WE TRY...
BODY STRESS RELEASE
WORDS: MEL ALGAR ILLUSTRATION: TRINA DALZIEL
I have had intermittent pain in my back and right arm for several years, and usually go to an osteopath to keep both under control, but I was open to alternatives. Body stress release (BSR) is a new and particularly gentle technique devised in the 1980s in South Africa to bring relief from aches and pains, loss of mobility and fatigue caused by an overload of stress, whether the stress is mechanical, emotional, mental or chemical (from atmospheric pollutants). I arrived at Neal's Yard Therapy Rooms for my 25-minute session not really knowing what to expect from the treatment. My therapist, Peter van Minnen, explained the treatment as he went along. First he asked me to lie down, fully-clothed, on the treatment couch. He then located stress stored in my body by applying light pressure to various specific points, mainly on my back and neck, with his finger-tips, and observing my body's response: muscle reactions in my feet were used as a form of bio-feedback to indicate areas which needed treating. This process did seem mildly comical, because Peter had to move constantly (and quite swiftly) between my torso and feet in order to check my body's response to the stimuli!
He then applied light but definite pressure, again with his hands, in the directions necessary to encourage the body to release stored tension and heal itself. Next, Peter asked me to turn over and repeated the process on the front of my torso (just in the shoulder and stomach area). Apparently if stress has occurred over a period of time, more than one session may be needed to work through 'layers' of stress, but more minor issues may be sorted out in a session. The diagnostic system seems to work: Peter asked if I had problems with my neck (yes - a whiplash injury 12 years ago) and more surprisingly with my digestion. I replied that I was not aware of any digestive problems, but it set me thinking and I realised later that I have been suffering from mild but irritating bloating recently.
There was no major discomfort involved in the treatment, which makes it ideal for anyone seeking relief from severe and constant pain. After the treatment, I did not notice any major changes, but then I had no serious problems with pain at the time. However, as I left Neal's Yard I did feel very energised and positive about life (although it's always possible that this was due to finding myself with a bit of time to spare with all the shops in Covent Garden waiting for me!).
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
What is body stress release?
A gentle method of relieving (mainly muscular) stress in the body
What is it good for?
People whose mental and/or physical stress levels are causing physical discomfort or pain.
How long does a session last?
Your body will be soothed and de-stressed in half an hour.
How much does it cost?
Around £30-£35.
How can I find out more?
Peter van Minnen and Chris Balham offer BSR at Neal's Yard Remedies Therapy Rooms in London: 020 7379 7662.
If you live in Edinburgh, try Kerry Teakle at Medicalternative on 0131 225 5656 or see www.medicalternative.com.
To locate a practitioner in your area go to www.bodystressrelease-uk.co.uk.
