What is Amatsu Bodywork?
Amatsu is a Japanese body movement orientated therapy. It activates natural healing capabilities by restoring movement potentials and removes restrictions that may misalign the body away from its inherent symmetry.
As a therapy, Amatsu is relatively new being only available in the West since 1995. However, it is based on principles that stretch back 2000-2500 years. In its modern form, Amatsu combines both the old and new, incorporating traditional Oriental methods as well as contemporary Western research.
This approach to bodywork is generally classified into 4 main areas: Anma, Seitai, Shindenjutsu and Kenkujutsu.
Anma means “push/pull” in Japanese and it involves techniques of massage and soft tissue manipulation.
Seitai means “true body” and centers upon structural alignment, particularly the interplay between the head, pelvis and feet.
Shindenjutsu – balances the viscera and ligaments.
Kenkujutsu refers to the head & spine and is the Amatsu approach to cranial balancing.
These four applications are combined to form the basis of an Amatsu therapy session, generally referred to as a balance. Each balance session begins with assessment that can include observation, discussion, palpation, orthopedic and kinesiological muscle tests. Afterwards, a post-assessment is performed to establish what changes have occurred. Consistent evaluations of the client will indicate patterns of dysfunction as well as the quality of their response.
The therapy itself is a blend of massage, gentle movement, re-patterning and energy techniques. Amatsu is low impact and non invasive, making it a very safe approach. Most of the work can be achieved with the client clothed, thus largely eliminating any concerns a client may have about disrobing. (It is recommended however, that non- restrictive attire be worn.)
The experience of an Amatsu balance will vary according to the individual. Some may notice an immediate change while other may take a few days. The session may seem invigorating or deeply relaxing depending on the person. The most frequently reported sensations are a feeling of “lightness”, increased fluidity/quality of movement and a sense of integration and wholeness following the resolution of old strain patterns. As with other body-centered therapies, it is advised to drink plenty of fresh water after a session to aid detoxification.
Some of the benefits of Amatsu balancing include:
- Stimulating the body to remove toxins
- Improved circulation
- Body alignment
- Increased body awareness & co-ordination
- Skeletal stability
- Balances cranial-sacral system
- Pain reduction
The number of sessions is tailored to the client’s requirements though; one does not need to have a specific condition to benefit from an Amatsu balance.
About Your Practitioner (Andrew Davies)
I attained Practitioner Level certification in Amatsu in 2003. Following this, I ran my own clinic before relocating to the US in 2005. My training was received at Life Skills Centre in Doncaster, England, one of the three nationally accredited programs in the UK.
After relocating to the US in November 2005, I enrolled in the Full Time Massage Therapy program at The Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy to allow me to practice Amatsu in the US. I graduated with honors in August 2006.
I am nationally certified National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Body Work (NCBTMB). I am a licensed massage therapist in Connecticut.
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You may also contact Andrew at Andrew@enerheal.com