SOMATIC POLARITY®
View somatic polarity programs.
A
Short History of Polarity Therapy
Polarity Therapy is an innovative health care system developed by Dr. Randolph
Stone, DO, DC, ND (1890-1981), based on an understanding of the energy that
underlies the structure and physiology of a human being. Dr. Stone's background
as an osteopath, chiropractor and naturopathic doctor was the foundation of
his 60-year study and practice of Eastern and Western medicine. Polarity draws
upon Western, Ayurvedic, and Chinese traditions and the emerging discoveries
of modern physics.
In
recent years, Polarity Therapy has been
enhanced by the pioneering work of Franklyn Sills, who developed a
solid foundation of energy-oriented cranial sacral work based on the
"Breath of Life" understanding of William Sutherland, DO (1873-1954).
Sutherland taught that a vital energetic intelligence, which he called
the "Breath of Life," is a basic healing principle that is manifested
in the fluids and tissues of the body, and sensed and felt by the
trained Practitioner.
The Academy
offers an innovative new approach, which we call Somatic Polarity¨.
The
Academy Approach
The Academy is at the leading edge of education in Polarity Therapy,
with a curriculum fusing sound academic skills with contemporary energy
medicine. The Academy has offered one of the most sought-after Polarity
programs in the country since 1990. Committed to being on the forefront
of education, the school has developed its own unique approach, Somatic
Polarity¨, which integrates the physical/technical aspects of cranial-sacral
therapy with greater awareness of the somatic experience. This combination
brings dynamic potential into a powerful therapeutic experience.
Somatic
Polarity¨
Somatic Polarity integrates the somatic experience with the energetic/technical
aspects of cranial-sacral therapy, working with three powerful concepts;
Core, Structure and Persona. Core symbolizes the center of our being, the
unbounded
self, the place of deepest knowing. One of the most accessible places to
contact and palpate Core is the cranial-sacral system. Structure correlates
with the sense of being grounded, stable and safe in the world. Structure
can be palpated through the bones and ligaments, nerve and muscle systems,
and deep-lying fascia. Persona represents the world of our finite experience,
the quality of our relationships with ourselves and others, and our emotional
dynamics. This domain can be approached physically through the visceral system
and connective tissue.
To the Top
Core:
The Sky Within Us
The Core is the Sky within us that expands and lifts us to lightness, freedom
and space. The Core is represented by both the physical anatomy of the cranial-sacral
system, and the aliveness, innate intelligence and depth of one's being.
It is the spacious energetic center of the individual, and embodies the unchanging
and infinite universal intelligence within us all. All body/mind systems
are regulated and revolve around the Core. To communicate with the Core,
you must use a light touch, becoming open to listening, neutrality and allowing.
Structure:
The Earth in Our Bones
Structure is the Earth in our bones, the grounded organization of body, mind
and being, Structure is embodied in bones and ligaments, nerve and muscle
systems, and the deep-lying fascias. By embodying the natural laws of physical
mechanics, Structure allows us to move through space in active relationship
with our external and internal environments. The ideal state of Structure
is one of order and balance. Because balance is often compromised by gravity,
injury and trauma, experiences of tension, contraction and resistance become
incorporated within the mind or psyche.
Persona:
The Realm of Feelings
Between Sky and Earth lies the realm of feelings, our complex emotional and
visceral territory. This domain relates anatomically to viscera (organs)
and connective tissues, which carry energetic pulsations experienced as emotions
and impulses. Viscera and connective tissues are approached through touch,
diet and balanced activity; emotional aspects are addressed with insight,
expressing, allowing and accepting. This domain extends into the entire spectrum
of the human condition, including work, family, community, culture, personal
growth. It involves the psychological challenges of daily life, as well as
physical and emotional relationships.
Synergy:
Interaction of Core, Structure, & Persona
When a skilled polarity practitioner effectively addresses the natural interaction
of the core, structure and persona, there is a "chemical cascade" within
the body. This potent synergy can create balance, manifesting in a healing
response from brain, central nervous system and endocrine systems.
Balance:
The Four Aspects of Polarity Therapy
Bodywork: The focal point of Polarity Therapy, Bodywork uses a variety of techniques,
including deep tissue pressure points, rhythmical rocking manipulations,
passive unwinding and gentle holds. The effects are typically experienced
as deep relaxation, emotional and mental clarity, renewed physical vitality
and greater awareness.
Movement
Simple, effective stretches and movements that enhance the flow of energy in
the body. Daily practice can facilitate higher levels of self-understanding,
greater flexibility and overall body-mind awareness.
To the Top
Diet
Food and drink provide fuel for the body. Understanding food from an energy-based
perspective provides insight into what truly nourishes the body, mind and
soul.
Awareness: Becoming aware of our own physical, mental and emotional processes
helps us learn how our bodies are trying to self-heal, and how we can assist
that process.
The
Practice of Polarity Therapy: Embodying Polarity as a Profession
A career in Polarity attracts pioneering individuals interested in expanding
the way people perceive the world and relate to life. This emerging field
offers a new paradigm for healing, one which empowers the individual and
provides tools, information and a model for taking responsibility for one's
own health. The process of polarity begins with the practitioner, through
deep introspection, a questioning mind and a hunger for self-knowledge. The
study of Polarity can be an authentic life transforming experience. Polarity
practitioners work in spas, sports clubs, resorts, in private practice and
in association with other health care providers.
Professional
Recognition
The Academy's polarity programs are approved by the American Polarity Therapy
Association (APTA), the primary professional organization for polarity practice
and education. The Academy's faculty draws upon their depth of experience
as practitioners and instructors of Ayurveda, cranial-sacral and other osteopathic
modalities, yoga, massage therapy, nutrition, counseling and Oriental medicine.
Dynamic
Education
Students benefit from generous one-on-one attention. Lectures, demonstrations
and techniques that address kinesthetic, visual and auditory learning
create a potent and engaging learning environment. Students are guided
to develop sophisticated skills while also tapping into their creative
and intuitive capabilities.They learn to incorporate, work with and
benefit from emotions. Classroom courses, combined with the Student
Polarity Clinic, provide a unique learning experience and excellent
professional training.
All Rights Reserved/Terms of Use
