
"Movement re-education" identifies movements which cause a client unnecessary physical stress and pain, particularly in the back and neck. The client is first made aware of these patterns and then learns specific ways to correct them. The result is that the individual walks, sits, lifts, sleeps and generally moves with greater ease and mobility.
I also incorporate Sportsmassage by Jack Meagher, Athletic Massage by Rich Phaigh, and CranioSacral Therapy by John Upledger to the Looyenwork I do.
Sportsmassage by Jack Meagher
I’ve found that whatever your game, Sportsmassage gives you an immediate 20% extra extra performance, extra protection against injury per game, per season, per lifetime.
"Sportsmassage" was developed by Jack Meagher. His technique is a sensible, scientific blend of traditional Swedish therapy, Shiatsu massage and his own extensive experience as a professional masseur for the U.S. Olympic Equestrian Team and over the course of his thirty year career a full range of American athletes.
Basic to the Sportsmassage system is the fact that there are twelve principal postures that form the axis of all athletic movement. Each sport demands that the player attain specific postures; hence, each sport tends to strain the muscles at certain predictable points. Not only does Sportsmassage help heal strained muscles, it allows healthy ones to reach peak action and to maintain it, with less risk of injury and that’s the Sportsmassage 20% extra.
Athletic Massage by Rich Phaigh
Since 1984, I’ve used the technique developed by Rich Phaigh and I had the privilege of working with him in 1991. The most effective aspect of his approach is the muscle energy technique, known as "Onsen."
