Visceral Manipulation

Visceral Manipulation is a fascinating therapy that I am just beginning to learn about. I highly encourage you to read more about it here where it is explained in depth. Time Magazine, citing his development of Visceral Manipulation, named Jean-Pierre Barral (physiotherapist and osteopath) one of the Top Healing Innovators to watch in the new millennium. According to Barral, 90% of all musculoskeletal issues are beginning in the viscera.

How will the technique be used during my session?

Ideally, I will do a "listening" before we begin. I'll have you stand with your back to me while I place a hand on your head, gently pressing down and lifting up. This allows me to sense where there are tensions and pulls within your body. Then while lying down I'll repeat with a similar technique along your abdomen, looking again for tissue pulls. This "listening" will guide me to where you have restrictions in your viscera that require release. Many areas can be released while you are lying down, others are better in a sitting position. Typically I will hold an organ and follow its motion encouraging it to release restrictions and find its physiological balance.

Often I will do all of this while you are still clothed. If we decide to do visceral work after beginning your massage, I will adapt and fit it into the massage, perhaps doing some seated work after you redress.