Kinesiology and the Nervous System Connection

Kinesiology is a holistic healing practice that uses manual muscle testing to diagnose and treat a wide range of health issues. The approach recognizes the connection between the body’s muscles and the nervous system, and how this connection influences overall health and well-being. By using manual muscle testing, practitioners can detect imbalances in the body and determine the best course of action to restore balance and promote healing.

The nervous system is a complex network of nerves and cells that transmit signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The nervous system plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s functions and maintaining its overall health. When the nervous system is out of balance, it can cause a wide range of health problems, including pain, weakness, fatigue, and stress.

Kinesiology recognizes the interplay between the nervous system and the musculoskeletal system, and how imbalances in one can affect the other. By using manual muscle testing, practitioners can detect areas of tension, weakness, or imbalance in the body, and then use various techniques to restore balance and improve overall health.

One of the ways in which Applied Kinesiology can help reduce stress is through the use of acupressure points. Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to release tension, improve circulation, and promote healing.

Here are 5 easy ways someone could reduce stress using acupressure points:

  1. The GB 20 (Gallbladder 20) point, located at the base of the skull, is known to relieve headaches, neck pain, and stress. Apply gentle pressure to this point for several minutes.
  2. The LV 3 (Liver 3) point, located on the top of the foot, is known to relieve stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Apply gentle pressure to this point for several minutes.
  3. The HT 7 (Heart 7) point, located on the inside of the wrist, is known to relieve stress, anxiety, and depression. Apply gentle pressure to this point for several minutes.
  4. The LI 4 (Large Intestine 4) point, located between the thumb and index finger, is known to relieve stress, headaches, and digestive problems. Apply gentle pressure to this point for several minutes.
  5. The P 6 (Pericardium 6) point, located on the inside of the wrist, is known to relieve stress, anxiety, and nausea. Apply gentle pressure to this point for several minutes.

Kinesiologists also use various techniques and methods to help their clients overcome physical challenges, improve their posture, reduce pain and enhance their overall performance and quality of life. Here are some of the most commonly used techniques and methods in kinesiology:

  1. Muscle Testing: This is the most fundamental technique used in kinesiology. It involves testing the strength of specific muscles in order to identify any imbalances or weaknesses. By applying manual pressure to a muscle, the kinesiologist can determine its level of strength and any imbalances in the body. This information helps to identify any underlying issues, such as structural imbalances, injury, or stress.
  2. Acupressure: Acupressure is a form of manual therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body. These points, known as acupoints, are believed to be connected to the body’s energy channels, or meridians, and can help to restore balance and reduce pain and tension. Kinesiologists use acupressure to help their clients release tension, improve circulation, and reduce pain.
  3. Myofascial Release: This is a form of manual therapy that aims to release tension and pain in the body’s fascia, which is a connective tissue that surrounds muscles, bones, and organs. Myofascial release involves applying gentle pressure to the fascia to help release any adhesions or knots that may be causing pain or restricting movement.
  4. Stretching: Stretching is an essential part of kinesiology, as it helps to increase flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and improve overall performance. Kinesiologists use various stretching techniques to target specific muscles and joints, such as dynamic stretching, static stretching, and PNF stretching. Stretching is also used to help prevent injury and improve recovery after an injury.
  5. Postural Correction: Poor posture can lead to a range of issues, including pain, reduced flexibility and decreased performance. Kinesiologists use various techniques to help their clients improve their posture, including manual therapy, exercises, and education on the importance of good posture.
  6. Ergonomic Assessments: Ergonomic assessments are used to help reduce the risk of injury and improve performance in the workplace. Kinesiologists assess the work environment and make recommendations to improve the ergonomics of the workspace, such as adjusting workstations, chairs, and keyboards to reduce the risk of injury.
  7. Exercise Prescription: Kinesiologists use exercise prescription to help their clients achieve specific goals, such as improving strength, flexibility, and balance. Exercise prescription involves selecting and prescribing specific exercises to target specific areas of the body, such as the hips, knees, or back, to improve function and reduce pain.
  8. Lifestyle Education: Kinesiology also involves educating clients on healthy lifestyle habits, such as proper nutrition, stress management, and sleep habits, as well as physical activity. By incorporating healthy lifestyle habits, clients can improve their overall health and well-being, reduce pain, and prevent injury.

In conclusion, kinesiology is a dynamic and ever-evolving field that incorporates a variety of techniques and methods to help clients improve their physical, mental, and emotional health. By using these techniques, kinesiologists can help their clients overcome physical challenges, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life.

References:

  1. American Kinesiology Association. (2021). What is Kinesiology? Retrieved fromhttps://www.americankinesiology.org/what-is-kinesiology
  2. National Academy of Sports Medicine. (2021). Kinesiology: Understanding the Science of Human Movement. Retrieved fromhttps://www.nasm.org/resources/career-resources/kinesiology
  3. International Kinesiology College. (2021). Techniques & Methods in Kinesiology. Retrieved fromhttps://www.kinesiologycollege.com/techniques-methods-kinesiology/
  4. (2021). Acupressure: What It Is, Benefits, and How to Do It. Retrieved fromhttps://www.healthline.com/health/acupressure
  5. Myofascial Release Therapy. (2021). What is Myofascial Release? Retrieved fromhttps://myofascialrelease.com/what-is-myofascial-release/
  6. American Council on Exercise. (2021). The Benefits of Stretching. Retrieved fromhttps://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/professional/expert-articles/5875/the-benefits-of-stretching
  7. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Posture: Why it’s important and how to improve it. Retrieved fromhttps://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/posture/art-20047952
  8. American Chiropractic Association. (2021). Ergonomics: The Study of Work. Retrieved fromhttps://www.acatoday.org/Patients/Health-Wellness-Information/Ergonomics
  9. American Physical Therapy Association. (2021). Exercise Prescription. Retrieved fromhttps://www.apta.org/PTinMotion/News/2021/5/18/ExercisePrescription/
  10. National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Lifestyle Changes to Improve Your Mental Health. Retrieved fromhttps://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/mental-health-and-lifestyle-changes/index.shtml

Kinesiology: The Fascinating Study of Muscle Testing and Body Function

Have you ever heard of the technique that can help discover possible underlying causes of health problems and imbalances in the body by testing the strength of your muscles? That is Kinesiology.

Kinesiology, also known as muscle testing, is a technique that uses the body’s muscle response to determine what is going on internally. It is based on the idea that the body has a subtle energy system that connects every part of it, and that this energy system can be influenced by imbalances or blockages in the body. By using manual muscle testing, a practitioner can assess the body’s energy flow and determine what may be connected to the cause of a particular issue.

One of the unique aspects of kinesiology is its interdisciplinary approach. It integrates principles from anatomy and physiology, chiropractic, acupuncture, and nutrition, spirituality, to name a few. This means that kinesiology can help to discover and treat a wide range of underlying causes of conditions, from structural problems to emotional and mental issues.

The muscle testing process is simple and straightforward. The practitioner will apply a light pressure to a muscle, usually in the arm, while the patient tries to resist. If the muscle is weak, it indicates that there is an imbalance or blockage in the body, which can then be addressed. For example, a weak muscle response in the arm might indicate a problem with the digestive system or an emotional blockage.

Kinesiology also involves evaluating the body’s response to various stimuli, such as foods, supplements, or pressure points. This helps the practitioner determine what may be contributing to the patient’s health problems. For example, if a patient has a weak muscle response to a particular food, it could indicate that they have an intolerance to it.

Another important aspect of kinesiology is its emphasis on holistic healing. Rather than simply treating symptoms, practitioners take a whole-body approach, considering both physical and emotional factors. This means that they look at the body as a whole, rather than just treating one specific area, which can lead to more effective and lasting results.

One of the benefits of kinesiology is that it can be used to treat the underlying causes of a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Structural imbalances and pain, such as back pain, neck pain, and headaches
  • Digestive problems, such as acid reflux, constipation, and food intolerances
  • Hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid problems and adrenal fatigue
  • Emotional and mental issues, such as stress and anxiety
  • Allergies and sensitivities
  • Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia

It is also important to note that applied kinesiology is a safe and non-invasive technique. There are no harmful side effects or risks associated with muscle testing. It is however important to note that the kinesiologist does not treat the symptom or disease itself, they seek to discover the underlying conflicts, and unresolved issues, trauma, injuries, or blockages within a person’s body, that may link to the physical, mental or emotional problem they have.

Kinesiology has been practiced for over 50 years and has a growing body of research supporting its efficacy. While it is not yet widely recognized by mainstream medicine, many practitioners and patients have seen significant improvement in their health and well-being through its use.

In conclusion, kinesiology is a fascinating and powerful technique that can help identify and address imbalances and blockages in the body. By using muscle testing and considering the body as a whole, practitioners can help patients achieve better health and well-being. If you are interested in learning more about this technique, it may be worth making an appointment with a practitioner to see if it can benefit you.

Author: Angela Sciberras

References:

  • Goldman, R. (2015). Muscle Testing and Function, 5th Edition. Philadelphia, PA: Lippinc

Are you Hydrated?

What would you say if I told you that dehydration is the underlying cause of many chronic diseases?

In his book “your body’s many cries for water”, Dr. Fereydoon Batmanghelidj, M.D. talks about how his research into the role of water in our body, and how dehydration can lead to many health complications.

There are two terms used for the roles of water in our body; “bound water”, which is water that is involved in chemical reactions, or activities for normal functioning; and “free water”, which is water the body requires for any new/extra functions; such as digestion, sweating, etc.

Do you feel tired without having done a good day’s work? Do you wake up first thing in the morning and don’t feel like getting out of bed? Feeling flushed and irritable? Anxious? Dejected? Depressed? Heavy head? Cravings? These are all signs of dehydration.

Dehydration can cause mineral deficiencies, amino acid deficiencies, and an acidic pH level.

Morning sickness in pregnancy is also a sign of dehydration. Increased water intake in early pregnancy can reduce morning sickness, fluid retention, and the infants grow much better in the intrauterine phase.

Cholesterol is also linked to dehydration. If you do not have sufficient “free water” for digestion, the gastro-intestinal tract will take water from the circulation, and the circulatory system will then replace that water with water from organs and tissue of the body; there is barely enough water to break down the food for absorption. More water is required to filter through the liver, and more is lost in the lungs via respiration. By the time your blood reaches the left side of your heart, it is so acidic that it burns the arteries, causing abrasions and tears. This is where cholesterol comes in; it covers the tears, in order to stop blood secreting through them, and allow it to heal.

Not only is it important to drink enough water daily, but it is also important to correct hydration issues within the body.

The body will dehydrate an area of the body for a number of reasons; to weaken nerve signals and make chronic pain easier to deal with, or to suppress a physical/emotional trauma that the mind/body cannot find a way to overcome. So, whilst you may drink enough water daily, it may not be absorbing into your body sufficiently.

This is where Kinesiology can be beneficial.

Not only will balancing hydration correct a large number of imbalances, it also balances over 90% of the major muscles in the body. Hydration balances allow us to gain access to the physical imbalance, and the emotional stress which the body is holding in these dehydrated areas. Correcting these imbalances will restore the body to optimum hydration levels, and can also alleviate physical symptoms and emotional stress.

The level of hydration during a correction will determine the depth of access the body is willing and able to give to any imbalances. Proper hydration is also important for processing any toxins that may be released during a balance.

True Wellness Comes From The Heart

True-Wellness-Comes-From-The-Heart

I’m sure by now you know about looking after your gut for wellness, and about keeping your mind in check. You’ve probably heard about the gut-brain connection – a lot.  You probably know that most of your hormones and neurotransmitters are produced in your gut.  There’s a lot that goes into great gut health. We all know about the many options to help us with our thinking patterns.

But what do you do when, despite eating all the right things, thinking all the right thoughts and drinking plenty of water, you just don’t FEEL better?  And why does this happen?

Did you know that you actually have 3 brains?

You have your cephalic brain, which we know as the brain.  This brain has up to 100 billion neurons, and controls all the things that we know about – thought, learning, cognitive ability, language, and so on.  Basically, the “I think” and “I understand” brain.

Then you have your enteric brain, which we know as the gut.  Your gut has about 100 million neurons.  It has a very obvious role in the processing of food, it houses our microbiome, and has a role in our survival and responding to challenges.  It’s also very important in our development of our core sense of self. This brain is about your “gut feelings” and “digesting information”.

Then you have your cardiac brain, or your heart.  This brain is your feeling centre – “I feel, My heart says”. This brain has only 40,000 neurons, yet this tiny little powerhouse literally controls your whole body.  Think about it, when your heart stops, that’s it.  In Chinese medicine, the heart is seen as the ruler, or the emperor, and the brain as the Prime Minister.  The Prime Minister can make good decisions, but doesn’t always.  But the Emperor knows what it wants.  It doesn’t have to think about the right response like the brain, it doesn’t have to digest the information like the gut, it just….knows. Think of it as your innate intelligence, or intuition.

Your feelings and those 40,000 neurons literally control what happens in your gut, and what happens in your mind.  How you think about things, how you perceive things is filtered through the lens of how you feel.  And your feelings affect how hormones and neurotransmitters function in your body.  Your gut might produce most of them, but your feelings are the ruler of how they work.

So with this in mind, when you are focusing on your wellness, it is really important to support your heart just as much as your gut and your brain.  Who can help you with wellness that supports your brain, gut and heart?

Kinesiology and mind body medicine therapies focus on the whole of you – mind body and soul – in one.  They delve into your thought processes, what you are putting into your body (or not) and also your feelings on different levels as well.  You have your conscious feelings which you’re aware of, your subconscious feelings which are your underlying patterns, and then your unconscious feelings which are the drivers of the patterns, which make you think and act the way that you do.

You can see from this that even within the 3 brains, there are many layers and patterns within each of them that make up what is uniquely you.  Your kinesiologist, while delving into these patterns and layers, taps into your body’s innate healing wisdom through the art of muscle monitoring combined with a series of tools such as acupressure, crystals, oils, sound, essences and more.  We then interpret what your body is telling us, and help you to connect with what is going on for you and why.

There is great healing ability in this, as when you have a conscious connection with the subconscious patterns and the unconscious drivers, then you have the ability to make huge change in your life.  You become aware of the actual issue for you, coming from your heart, and then you can see where and how that plays out in your life.  By meeting your actual needs, working through any layers of stress that have built up over the years, and changing your patterns, then you can add the layers of fuelling your body well and creating great mental health and have wellness on all levels.

An example of this is someone who has an underlying driver of being accepted.  When they don’t feel accepted, then they feel like they’re not good enough.  So they often will work really hard, people please, try to achieve a lot, and over time stress builds up more and more.  Then they get headaches, sore eyes, tiredness.  They reach for coffee, sugar, alcohol and all the things that people do for stress relief.  It helps in the immediate term.  Then they get angry, migraines, reflux, waking in the middle of the night.

Hopefully they realise at this point that things aren’t working for them.  They might change their diet, reduce stress levels a bit and work out some sort of lifestyle that keeps the symptoms at bay.  For a while.  And so the pattern repeats.  But they haven’t uncovered the core of this, which is about not feeling accepted, so they keep repeating the pattern of seeking acceptance.

When they uncover the driver of acceptance with the assistance of kinesiology, and actually work on accepting themselves, the stress patterns around It disappear, and their health and wellness on all levels improves.

In this pattern, you can see how the heart controls this situation, and how it affects the gut and the brain, as well as overall health.

Your heart really is your emperor!  It rules everything in your body.  True wellness is the innate balance of healthy feelings, healthy food and a healthy mind. If you are seeking true wellness, I would encourage you to seek out your local kinesiologist and work from the inside out to achieve balance on all levels of your being.