Cranial Sacral Therapy, Myofascial release, Fascia and Chi Nei Tsang

by Mary Ellen Derwis-Balaz LMT
(Cleveland, Ohio)

Cranial Sacral Therapy, Myofascial Release, Chi Nei Tsang abdominal chi massage. What is the link? Fascia. Energy. Chi.

Fascia is connective tissue that encapsulates all cells, organ systems, and structural components of the musculoskeletal system. Within its structure communication happens. That communication is chi. Touch (whether physical or energetic) is a catalyst that facilitates an energetic exchange. Chi is that energy. When the connection is made tissues respond.

Within the Craniosacral model emphasis is placed on the spinal cord and brain. Movement in the fascia between bones of the cranium and spinal column is encouraged by the movement of chi as the body strives for homeostasis.When this occurs the rhythm of the spinal fluid normalizes and balance in the system is restored.

Myofascial release is the movement of chi with emphasis on the muscular system. Lengthening and realignment of fatigued or hypertonic muscles is encouraged to restore structural balance.

Chi Nei Tsang abdominal chi massage takes this movement one step further. It addresses balance within the abdominal cavity, the organs and their relationship with the meridians they are connected to. Once balance occurs here it affects the physical, emotional and mental planes. This is not to say that these other modalities do not affect the same types of changes. They do. They only do it differently. This is the beauty of having so many different modalities to choose from as a practitioner. One discovers a modality that resonates with them, and clients that resonate with the particular modality seek them out.

Mary Ellen Derwis-Balaz LMT. Chi Nei Tsang Instructor www.beinthetao.com