A simple approach to finding a neutral pelvis is to experiment with the anterior and posterior tilting of the pelvis in relationship to the bony landmarks to find the place in the centre.

These landmarks are incredibly useful in bringing awareness to a vital and yet vulnerable part of the body that we often ignore. Even though we spend so much time sitting on our bum, what we do with our pelvis and pelvic floor are often only brought to our attention when we are experiencing pain or discomfort.

From the bony landmarks, we can begin to explore the intrinsic movement of breath within the inner body, in particular the relationship between the ribcage and the pelvis.

Our respiratory diaphragm sits just beneath the ribs. The heart and lungs rest above the respiratory diaphragm, and our internal organs are below this diaphragm. On the other hand (end), the pelvic floor (also a diaphragm) supports the weight of our internal organs, in addition to sexual and elimination functions.

The respiratory diaphragm and the pelvic diaphragm is actually one continuous integrated “being” that modulates our life force! Their ability to move in resonance with each other is important in the healthy and intricate functioning of all our biological processes, such as oxygenation, circulation, motility of organs, digestive and reproductive processes etc.

Creating an embodied awareness on the symbiotic relationship of the intrinsic rhythm of our breath pulsating through the different diaphragms will not only create optimal alignment and ease in the way we move, sit, stand, walk, but also help regulate our nervous system, return us back to health, and cultivate a sense of grounding and safety.

The post The neutral pelvis as an embodiment PROCESS, rather than just a shape or a form appeared first on Somatic Therapy Asia.

In this final workshop on head tension, we continue to expand on new movement explorations that target the vestibular system, engaging in movements that involve the 3 dimensional planes of the body (front/back, top/bottom, left/right). We will explore different positions of the body in relation to the gravity and space, and play with dynamic balance. In doing so, we delocalise head tension away from the area of our eyes and regulate our nervous system through connecting with our proprioceptive feedback.

Props required:
– 1 yoga mat
– 1 blanket
– 1 yoga block (or book)
– 1 strap (or scarf/belt)

(Note: Due to some technical mishaps, there would be a short pause in the video)

The post Head Tension Workshop 3/3 appeared first on Somatic Therapy Asia.

In this second out of three workshops on head tension, we engage in a series of movement explorations that target the vestibular system. Being able to land and locate through our vestibular feedback helps to regulate our nervous system and thus bring relief to head tension. We learn to delocalise intense sensations by paying attention to the nuances through interoception and safety – tuning into fluids, body rhythm and non-linear movement to facilitate curiosity and a sense of play. We continue to also explore the jaw and eyes to release tension of the cranial sutures.  

Props required:
– 1 yoga mat
– 1 blanket
– 1 yoga block (or book)
– 1 strap (or scarf/belt)
– 1 pair of socks (or 1 soft, squishy-like ball)

The post Head Tension Workshop 2/3 appeared first on Somatic Therapy Asia.

Introducing a new theme for somatic exploration – head tension. In this first out of three workshops, I touch on how the head does not exist in isolation but rather, shares connections through multiple systems in the body. One area we will explore is the skeletal system, i.e the head’s connection with the pelvic diaphragm through the jaw, spine, pelvis, legs and feet. From an energetic point of view, when we experience head tension, there can be an excess of energy concentrated at the cognitive level (we are literally very much “in our head”). Through a series of exercises, we ease tension by sensing into the relationship between our head and the base of our spine, all the way to the feet – bringing the energy back to earth. We also delve deeper into the relationship between the cranium and the pelvis. 

Props required:
– 1 yoga mat
– 1 firm cushion
– 1 yoga block

The post Head Tension Workshop 1/3 appeared first on Somatic Therapy Asia.