I professed my love for massage last week. In so doing, it reminded me how important massage has been for me for more than 30 years.
Let’s go back in time where I had a fun but physically rough youth… an untold number of bumps and bruises and pulled muscles… a few strains and sprains and lots of broken bones. (I was about 11 when the receptionist at the Orthopedic Clinic said when I walked in with yet another injury, "you really do love us, don't you!") I began regular chiropractic visits in my teenage days and I was given the wise advice to never let anyone crack your bones — with the explanation that you can’t put them back again. That made sense to me. So, all the chiropractors I have ever seen have used the Activator Method. I am not a physician. I am not a chiropractor. I only know what has worked for me in my life.
Chiropractic kept me ticking along for at least a decade. Eventually, I had to add in regular massages. In fact, for a little while, it was not uncommon for me to have 2 (yes, two!) massages in a week, regularly — between chiropractic appointments! It’s fair to say I had a lot of physical discomfort.
Then, I got to the point in my life where massage and chiropractic weren’t cutting it any longer. When I could no longer role over in bed at night, I knew something had to change. That’s when I found Rolfing. (All these years later, I don’t even know how I learned about it, but I sure am glad I did. Life changing stuff.) Next to homeopathy, Rolfing is probably the most important thing I have done for my health.
Rolfing, is structural re-alignment. From the Rolfing institute: “Rolfing Structural Integration is a form of bodywork that reorganizes the connective tissues, called fascia*, that permeate the entire body” (Rolf.org 2019). Back to my words — Rolfing puts you back where you used to be… and where you're supposed to be. (If you suffer from physical problems, I highly recommend logging onto Rolf.org and find a certified professional rolfer and give it a go.)
Rolfing is not a massage. The intention is not relaxation, it’s re-alignment. Rolfing at times can be quite uncomfortable, actually. However, I did have a Rolfing instructor once tell me that if the Rolfing hurts too much, the practitioner is too deep and they need to back out a couple of layers. As with everything in life, communication is key.
How does homeopathy fit into this article?
Whether you are utilizing chiropractic or Rolfing, homeopathic Ruta graveleons can help your body hold the adjustment that has been made. Ruta is a small remedy, meaning it is not a wide-reaching remedy. It's focus is mainly on connective tissue.
Injuries. Fibromyalgia. Dislocations. Carpal tunnel syndrome. Sprains. Strains. Tendon injuries. Bursitis. Tendonitis. These are all examples of where Ruta shines.
Another unexpected area for Ruta to be useful (but if you think about it, it makes total sense) is in the eyes — particularly pain following eyestrain or overexertion. Too much reading, too much studying.
Ruta has an affinity for fibrous tissues and cartilage. When Ruta is indicated, there will most likely be horrible stiffness in the muscles and tendons. The person is worse for overexertion and cold and feels better with warmth and motion.
Life really is too short to be in physical pain. Massage. Chiropractic. Rolfing. Homeopathy. Incorporating these things in your life can help you get un-stuck, feel good and move forward with your life.
Julia Coyte, CHom
Classically Practical homeopath
#wellnessawaits
* “Fascia is a layer of fibrous tissue. A fascia is a structure of connective tissue that surrounds muscles, groups of muscles, blood vessels and nerves, binding some structures together, while permitting others to slide smoothly over each other” (Physiopedia).