Bodywork is a broad term for many different types of therapeutic contact, including Massage, Acupressure, Rolfing, Shiatsu, Feldenkrais, Trager, Craniosacral Therapy, Reflexology, Reiki, and many more. There are nearly 300 methods of massage and bodywork, according to Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals, a membership organization for massage therapists and body workers.
The bodywork includes ancient healing techniques such as Shiatsu and Thai massage, along with modern methods often named after their creator: Rolfing’s structural integration, the Feldenkrais method, and the Trager approach.
Body work ranges from very gentle energy work where the therapist uses light or even does not touch, as in Reiki, to sometimes uncomfortable modalities such as Rolfing structural integration. In classic Rolfing, a series of 10 treatments uses physical manipulation of the fascia to release old retention patterns and misalignments that are responsible for much of the chronic pain and discomfort. Other methods of bodywork are intended to re-educate the body’s movement patterns to function better.
Most types of bodywork share similar goals, such as pain relief, improved physical function, more freedom of movement, a balanced mind, and an increased sense of body awareness, vitality, and well-being. They also emphasize active participation in health and wellness.
The difference between body work and massage
To practice massage therapy, most states require individuals to be a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT). This includes Swedish massage and its various forms, such as deep tissue massage, medical massage, sports massage, aromatherapy massage, hot stone massage, prenatal or pregnancy massage, and even chair massage.
Some bodywork modalities, such as the Feldenkrais Method and the Alexander Technique, have a completely different but extensive training program that does not require a massage therapy license. The Barbara Brennan School of Healing offers a four-year program in energy work culminating in a Bachelor of Science in Florida.
On the other hand, anyone can become a Reiki master in a short period of time. Symbols and hand positions are easy to learn, and the ability to perform the treatment is passed on through “attunement” from another Reiki master. In most states, people must have a license to be able to lay their hands on someone, so the Reiki master could also be an LMT.
There are also different levels of training for various modalities. Someone who practices Thai massage may have learned to practice it in their homeland, learn it on a few weekends, or spend months studying abroad with a teacher. A person doing body work may or may not be an LMT. If someone calls themselves a bodybuilder, ask pertinent questions, such as what type of training they have received, in what modality, and what to expect during treatment. Formal training, years of experience, and natural gifts are important in choosing a massage therapist or bodybuilder.
Getting a personal recommendation is probably the best way to go.
Why get bodywork?
Many people turn to regular massages and body work due to chronic pain. It can take a variety of professional and bodywork methods to create lasting change. A professional or method can lead clients to a certain point, and then it’s time to test someone or something else. In many ways, it is each person’s path of healing, and he or she has to lead it individually.
Many people find that it can take years, even a lifetime of regular care, to fully achieve and maintain the benefits of massage and bodywork. Getting a massage at a resort once or twice a year can be relaxing, but it won’t undo chronic pain or keep muscle tissue flexible and responsive.
