Having self awareness of what the body is presenting is a significant aspect and gift of massage therapy.
“The body is a sponge. It absorbs our environment, our posture, our conditions, and the big one…stress," said Carol Mikel, a massage therapist with over 10 years of experience.
Mikel brings her own “tool box” to each treatment. For each and every treatment, massage therapists bring a collection of both physical and mental tools to give the best experience possible to their clients. Sure, she brings her longstanding experience with techniques, physical tools, special oils, and soothing lotions, to name just a few, but Mikel states self awareness is a huge part of the wellness that can be achieved through massage therapy, “The body talks, we just need to listen."
During an intake, Mikel observes how her client is sitting or standing. She examines the position of the shoulders and upper traps. How many of us are always massaging sore upper traps, neck and the back of head? How many of us are doing this while reading this magazine?
Mikel visually gives her clients an example of FHP (forward head posture), “I hold up my index finger as an example of the neck, then make a soft fist as an example of the neck and place it on top of my index finger. The cervical spine is built to support the head, but when the head is consistently looking down and forward at cell phones, laptops, and books, this pulls on the neck, upper traps & shoulders/pecs. You can counteract this tension with stretches and self awareness." Mikel's advice for battling neck pain and poor posture? Bring your cell phone up to your eyes and put your laptop or book on a pillow on your lap so that they are at eye level. Your neck and upper traps will thank you.
Along with the massage treatment, Mikel discusses with clients ways to reduce stress. “The body intakes stress the same way it takes in air, water and food…daily. Recognizing what your stressors are, from deadlines to traffic, to a long line at the grocery store, and how to alleviate them is key. “We all have stress in our lives. In this case, less would be so much more”.
One way to reduce your stress is with breath. Breathe with purpose. Take a natural inhale of breath, then on your exhale, extend that count. Try inhaling to a count of 5 and exhale to a count of 10, adjusting according to body and lung comfort. This technique doesn’t solve your predicament at the time, but it sure is nice to be able to breathe through it, and achieve peace for your body and higher self.
About Carol Mikel
Carol Mikel specialized in Myofascial Release (MFR) which focuses on the web-like connective tissue (fascia) that can adhere to the muscle fibers. MFR is performed at a specific area of the body. Another speciality of hers is focusing on Neuromuscular Massage Therapy (NMT), a technique focused on an area of the body that is experiencing muscle spasms and/or trigger points. Carol is also an expert in Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), involving passive stretching and isometric muscle contractions. CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is also a subtle and effective method. Treatments promote the movement of fluids in and around the central nervous system, acting as a “reset” with the goal of enhancing the body’s natural healing abilities. Mikel explains that “the body heals when it’s in a ‘rest-and-digest’ state as opposed to a ‘flight and fright," encouraging others to take time to rest and focus on themselves.
Interested in getting in contact with Carol? Contact her at 520-344-2207.
The body talks, we just need to listen.