Somatic Experiencing
All of our life experiences are held within the body. We cognitively remember only a fraction of these experiences, but our bodies are very good at remembering. Events that happened too fast, or were too much to handle, will influence our nervous system directly, until adequate support is provided to help the body return to a felt sense of safety. Kristen has completed the three year Somatic Experiencing program, which is based on Peter Levine’s clinical application of polyvagal theory. Somatic Experiencing fosters a body centered reorganization around traumatic circumstances. This reorganization ultimately cultivates embodied resilience, so that our bodies can move through the world with greater capacity for joy and connection.
Visceral Manipulation
Organs are perhaps the most underestimated allies in our bodies. Each organ has its own individual functions, but also works in interconnection with the rest of the body, as well as with the environment. In this very moment, sensory information is being collected by our organs and traveling to our brain by route of the vagus nerve. This dialogue is essential for our wellbeing. Kristen’s training through the Barral Institute (levels I, II & III) brings a quality of precision to her work with the viscera and their surrounding structures. Each organ also can hold some of our deepest emotions and relationship to self. When our organs are supported to find their inherent rhythm, our body is provided space for integration.
Myofasical Release
The fascia is a network akin to mycelium. This layer of connective tissue lies just underneath our skin and weaves through all of our body, holding our organs, vessels, and muscles in place. It also holds the repetitive patterns of our postures and movements. Fascia does not require deep pressure — it requires skilled hands with a firm and steady presence. Kristen’s training through the Institute of Physical Arts has helped to develop discernment in her evaluative process to determine where in the body fascial restrictions may be contributing to imbalances.
CranioSacral Therapies
Our bodies are made of approximately 60% water. When our fluid systems are not in coherence, it can be challenging to meet life with a sense of flow and fluidity. Craniosacral therapy is a gentle touch modality that involves evaluating the fluids in and around the central nervous system, as well as subtle manipulation of the bones of the cranium, spine and pelvis. Kristen has training through the Upledger Institute (levels I & II), as well as training in the Biodynamic method. Both methodologies have a profound impact on nervous system regulation.
