postural integration
postural integration
A system of bodywork for releasing blocks and tensions that have accumulated in the body/mind. The technique works simultaneously with the physical, mental and emotional aspects of the whole person, and includes breathing, postures, movements, positions, thoughts and feelings.Postural integration was developed in the 1970s by Dr JW Painter, and incorporates acupuncture, connective tissue massage, Gestalt therapy, massage therapy, Reichian therapy, Rolfing, yoga and zazen. Per Painter’s construct of the body, the fascia is not merely a series of coverings of muscles and organs, but rather a single structure that extends from the head to the toes. In the healthy body, the fascia is relaxed and moves without restriction; in the face of poor posture, trauma, repetitive use injuries and/or emotional stress, the fascia becomes indurated. Postural integration techniques attempt to smooth and redistribute the disorganised fascia and return the body to a state of harmony.