Ara {In my body}: Spring Edition

Greetings,

When it comes to understanding the human body, the most efficient way is to look to none other than nature and the cycles. Currently we are experiencing Spring. I don't know about you but I am so happy for warmer days. My Trini blood is coming alive. So here we are, the purpose of this blog offering is to share some information and recommendations with you of some observations that I have made over the past 5 years working with many bodies as a massage therapist.

My work is based on the 5 element theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The element that is associated with Spring is the wood element. This energy manifests up and out like seedlings pushing upward from underground. It symbolizes beginnings of new cycles of growth, new projects/ideas and creative innovation. You may ask, what does this have to do with my body. Well, the wood element is associated with the energy of the liver and gallbladder. These systems are responsible for joints, ligaments, eyes and nails. The liver also stores the blood.

In looking at our bodies the goal is to bring balance to each system in maintaining homeostasis and equilibrium. Imbalance in the wood element may show up as anger/explosiveness, irritability/frustration. middle back tightness, sciatica, pain on sides/legs and top of shoulders.

My general recommendations for most of these imbalances are a consistent routine of stretching, strengthening along with a massage which focuses on opening your hips, legs, feet, upper and mid back. I believe that being in our bodies is a journey and we are consistently having to figure out what works best for us individually. I like to call it finding your body regimen. This journey requires lots of patience, consistency and endurance. My purpose is to guide you on this journey. I have dedicated this work to initiating and facilitating real solutions to the best of my ability that will create real change for now and the future. Please visit my website to schedule your consultation or book a massage. Also feel free to shoot me an email with any questions that you may have for me. rahsanctuary@gmail.com

Rahqui K Harper, LMT NYC

Pronouns: they/them