As a licensed massage therapist, yoga instructor, and wellness practitioner with a Japanese background, I am excited to offer a transformative self-care workshop that combines elements of Eastern and Western wellness practices. This workshop aims to provide participants with practical, easy-to-follow tools to address muscle tension and overall well-being through mindful movement, foam rolling, and acupressure techniques.
This workshop is designed for individuals of all fitness levels who are looking for simple, effective tools to improve their physical well-being. Whether participants are experiencing muscle tightness, soreness, or want to create a sustainable self-care routine, this session will offer valuable insights and hands-on techniques to help alleviate discomfort and maintain overall health.
Objectives:
-
To introduce Shiatsu Makko Ho exercises and movement as an essential component of daily self-care.
-
To teach participants the basics of foam rolling and its application for the whole body, with a focus on areas that tend to accumulate tension.
-
To equip attendees with self-care tools that can be easily incorporated into their daily routine.
-
To offer practical solutions for addressing pain and discomfort in commonly tight areas of the body.
-
To empower participants with agency of their own health, knowing that everything they need is already within them. And, to trust their intuition.
Workshop Flow & Content:
- Introduction
- Shiatsu Makko Ho Exercises;
Introduction to Shiatsu Makko Ho
- Examples of exercises: Gentle twists, stretches, and deep breathing techniques that open meridians and improve energy flow.
Floor poses, Zen meridian stretches
- Foam Rolling for Full Body Care;
- Guided Practice: Allow participants time to practice the techniques on themselves, encouraging adjustments to fit their body’s needs.
- Techniques for Specific Areas of Pain: Teach targeted foam rolling techniques for participants with specific areas of discomfort (e.g., tight IT bands, sore shoulders, adductors for low back tension). Modifications based on individual needs and comfort levels.
- Addressing Acute Issues with Simple Tools;
- Acupressure points & Self-Massage Tools
- Creating a Sustainable Self-Care Routine
- Wrap-Up Discussion: Share strategies on how participants can integrate the practices learned into their daily life. KISS – Keep It Short Simple!
- Bring a notebook to write down your new routine.
Q&A and Troubleshooting: Open the floor to questions on how to address specific self-care needs or pain points.
Takeaways:
- A customized self-care routine that participants can easily integrate into their day-to-day life.
- Practical, simple tools to address and relieve acute (non emergency) issues such as headaches, back tension, and tight muscles.
- An understanding of the benefits of mindful movement, foam rolling, and acupressure to maintain physical health.
Materials Provided:
- Tennis balls, mats/pillows
- Access to recommended self-care tools
Materials Necessary:
- Foam Roller. If you do not bring one, you will not be able to participate in the foam rolling section of the workshop.
- Notebook
- Closed top drinking container
East/West Self Care is more than just a self-care workshop; it’s an opportunity for individuals to connect with their bodies, hone intuition, learn ways to reduce pain, and establish lasting habits that promote health and wellness. I look forward to guiding participants on a journey to better physical health through accessible, culturally rich, and effective practices.