Instructor: Brian Utting, LMT; NCBTMB #451040-09
Bindegewebsmassage, or Connective Tissue Massage (CTM), is a precise and elegant way to work with the body's dermatomes and autonomic reflexes to induce corresponding autonomic changes in specific organs. The technique was developed in Germany by Elizabeth Dicke, and is widely practiced in Europe, although it is less known in the United States. Bindegewebsmassage is quite powerful, although it can appear subtle at first.
Starting with the sacrum, specific cutaneous zones are stroked with a dragging pressure in a precise and orchestrated way that can "trick" the body into responding as if specific organs or organ systems are being massaged. In response, the target organ vasodilates and its smooth muscles tissue relaxes. Bindegewebsmassage is quite effective for treating menstrual cramps, eliminating or reducing symptoms over 90% of the time. It can also be helpful with reducing the symptoms of migraines, asthma, and intestinal cramping. In addition, CTM can subtly affect the fascial layers (especially adhesions in the subcutaneous layer), increasing range of motion and flexibility, and reducing pain or tingling from tightened tissue. Bindegewebsmassage typically has a calming effect, and can be used for general parasympathetic relaxation as well.
A handful of clinical trials have shown CTM-style manipulation has beneficial effects in pain reduction, reduced depression, improved quality-of-life, and moderate short-term increases of beta-endorphins (pain-relieving neuro-transmitters). These trials add to anecdotal observations from clinicians that CTM often causes "virtually immediate relief in visceral or myofascial pain as well as general relaxation" (Prendergast & Rommer, 2013).
In this class, you will learn the "basic build-up", which primarily focuses on the sacral and pelvic areas and their corresponding target organs, and the "first followup", which focuses on the lower back and rib cage.
For more indepth detail about Bindegewebsmassage, please read this article written by Brian Utting for the Massage New Zealand Conference by clicking HERE.
"That the viscero-cutaneous reflex interconnection is reversible, that is to say, that it not only leads from the internal organs to the skin, but vice versa, is a long-established fact. One of the most elegant and fundamental systems, which conforms almost flawlessly to the workings of the segmental reflexes, is connective tissue massage as prescribed by Dicke." - Hans Schliack, MD (prominent German neurologist).
Reviewers Discount: If you have taken this class previously through the Therapeutic Training Center, you may review it at a $54 discount on tuition. The reviewer's price for this class is $126 (reg. $180). If you are eligible for the reviewer's discount, please call 206.853.6875 to register or register by mail as the website only offers classes at the regular price.
Teacher Masking Policy For This Class: This is a hybrid version of our new masking policy, there are different masking requirements for the lecture and non-lecture portions of class.
What to Bring: Set of sheets and 2 pillows; wear loose clothing; a surgical mask, N95 respirator or KN95 respirator. Please leave everything not needed for class in your vehicle or at home. Use a large tote bag or suitcase to contain your "what to bring items".
Travel Recommendation: If you are traveling by plane, train or long-distance bus to attend class, please click HERE to read our recommendations for traveling and attending class.
Class Date: September 22, 2024
Class Time: Sunday 10:00am - 7:00 pm
Location: Seattle Location 2 -- Staybridge Suites (please click on the link for location details)
Cost: $180
Cost/Hour: $22.50/hr
CE Hours: 8
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