Working hand-in-hand to restore balance

Warwick - Are you experiencing the effects of that notorious “let down” after the holidays? Are you yourself feeling run-down because of limited daylight, cold weather or from taking care of sick kids or ill parents? Perhaps you haven’t realized your body may be out of balance. The Source of the Healing Arts in Warwick may have the answer. IGM® Therapeutic Acupressure is a gentle, non-invasive systematic technique, which works to restore your mind, body and spirit to a healthy balance. “There are many different systems in the body that contribute to our health and well being: respiratory, circulatory, nervous and digestive systems, to name a few,” according to IGM® Therapeutic Acupressure practitioner, Lisa M. Wolfe. “We also have energy systems in our bodies. One energy system uses pathways called meridians that were charted by the ancient Chinese almost 6,000 years ago. They learned that by applying light to moderate pressure to certain locations along these meridians they could relieve a variety of symptoms and diseases.” Any trauma, emotional, physical or spiritual can cause a blockage in the body’s energy pathways, Wolfe said. In an IGM® Therapeutic Acupressure session, the practitioner will apply gentle pressure to more than 50 different points along these pathways, stimulating the energy to move through and open blockages. “There are many benefits to an IGM® Therapeutic Acupressure session,” said IGM® practitioner Joie Ogrodnick. “It can promote a sense of well being, evoke profound relaxation, decrease blood pressure and strengthen the immune system. In addition IGM® Therapeutic Acupressure can minimize the negative side effects of chemotherapy, reduce headaches, backaches and chronic pain. When emotions are running low as happens this time of year, an IGM® Therapeutic Acupressure session can help with depression and anxiety and increase energy and motivation.” All ages, from infants to senior citizens, can benefit from an acupressure session, said Ogrodnick and Wolfe. A typical session, which takes approximately 90 minutes, a client lies fully clothed on a massage table. An atmosphere conducive to relaxation with subdued lighting, privacy and calming music contributes to the sense of wellness experienced. “Acupressure is founded on the idea that the body can heal itself if it is in balance,” said IGM® Practitioner Judi Davis. “If you break a leg, for example, your doctor will set the bone and your body knows what it needs to do to rebuild the bone and heal the injury. Acupressure works with your body’s natural healing ability by bringing the body into balance, and it is a great complement to conventional medical care.” IGM® Therapeutic Acupressure is one of many modalities offered as part of the integrative health services at The Source of the Healing Arts. Because acupressure works to bring the mind, body, and spirit into balance, it facilitates a connection that optimizes the healing effects of all other modalities, including conventional treatments. In fact, it is utilized in every program currently offered through The Source. IGM® Acupressure was founded by Isabell Gatto more than 30 years ago.  Also referred to as “the best of many,” the IGM® method combines Shiatsu, Therapeutic Touch, Jin Shin Jyutsu, color, and music therapy into a single multi-dimensional healing modality.  Each of the three practitioners has her own private practice here in Warwick and is affiliated with The Source of the Healing Arts. Yoga has been recommended my many health professionals and institutions as a complimentary helpful modality for many diseases such as cancer, Multiple Sclerosis, anxiety disorders and Attention Deficit Disorder to name but a few. “We are also incorporating yoga in The Sources weight management program,” said Sharon Hilyer Roll, a certified professional yoga instructor affiliated with The Source of the Healing Arts. “Here is an example that yoga class isn’t only about losing weight, it is also about gaining control and compassionate understanding of ourselves.” While yoga is a discipline, it is all about what you can do, not about what you can’t do, Roll added. When practicing yoga, you challenge yourself and let go of the judgment to see what is there for you. Yoga helps to strengthen and tone not only your body but your mind and spirit as well. As a student moves through their practice, they begin to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and a sense of well being. Health and stability emerges through a well-balanced body and mind. “It all depends on your intention for your practice,” said Roll. “Yoga strengthens and tones the body, reduces stress, improves balance, and clarity of the mind. It also teaches relaxation and just plain feels good.” On Jan. 31, a six-week session of Yoga begins as part of The Source of the Healing Arts’ weight management program. For more information, call 986-1977 or check the Web at www.sourceofhealingarts.com.