Belonging Matters Newsletter

From the Director: Awesome Autumn

As Autumn begins to paint our world with its distinct hues and cool temperatures, it’s easy to feel 2024 beginning to wind down.

September’s big moment is the autumnal equinox, when the sun lines up perfectly with the celestial equator, making day and night the same length. It’s a cool reminder of balance, showing us how light and dark can coexist.

This equinox is a nudge to find harmony in our lives in a world that often feels like it’s spinning out of control. It’s all about seeking balance in our relationships, work, and well-being, helping us handle life’s ups and downs with a bit more grace.

How are you creating balance today?

This month, we share the Exercise Rehabilitation Videos from Ben Benjamin, Ph.D. We are sure you will find the videos valuable resources for your own wellness and for supporting others’ wellness goals.

Click or tap on image to view the video library

Unfamiliar with Dr. Benjamin? The following information comes directly from the Benjamin Institute home page:

Ben Benjamin, PhD, has been practicing massage since 1963 and has been nationally recognized for his contributions to massage therapy – receiving the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) President’s Award in 2000 and being inducted into the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame by the World Massage Festival in 2010.

He was the Founder and President of the Muscular Therapy Institute in Cambridge, Massachusetts, which began in 1974. Shortly after the Muscular Therapy Institute opened.

Dr. Benjamin enhanced his practice by studying under Dr. James Cyriax, widely known for his pioneering work in orthopedic medicine. He has also integrated Aaron Mattes’ Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) techniques into his therapy.

With a passion for helping individuals cope with and overcome pain, Dr. Benjamin has been lecturing internationally for more than 35 years and has written countless articles in publications such as Massage Therapy Journal and Massage and Bodywork magazine.

Dr. Benjamin is also the author of several works referenced by educators and students in the field, such as Listen to Your Pain, Are You Tense?, Exercise Without Injury, and co-author of The Ethics of Touch and Conversation Transformation.

The thoracic spine, which runs from the base of the neck to the middle of the back, is pivotal for maintaining good posture and overall spinal stability. It houses and protects vital organs and is affected by many upper body muscles, including the lats, pecs, and abdominals. The T-spine also bridges the gap between the upper and lower body, playing a critical part in every movement a person makes.

As massage therapists, the upper thoracic spine is vital for maintaining posture and handling the physical demands of our work. It is capable of several movements:

• Flexion (bending forward)
• Extension (bending backward)
• Rotation (twisting)
• Lateral flexion (bending sideways)

However, long periods of sitting, tight muscles, and poor posture often restrict these movements. For massage therapists, regular strain and poor posture can lead to discomfort and potential long-term issues.

Simple Strategies for Supporting Upper Thoracic Spine Health:

Practice Self-Massage and Stretching: Regularly use self-massage techniques and stretches to relieve tension in your upper back. Techniques like foam rolling and gentle thoracic extensions can be very effective.

Maintain Good Posture: Pay attention to your posture throughout the day. Keep your shoulders relaxed and aligned with your spine, and adjust your workstation to promote ergonomic practices.

Incorporate Movement Breaks: During long sessions, take breaks to stretch and move around. Simple exercises, such as shoulder blade squeezes, gentle twists, and yoga cat-cows, can prevent stiffness and keep you limber.

Strengthen Your Core: A strong core helps support your upper back and reduces strain. Include core-strengthening exercises, like planks and bird-dogs, in your fitness routine.

Stay Hydrated and Rested: Proper hydration and rest are key to muscle recovery and overall spinal health. Make sure you’re drinking enough water and getting adequate sleep.

Prioritize Being Massaged: Massage can counteract the physical strain from long hours of standing and working in various positions. It can help correct postural imbalances, improve the range of motion in the thoracic spine, accelerate recovery, and restore muscle and spine balance. Regular massages also reinforce the importance of self-care.

Seek Professional Help When Needed: If you experience persistent discomfort, don’t hesitate to consult with a physical therapist or chiropractor for a thorough assessment and targeted treatment.

MJ Cobb she/her/hers KCHA staff writer and editor

Taking proactive steps to care for your upper thoracic spine enhances your well-being and maintains the energy and strength needed to provide exceptional care for your clients.

Myofascial Components of Head, Neck, & Shoulder Pain Class: October 12-13

Have fun while earning CEUs and exploring deep tissue structures of the upper body that are often the root of most client pain.

Join  KCHA as we host Pete Whitridge, BA, LMT. Founder and Past President of the Alliance For Massage, Pete has dedicated his career to helping establish high standards in massage therapy education and teaches throughout the U.S.

This two-day class offers a multi-disciplinary approach, including orthopedic assessments, fascial stretching, and myofascial techniques.  During this training, you will enhance your skills, deepen your anatomical knowledge, learn techniques to alleviate chronic pain, and collaborate with clients. Take the first step toward renewing confidence in your ability to promote pain-free movement by registering via email today!

Be sure to check out our updated calendar, which includes public events hosted by KCHA, including opportunities to participate in Yoga for Massage Therapists, CranialSacral Wisdom Classes, Post Natal “Closing of the Bones” Workshop, The Art of Marma Therapy: Ayurvedic Acupressure, and more!

Following the autumnal equinox’s example, welcome the reminders to tend to the structures that allow balance and freedom to be fully present.

Today, may I welcome…Balance, harmony, objectivity, peace, release

Autumn is the perfect time to think about gift ideas that promote health and wellness. A massage at Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts Student Massage Clinic is a perfect gift to give or receive. As students near the end of their training and are ready to provide sessions for the public, these sessions are relaxing, and the price can’t be beat!

Gift certificates are available, as are monthly specials. Check the booking site for more details.