What is fascia?
"Fascia is a specialized system of the body that has an appearance similar to a spider's web or a sweater. Fascia is very densely woven, covering and interpenetrating every muscle, bone, nerve, artery and vein, as well as, all of our internal organs including the heart, lungs, brain and spinal cord. The most interesting aspect of the fascial system is that it is not just a system of separate coverings. It is actually one continuous structure that exists from head to toe without interruption. In this way you can begin to see that each part of the entire body is connected to every other part by the fascia, like the yarn in a sweater." (definition from John Barnes' website, www.myofascialrelease.com)
What is Barnes Myofascial Release?
The John F Barnes Myofascial Release Approach® (JFB MFR) is a hands-on technique that provides sustained pressure into myofascial restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. It consists of the gentle application of sustained pressure into the fascial restrictions. This essential “time element” has to do with the viscous flow and the piezoelectric phenomenon: a low load (gentle pressure) applied slowly will allow a viscoelastic medium (fascia) to elongate.
As John puts it, "At first the elastic component of the fascia will release, and at some point in time the collagenous barrier will be engaged. This barrier cannot be forced (it is too strong). One waits with gentle pressure, and as the collagenous aspect releases, the therapist follows the motion of the tissue, barrier upon barrier until freedom is felt."
How is this different from other work?
What makes JFB MFR so effective is the proper combination of time and pressure. Most modalities try to "fix it quick", digging in with heavy pressure for a short period of time. Our bodies are designed to resist this type of pressure, so while it may loosen things up for a short period of time it doesn't provide for lasting change. Other therapies wait for a long enough time, but with very light pressure which isn't enough to engage the fascial barriers throughout their entirety. John teaches therapists to engage the body deeply, but gently - and wait until the restrictions soften and elongate, often 5 minutes or more in each location. Many people say things like "This is what I've been waiting for someone to do for so long!
Because the work never forces, you are able to relax and soften into it knowing that you will not be injured. This allows your body to open up and let go of unconscious bracing patterns that you may have been carrying around for years.
How many sessions will I need to resolve my condition?
Every person is unique, and there is no set number - minimum or maximum - for treatment to be "complete". Many of my clients notice changes after their first session. Regaining health is a process though, and every person will have their own progression through that process. A lot depends on how long the disharmonious pattern has been held, and what your idea of health is. What is sure is that tissue will begin to change from the first session. John reminds us "Healing is a journey, not a destination."
Do you take insurance?
I do not currently submit for insurance reimbursement, and am a payment at time of services practice. Sometimes an individual insurance plan or Health Savings Account will allow for massage therapy/myofascial release, and you should check with your provider. I am happy to provide a receipt which you can then submit to your insurance company or Health Savings Account.
What are your rates?
I charge $100 for an hour, $150 for an hour & a half. Tax is included.
Do you expect tips?
It is not necessary at all. Some people voluntarily choose to pay me more in the belief that I am not charging enough for the value received, but tips are not expected in my practice.
What should I bring to the first appointment?
You should wear, or bring with to change into, minimal clothing that will maintain your modesty while allowing good visual and physical access to most of your skins surface. Most of my clients are comfortable undressing to their underwear, while others choose to bring loose, short, shorts, and a sports bra. Any relevant medical history and personal contact info would also be helpful. Please do not wear any lotions or oils on the skin the day of your appointment, if possible.
What is Ametrine?
Ametrine is a stone, one where Amethyst is captured in its transformation into Citrine.. It represents a zone of change, and I hold that intention for my practice as well.
Photo by [email protected]