DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

B.A.S.I.C. (Body And Spirit Integrated Consciously) Massage was created by the Center for Human Integration. Following are excerpts from their brochure about the technique.

1. What is BASIC Massage?
2. How does BASIC Massage differ from other forms of massage?
3. Is BASIC Massage painful?
4. What are some of the benefits of BASIC Massage?
5. Should I have BASIC Massage if I have a medical condition?

What is BASIC Massage? BASIC Massage is a deep-muscle, full-body massage. Its purpose is to relieve muscle tension throughout the body. Often, the areas of the body that we are most aware of, e.g., neck and shoulders, are tense because of imbalances from an old injur lower down in the body, even as far away as the ankles and feet. The body normally compensates for injuries by shifting its weight bearing. The resultant upper body tensions may show up even years later. When we are under stress, part of the chain of events that occurs is a tightening of the muscles. This further complicates the picture, and tends to loce in the existing imbalances, setting us up for further trauma or pain.

How does BASIC Massage differ from other forms of massage? Unlike many forms of massage which have relaxation and circulatory stimulation as the goals, BASIC Massage has as its primary goal the release of myofascial constriction. The strokes used are deeper and slower, allowing the tissue to respond by releasing the tension. The practitioner is trained in the art and skill of "listening with the hands" to work with the body at the rate and depth the body allows.

Is BASIC Massage painful? Some discomfort is experienced when the very tense muscles are manipulated. The degree of discomfort depends on the amount of existing tension, and is influenced by the cause of the tension. The slowness of the massage movement diminishes the discomfort. Often the client's comment is, "That hurts good."

What are some of the benefits of BASIC Massage? While most people experience these three major benefits: pain reduction or elimination, freedom of movement, and increased energy, many BASIC Massage clients will also describe intangible benefits such as: an improved sense of well-being, attitudinal / emotional changes, and even being more in touch with their spiritual nature.

Should I have BASIC Massage if I have a medical condition? It depends on your medical condition. Although BASIC Massage is not a medical treatment, it is very helpful in relieving musculo-skeletal problems and symptoms related to muscular disorders. The initial consultation with a BASIC Massage practitioner includes a brief health history. If either you or the practitioner has any questions about a health condition you may have, it is recommended that you seek the advice of your physician. In any case, if you are under the care of a physician, psychotherapist, or other health care provider, they should be informed that you are having BASIC Massage. The results of BASIC are so beneficial that changes in treatment, e.g., reduction of medications, are often indicated.

For more information, contact the Center for Human Integration at 215-742-3505, or visit http://www.chi4wellness.org/.

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