I just got back from my week-long training with Eric Dalton in Costa Rica, and all I can say is wow! I am so glad I got the chance to study with this genius. I already utilized joint mobilization as a tool in my treatment room. Now I know that I was only playing with it. After his class, I see so many more applications, and my effectiveness has already shown marked improvement. Expanding my knowledge base has once again helped me to fine-tune my skills.
It might seem counterintuitive to say that broadening your scope brings you into focus, but that's exactly what can happen. I can also state from professional experience that fine-tuning is an ongoing process. A base understanding of anatomy and physiology mixed with Kinesiology can leave you lost in a world of possibilities. Now add mentoring and solid training, and you can focus all that knowledge on purpose. However, purpose without intent can still leave you out there fumbling around. That intent comes with personal fine-tuning.
I remember coming home from my first week of studying with Dr. Rosita Arvigo and the Healers Foundation members in Belize. Some of you may recognize Dr. Rosita, who brought the Mayan Abdominal Massage technique to our profession. That week, however, they taught me the difference between processing and learning, a modality and an ally; curing and healing. She and the healers taught me the authentic fine-tuning process by being still, being open, being observant, and being responsive. It takes longer to bring it all together, but once you do - the knowledge is not only in your head but also in your heart and hands. And that, my friends, is the definition of an artist over a worker or even artisans.
It is no secret to anyone who knows me how much I love nature and especially stones. Before my trip to Belize, I already used stones in my massage as a modality to deliver gentle heat. After Belize, I saw them for the allies that they can be. Clients are drawn to them, comforted by them, engaged by them. Clients will even suggest their use in a situation, "Do you think a hot stone would help?" My answer is always absolutely. The stone may only go in their hand or on their sternum, but stones will be used. When clients are involved and given a sense of control, they are no longer passive observers; we are a team. That's the kind of client I want to work with.
The final lesson I learned in my journey of personal fine-tuning is to share. That is why I am so passionate about teaching my clients and fellow professionals. On June 19th, at The Las Vegas Spa Show, I will be presenting two classes that are all about sharing successful strategies that I have utilized in fine-tuning my practice.
In Touch With Nature: Bring the outside in - Inspiration from nature in treatments (herbs, bamboo sticks, stones)
Sport Express Services: Fine-tuning your menu and services for lifelong active adults.
Live well, do good work, and write often.