Learn More About The Art of Bodywork®
What is Art of Bodywork®?
Art of Bodywork®, or AoB, is based on osteopathic principles. One principle being “Structure Governs Function.” One must work out how to change the structure to help improve the function. Another principle that seems in opposition, but is in fact complimentary, is “Function Governs Structure.” We see this is when overuse of a joint or muscle affects its performance, or poor posture affecting physiology.
Through Assessment, Correction and Confirmation (re-assessment), Art of Bodywork® addresses functional and structural problems through a series of gentle, soft tissue procedures designed to assist non-responsive muscular-skeletal problems. It can also assist with digestive and breathing issues. Overall pain reduction and improved functionality of the body are common wins for AoB.
Where did Art of Bodywork Come From?
Alastair McLoughlin, from the UK, developed this approach to bodywork over the course of 40+ years as a bodywork therapist. AoB is his original work. It is not borrowed or copied from other instructors or authors. This work emerged from his deep desire and need to ‘problem solve’, to ‘work out’ non-responding issues.
He firmly believes that experimentation or adaption of skills learned or ‘thinking outside the box’ should be encouraged by all bodywork instructors. Not having to stick to a “by the book” mentality allows the therapist to explore, gain new levels of awareness, and expand their potential as effective therapists, because then we have the freedom to perform variations in application to the individual needs of each client.
Really then, in this writer’s humble opinion, Art of Bodywork® is a concept rather than a ‘technique.’ For example, one AoB ‘technique’ is a move on the pubic symphysis found to affect issues of pre-menstrual, ovarian, and testicular pain. But, in some cases it has been known to relieve unresolved hip pain.
“He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist.”
St. Francis of Assisi
Art of Bodywork is also a guide for you. It is a demonstration of how to develop your own style and to help you begin to ‘think out of the box’ and problem-solve for yourself.
Alastair McLoughlin
What Can Art of Bodywork® Help With?
Upper Body
- Acromio-clavicular joint
- Pisiform
- Atlas
- Respiration
- Breast Health
- Scoliosis
- Head Extension
- Shoulder Abduction
- Thoracic Vertebrae
Lower Body
- Ankle Releases
- Quadratus Lumborum
- Foot Pronation
- Reproductive Organs
- Iliotibial Band
- Rotated Ilium
- Lumbar Discs
- Thigh Adductors
- Piriformis
- Gastric, Intestinal and Bowel Disorders
Contact Us About The Art of Bodywork®
We Are Eager To Answer Any Questions You May Have
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