BODY WORK
The psoas muscle, often referred to as the “muscle of the soul,” plays a crucial role in physical movement and emotional well-being. Located deep within the core, the psoas connects the spine to the legs, acting as a bridge between the upper and lower body.
From a somatic perspective, the psoas is considered to hold emotional and psychological tension, particularly trauma. Trauma, whether physical or emotional, can become embedded in the body, and the psoas, being at the core of our physical structure, is no exception.
When an individual experiences trauma, the body’s natural response is often to contract and protect. The psoas, being intimately connected to the fight-flight-freeze response, can tighten and contract in response to stress and trauma. Prolonged contraction of the psoas can lead to a range of physical and emotional issues.
Emotionally, the psoas is thought to be a repository for unprocessed emotions and memories. Stored tension in this muscle may contribute to feelings of anxiety, fear, or a sense of being constantly on edge.
Addressing the psoas in a therapeutic context can be a gateway to accessing and releasing deep-seated emotions associated with trauma.
You will be lying down on a massage table. This is a hands-on technique to help you release tension in the central nervous system. This promotes a feeling of well-being by eliminating pain and boosting health and immunity. Different kinds of pressure will be used.
My intention is to meet you where you are at, so I will be asking for feedback as to how deep we can go. I will be guiding you to repeat some mantras, to dialog with areas of deep tension and to work with your breath so that we can improve the function in your mental, physical and spiritual bodies.
BODY WORK | FAQs
Psoas Muscle
Dr. David Berceli, a neurologist and trauma therapist, notes that the Psoas is a key muscle involved in the physical response to stress. When the body perceives a threat, the Psoas can contract, preparing the individual for action.
Dr. R. Louis Schultz, founder of the International Professional School of Bodywork, has discussed the idea that releasing tension in the Psoas can help individuals release stored emotional stress.
1. Fight or Flight Response: The Psoas muscle is connected to the body’s stress response. When you’re stressed, the Psoas may tighten as part of the body’s preparation for quick action, like running away from a threat.
2. Breathing and Relaxation: The diaphragm is a key muscle for breathing, and it’s linked to the body’s relaxation response. When you take deep breaths using your diaphragm, it helps your body calm down and relax.
3. Balancing Act: The Psoas and diaphragm have a balancing act. When one tightens (like the Psoas during stress), the other relaxes. If the Psoas is always tense, it can affect how the diaphragm works and prevent your body from fully relaxing.
4. Posture and Emotions: The Psoas muscle also plays a role in how you stand and carry yourself. Tension in the Psoas might make you slouch or hunch, which can be related to feeling defensive or guarded. Releasing this tension might help you stand more upright and feel more open emotionally.
5. Mind-Body Connection: The connection between the Psoas and diaphragm is part of how our body and mind are connected. When we work on releasing tension in these areas, it can make us feel better emotionally, like a sense of letting go of stress.
While these ideas are used in some practices, it’s essential to remember that scientific research is still exploring these connections, and experiences can vary from person to person.
Imbalances in the Psoas may contribute to feelings of anxiety or unease. Addressing Psoas health through various practices may positively influence mental well-being.
The Psoas is considered a center of vital energy and is thought to be connected to the flow of life force in the body.
Yes, emotional stress may contribute to Psoas tension. Chronic stress can lead to the tightening of this muscle, affecting both physical and emotional well-being.
The Psoas plays a crucial role in hip flexion and spine stabilization. When balanced, it contributes to proper posture and movement. However, tension or imbalance in the Psoas may lead to lower back pain, hip discomfort, and even affect digestion and breathing.
Where is the service:
My home. Your home and/or nature, The Smoking Frog Lounge (downtown Toronto if you need an indoor place in the city – travel expenses apply).
When is the service:
According to your schedule.