Stand Tall ~ Breathe Easy
AN INTEGRATED
BODY LLC
Holistic whole body alignment
About Melissa
Melissa's passion in bodywork began years ago as a Licensed Massage Therapist. During that time she discovered how the connective tissue (Fascia) is the web that binds our bodies. Melissa pursued a step change in her career when she graduated from the school of Anatomy Trains Structural Integration (ATSI). Completion of this international renowned program accredits her to be a Certified Structural Integrator.
Because each body is different, it is Melissa's intention to focus on her clients individual needs. To assist them in finding their natural way of unwinding the strain patterns that reside in their bodies and to restore them to their natural balance by way of Structural Integration.
Because Melissa values each body's needs, AN INTEGRATED BODY also offers Bodywork Sessions(spot-specific) and ScarWork Therapy for those not ready to commit to Structural Integration 12 Series.
"Your body hears everything your mind says"
About Structural Integration
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Structural Integration is a holistic method of bodywork which has a global approach to the body. SI specifically works with the connective tissue (Fascia) in the body to elevate its length, functionality and structural balance.
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Fascia surrounds muscles, groups of muscles, blood vessels, organs and nerves, binding tissues and structures together while allowing others to glide smoothly over each other. It is designed to be elastic and move freely with muscles and bones. Injury, stress, repetitive movements as well as lack of movement can cause fascia to lose its elasticity and hydration causing it to become shorter, tighter and more dense. Tightened fascia binds our muscles and pulls our skeleton out of proper alignment and posture which in turn can cause pain, discomfort and fatigue.
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Anatomy Trains Structural Integration (ATSI)
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ATSI 12 SERIES:
Anatomy Trains Structural Integration (ATSI) springs from the pioneering work of Dr. Ida P. Rolf, as developed by Thomas Myers. ATSI consists of a multi-session protocol (usually 12) which deals with a different fascial plane or set of relationships in the body, progressively working around the body, and from superficial to deep and back again. This process has a beginning, middle and an end, it is not an ongoing therapy. You will continue to feel changes in your body for up to a year after your 12 Series.
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BODYWORK
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Bodywork sessions at AN INTEGRATED BODY consist of different manual therapy techniques which Melissa has mastered over the years. These therapies may include but are not limited to ~ myofascial, muscular, neuromuscular, muscle release technique and trigger point. Our session will start with an overall assessment and a strategy. Our goal will be to reduce or resolve acute / chronic pain by working with the tissues of the body (fascia, muscles, tendons, ligaments). Usually we will start with a body reading, lotions will not be used and client participation will be required, similar to SI appointments.
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Commonly Asked Questions:
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Q: How is massage different than Structural BodyWork or Structural Integration?
A: Massage mainly focuses on muscles, Structural BodyWork and Structural Integration focuses on our connective tissue (Fascia), Nervous System as well as muscles.
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Q: What is the difference between Structural BodyWork and Structural Integration?
A: BodyWork sessions are more 'symptom' based and will generally be 3-6 sessions focusing on certain areas of immediate discomfort. Structural Integration is 'system' based, we "Integrate" the body as a whole working system. Each session is focused on a different fascial line according to Anatomy Trains and is based off of the last session.
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SCARWORK THERAPY
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ScarWork Therapy is the genius invention of the gifted Sharon Wheeler who trained with Dr. Ida Rolf (founder of Structural Integration) in 1970. Sharon has been researching and evolving ScarWork for the past 45 years.
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Producing scar tissue is a normal part of our body's response to trauma. Unfortunately our body's healing process and scaring can leave behind unwanted tension, restriction and disorganization. As scar tissue matures it begins to pull and drag on surrounding areas and even organs can be effected.
ScarWork Therapy uses a light, noninvasive, casual touch and is rarely painful. The amount of change in one session can be extensive, rapidly smoothing scar tissue into the fascial web which often reduces nerve-impaired numbness and results in large, whole-body shifts and trauma resolution.
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Reduces swelling, tightness and numbing
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Improves general overall tissue function
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Helps restore natural appearance
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Is fast, painless and permanent
TESTIMONIALS
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"I must admit that when my wife suggest I go to a bodywork therapist for a severe neck injury, particularly a therapist with "integrated body" in front of her name, I was a bit skeptical. I can safely say, however, that the sessions with Melissa gave me far more relief and healing than I received from several hospital stays and several doctors."
~ Massey G ~
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"Before I met Melissa I spent two years bouncing between chiropractic and physical therapy to rehab an injury that caused chronic and worsening pain. Through doing the ATSI 12 Series Melissa located the source that lead to my injury and brought my body into alignment I have not experienced since in my 20's.
Melissa's extensive training and intuitive approach allow for a complete and thorough treatment plan than I knew was possible. Do yourself a favor and make an appointment!!"
~ Amy D ~
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"I recently completed the ATSI 12 Series with Melissa. Melissa is professional and knowledgeable in her field of expertise, easy to work with, friendly and patient with all questions. As a result of our sessions, I have a much improved case of plantar fasciitis, greater movement and less pain in various places including my back, elbow and shoulder. I am convinced that Structural Integration has help all areas of the body. I recommend Melissa happily. By the way...I also think the 3 stroke improvement in my golf game likely came from the process! Thank you Melissa!
~ Bob R ~
"While receiving bodywork from Melissa, she was able to identify and correct several issues that were causing aches and pains that I thought I was going to have to live with. This type of bodywork made me more aware of my body and helped me to understand how habits and holding patterns can effect my wellbeing. The effects of receiving Structural Integration from Melissa was a physically, emotionally and spiritually fulfilling experience."
~ Bethany S ~
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GET IN TOUCH
100 Gray Road
Falmouth, ME
04105
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Located inside:
Meadow Wind
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2018 An Integrated Body LLC