tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74424244155167656392024-03-12T20:42:37.020-07:00Musings from Think Somatics + Kristin JacksonLearn Somatics Online with Think Somatics and Kristin Jackson, CCSEKristin Jackson CSEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04602108262311524957noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-2526702702724451962024-03-06T10:27:00.000-08:002024-03-06T10:27:58.306-08:00How to walk well, the Somatic way<p> <strong>No one taught you how to walk. </strong>Yes, you likely had a support team cheering you on, but <strong>ultimately YOU taught yourself to walk</strong>. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaNnsuPYumritsEsUL4rBjm8bZzOt0gwnLk1TSGet9-jjZ115ZGEJFYiVwFaazWOSXDI57uSfFSDwBomAPwPqheNfSVUK8d2RGGVS7R6MPHHzf_HnVNqoqDkHefSYK4uBp5ZTyAR4vt9R4PPKucnOpE168LGonYDVs2xtHjIIGttacAL1iUzrfu9OneCY/s844/walking%20baby.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="732" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaNnsuPYumritsEsUL4rBjm8bZzOt0gwnLk1TSGet9-jjZ115ZGEJFYiVwFaazWOSXDI57uSfFSDwBomAPwPqheNfSVUK8d2RGGVS7R6MPHHzf_HnVNqoqDkHefSYK4uBp5ZTyAR4vt9R4PPKucnOpE168LGonYDVs2xtHjIIGttacAL1iUzrfu9OneCY/s320/walking%20baby.png" width="278" /></a></div><p>There were several preliminary "training" stages to get you to walking stage of development. You neurologically trained of your body over time to balance your head, arch your back, crawl, sit up, stand up, <em>then</em> start learning to walk. A lot goes into walking and it's a process that once mastered, can be taken for granted. That is, until (and if) walking becomes challenging again, later in life.</p><p>It's a common myth, but <b><i>lack of mobility, stability and ease in your body is not due to aging</i></b>. Instead, it's caused by repeatedly contracting your body in certain ways, which throw your body off kilter, and therefore alter your relaxed walking pattern. Things like </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>sprained ankles</li><li>twisted knees</li><li>hiking a bag over one shoulder</li><li>sitting cross legged (usually with the same leg over the other)</li><li>repeatedly holding your baby on one hip (and not the other)</li><li>repeating that pattern with baby no. 2, and so on</li><li>working with a laptop and track pad with your dominate hand </li><li>how you hold and play with your devices </li><li>and so much more</li></ul><div>Chronically using your body in these patterns will alter your posture and gait, which in turn will impact how you do everything else in your life. It's like taking a medication that causes side effects and then you take another medications for the side effect(s), and so on.</div><div><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="712" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPlvotxllhHp09RpPMKeK0Zdksgj5ZrrticiKFbLkw7eCCd4eV03vx8731IrJT_JjehTtCcXgkoTWyqC5pBqE8pDstK1hlg0lrttoeAx40AraU6WDbguYi38fy9HU_O1UU-P0UQF2rdInh-s9UweEg8HKyUnEDR_pGZEp7Y4Ba56UQWOOEEk3weOFemO4/s320/one%20side%20effect%20after%20another.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div><br /></div></span></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 style="text-align: left;">Tips to improve your walking (and running) </h1><div><b>Move your TORSO</b></div><div>Imagine a sprinter hauling butt down the track. Her whole body is moving, not just her legs and arms. Your spine should gently rotate around a fulcrum point, near your waist. This rotation will give you a lot more power to move, than just pumping your legs and arms.</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Stop bracing</b></div><div>Start by walking and noticing if you are stiff anywhere in your body. Maybe you've been injured in the past and you are still protecting the area, i.e. <b><i>bracing</i></b>. Holding an area of your body rigidly will hinder your whole body's ability to move with ease. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Breathe</b></div><div>Take nice breaths, ideally lower down in your ribcage, vs up at your collar bones. Upper chest breathing is where we breathe when we are stressed, anxious or in danger. Allowing your breaths to expand down into lower in your lungs, with your lower ribs expanding out a bit to the sides, behind the breast bone, and even out to the back of the lower ribs can make running more enjoyable and a lot easier. (Belly breathing is great for helping you relax while at rest/sitting/or lying down. While in motion you should have a slight bit of muscle engagement around your abdominal region.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Push your feet back, vs picking up your feet</b></div><div>Think of ice skating or cross country skiing. If you picked up your feet and put them down, expecting to glide across the ice and snow, you wouldn't get very far, right? You'd need to push back to go forward. Same goes with walking and running! Yeah, you gotta pick up your feet a bit, but the propulsion from the back foot will make motion stronger and faster, with less effort. Try it!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Try this exercise to improve your walking.</b></h2><div>Stand with your legs and feet parallel</div><div>First, just <i>think</i> about stepping your left foot forward and imagine how you would do that.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then slowly, start to take an actual step forward.</div><div><br /></div><div>What do you notice? Can you feel the shift of your weight onto your right leg and foot?</div><div><br /></div><div>Stop, stand, and repeat that a few times with the left leg swinging forward.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then repeat with whole process, starting with imagining swinging your right foot and leg forward. </div><div><br /></div><div>Does it feel different on each side of your body? </div><div>The same?</div><div>Can you feel how the standing leg is the one that actually is doing the work to get you to move forward? Kind of cool, right?! 😁</div><div><br /></div><div>All these tips and explorations are the first steps to improving your walking. But what I'm not saying is just "tell your body" to function a certain way. That's the personal trainer/physical therapist approach. You are told by "professionals" do function a certain way and everything will be peachy. If moving pain free was that easy, everyone would feel great just by thinking it should be that way.</div><div><br /></div><div>You can't think your way into better movement patterns.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you want to create lasting changes, you first need to know what you are actually doing, so you can release that pattern before layering on a new one. That is the SOMATIC way to change.</div><div><br /></div><div>Learning how to use Somatics and the wonders of pandiculations to release this chronic tension is key. You can't just "tell" your body to change, you need to learn to release the tension on a neurological level. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>Somatics make the process a hell of a lot quicker and simpler. Ready to make walking and running easier, at any age? </div><div><br /></div><div>I have hundreds of recordings for you to reclaim your freedom of movement and enjoyment for life on my website. </div><div><br /></div><div>I offer <a href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-membership-plans" target="_blank">three membership options</a> to fit your budget and learning style. And you can cancel at any time. :-)</div><div><br /></div><div>And right now, all levels have access to a 4-Lesson Collection of Somatics for Walkers and Runners. This bundle is always included in the Level 2 & 3 Plans, and for the next 4 weeks or so, Level 1 Members can enjoy it too, along with a permanent collection of the basics of Somatics. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>Oh, one more thing. I have a special offer on the Level 2 plan as well. $10 off the regular price, in honor of Think Somatics 10 year anniversary!</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope these tips help you. Let me know in the comments or email to let me know. 😀</div><div><br /></div><div>take good care,</div><div>Kristin</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><p></p><div><br /></div><p></p><div></div>Kristin Jackson, Think Somaticshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16693246798451203832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-5820702091392784012024-01-16T11:53:00.000-08:002024-01-17T08:39:01.203-08:00Somatics for Weight Loss?<p> Oh boy. I'm getting a lot of questions from folks asking if Somatics can help with weight loss. </p><p>Why are so many are asking this question all of a sudden? </p><p>Social media, that's why. 😣</p><p>I'm seeing the ads too. Posts touting somatic weight loss plans, somatic workouts, somatic yoga, even somatics that'll make you cry so you can get rid of your trauma, and <i>then</i> lose weight. Yeesh.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;">In this post I'd like to clarify </span><span style="text-align: right;">if and how Somatics can help you lose weight.</span></h2><p></p><p style="text-align: left;">The ads on social media are for apps and video programs that offer things like somatic exercise and somatic yoga routines. Many of the ads say you can finally lose stubborn belly fat and get rid of trauma, that holds you back from losing weight. </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZEG8jbYPieJLgvS9LVrBiQh6aJqq4TK3W6683YPCJCXSQqJBP7NOft8O4JP5y1O2imvJc48SRvv4J-437Un61K3-uwGJW0zL4vFyIqvfEyQOceq2f_ZpRx5D782YtG0EhvncG3WP0vAnTupBzBC0hvBeMGz34Nn-8gU7Sqp8wwjgO6-vqB-XexOfvAZQ/s796/Screen%20Shot%202024-01-16%20at%202.00.51%20PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="570" data-original-width="796" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZEG8jbYPieJLgvS9LVrBiQh6aJqq4TK3W6683YPCJCXSQqJBP7NOft8O4JP5y1O2imvJc48SRvv4J-437Un61K3-uwGJW0zL4vFyIqvfEyQOceq2f_ZpRx5D782YtG0EhvncG3WP0vAnTupBzBC0hvBeMGz34Nn-8gU7Sqp8wwjgO6-vqB-XexOfvAZQ/w320-h229/Screen%20Shot%202024-01-16%20at%202.00.51%20PM.png" title="Oh for crying out loud!" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the junk my clients are running into online. </td></tr></tbody></table><br />I dug a bit deeper into review and scam alert sites too. Many folks say they were billed more than they signed up for, had a hard time cancelling their account, and didn't actually find any "somatic" exercise routines within the apps, just pilates and yoga. So buyer beware.<p></p><p>Ok, back to. . .</p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">Will Somatics help me lose weight?</div><div style="text-align: center;">How does Somatics help me lose weight?</div></h2><div>Nothing like claims of <b><i>fast weight loss</i></b> to grab folks attention.</div><div><br /></div><div>But here's the secret to weight loss.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is no <b><i>secret</i></b> to weight loss. </div><div><br /></div><div>There is no fast <b><i>and <u>safe</u></i></b> way to lose weight. </div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to being a Somatic Educator, I'm also a Personal Trainer and Behavioral Change Coach. You cannot lose 42 lbs in month safely. Nor would you want to. Rapid weight loss results in a slower metabolism, so you are likely to gain the weight back, and then some, once you stop the diet or exercise routine du jour.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Let's talk about a bit about weight loss first.</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Caloric Deficit = Weight Loss</h4><div>I'm not here to debate what to eat or not to. But once you drill down on trendy diets, weight loss results are due to burning more calories than you consume. Yes, there are better foods to eat that are more metabolically available to burn off, and ones that love to take up residence on your hips, belly or butt. But ultimately it's about calories in, calories out. </div><div><br /></div><div>There are many factors that go into weight loss, but this is a good place to start: A realistic weight loss method is to burn 250-300 extra calories a day than you normally do, and cut your caloric intake by about the same amount. This will create a 500 calorie deficit per day x 7 days of the week = 3500 calorie deficit, which is equal to about 1 pound loss per week. This is a practical and safe way to lose weight without wreaking havoc on your metabolism.</div><div><br /></div><div>You can search on Google for "how many calories do I need to lose weight?" or check out an app like <a href="https://www.loseit.com/" target="_blank">LoseIt</a> for help figuring your needs, based on your goals, age, gender, activity level. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you want to dive deeper in the psychological aspects of weight gain, loss and your relationship with food, check out <a href="https://www.noom.com/" target="_blank">Noom</a>. It's a good weight loss app, though when I explored it and I felt it was way too tech reliant for my liking. I felt like I was constantly having to log stuff on my phone, which raised my stress levels and took me away actually moving my body. </div><div><br /></div><div>Side note: When folks report rapid weight loss on a new diet —generally in the first week or two of a new diet —it's largely due to diet changes that reduce water retention. If your regular diet is rich in salty, fatty foods and simple carbs, you are likely retaining excess water in your cells. Rid your diet of those foods, and you start shedding water weight quickly in the first week or so. This is <i>not</i> the same as losing body fat.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Now, onto the aspects of exercise for weight loss.</h3><div><a href="https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-minute-which-is-better-for-losing-weight-diet-or-exercise/" target="_blank">Diet changes are actually more effective than exercise for weight loss</a>. But exercising can make it happen a bit faster. Exercise also helps you maintain muscle mass, which can keep your metabolism running a bit higher and burning more calories day in and day out, which can help you maintain your weight. <a href="https://www.vox.com/2016/5/18/11685254/metabolism-definition-booster-weight-loss" target="_blank">This article explains metabolism well</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Just be careful not to consume more food as a reward for your workouts. Most folks think they are eating fewer calories and burn more than they actually are. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Regardless of whether exercise helps you lose weight or not, it is definitely good for your overall health!</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHstYzEGes9J8yILqoXkbmIcv5Jj3P7tp-NyOqJzU28EjyrYfYD_wjtReLX-n9hJ8R53ZphyVnML5N9-7ABmL8z7IMf-gnQ2bEqhbJ-cnB2YMwvaB-v0Kp-rRRWRTRvcm0qhPKBYrODtYpT5XFyMfgIp0NXa7Sf15E3uepdcOSmF558PjgrxLFgJRYaQ/s1584/Health_Benefits_PA_Adults_Jan2021_H.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1584" data-original-width="1224" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHstYzEGes9J8yILqoXkbmIcv5Jj3P7tp-NyOqJzU28EjyrYfYD_wjtReLX-n9hJ8R53ZphyVnML5N9-7ABmL8z7IMf-gnQ2bEqhbJ-cnB2YMwvaB-v0Kp-rRRWRTRvcm0qhPKBYrODtYpT5XFyMfgIp0NXa7Sf15E3uepdcOSmF558PjgrxLFgJRYaQ/w495-h640/Health_Benefits_PA_Adults_Jan2021_H.jpg" width="495" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">So will "<i>somatic exercise</i>" help you lose weight? </h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">Unlikely, in and of itself.</h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">But wait. . .</h3><h2 style="text-align: left;">Let's talk about the overall health benefits of having a somatic practice and how those benefits <i>can</i> help you lose weight.</h2><div>Firstly, if <i>somatic</i> is a new term for you, a somatic practice is a form of movement in which you pay great attention to the internal sensations of how you move. It's not fast. It's slow, so you have time to sense, and learn. Be sure to check out this recent post, <a href="http://www.takeitoutsidefitness.com/2023/12/what-is-somatics-clarification-of-what.html" target="_blank">what Somatics is, and what is not</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hanna, A.K.A. Clinical Somatics is the somatic method I offer. This method is primo for helping you reduce physical, emotional and mental pain and suffering.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">How Somatics <i>could</i> help you with weight loss</h3><div><b>Somatics can help you reduce your stress levels</b> which can help you manage things like stress eating. Reducing your chronic stress levels can help regulate certain hormones, including cortisol. Chronically elevated cortisol levels, can result in stored body fat, especially around your internal organs and across your belly. But do know, <a href="https://healthcare.utah.edu/healthfeed/2017/10/cortisol-good-news-bad-news-and-downright-ugly-truth-behind-stress-hormone#:~:text=But%20cortisol%20also%20helps%20control,an%20argument%20with%20a%20spouse." target="_blank">cortisol is not all bad</a>. We need our bodies to produce it in certain amounts and at certain times of the day. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Somatics can help you sleep more soundly.</b> If you toss and turn every night, only to wake up tired every day, you are more likely to get hungry, hangry and crave sweets, non-nutritious treats and caffeine to make it through the day. Only to repeat the pattern, over and over again. Lack of sleep can lead to weight gain. It also makes losing weight extra challenging.</div><div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><i> I personally do a bit of Somatics every night before bed. I fall asleep easily and stay asleep through the night. And this is coming from a perimenopausal gal! 🙌 </i></div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>Being well rested means you should have the energy to actually exercise</b>. If you are exhausted you're more likely to hit the couch at the end of the day, vs get to the gym, or <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2023/04/12/outdoor-exercise-benefits/" target="_blank">better yet, go outside for some fresh air and healthy movement</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Somatics helps with pain relief. </b>I've worked with so many personal training clients who've said they have a hard time exercising because they have chronic pain issues, <i>OR</i> they hurt themselves when they do workout, setting them back.</div><div><br /></div><div>Somatics is an excellent way to <i>gently</i> release tension and get rid of pain. <i>Then</i> you can move well so you can live well. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Somatics can help you reclaim greater voluntary control</b> <b>of your muscles</b> so you have <b>more power and can gain more strength</b>, which in turn means you can <b>increase the number of mitochondria in your muscles</b>. These are the little powerhouses of your cells that gobble up energy stores, helping you lose weight. </div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p style="text-align: left;"><i>Side note: I've introduced Somatics at fitness studios around the country. Lots of folks report heading to the weight room after my introductory Somatics class and being able to lift more weight and do more reps. Just after one class! </i> </p></blockquote><div><b>If you are injured, Somatics can help speed up your recovery</b> so <i>you can get back in the game</i>, so to speak. Even if you are bed ridden, you can likely do very gentle Somatics so your brain continues to maintain motor control of your muscles. </div><div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><i>Side note: recently my 125 English Mastiff ran head long right into my knee, hyper extending it. Luckily I didn't blow out my knee, though I did partially rupture my hamstring something fierce. The doctor said 3-12 months for full recovery. I'm happy to say at 6 weeks out, I'm about 95% recovered. All due to my daily Somatics practice and regularly walking. </i></div></blockquote><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjx1s7znbpHtetF0FqadcUjwlEiMwOCrDIlb3SHue_NpP8JXm-VOeOOg3Oq_HcUQj0Cp-pGTvjFJSys03GvxECqcXRPhHbX-oZNbZb0DmtEzZc8m_26sQ7Ae0QBxusnocMcjKaf1LzcD46p29Sk5DrBSDqYOvv1ZnhcB9sAEjVCNzolzHRZwFCarMPqamY" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjx1s7znbpHtetF0FqadcUjwlEiMwOCrDIlb3SHue_NpP8JXm-VOeOOg3Oq_HcUQj0Cp-pGTvjFJSys03GvxECqcXRPhHbX-oZNbZb0DmtEzZc8m_26sQ7Ae0QBxusnocMcjKaf1LzcD46p29Sk5DrBSDqYOvv1ZnhcB9sAEjVCNzolzHRZwFCarMPqamY=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Kelso. Not to scale. 😆</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div><b>Somatics can raise your awareness of <i>everything. </i></b>As you regularly practice Somatics, you should become more aware of what you do through out your day. From how you sit at your desk, to how much time you play with your devices, even mindless eating. It's not a judgement call. We all have our autopilot patterns. To create changes we need to become aware of what we do so we can create new -- and healthier -- patterns.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ok, now this is where I get really frustrated with the blanket claims folks are saying online. Advertising, TikTok and Instagram are littered with videos talking about getting rid of trauma with somatic movement. </div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCoHGSp3-YDJzNSSDZbsTgROTFMzqduKEZT6wQ06ubcicSNN9ui-kfjenmctUjeACUv0B6hE77iaq37WE5vVKbNQcY-DyVqzUDLssWWFU1QLWHE8X8gEM7MH70PD2G9kMuiywnzyUf7ePcC_CHynPBoHTN_c6vMKDSWijny3sLxhXM55iMjf7HHUh15sU/s830/Screen%20Shot%202024-01-16%20at%206.51.32%20PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="558" data-original-width="830" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCoHGSp3-YDJzNSSDZbsTgROTFMzqduKEZT6wQ06ubcicSNN9ui-kfjenmctUjeACUv0B6hE77iaq37WE5vVKbNQcY-DyVqzUDLssWWFU1QLWHE8X8gEM7MH70PD2G9kMuiywnzyUf7ePcC_CHynPBoHTN_c6vMKDSWijny3sLxhXM55iMjf7HHUh15sU/s320/Screen%20Shot%202024-01-16%20at%206.51.32%20PM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wow, this is such an over simplification.😕</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><b>Yes, certain somatic methods can help you resolve trauma stuck in your body. </b>While everyone is different, I would not recommend most folks attempt to process trauma completely on their own, just with an app or video. </div><div> </div><div>Someone trained to help you is going to make the process more effective and safer. </div><div><br /></div><div>Plus, I worry about those who attempt to work through their trauma alone. They follow a particular video that is <i>supposed to</i> <i>make them cry</i>, but doesn't elicit tears, and then may think they have "failed". This can set folks back further from healing. It also leaves them with a bad experience of what they assume is somatic, but actually is not. </div><div><br /></div><div>While I am not a mental health provider, I have worked with clients who find Hanna/Clinical Somatics helpful for physical trauma such as accidents and injuries. Others find Clinical Somatics a great addition to their mental health counseling. One helpful somatic method used by mental health practitioners is <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22641-emdr-therapy" target="_blank">EMDR</a>.</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">So let's sum up.</h2><div><b>Somatics <i>could</i> help you lose weight, but not in the ways you might think.</b> Somatic movement is not exercising/working out. It is a slow and mindful movement practice. With a regular somatic practice you can have better sleep patterns, get rid of pain, regain better motor control of your muscles, become more mindful of your autopilot patterns, lower stress for better hormone regulation, all of which can help you lose weight and keep it off.</div><div><br /></div><div>I personally think every body can benefit from having a Somatics practice. I can't in good faith recommend these apps that are not truly doing Somatics. Nor can I recommend overly simplified programs that make some wild claims about trauma and weight loss. </div><div><br /></div><div>As a Personal Trainer and Somatic Educator I meet lots of folks with faulty motor patterns, poor alignment, posture, pain issues. That's why I generally start off with my clients developing a Somatics practice first. Get rid of pain, tension, faulty motor patterns, gain better voluntary control of their bodies, THEN add on the fitness aspects of movement. Function first. </div><div><br /></div><div>I hope that helps clarify some claims about Somatics for weight loss. Let me know in the comments below. I'd really appreciate that. 😀</div><div><br /></div><div>If you'd like to learn more about Somatics, and how I can be of assistance in your journey, please visit </div><div>my website <a href="http://ThinkSomatics.com">ThinkSomatics.com</a>. You can even learn the basics of Somatics on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/trainerkristinPDX/videos" target="_blank">my Youtube channel</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>No matter where you are, I work with folks around the world via Zoom. </b></div><div>I'm a Clinical Somatic Educator, Personal Trainer and Behavioral Change Coach specializing in holistic movement training. <a href="mailto:kristin@thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">Reach out and let's talk</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you for being here. I appreciate you!</div><div><br /></div><div>take good care,</div><div><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Kristin</span></i></b></div><div><br /></div><div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke: rgb(20, 28, 34); background-color: white; color: #141c22; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-kerning: none;">___________________________________________________</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke: rgb(20, 28, 34); color: #141c22; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-kerning: none;"><b>Kristin Jackson, CCSE, CPT</b></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke: rgb(57, 18, 157); color: #39129d; font-family: Helvetica; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-kerning: none;"><a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com/"><u><b>thinksomatics.com</b></u><span style="color: #39129d; font-kerning: none;"><u><b></b></u></span></a></span></p></div>Kristin Jackson CSEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04602108262311524957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-10216896091274316542024-01-04T07:24:00.000-08:002024-01-04T07:24:43.205-08:00Save Time with Somatics <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglZU6keyeyKwTOaYdcszuaCBeLei2weapkJ1yiybigIFYLKZ1gEwxDtvaMDUXL2L1Z2pLwffhI1KcV_43lFpLZFjLFtMZScy-M0XTSRmZVuxmP2bz2NvBzWD6zizcjrOVwFDyyF6VBEfWXELvRnQqH7tPqvkJRNTpnRPJ1V88jzEhltcYY2EsBj-lcmPY/s1080/DO%20SOMATICS.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglZU6keyeyKwTOaYdcszuaCBeLei2weapkJ1yiybigIFYLKZ1gEwxDtvaMDUXL2L1Z2pLwffhI1KcV_43lFpLZFjLFtMZScy-M0XTSRmZVuxmP2bz2NvBzWD6zizcjrOVwFDyyF6VBEfWXELvRnQqH7tPqvkJRNTpnRPJ1V88jzEhltcYY2EsBj-lcmPY/s320/DO%20SOMATICS.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p>I hope you had a nice, restorative holiday. We did. We had no set agenda, exchanged no material gifts, and just shared peace and experiences. Long walks, explored back roads and tiny towns in the mountains of Western North Carolina, cozy naps, visited friends, and just plain chilled out. In this world we all live in, we are eternally grateful to have had the time and resources to do just that.</p><p class="text-sm">Of course now we are all back to work, maybe setting a few goals/resolutions. Personally I'm raising my awareness of just how I use my time. </p><h2>Time is free, and priceless.</h2><p class="text-sm"> With that focus, I'm taking classes back through the basics of Somatics. We are reviewing the routine Thomas Hanna, the father of Somatics, called the Cat Stretch. I call it the Daily Supple-ment. </p><p class="text-sm">It's a simple routine of Somatic exercises that release tension from the front, back and sides of your body, and then reintroduces yummy, luxurious rotational <strong>movements to keep you supple and abled-body for life</strong>.</p><p class="text-sm">If you want to feel great, <strong>sleep better</strong> and get rid of emotional and physical tension that holds you back from enjoying life to the fullest, check out my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RTuKBcwjYDM&list=PLtKCmLtPXzEyO2ukQo2osfbw0j_I4VlEi&pp=iAQB" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" tags="" target="_self"><strong>Daily Supple-ment Playlist</strong></a> on my Youtube channel.</p><h2>Somatics Challenge</h2><p class="text-sm">Let's consider how much time (and money) you'd save if you practiced Somatics every day for 30 days. You could <strong>stop waking up sore and tired</strong>, have more energy and be more productive, have more clarity, less brain fog.</p><p class="text-sm">You could end dependency on meds, caffeine, alcohol, time away from your life, repeatedly going to the chiropractor and bodyworkers. </p><p class="text-sm"><a href="https://www.onewithnow.com/distracted/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" tags="" target="_self">Break the habits of distraction</a> that ultimately rob you of your time.</p><h2>Join my Online Community to Learn More</h2><p class="text-sm">This month in the live Zoom classes we are doing the Daily Supple-ment in brief, concise lessons. I'm recording them too for the Level 2 & 3 members. So if you'd like to explore the Daily Supple-ment and tons of other lessons, please <a href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-membership-plans" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" tags="" target="_self">check out the membership plans and join me today online</a>!</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Join me at Waynesville Rec Center</h2><p class="text-sm">If you are in town, please join me for class in person. I offer Somatics on Mondays and Wednesdays 8:00-9:00am at the Waynesville Rec Center, 550 Vance Street, just off Howell Mill Road. Monday we are on the floor/mat, Wednesdays we do seated and standing movements. You can contact the rec center for pricing. <a data-dtype="d3ph" data-local-attribute="d3ph" data-ved="2ahUKEwichIW0g8SDAxX3K0QIHa0SCFoQkAgoAHoECBwQAg" href="https://www.google.com/search?q=waynesville+rec+center+classes&rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS705US705&oq=waynesville+&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqDAgBECMYJxiABBiKBTIGCAAQRRg5MgwIARAjGCcYgAQYigUyBggCEEUYOzIKCAMQLhixAxiABDINCAQQABiDARixAxiABDIGCAUQRRg8MgYIBhBFGD0yBggHEEUYQdIBCDc2MzBqMGo3qAIAsAIA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#" jsaction="rcuQ6b:npT2md;F75qrd" jscontroller="LWZElb" jsdata="QKGTRc;_;Auj+AI" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1); background-color: white; color: #1a0dab; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px;"><span aria-label="Call Phone Number (828) 456-2030">(828) 456-2030</span></a>. </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Daily Supple-ment Playlist </h2><p class="text-sm"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Soma scan</li><li>arch and flatten</li><li>arch and curl</li><li>back lift</li><li>diagonal arch and curl</li><li>side bend</li><li>wash rag</li><li>invert and evert the feet</li><li>seated twist</li></ul><p></p><p class="text-sm">If you'd like to work with me to learn more about the movements, modifications, variations, <a href="http://thinksomatics.weebly.com/private-lessons.html" target="_blank">please schedule a private session</a> or 30-minute consultation or <a href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-membership-plans" target="_blank">join the Level 3 group</a> for live interaction.</p><p class="text-sm">Happy 2024 to you and yours!</p><p class="text-sm">xoxo,</p><p class="text-sm"><i>Kristin</i></p><p class="text-sm"><a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">visit my website for more info about Somatics</a></p>Kristin Jackson CSEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04602108262311524957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-75084794127474748062023-12-01T07:53:00.000-08:002023-12-01T08:10:24.195-08:00What is Somatics? Clarification of what it is, and what is not.<script async="async" src="https://cdn.podia.com/embeds.js"></script><div>If you Google <b><i>What is Somatics?</i></b> a lot of different explanations and modalities will pop up in your search. </div><div><div>In this post, and the next few, I'll aim to clarify what Somatics is, how it works, and how to cut through the confusion.<div><br /></div><div>First off, let's start with the man who coined the term <i>Somatics</i>. That man was Thomas Hanna. He developed a method of movement training to help people get out of pain. He wanted to call his method straight up <i>Somatics,</i> but that was too general and couldn't be trademarked as such. So he called his method Hanna Somatic Education, even though he titled his book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Somatics-Reawakening-Control-Movement-Flexibility/dp/0738209570/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2LHU2G2CL0TJW&keywords=somatics+thomas+hanna&qid=1701441694&sprefix=somatics+%2Caps%2C170&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>Somatics</i></a>*</div><div><br /></div><div>Ten years ago when I started teaching Somatics, I was living in a bubble and Somatics wasn't yet on the radar. Now <i>somatics</i> is being thrown around a lot these days. Trademarks aside, let's give Hanna and his method the respect it is due. He coined the term <b><i>Somatics</i></b> and that is ultimately what Somatics is. His method. His modality. Period.</div><div><br /></div><div><div>I find it interesting, and a bit frustrating, that when you google <i>somatics</i> there's often a reference to Hanna and his coinage of the word <i>somatics</i>, but the articles will go on to say things like Feldenkrais, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, etc are <i>Somatics</i>. </div><div><br /></div><div>But they aren't, really.</div><div><br /></div><div><div>These other modalities really fall under the heading of <i>somatic</i>. Let me explain. We all have a somatic nervous system, and our <i>motor</i> and <i>sensory</i> cortexes are under the control of the somatic nervous system. </div><div><br /></div></div><div><div>When we slow down and pay attention from an internal perspective we can tune into how we feel, sense our muscles contracting and releasing. This internal awareness can help you develop a greater somatic awareness. </div><div><br /></div></div><div><div>So, many mindful practices can be <i>somatic</i>, ie done with awareness of what we feel and how we move from that internal perspective. Things like yoga, tai chi, qigong, Feldenkrais, Alexander Technique, etc can all be considered <i>somatic</i>. They aren't <i><b>Somatics</b></i> though. </div><div><br /></div></div><div>Think of it like the term <i>racquet sports;</i> there is tennis, badminton, ping pong, pickle ball. All racquet sports, but they aren't interchangeable. You wouldn't call tennis pickleball, right? I'm sure tennis players would adamantly agree! 🤣</div></div><div><br /></div><div>To confuse matters even more, your <i>somatics</i> google search may include things like Somatic Experiencing, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and more. These are methods practiced by mental health therapists, which blend talk therapy with somatic awareness. Not the same thing at all as Hanna's Somatics method.</div><div><br /></div></div></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div><div><div style="text-align: left;">To sum up, <i><b><u>Somatics</u></b></i> is the work of Thomas Hanna. Other mindfulness methods can be labeled <i><b><u>somatic</u></b></i>, meaning sensing ourselves from an internal perspective.</div></div></div></blockquote><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">How to find a a Somatics Practitioner</h4><div>If you are seeking Somatics to help get rid of pain, calm down, and enjoy life more fully, find out where your potential practitioner was trained. Currently there are three schools in the US that certify Somatics Teachers. (The Novato Institute for Somatic Research and Training, <a href="https://essentialsomatics.com/clinical-somatics-practitioners/" target="_blank">Essential Somatics</a> and Somatic Systems Institute). Graduates are certified as Hanna or Clinical Somatic Educators.</div><div><br /></div><div>Be aware that there are schools that offer teacher training completely online and never have real time training with an actual live teacher. I have worked with several graduates of these programs and they freely admit after working with me that they aren't nearly as qualified in the work as they want to be. They often say they now need to go through a more rigorous and in-depth training to help their clients more effectively. Again, do your research. 😊</div><div><br /></div><div>In my next post I will dive into what Somatics is and how it works. You can also sign up for this free Somatics 101 e-course below, or schedule your <a href="http://thinksomatics.weebly.com/private-lessons.html" target="_blank">private session online or in-person in Western North Carolina</a>. Be sure to visit my website <a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">thinksomatics.com </a>too for more info.</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope you found this post helpful. Do you have more questions? I'd love to hear from you! Please comment below. </div><div><br /></div><div><div></div></div></div>
<script async="async" src="https://cdn.podia.com/embeds.js"></script><a data-podia-embed="card" href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-fundamentals-course">0.00 Somatics 101 | Somatics Fundamentals for Beginners</a><div><br /></div><div><i>* I am not an affiliate or make a percentage of sales from Amazon. I strongly encourage folks to support other book sellers. Your local bookstore can likely order the book for you, or just google </i>Somatics<i> by Thomas Hanna and you'll find lots of copies for sale. :-) </i></div>Kristin Jackson, Think Somaticshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16693246798451203832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-35780310357928281112023-06-24T11:36:00.003-07:002023-06-24T11:36:28.794-07:00Somatics in Waynesville NC <p> Since moving to Western North Carolina, I've connected with tons of people through my Somatics classes and private practice. A question I'm getting asked now is if my office/business is Somatic Healing Clinic, located on Miller St in Waynesville NC. </p><p>No, neither I, nor my business, Think Somatics, are affiliated with Somatic Healing Clinic. When I first moved to town I reached out to the friendly folks at that location. I was excited to possibly connect to fellow practitioners! They informed me they do not offer Somatic Education or any somatic modalities. They actually bought the business from the previous owner (who I assume was some sort of Somatic Practitioner) and just inherited the name. </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Think Somatics with Kristin Jackson is not related or affiliated to Somatic Healing Clinic in Waynesville NC</h2><p>So if you are looking for Somatic Education, a method of pain relief that gives you to tools to solve your pain problems, I'm here to help. Somatics is meant to help you re-educate your brain and nervous system to move and live with ease and enjoyment. </p><p>Somatics is very different from typical approaches such as massage, chiropractic, surgery, drugs, physical therapy, etc. If you have tried all those things, be sure to check out my <a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">website</a> and this blog to learn more.</p><p><br /></p>Kristin Jackson CSEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04602108262311524957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-15394701336770512262023-01-10T06:15:00.001-08:002023-01-10T06:29:08.682-08:00If the Army can change, so you can you!Years ago I worked a few hours a week in the fitness room of a local rec center. I was there to help newbies learn how to use the equipment properly, tidy up a bit, and make sure meatheads shared the chest press benches.<br /><br />I was also on the lookout for anyone at risk of injuring themselves. One day there's a guy loading up the preacher curl machine—a completely ridiculous machine IMO, that mimics nothing in real life—with waaayyyy too much weight, rounding his back and grunting away. Now here's a guy definitely at risk of injuring his back, i.e. a bulging or herniated disk in his lumbar spine. I gently offered up something like, "Hey, how's it going? Be careful there. You're putting your low back at risk by. . .." I got about that far and he barked at me, "I've broken my back three times! I know exactly what I'm doing!" <br /><br />Whoa. Ok then. You are correct sir, you DO know exactly how to break your back. Well done. I said this in my head, of course. :-) <br /><br />There was no opportunity of educating him. He had his routine, and by damn he wasn't interested in taking in new information or changing his routine for better and safer results. Sigh. <br /><br />That mentality is ubiquitous in and outside the gym. We can all become comfortable with our habits, beliefs, and routines, even if they don't really feel all that good or help us achieve great things. Side note: the latest <a href="https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/what-do-you-want-to-be/" target="_blank">Hidden Brain Podcast about how our decisions are influenced by others and why it can be hard to change our minds is a good one</a>. It's like folks have reached to top of a pint glass of information and there is no room for another drop of knowledge or a new experience. Changes can be as slow and cumbersome as turning around an aircraft carrier.<br /><br />That's why I was happy to read recently that the Army, of all institutions, is changing their ways of producing healthy soldiers. To be honest, I'd rather see less spending on wars and defense. Maybe we could put our resources into a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Department_of_Peace">Department of Peace</a>. Do you think that's silly? Why? Again, changing our ways and minds is hard for so many.<br /><br />The Army currently is full of unhealthy personnel unfit for battle. So the Army is changing their training protocols. Yay! Gone are the days of sit ups (bad for the lumbar spine and neck), running miles in combat boots😳, and spouting "sleep is for the weak!" The Army is now flipping all that brouhaha on its head with <a href="https://www.armytimes.com/news/your-army/2022/01/03/the-armys-holistic-health-and-fitness-program-keys-to-new-years-resolutions/">The Army's Holistic Health and Fitness Programming</a>. <br /><br />I mention this to you, because it's a new year, and maybe you'd like to revamp your routines a bit too? In addition to being a Somatic Educator, I am also an <a href="https://www.acefitness.org/resources/everyone/find-ace-pro/8xz288/kristin-jackson/">ACE-certified personal trainer</a> specializing on holistic fitness and behavioral change coaching.<br /><br /><div>Are you dealing with health and fitness challenges that no matter how <i>hard</i> you push and try, you aren't getting the results you seek? I'd be happy to help. Working with a Somatic Educator + Personal Trainer can shed light on what is currently outside of your awareness. With greater awareness you become even smarter. 👍</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Are you aware of your tension patterns that skew your posture?</li><li>Can you sense how your workout is likely strengthening your faulty posture when you exercise? </li><li>Do you <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SNnCr0-9AQ" target="_blank">move your body through multiple planes</a> in your workouts and daily life? </li><li>Do you believe in the <a href="https://daysomatics.com/about-carrie/articles/the-myth-of-aging/" target="_blank">myth of aging</a>? </li><li>Which emotions do you feel each day? How do they reside in your body and how do they affect your actions? </li></ul><div>I always start new clients with a Somatics practice. With a regular Somatics practice they begin to take back voluntary control of their bodies, get rid of pain, and lay down a sound foundation on which to build a more resilient body and mind. From there we can develop workouts and healthy habits that can carry you forward in a whole new way. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can <a href="mailto:kristin@thinksomatics.com">reach out to me for more info</a> and sign up for your online session <a href="http://thinksomatics.weebly.com/private-lessons.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>thanks for reading and sharing.</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy New Year,</div><div>Kristin</div><div><br /></div><div>You are currently reading my blog. You can learn more about Somatics on my website <a href="http://thinksomatics.com">thinksomatics.com</a> </div><div><br /></div>Kristin Jackson CSEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04602108262311524957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-70090876193115125382022-12-21T10:49:00.006-08:002022-12-21T11:19:00.486-08:00Tips for Resiliency During the Holidays (and all year long)I have a friend I'll call M. A lot of people say M. "has all the luck." She was hearing that quite often when she moved into her beautiful rental home. A cute little cottage on a spring-fed pond with ducklings, a huge deck on which to host friends with champagne, hidden away in a Portland neighborhood, yet with walking distance of hip shops and eateries. It was a secret spot that some Portlanders had heard of, but it remained elusive because it was on private property. She had recently just returned from a trip to the Caribbean too. Super lucky gal, right? But what folks weren't aware of, or paying attention to, was the fact that while she was on a trip with her extended family her husband, who had stayed home, had moved out and she found out by seeing photos on Facebook. Uh oh.<br /><br />Sure, she was stunned and feeling all kinds of emotions. Instead of hitting a wall of despair, she got down to business. M. really wanted to stay in the neighborhood that she so loved, so she created a flier about herself and her sweet doggie, with hopes of finding a place to rent in the area. M. sent that flier out to <i>everyone</i> she knew. That's when a friend connected M. with a neighbor who had some rental properties across the street. The landlady hadn't planned to rent that sweet cottage, but when she met M, they hit it off and the cottage was M's new home! Their two doggies even hit it off. Wanna know another twist to that story? M. had seen that cottage from the AirBnb house next door when her parents had been in town. She absolutely adored the cottage across the pond, and said, "I'm gonna live there some day!"<br /><br />We all know folks who seem to bounce back fairly quickly from hardships. We probably all know folks who seem to remain down for what seems like eternity. There are people who could win the lottery and complain that half of it went to taxes. :-) It has a lot to do with perspective. <br /><br />Ultimately we all process things in our own ways, in own time. A critical key to bouncing back is all about resiliency.<div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5LoxliUWQFVxZp6qwkgbT03DmkdxiqPUbik81MmFaxh-cTY4gFpHJfzERlTwexH8ukel-Cz274sI-u9J9Uubkxgv9dDZ0TMSAbyEw667bktFyMAAPSsxof4d6P5hZGR8OeSFFm7lMdiQk8BKOGDO8e6vCsLvaE0ZdhuEQ8DAZCXcnCZt417Cbn8pZ" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="692" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5LoxliUWQFVxZp6qwkgbT03DmkdxiqPUbik81MmFaxh-cTY4gFpHJfzERlTwexH8ukel-Cz274sI-u9J9Uubkxgv9dDZ0TMSAbyEw667bktFyMAAPSsxof4d6P5hZGR8OeSFFm7lMdiQk8BKOGDO8e6vCsLvaE0ZdhuEQ8DAZCXcnCZt417Cbn8pZ" width="237" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/1341466344/peace-on-earth-art-holiday-decor?ref=sim_anchor" target="_blank">Print by EleyOri on Etsy</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3>What is Resilience?</h3><div>Being resilient is the ability to recover and bounce back from the inevitable setbacks, stressors and hardships we all encounter.<br /><br />This time of year is supposedly a time of peace on earth and good will towards fellow humans. Yet so many folks seem to be frantic and overwhelmed. It can be an extremely stressful period for some. <br /><br />If you are feeling pulled in every direction here are some tips to boost your resiliency through the holidays and all year round. My friend M. is great at applying them to her life, so can you.<br /><ol><li><b>Connect with friends and family.</b> Don't just text, make a call, send a card or get on Zoom.</li><li><b>Think of the people you are thankful for in your life</b>, and let them know.</li><li><b>Be kind to a stranger</b>. A smile, a compliment can go a long way. For you and them.</li><li><b>Move!</b> Get up from your desk and <a href="http://www.takeitoutsidefitness.com/2014/08/fitness-vocabulary-pandiculation.html" target="_blank">pandiculate</a> like you just woke up from a long nap. Go for a walk. Dance. Whatever floats your boat.</li><li><b>Be quiet. </b>Take a few moments to be in silence. </li><li><b>Take It Outside!</b> Greenery, sunshine (even cloudy-day daylight), fresh air all have a profound effect on our health. Get outside for a walk, bike ride or hike. </li><li><b>Get creative. </b>Being in the "flow," that state of peace when you are engaged in a creative endeavor is great for your overall state of mind. Try improvising a recipe, painting, doodling, writing, singing, etc.</li><li><b>Get some quality rest. </b>Take a nap and/or get a really good night's sleep. If sleep eludes you read the next tip.</li><li><b>Write down all your to-dos and repeating thoughts before bed.</b> Take a moment to put your thoughts down on paper and know you can address them mañana. Better to file them in a notebook than let them rattle around in your brain all night. Maybe in the light of day the list will be more manageable, and some items no longer matter?</li><li><b>Play with your pet. </b>Don't have one? Borrow your friend's, or volunteer at a shelter. Our furry friends love us unconditionally. We can learn a lot from them. :-)</li><li><b>Take a deep breath, down into your belly. </b>Breathing more expansively through your torso and ribcage, vs big breaths that raise your shoulders, can do wonders to shift your nervous system to a more relaxed state. Let the breath go without forcing it out.</li><li><b>Disconnect to reconnect. </b>Put away your devices and just be in the moment. Look around. Talk with your partner without distractions. </li><li><b>Eat real food.</b> There is tons of science about the health of our guts is deeply connected to our brain and mental health. So aim to feed your whole self with whole foods, i.e. foods in their most original form--an apple, nuts, hard-boiled egg are easy to take along or enjoy at home. </li><li><b>Name three things you are grateful for. </b>My husband and I do this quite often. And remember, some of the best things in life aren't things. ;-)</li><li>Journaling is another way to process. Here are a couple of writing prompts to you help you <a href="https://www.acefitness.org/resources/everyone/blog/8023/resting-your-way-through-the-holiday/?j=1464817&sfmc_sub=87248468&l=1433_HTML&u=73390807&mid=100018573&jb=3&utm_source=SFMC&utm_medium=email&utm_content=2022-12-21_FeaturedArticles_HealthyLiving&utm_campaign=2022-12-21_FeaturedArticles_HealthyLiving&SFID=0038000001uAFeQAAW" target="_blank">recognize what stresses you and what relaxes you</a>. </li><li>Last but not least, <b>do Somatics!</b> The gentle movements of Somatics can help you regulate your nervous system and shift into a restful and restorative state, so life can become more manageable.</li></ol><div>These things may seem simplistic, but if you are down in the dumps, they can be a life preserver that can pull you out of low points. </div><div><br /></div><div>What are ways that help you stay resilient? I'd love to know, so feel free to comment below.</div></div></div><div><br /></div><div>thank you for being here,</div><div>Kristin</div><div><br /></div><div><i>You can learn more about how to reduce stress and pain through Somatics over on my website, <a href="http://thinksomatics.com">thinksomatics.com</a> </i></div>Kristin Jackson CSEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04602108262311524957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-51045815081189963962022-11-10T12:03:00.005-08:002022-11-10T12:06:42.939-08:00Somatics for visual learners<p>Do you consider yourself a visual learner? <span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d161b; font-size: 16px;">A lot of people do. Some even worry they won't be able to keep up or enjoy the audio recordings I share with <a href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-membership-plans" target="_blank">Think Somatics Online Community</a> Members. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d161b; font-size: 16px;">Fear not! </span></p><p><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d161b; font-size: 16px;">Here are key reasons why I predominately offer audio recordings vs videos, and why audio lessons are actually better for your Somatic Education.</span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d161b; font-size: 16px;">We're talking <u>Somatic Education</u></span></h3><p><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d161b; font-size: 16px;">Well, let's start right there, with <b>Somatic Education</b>. Somatics is about working with your somatic nervous system, the part of the brain/nervous system that moves and senses what you do and how you do it. To get rid of pain you need to really start feeling and sensing yourself from an internal perspective. Not just your achy parts. All of you. <b>Your re-educating your brain and body through your sensory and motor cortexes.</b></span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="color: #0d161b;">Muddling the learning process with extraneous input</span></span></h3><div><span style="background-color: white;"><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="color: #0d161b;">As an adult you have likely been conditioned to believe that watching the teacher is how you learn to move, whether it's dance steps, playing a sport, etc. When you are watching someone move, the occipital lobe (where visual data is collected), is very much involved. In an aerobics or salsa class the pace is fast and you watch the teacher to just keep up. While this is happening, the rest of </span></span><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d161b; font-size: 16px;">your brain, particularly the sensory cortex is less able to feel what your body is doing. That's why you may feel a bit clumsy and wonder why the teacher moves with such finesse and you aren't. Yet. You are going through the motions, but not able to really sense them very well. <b>Somatic lesson movements are done much slower</b>, so you can feel what the heck you are actually doing! </span></div><p><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d161b; font-size: 16px;">As babies</span><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d161b; font-size: 16px;"> we learned to move by moving and sensing, repeating the patterns, which would lay down neural pathways to establish our motor patterns. It was a lengthy process too. As we grew up we may have copied certain nuances of our care givers, but our first learning is with us being our own teachers. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="color: #0d161b;"><span style="background-color: white;">Beliefs about who will "fix" us</span></span></h3><p><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="color: #0d161b;"><span style="background-color: white;">Our culture tells us that outside sources will have the answers to our pain problems. What is your first course of action when you are in pain? Go to the chiropractor? Get a massage? Work with a physical therapist? Stop moving? Demand pain medications from your GP? Believe everyone will need surgery eventually as they age, so why fight it?</span></span></p><p><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="color: #0d161b;"><span style="background-color: white;">Along those lines, when some people come to Somatics they are looking to their Somatic Educator as their healer. I am not your healer. I'm here to help you help yourself. Again, by becoming more aware of yourself. I can't sense what you feel from your internal perspective. That is your experience and yours only. I can make educated guesses, but you are the one with the ultimate answers. <b>I am here to help facilitate, not <i>fix</i>.</b></span></span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="color: #0d161b;"><span style="background-color: white;">Come to a live class!</span></span></h3><span face="Inter, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d161b; font-size: 16px;">It's interesting how when students come to my live classes (in-person or on Zoom) they just settle on the floor and naturally close their eyes without any prompts to do so. They just listen to my cues and guide themselves through the movements. I provide plenty of detail to help them tune inward. I'm generally not doing the movements with them, or at least not the entire time. They get more and more out of the lessons because <b>they practice regularly</b> so <b>the movements are <i>learned</i></b>. With practice, their brains can take in more and more information about how and what they do and sense about themselves. </span><div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #0d161b;">Then why do you have a youtube channel, Kristin?!</span></h3><div><span style="color: #0d161b;">I started <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/trainerkristinPDX/videos" target="_blank">my Youtube channel</a> to share Somatics basics with the world. So many people are searching for information, so I want to be there to provide sound education. I created it originally to help my clients remember their self care moves. But I always tell them: do NOT watch and do the moves at the same time. Turning your head to watch the video will alter the movement. </span></div><div><span style="color: #0d161b;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #0d161b;">Ironically I get tons of emails from people who found me on YouTube, asking me if Somatics can help them. Quite often they tell me they've only watched the videos, they haven't actually do the lessons. Um, Somatics can help so many people, but Somatics only works by doing it. Watching it won't. :-)</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #0d161b;">If you need visual assistance. . .</span></h3><div><span style="color: #0d161b;">Occasionally in a live class, if I see there is a bit of confusion in the group as I'm guiding them in the lesson, I may briefly demonstrate some aspect of the movement for clarity. So they can take a peek, and then move on with their eyes closed. If that is the case, I include a video to go the recorded lesson that is added to the <a href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-membership-plans" target="_blank">Online Learning Community</a>. There is also a large collection of videos of particular movements that I incorporate into full-length lessons.</span></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">You can do it!</h3><div>I hope this clarifies why learning Somatics is best done with audio lessons. (Well, really if you can get to a live class that is primo!) When your eyes are open, your brain is taking in a huge amount of information that can stunt your ability to feel what you are doing. So, take a breath, settle in and see what happens when you trust in the process. And in yourself. :-)</div><div><br /></div><div>As always, thanks for stopping by and reading. </div><div>~Kristin</div><div><br /></div><div>PS You've been reading my blog. . . you can <a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">bop over to the Think Somatics website to learn more</a>.</div></div>Kristin Jackson CSEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04602108262311524957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-69265452074203691442022-10-20T15:42:00.004-07:002022-10-24T12:16:07.979-07:00Learning Clinical Somatics online vs in-person vs streaming <p>If you want to learn and reap the benefits of Clinical (Hanna) Somatics you have a several options from which to choose. I've offered them all, so I'd like to share some tips, and humble opinions too. :-)</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">How and Where Can I Learn Somatics?</h2><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="http://thinksomatics.weebly.com/private-lessons.html" target="_blank">Schedule a private session with a Clinical Somatic Educator</a>, meeting in person.</li><li><a href="http://thinksomatics.weebly.com/private-lessons.html" target="_blank">Schedule an <b>online</b> private session</a> with a Clinical Somatic Educator.</li><li>Attend a live Somatics class or workshop in an in-person setting.</li><li>Attend a live Somatics class online, meeting in real time, but online.</li><li><a href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-membership-plans" target="_blank">Stream Somatics recordings</a>.</li><li>Download Somatics recordings.</li></ul><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Private Session IN-PERSON with a <i>Clinical Somatic Educator</i></h3><div style="text-align: left;">This is the top-notch way to learn Somatics. The challenge? Clinical Somatic Educators aren't on every street corner like yoga studios or chiropractors. If you have the ability to work with a quality CSE in person, do it. There are a few caveats to this though. People hanging out a shingle offering Somatics can all have varying degrees of training. Anyone claiming to be a Clinical or Hanna Somatic Educator will have at minimum 3+ years training. They have hands-on skills that can provide you with results that are leaps and bounds beyond learning Somatics from a book or a sub-par somatics movement teacher.</div><h3>Private Session ONLINE with a <i>Clinical Somatic Educator</i></h3><div style="text-align: left;">A private session online is first runner up to in-person sessions. Yes, when I work with online clients I can't seem them in 3D, from every angle, or touch areas of their bodies in ways that stimulate the sensory cortex.<i> </i>But my students have had great success from online sessions.<i> </i>Here's what I do with online clients, and hopefully other CSEs do too. I have clients complete an intake form so I know about past accidents, surgeries, work and hobbies, handedness, and more. I will take photos (screen captures), and share them with with the client during the online session. This can to help one start to recognize their personal <a href="http://www.takeitoutsidefitness.com/2020/02/what-is-sensory-motor-amnesia.html" target="_blank">Sensory Motor Amnesia</a>. I'll assess gait, and then record a lesson for personal use. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I prefer to initially work with new clients online first. This gives us time to establish rapport, and honestly, see if the client will practice their lesson recording. That is extremely important to the client's results. Anyone expecting a session with me will "fix" their bodies is seeking bodywork. Somatics is not bodywork. It is <i>brainwork</i>. A hands-on session can produce immense relief, but ya gotta practice to make lasting changes in your body and nervous system. :-)</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Attend Live Somatics Classes in a Studio</h3><div style="text-align: left;">If you can attend a live class or workshop, ideally led by a CSE or ESMT that is a great option for growing your practice and increasing your somatic awareness! Again, the teacher can see you easily and address your SMA in real time. Attending classes regularly can help you stay committed to your practice. Again, in-person classes don't meet in every town in every country. Check out the <a href="https://www.thinksomatics.com/resources.html" target="_blank">Think Somatics resources page to find teachers in your area</a>.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><h3>Attend Live Somatics Classes Online</h3><div>I offer online classes and will likely continue to do so, even after COVID is "over". I love that I can work with students from Finland to Hong Kong and everywhere in between. Since there aren't CSEs in every town, this gives more people an opportunity to work with one! It's wonderful for all of us to chat at the end of class and hash out questions and discuss what they've all learned and discovered about themselves during the class. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Streaming Somatics Recordings</h3><div>This option is good for people who have a basic foundation of what Somatics is and how to get the most out of their practice. It's also good for those who <i>will</i> carve out the time to actually log in and use the recordings. It's also good for folks who just can't find in-person or online classes to fit their schedules. I highly recommend scheduling a private session with a CSE to help you understand your SMA and get better acquainted with your streaming recording offerings. <a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">I offer a variety of streaming memberships plans</a> that fit most budgets and needs. If you opt for streaming lessons I highly recommend you <a href="http://thinksomatics.weebly.com/private-lessons.html" target="_blank">get a session or two to make sure you start off on the right foot</a>. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Downloadable Somatics Recordings</h3><div>Most movement teachers no longer offer DVDs or CDs. Now, with a credit card and the click of button, you get immediate access to the recordings of your choice. I use to offer downloadable recordings, but found that students preferred streaming material so they don't have to store the recordings on their devices. Also, streaming material can be updated from time to time, so you get more learning opportunities. </div><div style="text-align: center;">___________</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">How to Find a Great Somatics Teacher</h3><div><div><b>Not all Somatics teachers are the same. </b>I am working more and more with folks who have completed online courses from a variety of "somatics" schools. Some of them just take streaming lessons without any live interaction. Some have completed teacher trainings. They all tell me they find sessions with me --both in-person and online -- much more in-depth, educational, and provide results they hadn't gotten before. I don't say this to toot my horn. I want you to know that not all Somatic practitioners are the same. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've studied with different masters in the field of Somatic Education, so I feel comfortable recommending Essential Somatics if you are looking for in person training. </div><div><br /></div></div><div><b>ESMT</b> is an <b><i>Essential Somatics Movement Teacher</i></b>. ESMTs go through strenuous, lengthy training to become certified. Essential Somatics is run by Martha Peterson, who makes sure ESMTs get an in-depth education to be effective Somatic Movement Teachers. You can read more about the program <a href="https://essentialsomatics.com/essential-somatics-movement-teacher-training/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Certified Clinical Somatic Educators</b> go through additional training to work with clients 1-on-1. The work they do is called hands-on. A hands-on session is done with you lying on a table (similar to a massage table), fully clothed. By applying a gentle amount of pressure to areas of your body as you move through particular protocols, your brain gains greater sensory-motor feedback and improve how you do your Somatics movements.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Somatics</i> is a hot term these days and trending more and more every day. Which means there is a lot of confusion about what truly is Somatics. In fact, I've recently moved to Western North Carolina and have reached out to three different businesses with the word <i>somatics</i> in their names and they don't do anything somatic-based. Sigh. </div><div><br /></div><div>So ask questions when looking for a practitioner/teacher. Do your research. </div><div><br /></div><div>I hope you found this post helpful. You can learn more about Somatics here on my blog, on my <a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">website</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/trainerkristinPDX/videos" target="_blank">YouTube channel</a>. I dive more in to the <b>semantics of somatics</b> in <a href="http://www.takeitoutsidefitness.com/2021/01/somatics-with-capital-s.html" target="_blank">this post</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you have any questions or thoughts, let's continue this conversation in the comments section below. :-)</div><div><br /></div><div>If you have specific questions related to your specific issues, <a href="http://thinksomatics.weebly.com/private-lessons.html" target="_blank">you are welcome to book a 30-minute consultation with me</a> to find out how Somatics can help. I'd love to work with you!</div><div><br /></div><div>take good care,</div><div>Kristin</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Kristin Jackson CSEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04602108262311524957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-48886335403719370672022-04-08T09:11:00.000-07:002022-04-08T09:11:14.491-07:00Proactive Postural Restructuring Series Starts April 11 2022If you've been around here for a while you may remember I offered Proactive Postural Restructuring classes many moons ago. Folks really enjoyed it, but alas I put it on the back burner, got hit by a car while riding my bike, which led me to fall deeply in love with Hanna-based Somatics, and went through 4 years of training to become certified. Anyhoo....<br /><h1 style="text-align: left;">Proactive Postural Restructuring is back!</h1><a href="https://www.thinksomatics.com/monthly-focus-for-members.html" target="_blank">This link</a> will take you to all the details and how to register. <div><br /></div><div>Proactive Postural Restructuring is a somatic method of movement education. As is Hanna-based Somatics. So before I dive into some details about PPR, let's cover some key terms and principles.<br /><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Somatic Vocabulary + Key Principles</h3><b>somatic nervous system</b> - the part of your brain and nervous system in charge of controlling how you move and sensing/feeling what you are actually doing.<br /><b>neuroplasticity</b> - the brain’s ability to form neural pathways between the brain and body in response to learning or experience or following injury. Neural pathways can deteriorate too.<br /><b>sensory motor amnesia (SMA)</b>- when the feedback loop between the brain (sensory motor cortex) and muscles are out of sync, which can result in altered movement patterns.<br /><b>altered movement patterns (AMP)</b>- gradual and unconscious ways of moving due to repetitive motion, pain, injury, lifestyle, over-active muscles.<br /><b>pandiculations</b> - safe, simple and enjoyable movements to recalibrate the feedback loop between the brain and muscles. Pandiculations are not stretches or strength movements.<br /><b>Somatics lessons</b> - a series of pandiculations and constructive rest to relearn how to release your muscles to their true resting length. Somatics ideally should be foundational to any fitness routine, sport and overall quality of life.<br /><b>Pro-active Postural Restructuring</b> - a somatic learning method to address anatomical imbalances and altered movement patterns with special attention of the lower body (pelvis, hips, legs, ankles, and feet). Benefits include better posture, smoother and steadier gait, diminished back, hip and foot pain, sculpted hips, legs, ankles, and feet.<br /><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Somatics vs Proactive Postural Restructuring</h4>~ Somatics addresses tension patterns due to stress, injury and repetitive patterns<br />~ PPR addresses altered movement patterns in the pelvis, legs and feet<br /><br />~ Somatics works from the center (the torso) out to the periphery (limbs, neck and skull)<br />~ Proactive Postural Restructuring works from the feet up through the pelvis which creates changes further up the chain/whole body<br /><br />~ Somatics brings a body to a state of neutrality/homeostasis in which muscles are relaxed to their natural resting length<br />~ Proactive Postural Restructuring applies intentional tension patterns to correct anatomical alignment and restructuring <br /><br />Both Somatics and Proactive Postural Restructuring are somatic methods<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>slow, mindful process</li><li>not a quick fix</li><li>positive neuroplasticity (increases neurons in the brain)</li><li>requires personal accountability and an internal locus of control </li></ul></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh9GNPFVbyF7Bzc83uZ3MDHIdet2y4Z7nRstRsphSWG4V1zQEotuuPn8gCgL_WJy5kmach9xFAuf-1T4prUKS0mOovsAJUfAqpUJNj2hTtDRjkYPInB5-W9xB23nTDp_6TRWcFbZsIG1OdquYQPcmem6xW5f2VbJYAuphHCtnvXJ45vv9peg2brYjcYuw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="3300" data-original-width="2550" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh9GNPFVbyF7Bzc83uZ3MDHIdet2y4Z7nRstRsphSWG4V1zQEotuuPn8gCgL_WJy5kmach9xFAuf-1T4prUKS0mOovsAJUfAqpUJNj2hTtDRjkYPInB5-W9xB23nTDp_6TRWcFbZsIG1OdquYQPcmem6xW5f2VbJYAuphHCtnvXJ45vv9peg2brYjcYuw=w495-h640" title="internal vs external locus of control" width="495" /></a></div><br /><br />Proactive Postural Restructuring is a great complimentary somatic modality to your Somatics practice!</div><div><br /></div><div>I work online with students in live Zoom classes. To join us, please enroll as a member of the Level 3 Think Somatics Learning Community. You can check out the details on PPR <a href="https://www.thinksomatics.com/monthly-focus-for-members.html" target="_blank">here</a> and Think Somatics Online Learning plans <a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">here</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Members of the Level 3 Community Plan get to attend live Proactive Postural Restructuring AND Somatics Zoom classes with me each week. Recordings are included, plus hundreds of additional recordings to keep your learning fresh and expansive. <a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">Learn more about the Think Somatics Community Plans</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Just FYI, a lot of folks have asked if they can explore Proactive Postural Restructuring with me during ONLINE private sessions. Absolutely! If you are brand new, we'd start you off with Somatics, then branch into Proactive Postural Restructuring. Why? Somatics creates a "blank slate" on which you can apply restructuring patterns. <a href="http://thinksomatics.weebly.com/private-lessons.html" target="_blank">Learn more about private sessions with Kristin</a>. Yes, they can be done online, and I'll send you a recording of your lesson so you can continue to practice. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>thanks for reading and I hope to see you on the innerwebs soon!</div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">~Kristin</span></h4><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-83716154102288937272022-01-31T07:53:00.001-08:002022-06-06T11:36:20.123-07:00Best darn roasted carrots!I've never been much for cooked carrots. Give me raw ones with peanut butter, or hummus, or bleu cheese, or just plain and I'm good to go.<br /><br />With the current supply chain disruptions I recently resorted to buying a 3 pound bag of whole carrots. . . which led me to resorting to cooking some of them, since there were so many!<br /><br />I am not a foodie blogger and I don't measure when I cook, I just wing it. But since I wanted to share this dish with you, the last time I made these, I paid more attention to ingredient quantities. Well, roughly. Use your senses to figure out what will be best for you.<br /><br /><b>Ingredients</b><br />1 tablespoon unrefined coconut oil*<br />3-5 large carrots (I peel mine, if you don't, that's cool)<br />1 teaspoon turmeric powder<br />1/2 teaspoon <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Five-spice_powder" target="_blank">Chinese five spice</a> **<div>salt to taste, or not</div><div><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">* unrefined coconut oil tastes like coconut oil. Refined doesn't, so it's bland and works with recipes when you don't want to impart coconut flavor.) You could use any oil to your liking in this dish, but I think the taste of the coconut oil is essential to this recipe if you want it to be freaking awesome!</span></i></div><div><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">** Chinese five spice can be found at Asian food markets, Asian food section of well-stocked grocery stores, and health food stores. I found mine at New Seasons Market back when we lived in Portland. Now that I live in Asheville I may have to resort to buying my next jar online. Sigh.</span></i></div><div><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div><div><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div><div><b>Let's get cookin'! </b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>turn your oven to 400* <br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Please note, I'm not saying to preheat, just turn it on and as you prep the carrots the oven heats up. Preheating in my eyes is sometimes a waste of energy. Depends on what you're making. This obviously doesn't apply to baking. Which is why I seldom bake. Baking is a science and cooking is an art. ha!</span></i></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>in a skillet (I pretty much use cast iron for all my cooking) heat your oil</li><li>toss in your carrots, stir to coat with the oil</li><li>sprinkle the turmeric and Chinese five spice over the carrots and stir them around to coat well</li><li>do the same with salt, if you choose</li><li>shove that pan in the oven and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until to the softness of your liking</li><li>you may want to give them a toss and flip half way through</li></ul><div>I love these carrots!!! Since I came up with this dish, I've been making them multiple times a week, I'm surprised I don't look a bit orange by now. Thank god I don't! </div></div><div><br /></div><div>Anyhoo, I just wanted to share with you. I made these for our holiday dinner when our chef-friend visited and he thought they were amazing as well. He said he was gonna steal the idea and say he came up with it first. Ha! If you make these carrots let me know what you think. </div><div><br /></div><div>UPDATE: summer is rolling in here in the northern hemisphere. If you're like me and try to avoid turning on the oven on hot days, you could throw these --in a cast iron skillet-- on your grill. I've also stir fried them with a bit of water thrown in on the stove top. They cook up quickly either way. </div><div><br /></div>Kristin Jackson CSEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04602108262311524957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-82009402885570469642021-07-18T08:27:00.004-07:002021-07-19T11:38:52.128-07:00The secret to long lasting pain relief your bodyworker doesn't knowI'm gonna have this engraved on my tombstone: <div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>No part of your body works by itself.</b></h3>Unfortunately we have been told <i>where there is pain, is where the problem lies</i>. </div><div><br /></div><div>So, to meet you where your beliefs are, I offer <a href="https://www.thinksomatics.com/classes-and-workshops.html" target="_blank">classes</a> and <a href="http://thinksomatics.podia.com/store" target="_blank">recorded lessons</a> to pique your interest. :-) <br /><br />But as soon as students get into a lesson they quickly discover just how everything is connected. <br /><br />In fact I worked with a woman once who had "been to everyone under the sun" to address the pain in her left shoulder and side of neck. <br /><br />When she came to me I didn't "work on" her shoulder and neck. Instead we addressed all the tension along the right side of her body. The tension on her right side caused her right shoulder to drop down, making her left shoulder draw up. </div><div><br /></div><div>That drawn up left shoulder was achy and stiff. The <b>pain was a signal from her brain that something was amiss</b>. She could stretch, massage, inject it until the cows came home, but until she addressed the full body patterns she was habituating, she was likely just gonna get short term relief. Sound familiar?</div><div><br /></div><div>See, the tight right side of her body was where her SMA (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytOVuH26hYU" target="_blank">sensory-motor amnesia</a>) lay. That tension was so engrained in her nervous system that her brain didn't even feel the tightness on her right. <br /><br />Fast forward to the end of her session . . . when she got up off my table she was amazed. And a bit confused. <br /><br />"How did you make my shoulder better?! You didn't even touched it!" <br /><br />Ironically she is a bodyworker, still perpetuating "fix the part, vs address the whole being". I'm not dissing her. I'm just trying to make a point. What am I saying again?<br /></div><div><b style="font-size: 18.72px;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="font-size: 18.72px;">No part of your body works by itself.</b></div><div><br /></div><div>During her session I taught her some gentle, simple, self-care moves to do at home. Yes, she would have to practice. I make no claim that Somatics will "fix" you in a session and you are done.</div><div><br /></div><div>For whatever reason(s)--injury, stress, accidents, surgeries, repetitive patterns like hiking a baby on a hip--you have literally learned to be tight in areas of your body. We can learn faulty patterns just as easily as learning to write our names or play tennis. Learning requires repeatedly and regularly doing something--good or bad--to the point where that pattern shifts to your "autopilot," subconscious area of your brain. </div><div><br /></div><div>By doing special movements of Somatics called <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytOVuH26hYU" target="_blank">pandiculations</a>, with awareness you will relearn to lengthen muscles to their natural resting length.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is how you get lasting relief! </div><div><br /></div><div>You can learn more on my <a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">website</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>I offer live <a href="https://www.thinksomatics.com/classes-and-workshops.html" target="_blank">classes</a>, <a href="http://thinksomatics.weebly.com/private-lessons.html" target="_blank">private sessions</a>, <a href="http://thinksomatics.podia.com/store" target="_blank">downloadable lessons</a> and <a href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-with-kristin-jackson-membership" target="_blank">streaming memberships</a>. </div>Kristin Jackson CSEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04602108262311524957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-74542925480455903882021-07-11T12:01:00.007-07:002021-07-12T08:25:03.732-07:00Let go and move<div style="text-align: center;"><i>If images don't appear in your email, click on the blog title "Let go and move" above.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NVyX2hFVIPU" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><p>I just love watching this baby move! </p><p>I'm including it here, as a visual aid for your Somatics practice.</p><p>I encourage students to move their whole bodies, not isolate parts, when we are doing pandiculations. Well, really, let your whole body move with anything you do in life. Just like Baby Ella is doing in the video.</p><p>If I cue someone to move their heads, or a shoulder, or a hip, or a foot, whatever, I ask them to notice what else moves along with it. </p><p>If one part of your body is moving how does it wag the rest of the body?</p><p>Ella has no cultural expectations, or rules, or isolating parts of her body. She just feels like dancing, and does it. Looks fun, eh?!</p><p>Try it out for yourself. Can you wiggle and jiggle your whole body, moving your shoulders and hips, and spine and head? </p><p>Really, the freer you are to move, the freer you are. Period.</p><p>I'd love to hear what you think . . . throw a comment below. :-) </p><p>thank you! </p><p>~Kristin</p>Kristin Jackson CSEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04602108262311524957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-38313598348430738942021-06-07T16:29:00.002-07:002021-06-07T16:31:03.684-07:00Greetings from the road (part 2)<p>In our previous post from the road we were heading to Des Moines, Iowa. Again, I have no idea why I wanted to see Iowa, other than we'd heard that some of the up and coming "hot" towns were here.</p><p>We crossed Nebraska, where the vibe was off for us. Can a state have a vibe? I think it can, because it's the vibe of the people that live there. No offense to Nebraska, but it's <a href="https://visitnebraska.com/press-releases/nebraska-tourism-launches-springsummer-campaign-nebraska-honestly-its-not-everyone" target="_blank">not for everyone</a>, which is their tourism summer campaign slogan. Seriously!</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1QRtYvoyjp1zH5P-WjMm4tBVdKM2TE86EdnWVLrF1sFMZlg0ATbPVICqaGN8zmgx0oivINyviEmfE0n8VnPNkZZrv1V2qewmNc_exhB5ZmcQQxtjZ6J_YXRt4ZQrIu46Tc81x76r2SpMC/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1115" data-original-width="2820" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1QRtYvoyjp1zH5P-WjMm4tBVdKM2TE86EdnWVLrF1sFMZlg0ATbPVICqaGN8zmgx0oivINyviEmfE0n8VnPNkZZrv1V2qewmNc_exhB5ZmcQQxtjZ6J_YXRt4ZQrIu46Tc81x76r2SpMC/w400-h159/IMG_5913+2.heic" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p>Anyhoo, we enjoyed exploring downtown Des Moines. Toured around the capitol, explored the East Village that some have dubbed the Brooklyn of Des Moines. Bwhahahaha! I wouldn't go that far, but it was cute. We stopped in at <a href="https://www.raygunsite.com/" target="_blank">Raygun</a> a great store for souvenirs worth buying, including this one that made me laugh.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnxViD5uNsWdaXhXigcxpie-6-XcjVOfXccc63y6XEJL2jE3bNZEEPOPKHp8uvuIXQhWWqSjOdi7XMKf84vwhOohT80IQmRTeky2on6UDUrwKrm-uMJI2_vmReBfEoQDPYaZJv2OgpcNJH/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnxViD5uNsWdaXhXigcxpie-6-XcjVOfXccc63y6XEJL2jE3bNZEEPOPKHp8uvuIXQhWWqSjOdi7XMKf84vwhOohT80IQmRTeky2on6UDUrwKrm-uMJI2_vmReBfEoQDPYaZJv2OgpcNJH/w240-h320/IMG_5914+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><p><br /></p>From Des Moines we headed to Kansas City, Missouri to see our old friend, Megan from Austin. Well, she's not old, but we've just known her since before we were married and she helped throw a kick ass party for us after we eloped to Vegas 26 years ago. Oh yeah! We celebrated our 26th en route! We hadn't see her and her family since our road trip from Austin to Portland, 20 years ago. Whoa!<p></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Ptu6rcfLIL9n_sDTIhSWcvilqXaDQRheDJwI_S1w6UF3Ypk2xTlxDQGIqWW4NWbwshEfjOXyTFkXO66xFwLOgRpj0tcrV2ZK6GTGkHO0uqhEbCLDXdrp0wwoOZSGCleHTzOZaP5Y9ycI/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Ptu6rcfLIL9n_sDTIhSWcvilqXaDQRheDJwI_S1w6UF3Ypk2xTlxDQGIqWW4NWbwshEfjOXyTFkXO66xFwLOgRpj0tcrV2ZK6GTGkHO0uqhEbCLDXdrp0wwoOZSGCleHTzOZaP5Y9ycI/w240-h320/IMG_5923+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><p></p><p>Next up, we headed to St Louis to see another friend, Patrick, who is a fellow Portland expat. He lives in the <a href="https://explorestlouis.com/things-to-do/neighborhoods/lafayette-square/" target="_blank">Lafayette Park area</a>, which is rich in history and gorgeous 100+ year old homes. He told us we had to try the gooey butter cake, some crazy-sweet baked bar goodie thing that St Louis is famous for. Ok, twist my arm! ;-)</p><p>Honestly, by this point we were ready to get to Asheville, so we cruised through a few more towns. . . Owensboro, Ky was one that left a pleasant memory for us. Seems a lot of America is just strip malls, fast food joint and roads that hurry cars along the way to reach those destinations as fast as possible. Walkability is a joke for a lot of America and that makes me sad. I can understand why we have obesity and depression epidemics from coast to coast. Sigh.</p><p>We arrived in Asheville Thursday, June 3! Here's a view from our AirBnB in Swannanoa, which is just on the east side of Asheville. Very peaceful.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82DPDE6eDXEaTgT4fFcd_fns861RZJWwPs8D9vqnPHP7UBd2uYzsjpHxCvZceYp44siMkJ9Y3EXAGioHA1ThHOpeQKEpCUFbM-tv-jAvV5i45tfDbj9iDNURJXiyluUo_Vfa82KQ8be2j/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1213" data-original-width="2592" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82DPDE6eDXEaTgT4fFcd_fns861RZJWwPs8D9vqnPHP7UBd2uYzsjpHxCvZceYp44siMkJ9Y3EXAGioHA1ThHOpeQKEpCUFbM-tv-jAvV5i45tfDbj9iDNURJXiyluUo_Vfa82KQ8be2j/w400-h188/IMG_5945+2.heic" width="400" /></a></div><br />Since Friday we've explored the Asheville area as well as Black Mountain, Weaverville, Hendersonville, Arden, Fletcher, Fairview, Clyde, Cullowhee, Waynesville, Sylva. All in an effort to figure out where to live. This is gonna be a process. The real estate market is insane, just like Portland was. Now we get to be on the stressful buyers' side of the process. Oof!<p></p><p>We enjoyed our trip and it was good to be in areas that are different from Portland. Too much of the country disparages fly over states vs the lefty-coasts. People are people. Other than the occasional butt-head driver on an interstate highway folks were nice. Some wore masks, some didn't. No one gave anyone grief either way. </p><p>We look forward to putting down some roots here. . . </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-82908603080732525342021-06-01T06:49:00.001-07:002021-06-01T06:49:33.275-07:00How many routine patterns do you have?<p> Hey all!</p><p>We are still on the road, in our move to Asheville from Portland, OR. </p><p>When we first started out on the trip we were bit discombobulated. . . but within a day or so we established routines; Arrive at the hotel, unload the car, drain the dog, figure out dinner, hang the dopp kit, and so on. In the morning yet another routine pattern of packing the car just so, and streamlining the morning so we can hit the road in a relaxed state, instead of franticly.</p><p>My point is, it doesn't take long to form patterns in our daily lives. There are tons or little routines throughout your day, that you probably do on autopilot. Things like:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>sleep position(s)</li><li>brush your teeth</li><li>mix your coffee</li><li>prepare your meals</li><li>sit at your desk</li><li>stand at your desk</li><li>sit in your car (do you slump towards the center console?)</li><li>play your sport</li><li>garden</li><li>walk </li><li>facial expressions</li><li>drive to and from work</li><li>ride your bike</li><li>fold laundry</li><li>mow the lawn</li><li>walk the dog</li><li>pick up golf tees</li><li>emotional responses to life events that reflexively coincide with postural patterns</li><li>play with your devices</li><li>watch TV</li><li>do your workouts</li><li>and so much more</li></ul><div>All of those things become so engrained that we don't have to think--be conscious--of what we are doing. Which is fine, because life would be exhausting if we had to be highly aware of every thing we do all day long. Right?! :-)</div><div><br /></div><div>BUT! If you have pain and sensory motor amnesia, now might be a good time to become more aware, pay attention of how you do what you do, so you can relearn to move with more ease.</div><div><br /></div><div>Folks I work with continually report in about patterns that they realize are contributing to their pain patterns. Once aware, they can then learn to let them go of the poor patterns so new patterns can become the norm.</div><div><br /></div><div>How about you? What patterns have you noticed that might be reenforcing your SMA, that you can pandiculate out of your life routines? Take a mental, or maybe even a written note, of all the things you do on autopilot. Then can you feel the tension patterns that go along with them? Like how your muscles contract in the left side of the back of your neck as you tilt your head while looking at your device. Or how you react to stress with tension--contracting muscles-- around your heart or lower back? I could go on, but really, it's up to you to become more aware, if you so choose.</div><div><br /></div><div>Drop a comment below and let me know what you learn about yourself.</div><div><br /></div><div>ciao for now,</div><div>Kristin</div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-21408817280399432752021-05-30T16:39:00.003-07:002021-05-30T17:31:18.625-07:00Greetings from the road!<p><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Many of you asked me to keep you in the loop about our trip. I can’t believe it’s only been 6 days since we hit the road!</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">We had grand plans to visit certain sites, but once we ran the numbers on the miles vs days to get across the country, we changed course a bit. We decided we’d visit towns, talk to locals, take in walking tours, architecture and college campuses. Or course taking in the scenery along the way.</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">We spent our first two nights in Redmond, Oregon. We stayed at the very cool </span><span class="s2" style="color: #0f80ff; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://scphotel.com/redmond/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw78yFBhCZARIsAOxgSx2rmcTQHDH6wKPYqp2Ht2eHH0spDMgLR0KoH1E47Kg75EU0wbKVP94aAss0EALw_wcB" target="_blank">SCP Hotel</a></span><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">. We landed there because we wanted to see the Painted Hills. We also hiked around Smith Rock, which was spectacular!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2k99uzqMEbr0u7aUSiay4zhqJgHNRtjooO0eDY208ZtkgM0MadyPNDL9VR455X6MuvC4gxyqlzQtgdIqD8mZZ3c_uEhB7sK_wsPbvudLRlhADryVsrazsieYdTaCXbMQ_sBVtKxEI8Vj9/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2k99uzqMEbr0u7aUSiay4zhqJgHNRtjooO0eDY208ZtkgM0MadyPNDL9VR455X6MuvC4gxyqlzQtgdIqD8mZZ3c_uEhB7sK_wsPbvudLRlhADryVsrazsieYdTaCXbMQ_sBVtKxEI8Vj9/w400-h300/IMG_5876.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smith Rock, Oregon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpVu6Mi_Hbs8ec2ycmDMApWrC7Y463b5zgg7JTacXWXDxLAnKq_oxIoxt-_Qv6sbHioKLZqIwmHG4WvXJE0jPX2uH2aCCt_k4Q3shv-4SnE5uCUp_TVPrbrVznPv9UECY9W2cuSubXNMsU/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpVu6Mi_Hbs8ec2ycmDMApWrC7Y463b5zgg7JTacXWXDxLAnKq_oxIoxt-_Qv6sbHioKLZqIwmHG4WvXJE0jPX2uH2aCCt_k4Q3shv-4SnE5uCUp_TVPrbrVznPv9UECY9W2cuSubXNMsU/w300-h400/IMG_5871.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smith Rock, Oregon. Yes, the sky is that blue!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6NHpKjew_r3CCrBMcoCTJ4if9MmA_8kyZhB7fCcOZP7dwskDvVzEp50QOYna9XfdImr-u3bOJnJcCtn0EOKgAQJ_7uyqlpjdzzrUGBSJaznSZBp9PhS9580n3rfpRcqh_UR6lTdwSxeiZ/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6NHpKjew_r3CCrBMcoCTJ4if9MmA_8kyZhB7fCcOZP7dwskDvVzEp50QOYna9XfdImr-u3bOJnJcCtn0EOKgAQJ_7uyqlpjdzzrUGBSJaznSZBp9PhS9580n3rfpRcqh_UR6lTdwSxeiZ/" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painted Hills, Oregon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc0xMGM0X5Ue4NKKE6HOQVYGQZMwDC603CarXsTEwaOuSr3jqQgP-kEW99_5OmJBEkO2-_lLyIZl2bBaznY_Wa9cFflfiTO3EleykW-aTAIQxALSZm2_hdBt-ushpkMXbW_yFVYEdar6Sb/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc0xMGM0X5Ue4NKKE6HOQVYGQZMwDC603CarXsTEwaOuSr3jqQgP-kEW99_5OmJBEkO2-_lLyIZl2bBaznY_Wa9cFflfiTO3EleykW-aTAIQxALSZm2_hdBt-ushpkMXbW_yFVYEdar6Sb/" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painted Hills, Oregon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /></div><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">From there we headed to Boise, Idaho. We may be partial, but we think Oregon offered up some of the most beautiful terrain so far. . .Didn't spend much time in Boise. We were chompin' at the bit to make tracks.</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Onward to Salt Lake City. SLC was very pretty. And s</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">uper clean, like Mormons. Panda asked us to take her to a park so we visited Sugar House Park. We toured around downtown and explored Emigration Canyon.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span></div><p class="p3" style="color: #0f80ff; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcB9au0wQIZXVpBkQ68WQ6rQRXltwrbyelAVyROD1YyaWTAzFBjdFpxtJFd7hQepYiD8GktqTN_dIX_y9AyfnBW4Z0MlemlFaHDlBgAdj7R9HN3MG_CAIJuBpS3hPJixjDvN9FYYqxDm0j/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcB9au0wQIZXVpBkQ68WQ6rQRXltwrbyelAVyROD1YyaWTAzFBjdFpxtJFd7hQepYiD8GktqTN_dIX_y9AyfnBW4Z0MlemlFaHDlBgAdj7R9HN3MG_CAIJuBpS3hPJixjDvN9FYYqxDm0j/w400-h300/IMG_5895.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The summit, before descent into SLC along Emigration Canyon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">From SLC we headed to Laramie, Wyoming. Traveling with a dog, during a pandemic means we are avoiding eating in restaurants. Laramie is a college town so I found us the </span><span class="s2" style="color: #0f80ff; font-kerning: none;"><a href="http://www.laramiecoop.com/" target="_blank">Big Hollow Food Coop</a></span><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"> for some healthy eats. This girl needs her broccoli! Laramie downtown is super cute. Looks a bit like a western movie set, with trendy spas and shops mingled vintage buildings and signage</span><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJbUObcoNxDa2RRKm8y8fSPdH8gwnsQQmhkaIOXVz-YpZiBYY90yXyDd6Sd_xaUuL9LrLSEt2VMhs0NA51KMU0DCCHcnyMOc3qf1aRlQUVdsfISimGw6jPIEl3TjklL5b_SMsHLLfBAJ_E/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1168" data-original-width="673" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJbUObcoNxDa2RRKm8y8fSPdH8gwnsQQmhkaIOXVz-YpZiBYY90yXyDd6Sd_xaUuL9LrLSEt2VMhs0NA51KMU0DCCHcnyMOc3qf1aRlQUVdsfISimGw6jPIEl3TjklL5b_SMsHLLfBAJ_E/w230-h400/F0641D4A-1D44-468E-9BE6-E2A42386E5ED_1_105_c.jpeg" width="230" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think that's Shawn Cassidy and David Hasselhoff. . . <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">I had no idea that Wyoming is called the </span><span class="s2" style="color: #0f80ff; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.10best.com/interests/explore/10-reasons-why-wyoming-is-known-as-the-equality-state/" target="_blank">Equality State and where women got to vote in the first general elections</a></span><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> Hmmm. . . </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">From Laramie we briefly checked out Cheyenne. Another attractive town.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Onward to Nebraska, staying in Kearny, another college town. Hmmm. . . this town makes me appreciate towns that promote local fare, local makers and revitalizing downtowns. Kearney was more interested in fast food chains and multi-lane roads to funnel people along to said junk food :-( <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-kerning: none;">Next stop, Des Moines, Iowa. For whatever reason I’ve wanted to check out Iowa. Probably because Iowa came up in our searches when looking for a new town.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> Stay tuned. . .</span></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-72443087888872667872021-02-11T16:54:00.003-08:002021-02-11T18:43:37.787-08:00Pistachio Coffee Dark Chocolate Bark Recipe. You're Welcome! :-)It's 3 days to Valentine's Day and mere hours 'til, what we in Portland call Snowmageddon, begins. Both are great reasons to enjoy some cozy, chocolatey yumminess. <div><br /></div><div>I don't have a huge sweet tooth, but I do <i>love</i> chocolate. The darker the better. Buying fancy chocolate bars can get kind of spendy, so I figured how hard could it be to make chocolate bark/bars with my own add-ins? Well, not hard at all. After poking around at some recipes I came up with dark-chocolate-pistachio-coffee-sea-salt-bark combo as my fav.</div><div><br /></div><div>When I mention it or share it with friends they all want the recipe, so this post is long over due. </div><div><br /></div><div>Heads up: I pretty much like to play with my food. If I get an idea for something I wanna eat, I may poke around at recipes for general guidelines. I'm not a measure-every-ingredient-exactly person either. The basic idea here is A) let's melt some chocolate and B) put stuff in it. :-) If you wanna to change ratios of dark to semi-sweet chocolate, subtract the coffee, add almonds instead of pistachios, do a completely different combo like candied ginger and toasted coconut, go for it! </div><div><br /></div><div>So here we go! </div><div><br /><b>Ingredients</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1 4 oz 100% cacao baking chocolate bar (something like <a href="https://www.target.com/p/baker-39-s-100-cacao-unsweetened-chocolate-baking-bar-4oz/-/A-12969397?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&fndsrc=tgtao&DFA=71700000012732781&CPNG=PLA_Grocery%2BShopping_Local&adgroup=SC_Grocery&LID=700000001170770pgs&LNM=PRODUCT_GROUP&network=g&device=c&location=9032930&targetid=pla-510540477803&ds_rl=1246978&ds_rl=1248099&gclid=Cj0KCQiApY6BBhCsARIsAOI_Gjayx1T0G8Wox_aODAi_ehDufPMPZiuXQlnKqhwgRRCe_dR_x2UzyW8aApcpEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">this</a>)</li><li>1 11.5 oz bag of chocolate chips ( I like <a href="https://www.target.com/p/guittard-extra-dark-chocolate-baking-chips-11-5oz/-/A-50512954?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&fndsrc=tgtao&DFA=71700000012732781&CPNG=PLA_Grocery%2BShopping_Local&adgroup=SC_Grocery&LID=700000001170770pgs&LNM=PRODUCT_GROUP&network=g&device=c&location=9032930&targetid=pla-702334849872&ds_rl=1246978&ds_rl=1248099&gclid=Cj0KCQiApY6BBhCsARIsAOI_GjaIWKb8yTk8jpXluTQDoSMhHu5Ej44u3SccFZNdWVjAqgxMFHJKWxAaAszUEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Guittards</a>)</li><li>1/2-3/4 cup chopped pistachios (I honestly don't know how much I use exactly)</li><li>1-3 tablespoons ground coffee (I do 3, but you may want less. It does add some grittiness to the bark, but I love it that way. Kind of like chocolate covered espresso beans. Crunchy, right?)</li><li>1 tablespoon coconut oil (honestly I don't always do this step, so consider it optional)</li><li>sea salt </li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Equipment</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>double boiler or two sauce pans of different sizes, which is what I do</li><li>baking sheet</li><li>wax or parchment paper or one of those fancy-pants flexy baking mats. Again, I've skipped this too but some sort of material that keeps the chocolate from sticking to your baking sheet will help in the creation.</li><li>a big-ass spoon or spatula, something to spread the chocolate</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Let's make the bark!</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Line your baking sheet with paper or mat.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Set up your double boiler. I just use a smaller sauce pan set in a larger pan which has some water in it. </li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Chop up the baking bar a bit, then put it and the chips in the double boiler.</li><li>On medium heat, melt the chocolate, stirring frequently.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Chop up your pistachios (or other nuts of choice) a bit. We aren't looking for nut meal here, folks. Just chopped enough so it all sticks to the chocolate well.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Here's where the optional coconut oil step comes in. Melt the oil, if solid, then stir your coffee grounds into the oil, set aside.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Once the chocolate is melted, pour and spread out about 2/3 of the melted chocolate on your prepared sheet. How thin to spread it? That's your choice. When I do this step the chocolate does not cover the entire sheet, nor do I get it perfectly shaped. I'd say it's about 1/4" thick, give or take. It's gonna be broken into pieces in the end, so don't sweat it. The goal is to get through this quick enough that the chocolate is still melty so the nuts and coffee stick to it in the next step. . .</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Sprinkle the chopped nuts and coffee grounds over the chocolate. I use the back of a spoon or spatula to spread all this yumminess around a bit more evenly.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Drizzle the remaining melted chocolate over the above. Again, I spread it around a bit, so it turns out more like a chocolate bar, plus it cuts down on a lot of the good stuff falling off the chocolate, and that would be sad. But if you're looking for something that resembles bark, don't spread it.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Lastly, sprinkle sparingly, flaked or ground sea salt on top. You could skip this, especially if you are using salted pistachios, but I like to add it. </li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Put the tray in your freezer or fridge to chill. Once hardened break it up to the sizes you like. Store in a container or a bag of your choice. I leave it in the cabinet, because room temp chocolate is better than refrigerated, IMO. But <i>you</i> can put it in the fridge if you wanna. Who the hell knows how long it'll last? It will be eaten long before it ever goes bad. ha!</li></ul><div>Enjoy and share with those you love, including yourself. :-) </div><div><br /></div><div>If you wanna <b>add more self-love to your life</b>, <a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">please join me for Somatics</a>. Learn how being more bodyful to self soothe and self regulate yourself and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_systems_of_the_human_body" target="_blank">systems</a>. </div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-24452761163120780912021-01-31T14:55:00.001-08:002021-01-31T15:17:48.206-08:00February is Pelvic Floor Awareness Month with Think Somatics<p style="text-align: left;">When I was very young I took a butt-banging fall going down the stairs. I feel smack dab on my tailbone, and holy mother did it ever hurt. It was so painful I remember backing out of a friend's upcoming roller-skating birthday party. I wanted to avoid any possibility of falling like that again. </p>Within a few days I was fine. Or so I thought. <br /><br />Fast forward a few decades and I am <em>just</em> now becoming aware of the tension I hold around my tailbone. <br /><br />Ta da! See, even us Clinical Somatic Educators can have deeply ingrained cases of <a href="http://www.takeitoutsidefitness.com/2020/02/what-is-sensory-motor-amnesia.html" target="_blank">sensory motor amnesia</a>. When clients say things like, "Since you are a Clinical Somatic Educator, you must not have any issues or pains." I privately think to myself. <i>Hilarious! I wish.</i> <div><br /></div><div><b><i>Every day is a different lived experience, so every day I may experience my body in different ways.</i></b></div><div><br /></div><div>Thankfully I don't have pain around my tailbone. Maybe that's why I'm just now realizing how the particular pelvic floor muscles that attach to my tailbone, have probably been in a low grade contraction for decades. Or maybe it has nothing to do with that fall. Maybe it has to do with one of multiple other bodily traumas I've had, like falling off horses or onto the bar of a too-big-for-me a ten speed bike, or being hit by a car, or when I fell learning to water ski. Blah, blah, blah.</div><div><br /></div><div>It a way, those things don't really matter. What matters is, can I feel what my body is doing now? Sure those events may play a role in what my body does now, but getting hung up on the past can't change the future. What matters now is I know I am perfectly capable of writing new neural patterns into my being so I can feel and function in spectacular ways. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>Think back to when you were learning to ride a bike, or hop on a pogo stick or whatever got your excited. You wanted to practice, learn and do what you craved. Right?</div><div><br /></div></div><div>Over the last few weeks I've been excited to learn more things about myself and notice how this greater awareness of myself--and my pelvic floor--tweaks my posture, my gait, my ankles. . . and going forward other things may appear too. That's the wonderfulness of Somatics. Possibilities are limitless. </div><div><br /></div><div>If the idea of learning something new about yourself excites you too, I invite you to join me for upcoming February classes. Both the Somatics classes and the Flow Motion classes will incorporate pelvic floor focused themes. Here are somethings we will explore in February.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Pelvic Floors: Everyone's Got One. How Well do You Know Yours? :-)</li><li>Connecting the Pelvic Floor to the Breath</li><li>Connecting the Sacrum and SI Joints to the Pelvic Floor</li><li>How to Improve Walking and Running With PF Attention</li><li>and more. . .</li></ul></div><div>You can get all the details and register for classes <a href="https://www.thinksomatics.com/classes-and-workshops.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you aren't already on my email list, be sure to <a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">sign up on the Think Somatics website</a>, so you get the latest info about classes and recordings.</div><div><br /></div><div><strong>Can't make the live classes? </strong></div><div><p>Check out the <a data-cke-saved-href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-with-kristin-jackson-membership" href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-with-kristin-jackson-membership" target="_blank">Think Somatics Members Library</a> for similar classes I've recorded for you, and a whole lot more.</p><p>Thanks for reading.</p><p>Peace,</p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><i>Kristin</i></h3><p>Kristin Jackson CCSE, CPT</p><p><a href="http://thinksomatics.com">thinksomatics.com</a></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-4284478778357455732021-01-17T11:58:00.004-08:002021-01-17T15:31:40.480-08:00Healthy Distractions to Counter Unhealthy OnesI usually sleep through the night, wake rested, seldom needing an alarm to rouse me. <br /><br />That hasn't been my case sense the freaking insurrection happened. Now not only is my sleep suffering, I'm drawn to my phone to check the news. In the middle of the night! Whoa, that's no good, and so not my usual MO, at all. <br /><br />Yes, I want to stay up to date on the news. What I don't want to do, is constantly check in on it. When I do that, I go researching the <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/03/how-uncertainty-fuels-anxiety/388066/" target="_blank">cognitive and psychological impact of uncertainty</a> that seems put us all somewhere on the anxious-to-bat-shit-crazy spectrum. And worst of all, I definitely don't need to get on <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/7442424415516765639/428447877835745573#">social media that reenforces the tribalism</a> that feeds the fear and hate of others.<br /><br /><b>Anything we do often enough becomes a pattern, a habit. <br /></b><br />I do NOT want any of these activities to become my patterns, my habits, become my norm. <br /><br />I for one am really going to focus on healthy distractions from the distractions that don't serve humanity well. Really, the healthy "distractions" are things that should be the norm, part of our regular activities.<br /><br />Feel free to play along. Here's what I'm doing more of with my days to stay sane and resilient in these crazy times.<br /><br /><b>Do Somatics. </b>We've all heard how meditation is good for our physical, mental and emotional health. Somatics is a form moving meditation, and personally I find it much more effective than other meditation practices. Somatics calms me. It <i>usually</i> helps me sleep more soundly, so maybe I need to do a bit more before bed. To each their own, but if you don't have a meditation practice, or want to get rid of pain at the same time as you meditate, visit my <a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">website to learn more</a> about Somatics.<br /><br /><b>Soaking in nature. </b>I love to start my day walking my doggie. I may like our walks more than Panda does. She's kind of lazy. <div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfqf0hFe0nPjexxxnJ5e0hQWsgN9TLs5h-zbFHfwruAkEdRp31poYjSfbAUOqhynAUcN-Sd_rn3eo2jyeQvso-mpj1QtfGeMygqSiqVzOOLWMnAf3xmpbXGkhaIXTZN36L_ZamXxGXjKxs/s2048/IMG_5554.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfqf0hFe0nPjexxxnJ5e0hQWsgN9TLs5h-zbFHfwruAkEdRp31poYjSfbAUOqhynAUcN-Sd_rn3eo2jyeQvso-mpj1QtfGeMygqSiqVzOOLWMnAf3xmpbXGkhaIXTZN36L_ZamXxGXjKxs/w320-h240/IMG_5554.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Besides eating, walking and barking a squirrels, <br />sleeping is one of Panda's favorite things. </i></td></tr></tbody></table>Rain or shine, our walks give me time to move my body, enjoy fresh air and surround myself in green space. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Science knows it's good for us</a>. Your body does too. While walking my mind is more open to generating solutions/ideas/plans to what I want to do with my day/business/life. Sometimes I just like to sit down outside and listen. Listen to the differences between the leaves and the pine needles in the trees. Listen to how many birds I can hear. All of this gets me out of my head and calms me down. I also love to use the outdoors as my gym. If you are in the area, you can join me for my <a href="https://www.thinksomatics.com/classes-and-workshops.html" target="_blank">Take It Outside Fitness classes on Wednesdays at 830am</a>. <br /><br /><b>Upping productivity using my body. </b>OMG! I can't believe how much time I can spend at my computer thinking I <i>should</i> be productive. I'm gonna turn that sense of being productive toward activities that use my body--gardening, crafting, chores, etc. I know a lot people like to relegate these things to others, because, again, we think we should dedicate the bulk of our time to work, work, work. But I can't believe how great I feel to actually get a task finished and see the end results. You know what I mean. How many of you cleaned out your closets and junk drawers when the pandemic started. That small sense of accomplishment and control over the situation is good for you!<div><br /></div><div><div>Additional things I'll keep doing or do more of:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Drink plenty of water</b>.</li><li><b>Eat lots of veggies and some fruits</b>.</li><li><b>Get a variety of movement into my day</b>-- for me that means I'm gonna do more hula hooping and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzBjxoH5MmlBuXTHloniS_Q" target="_blank">indian clubbing</a>. </li><li><b>Set timers and blocks of time. </b>To keep me on task, I'll set allotted time for certain things that I know are rabbit holes. I'll also block my daily schedule with particular to-dos that are non-negotiable. Well, I hardly think anything is non-negotiable, but I have to be somewhat disciplined to get work done. :-) </li><li><b>Learn new stuff</b>. I've signed up for so many online classes since the pandemic. Time for me to finish them! ha!</li><li><b>Read printed materials</b>. I have so many amazing books on somatics, the brain, humanity and more. So when I feel the pull to read news on my electronic devices, beyond my allotted daily check in, I'll turn to printed materials instead.</li></ul>I hope these things are helpful for you too. Feel free to share your tips and ideas in the comments below.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Ok, gotta go do some hooping.</div><div><br /></div><div>peace to you all,</div><div>Kristin</div><div><br /></div></div><div>PS I wrote this blog post a few days ago, and have already started sleeping better after incorporating these things back into my life. </div><div><br /></div><div><div><i>You are currently on my blog. Here is my website: <a href="http://thinksomatics.com">thinksomatics.com</a> There you can learn about what Somatics is and how we can work together to make the world a saner, calmer place for all of us. </i></div></div><div><i><br /></i></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-78716598205506763822021-01-10T17:26:00.010-08:002021-02-02T11:33:01.501-08:00Are we truly free?<p>If ever there was a time to dive into the <b>philosophy of Somatics</b>, this is it. I'm primarily referring to the attempted coup last week in Washington DC. </p><p>I've kept politics and business separate, but the fact that so many <b>people are not just out of their minds, but out of their bodies</b>, and since I am a Clinical Somatic Educator in the tradition of Thomas Hanna, I can no longer stay silent. This is no longer just about politics, it's about humanity. We all must do something in our own way to set humanity back on an even keel. </p><p>So here we go.</p><p> Most people come to Somatics because they are in pain. But it's more than that. <a data-cke-saved-href="http://www.takeitoutsidefitness.com/2021/01/somatics-with-capital-s.html" href="http://www.takeitoutsidefitness.com/2021/01/somatics-with-capital-s.html" target="_blank">Somatics with a capital "S"</a> is based on the work of Thomas Hanna. Hanna was a philosopher and his driving philosophical question was <strong><em>how do humans stay free and autonomous? </em></strong></p>The world is a place of constant pressures, all causing us to contract and tighten. Stress to our bodies is like water to a fish. It's so normal to be in a state of tension, that we aren't even aware we are swimming it.<div><br /></div><div>We may think we are free and functioning under our own will, but are we really? I mean if you can't sense how you physically react to events around you, who is really in charge of what you do and how you act? <div><br /></div><div>Whether it's pulling your hand from a hot stove, chronically arguing with your partner, raging on social media, or witnessing a demagogue incite a coup, they all trigger reflexive full-body contractions. Experience events like these over and over, with never truly return to a state of homeostasis (calm, neutral), you no longer have voluntary control of how you respond to the world around you. You are learning to remain stressed. <br /><br />Fear is the opposite of freedom. Fear of the unknown, fear of change, fear of "others," fear of being vulnerable means one lives a life in a state of threat and always lacking. It also makes one easy to manipulate by playing on those fears. </div><div><br /></div><div>Fear breeds hate. Those who stormed the capitol, and those who incited them, and those who continue to think the evil done is OK, are ultimately cowards. Their belief of superiority goes back generations. It's ingrained in the culture of our country that again, it's like the fish in water. Through awareness people can step up and rebuke these beliefs. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's challenging though. It's hard to reach and rationalize with someone who lives in a chronic state of fear and hate. They are not functioning under the executive functioning portion of the brain that thinks and rationalizes. They are running under the control of the limbic ("lizard") brain which is responsible for basic survival. This portion of the brain reacts to everything as a potential threat. <br /><br />To release oneself from fear requires curiosity, compassion and willingness to accept change. <br /><br />Because we are culturally trained to give up our sense of autonomy and agency, we are led to believe that there are experts that know us better than we know ourselves. Collectively we are all doing this to some extent. <br /><br />As Somatics Educators, we say if<strong> you can sense it, you can change it.</strong> Many of us are trying to improve the situation on a cognitive level, but ultimately we need to address the body. <br /><br />The fear response reflexively triggers a closing up of the body, and the brain follows, not the other way. The fight or flight response is another state of being that people are stuck in. This may be woo-woo to many, but its all about neuroplasticity. Change is achievable but only when it incorporates the mind and the body. <br /><br />The Greeks referred to the entity of mind and body as the Soma. You are not just a physical body, but a mind, body and spirit. <p></p><h2 style="text-align: center;">What is a Soma?</h2><div style="text-align: center;">A Soma is a citizen who is </div><div style="text-align: center;">physically fit,</div><div style="text-align: center;">emotionally balanced,</div><div style="text-align: center;">mentally alert,</div><div style="text-align: center;">and spiritual, with a moral compass.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>A Somatics practice helps you reclaim your awareness of what is happening within your nervous system as you react to the world around you. Developing this awareness means you can reclaim your ability to calm yourself. By learning to self regulate, and having a better understanding yourself, you can better relate to others around you. </div><div><br /></div><div>peace and justice for all,<br />Kristin<p></p><p><i>PS Like I said, this blog post is about how to help humanity. If you want to make the world a saner, safer place, please subscribe. If you haven't already, please start a Somatics practice to help you stay resilient. <a href="http://www.thinksomatics.com" target="_blank">Learn more on my website</a>.</i></p><br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-17414039785706469312021-01-10T15:47:00.005-08:002021-12-01T04:33:05.960-08:00Somatics with a capital S<p> The word <i>somatics</i> is being thrown around a lot these days. I just want to interject a quick note amidst all the chatter. </p><p>You have a somatic nervous system. It is the part of the nervous system that voluntarily moves your body the way you want, and senses it.</p><p>A lot of "mind-body" fitness/movement programming can fall under somatics (with a lower case s). Yoga, pilates, tai chi, etc., when done slowly and with awareness can be considered "somatic." </p><p>The somatic modality of Thomas Hanna, the philosopher behind the work I do, is referred to as Hanna Somatics or Clinical Somatics. Hanna actually wanted to call his work just "Somatics" but couldn't trademark the word, so he added his name to it for his method.</p><p>So when I refer to Somatics with a capital S, that's what I'm talking about. <b>Somatics is the tradition of Thomas Hanna.</b></p><p> But alas, there are lots of somatic modalities out there, many calling themselves "Somatics" but aren't the same thing at all. </p><p>Hanna or Clinical or Essential Somatics is a "bottom up" method, meaning from the body to the brain. It is a method of resolving tension that is triggered by physical, mental and emotional pain. Most other methods are still trying to change things from a cognitive level; by thinking and sending thoughtful messages to the body to do or be a certain way. We can't think our way to physical changes, we have to feel it, so we neurologically rewire the whole system to find a more homeostatic (calm, neutral) state of being. </p><p>Somatics with a capital S is changing things on the neurological level, within the body, up to the brain. Yes, there is a cognitive aspect to the work. The sensations of the body do register in the brain. The act of pandiculating is connecting the receptors in the muscles to the brain. </p><p>I'll keep it short, but just know that Somatics with a capital S is completely different and much more powerful than most other methods, because it goes to the root of everything we do; the brain, via the body. Not the other way around. Make sense? </p><p>You can read more about Somatics on my website <a href="http://thinksomatics.com">thinksomatics.com</a>.</p><p>~Kristin</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-84859822370253699062021-01-02T12:27:00.004-08:002021-01-03T11:07:13.093-08:006 reasons you should develop a Somatics practice<div>Happy New Year! Guess what? I've created a new <a href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-fundamentals-course" target="_blank">Somatics 101 | Somatics Fundamentals for Beginners E-course</a>!</div><div><br /></div><div>What I use to cover in my once-a-month free webinars is now all encompassed in this new streaming e-course. I'll explain what Clinical Somatics is and how it can help so many things that challenge us all. You get to experience basic Somatics movements too. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've divided it into bite size chunks of info so you can easily digest it at your own pace. Because Somatics is so different from physical therapy, yoga, massage, etc, be sure to go through all the parts so you have a greater understanding of Somatics. </div><div><br /></div><div>The course is free and open to all. So if you have been trying to explain Somatics to others, be sure to share this with others. </div><div><br /></div><div>Being a Somatics Educator, of course, I think everyone could benefit from a Somatics practice. :-) We all know by now that being a more mindful and aware are key to not just surviving, but thriving, in our 24/7 world.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #45818e;"><a href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-fundamentals-course">Somatics 101 | Somatics Fundamentals for Beginners E-course</a> Here are 6 top reasons why you should develop a Somatics practice.</span></h3><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">1. You have pain and you want to get rid of it.</h4><div>This is the primary reason people come to Somatics in the first place. They've "tried everything" to no avail. Clients love what Somatics does for their aches and pains. But Somatics is so much more than just getting rid of pain. . .</div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">2. You want to calm the #$% down.</h4><div>The world is a very stimulating world. The word <i>stress</i> gets thrown around so much that most humans aren't even aware of how much stress they accumulate in their bodies every day. Most people try to mask the tension in their bodies with medications, vegging out, social media, binge TV, poor food choices, etc. Studies prove that a meditation practice, such as Somatics, helps to downshift from the <i>fight/flight/freeze</i> state to the <i>rest and digest</i> state of the nervous system. Somatics goes to the root of all patterns, the brain and nervous system. Yes, you can calm down.</div><h4 style="text-align: left;">3. You want a sense of autonomy and empowerment.</h4></div><div>Since the world is a crazy place we may feel like we have no control over the situations around us. To some extent, that is true. By having a Somatics practice you can self regulate and self soothe yourself. How much better would you feel if you could stay sane in challenging times? This is a really good reason to <i>start developing your Somatic super powers ASAP</i>.</div><h4 style="text-align: left;">4. You crave deeper, healthier relationships with those around you.</h4><div>When you become more aware of how and what triggers you into fight/flight or freeze states, you can voluntarily remain or recover to a state of calm. From that sounder, calmer state you have a greater capacity to relate and help the world around you. This can apply how you relate to your partner, your kids, neighbors, coworkers, community and beyond. When you have a greater understanding of yourself you can better relate to those around you.</div><h4 style="text-align: left;">5. You want to sleep more soundly.</h4><div>Again, studies show that a meditation practice is very helpful for sounder sleep. And with sounder sleep, you have more control over things that can spiral out of control when exhausted--poor eating, vegging out, brain fog, etc.</div><h4 style="text-align: left;">6. You want to be more aware.</h4><div>Re-read all of the above. :-)</div></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">________________________</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Intrigued? Ready to calm down? Feel better? Reclaim your innate ability to self regulate your nervous system? </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #45818e;">Enroll in the Somatics 101 E-course <a href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-fundamentals-course" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></h3><div>It's free. </div><div>You can stream it on any device. </div><div>You can review it as often as you like. </div><div>And of course, be sure to share this link with others. The more sane and calm we all are, the better off we all are. </div><div><br /></div><div>peace,</div><div>Kristin</div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to my blog, please visit <a href="http://thinksomatics.com">thinksomatics.com</a> for more information about Somatics.</div>Kristin Jackson CSEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04602108262311524957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-40237361902247066102020-12-21T10:22:00.005-08:002020-12-22T08:19:42.385-08:00How to find and select a qualified Clinical or Hanna Somatic EducatorBecause Somatics is such a hot word these days, you want to be sure to do your homework when seeking a qualified practitioner. Start by searching for a <b>Clinical</b>, <b>Hanna</b> or <b>Essential</b> Somatic Educator. <br /><br />Since I have studied at two schools that teach the work of Thomas Hanna, and consulted with graduates of other programs, I can say with confidence that graduates of Essential Somatics are well vetted and well trained in the philosophy and practice of Thomas Hanna's work. Novato Institute does a good job too. <br /><br />There are many other programs out there that I find lacking in the true understanding of Hanna's work. Before I went through my training I sought out a practitioner in my home town. There wasn't anyone. There were a few people who listed Hanna Somatics in their bios, but they had only taken a weekend workshop, at most. Weekend workshops are great but they are not intended to certify anyone to work with the public. The schools that host such events say so as much in their course materials.<div><br /></div><div>When I have worked with graduates of other schools and online programs they are very surprised by the difference between what I've been trained to do with students vs what they were taught to do with their own students. They personally find our work together much more profound in the results and awareness of what they personally are experiencing in their own bodies. Really, if a practitioner is significantly lacking in awareness of their own soma*, they are less likely to be able to step into the soma of a client. Something to think about when seeking a practitioner. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>*Soma is what we refer to as the first person experience of ones self. No other person can sense what you feel within yourself. This what separates Somatics from bodywork. Bodywork looks at you from the outside and aims to "fix" your body by working on your parts. Somatics addresses the whole being that is you, by working with the soma and nervous system. </i><div><br /></div><div>I personally think it is a good idea to work with more than one practitioner. While we are teaching the same work, we all deliver it slightly differently, so you may pick up some nuances that you missed from another practitioner. </div><div><br /></div><div>Also note that in your research, you may come across two types of CSE practitioners. There are those trained to teach just the movements (pandiculations). They may be called somatic movement teachers or somatic exercise instructors. Those with 3-year clinical training offering hands-on work <i>and</i> movement lessons are referred to as Clinical Somatic Educators, Essential Somatic Educators, or Hanna Somatic Educators. </div><div> <div>Here are two directories to help you find a practitioner. </div><div><a href="https://essentialsomatics.com/find-clinical-somatics-practitioners" target="_blank">Essential Somatics directory of practitioners</a></div><div><a href="https://hannasomatics.com/find_a_practitioner" target="_blank">Novato Institute</a> </div></div><div><br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-64352703682563899922020-12-13T13:35:00.004-08:002020-12-13T15:28:46.543-08:00Exploring postures, moods and emotions in response to avoidance and protection<div>This week we are exploring what we feel in our bodies when we are protecting ourselves from injury and discomfort.</div><div><div><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCyVQIMghN87_qRNJsZjG6at2H_AKTonppDJx-4Z-Ph3F9l10bBgJK1XLBVvuZp1Tc-SZklElH0VD7I78K6yEZc2WRxSIo69fwOgWb1s-go8P7tvmmwNhv2tCdV1g7205DgvFljmagD6PK/" style="color: #0000ee; text-align: center;" width="135" /></div><b>If you've ever sprained an ankle</b>, the moment you rolled your foot, one side of your body contracted to avoid further damage. It is a reflex and thankfully your nervous system responded as such.<br /><br />The problem is, while your ankle is healing, you timidly hobble around, and the muscles running up the side of your body continue to contract to reduce the weight on your injured ankle.<br /><br />Over a few days to weeks, as your ankle heals, this wonky posture becomes your new "normal." Even though your ankle has recovered, you now subconsciously have hiked and twisted your pelvis, shortened your waist, contracted your ribs and drooped a shoulder down a bit. All setting the stage for future injuries because your whole body, from head to feet, is imbalanced.<div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><br /></span></div>This postural pattern can result in </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>why you've been diagnosed with different leg lengths </li><li>hip, knee, ankle and/or foot pain</li><li>sciatica</li><li>pelvic floor imbalances</li><li>neck and shoulder pain</li><li>even scoliosis</li></ul></div><div>Other similar postural patterns that create this lateral/rotational imbalance include repeatedly doing things like<div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>hiking a baby on one hip</li><li>throwing a bag over the same shoulder</li><li>playing a dominate-arm sport like golf</li><li>a manual job that requires repetitive twisting/bending</li><li>even working on a laptop</li></ul><div>This bending and twisting pattern also shows up in response to emotionally upsetting events that make us cringe and want to turn away from the sources of uncomfortable situations.</div><div><br /></div><div>The fact that you aren't aware of the tension patterns you've created is what we call <b>sensory-motor amnesia</b>. The parts of your brain in charge of moving (motor cortex) and sensing what you are doing (sensory cortex) have a faulty feedback loop. And no amount of force, bodywork, stretching, strengthening will reset that loop.</div><div><br />So how do you reset that feedback loop? With gentle Somatic movements, done with awareness, called <a href="http://www.takeitoutsidefitness.com/2019/11/what-is-pandiculation.html" target="_blank">pandiculations</a>. </div><div></div><blockquote><div>When we become better aware of what we are doing <b>subconsciously</b> with our bodies, we can create a new way of doing something new with our bodies. </div></blockquote><div><div>When we become better aware of what we have been doing <b>subconsciously</b> with our bodies, we can change what we are doing with our bodies. And when we change our tension patterns, we can shift to a calmer state so we can better handle life events, relate to others better, and forge a better future.</div><div><br /></div><div>This week in classes we are exploring the tension patterns that run along the sides of our bodies. </div><div><br /></div><div>I hope you can make it to class. Live classes are hosted online using Zoom. You can <a href="https://www.thinksomatics.com/classes-and-workshops.html" target="_blank">get more info here</a>. If you can't make to live classes, I've created the <a href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-with-kristin-jackson-membership">Think Somatics Members Library</a>, so you never miss out. :-)</div><div><br /></div><div>freedom and ease for all,</div><div>Kristin</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://thinksomatics.com">thinksomatics.com</a></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7442424415516765639.post-65926782252437789732020-11-29T11:11:00.004-08:002020-11-29T11:18:29.293-08:00Posture and Emotion. Which comes first?We convey a lot to the world around us by the way we carry ourselves. Our posture can say we are sad and shut down, ready for action, or a bit apprehensive. <br /><br />Our bodies also contract in to certain full-body patterns when under immediate threat. When startled the belly, chest, inner thighs contract to protect vulnerable bits on the front of the body. This is the startle reflex. We call this the <span style="color: red;"><b>red light reflex</b></span>. The reflex to make us STOP!<br /><br />We respond to a threat/call to action with arched backs and puffed up chests, so we can either haul butt from, or attack back against a predator/threat. This is the fight-or-flee reflex. In the somatics world we call it the <span style="color: #38761d;"><b>green light reflex</b></span>. The reflex to make us GO!<br /><br />When we experience a physical trauma, such as a sprained ankle, the reflexive response is to bend and twist to protect from further injury. This is what we call <span style="color: #f1c232;"><b>the trauma reflex</b></span>. The reflex to WATCH OUT AND PROTECT YOURSELF!<br /><br />These reflexes are meant to keep us alive as a species. As an example, eons ago, back on the savanna the green light reflex would either get us out of harm (or we would get eaten), but either way the threat was short lived. If we got away, our bodies would relax and rest after the immediate threat had passed, returning to a state of ease or homeostasis. <br /><br />In today's world we are being triggered by events that aren't truly life threatening, but our nervous systems don't know the difference between a saber tooth tiger vs constant pressures of living in a overly stimulating world of social media, traffic, work, politics, family etc. By reacting over and over again to stressors of modern life, we get really good at staying in the contracted patterns of freeze, fight-or-flight or trauma reflexes.<br /><br />Try it on for yourself. Walk around your space in the startle reflex. Close up your chest and belly. Let your knees bend a bit. Go ahead and lift your face up a bit, because you still need to take care of some of your basic needs, right? <br /><br /> How does this posture feel to you physically? Is it hard to breathe? What do you feel in your gut? How would this pattern impact your digestion if you were doing this with your body all the time? Notice how you shuffle more than walk. <br /><br />Lastly, how does this pattern feel to you emotionally? I often hear the words sad, depressed, lacking motivation, "easy target," just plain yucky. <br /><br />But if you sit a lot and tuck your bum under and jut your head forward towards your devices all day long, this alignment of the startle reflex becomes the "normal" way you carry yourself around in life. Your brain and nervous system never settle out of the tension patterns of this posture. You're learning to shut down and withdraw from the world.<br /><br />You could try this with the flight-or-flee reflex and trauma reflexes as well. Try walking around with an arched back and ask yourself how it feels in your body. And how it feels emotionally. People often report feeling amped up, a bit aggressive, agitated. <div><br /></div><div>Then try it with a bend and twist to one side. Again what does it feel like physically and emotionally? Often people feel apprehensive, not standing on their own two feet, ambivalent. <br /><br />Which brings me back full circle. Which comes first? The emotion or the posture? Or are they just two sides of the same coin? Can you change your mood by letting go of the tension patterns you are habituating day in and day out?<br /><br />With a Somatic practice, you can become better aware of how the stressors of the world trigger reflexive contractions in your body. AND you can learn how to let go of the tension patterns with pandiculations, the all-natural tension reliever for all vertebrates, including us humans.<div><br /></div><div>People typically come to Somatics for pain relief. But once they start their personal Somatics practice, they often report that their outlook on life, their relationships with family and coworkers, overall mood change too.</div><div><br /></div><div></div><div>If this sounds like something you want to explore <a href="https://www.thinksomatics.com/classes-and-workshops.html" target="_blank">please join me for class</a>. I offer live online classes via Zoom and in person when there is no pandemic :-). </div><div><br /></div><div>Can't make the live classes? No problem! Subscribe to the <a href="https://thinksomatics.podia.com/think-somatics-with-kristin-jackson-membership" target="_blank">Think Somatics Members Library</a>, a huge, ever-expanding compendium of recorded Somatics lessons I create for the whole world to enjoy. Sweet! </div><div><br /></div><div>peace to all,</div><div><span style="color: #45818e; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>Kristin</i></span></div><div><br /><a href="http://thinksomatics.com">thinksomatics.com</a></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0