By Dr Vikas & Robin Sharma, Manual Medicine Practitioners and Visiting Masters at AyurMa
Our treatment protocol works on the principle that the body has a capacity to self-heal and self-regulate. We use modern, holistic and integrated approaches of manual medicine to help promote this capacity. Our approaches are both physical and emotional. Hands-on techniques include chiropractic work, osteopathy, craniosacral therapy, visceral osteopathy, cranial osteopathy, the fascial distortion model, the Kochi method, dry needling, physiotherapy, cupping, soft tissue and fascia manipulation, stretching and rehab exercises. Health also involves emotional and mental wellbeing, so we also work with the mind and soul. Emotional liberation breathing is one technique we use as part of our offerings from this perspective.
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free approach to healing, which can be appealing to those seeking natural health care options. Some individuals seek chiropractic care as part of a preventative wellness strategy to help maintain their overall health and wellbeing. Chiropractic work offers several potential benefits, including:
Pain relief: Chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate pain in the back, neck and joints that is often associated with conditions like lower back pain, headaches, sciatica, and slipped discs.
Improved mobility: Chiropractic adjustments can enhance joint mobility and flexibility, potentially improving range of motion throughout the body.
Enhanced function: Some recipients report improved function in daily activities, such as better posture and reduced muscle tension.
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a holistic healing approach that focuses on the craniosacral system, which includes the brain, spinal cord and cerebrospinal fluid. Potential benefits of CST include:
Pain relief: CST is often used to alleviate chronic pain, such as headaches, migraines, and back pain.
Stress reduction: It can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which may have positive effects on mental wellbeing.
Improved sleep: Many clients report better sleep quality after CST sessions.
Enhanced mobility: CST may improve joint mobility and reduce muscle tension.
Emotional release: Some individuals experience emotional release during or after CST sessions, which can be therapeutic.
Better overall health: CST is believed to enhance the body’s self-healing mechanisms, potentially boosting overall health and wellbeing.
Visceral osteopathic treatment is a form of osteopathy that focuses on the internal organs. It offers several potential benefits, although its effectiveness may vary from person to person. Some benefits include:
Improved organ function: Visceral osteopathy aims to enhance the mobility and function of internal organs, potentially alleviating issues such as digestive problems or organ-related pain
Pain relief: It may help reduce pain and discomfort associated with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux or pelvic pain.
The fascial distortion model and Shiatsu Kochi method are very effective treatments for releasing fascia. Fascia is one of the most important sense organs of the body, covering the entire musculoskeletal system and all visceral organs. Releasing fascia helps to improve flexibility and range of motion, which ultimately results in better mobility and circulation, and therefore overall health.
Rehabilitation exercises will help a client maintain permanent or, at a minimum, long-lasting results. They can be key to enduring health.
For emotional and mental wellbeing, emotional liberation breathing (ELB), also known as conscious or deep breathing, is a highly effective treatment. Benefits may include:
Stress reduction: Deep breathing activates the body’s relaxation response, reducing stress levels and promoting a sense of calm.
Anxiety management: ELB can help manage anxiety by slowing down racing thoughts and promoting a sense of control over emotions.
Improved mood: Deep breathing stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters, which can enhance your overall emotional state.
Enhanced focus: Conscious breathing techniques can improve concentration and mindfulness, helping you stay present and focused on the moment.
Emotional regulation: Practising deep breathing regularly can assist in regulating emotions and preventing impulsive reactions.
Reduced muscle tension: ELB can alleviate the physical symptoms of stress and tension, which are often associated with emotional distress.
Better sleep: Incorporating deep breathing into your bedtime routine can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, essential for emotional wellbeing.
Increased self-awareness: Mindful breathing can help you become more aware of your emotional triggers and responses, facilitating personal growth and self-awareness.
ELB techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing and mindfulness meditation, require practice to most effectively reap the benefits. Consistency and patience are key to experiencing lasting improvements in emotional wellbeing through breathwork.
Health tips
We offer the following suggestions to maintain health and wellbeing.
Maintain good posture: Proper posture can prevent musculoskeletal problems. Sit and stand with a straight back, shoulders relaxed, and head aligned with the spine. The spine not only supplies nerves to muscles and joints but also internal organs such as the stomach, liver, kidney, intestine and pelvic floor, so it’s very important to keep the spine aligned for overall health. Neck posture can affect sleep, with poor posture potentially leading to migraine, insomnia, hyperacidity and indigestion, so it’s very important to also keep it aligned correctly with the spine.
Stay active: Regular exercise helps keep muscles and joints healthy. Incorporate a mix of cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises into your routine. Activity helps increase the nutrition available to spinal discs and joints, which is essential for good health.
Ergonomics: Ensure workspaces are ergonomically designed to reduce physical strain. Adjust chair, keyboard and monitor to promote good posture.
Stretching: Perform daily stretching exercises to improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.
Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is crucial for joint and muscle health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps promote good spine disc health, and also improve blood circulation, helping to remove toxic contents from the body.
Balanced diet: A well-balanced diet with sufficient vitamins and minerals supports overall health, including bone and muscle health.
Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the joints, particularly the knees and back.
Lift safely: Use proper lifting techniques to protect the back. Bend at the knees, keep the object close to the body, and engage core muscles.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to any discomfort or pain. Rest when needed, and seek medical advice if symptoms persist. The body always gives signals about any decline in internal health. Listen to them and act!
Sleep well: Quality sleep is essential for tissue repair and overall wellbeing.
Stress management: Chronic stress can lead to muscle tension and pain. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga or stretching. The environment plays a significant role in overall health; a positive and pollution-free environment always enhances the healing process.
Regular check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with healthcare providers, including manual medicine specialists, to catch any emerging issues before they become serious.
Visiting Masters Dr Vikas and Robin Sharma will be in residence at AyurMa at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru from November 17 to December 14, 2023. To view their bios or explore their services, click here.