A cable-rope for a spine, concrete shoulders, dizziness from hyperventilation, and an irritable bowel. These are all things I basically consider completely normal. It’s hard to imagine it could really be different.
Western medicine hasn’t had much to offer for my vague complaints either: “Learn to live with it.” “Eat lots of fiber.” “Relax.” “Just breathe.” Guys, if it were that easy, I would’ve done it years ago!
Along the way, I’ve tried a lot with mixed results, but nothing really changed in a lasting way. When the tension and blockages in my body got so bad that I couldn’t even meditate anymore, I’d had enough. Something’s got to give and it ain’t me. (Did I mention I’m stubborn and headstrong?)
Louis visits my workplace weekly, and with a “might help, won’t hurt” mindset, I stepped through the door. And oh, did I regret it. The pain, people, the pain. Anyone who claims massages are relaxing should try it in my body. There’s nothing fun about it!
And yet I went back. Why? Because after that first time I could suddenly breathe deeply into my body, and emotions surfaced I didn’t even know I’d been holding. What followed was a sense of liberation… that unfortunately lasted less than a week. So, like a true masochist, I booked another “torture session.”
The life patterns I built over 35 years won’t disappear after one or two treatments. But slowly, very gradually, I notice things changing. Last time, it didn’t hurt anymore. Louis’s saintly patience with my stubborn, contrary body is paying off. Miracles do still happen!
Who knows — maybe I’ll come to experience massages as truly chill and relaxing, my shoulders naturally at ease, no consequences to eating, and breathing as something I always do well, naturally. Not a miracle cure, but who knows… after a year with Louis, I believe it’s possible. Step by step, bit by bit. 🙂