a unique approach

The treatments offered here at Big Heart Therapies are designed to reduce the postural stresses and tension that can arise from injury, illness, trauma or even bad habits. The whole body is addressed because often other parts will compensate when there is an injury or difficulty in the system. Rather than placing all of the focus on the area of injury, balancing is provided to the entire musculoskeletal system to allow the body a reboot and create a fresh start. A typical case would begin with treatment once per week for 3 weeks to clear up as many restrictions as possible and then follow up once per month for a few months to fine tune the postural alignment and release any new tension that arises. Of course, each individual is participating in the decision making abut the frequency and duration of their treatment.  The mind-body connection is well documented and many clients enjoy the meditative quality that is a happy side effect of these treatments.  Big Heart Therapies is a holistic manual therapy private practice offering clients a personalized experience in a quiet, relaxing setting. Offerings include a blend of traditional and holistic techniques, embracing body, mind and spirit. Below are our modalities:  

Zero Balancing is a form of hands on therapy that addresses the tension that is often carried around our joints. Gentle pressure and traction are used to encourage a deeply relaxed, quiet state. This stress free experience is often described by clients as a meditative state.  ZB can be used to address physical complaints and also to assist individuals through periods of personal change and growth.  Please visit www.zerobalancing.com for more information.

Cold Laser Therapy is the application of low level light therapy to a pathology to promote tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Research has shown that this exciting modality increases cellular regeneration and communication to actually “reboot” dormant muscles. The laser may be applied to muscles, nerves, lymphatic pathways and even acupuncture points and meridians.

MFR is a hands on approach to dealing with either pain or tightness in the muscles and connective tissues. Since the fascia/connective tissue is continuous throughout the body, work can be done locally at the site of injury or indirectly/remotely or away from the area of discomfort. Some maneuvers are quite gentle while others use much deeper pressure or stretching.  This range of possibilities allows your therapist to customize the treatment for your comfort and maximum benefit. Releasing the fascia can provide relief where other stretching programs have not been successful. The percussion hammer is an efficient and effective tool also available for Myofascial Release.   

Manual Lymph Drainage or Lymph Drainage Therapy is a feather light technique intended to stimulate the movement of lymphatic fluid by opening up lymph vessels and clearing lymph nodes. This therapy assists the body to: promote circulation, cleanse connective tissue of inflammatory materials and toxins, enhance activity of the immune system and reduce pain caused by the congestion of tissues. LDT can be very helpful pre and post operatively to manage swelling and pain.

Qi Gong is a gentle meditative exercise that promotes a quiet mind and improved health and well being.  Pan Gu is a beautiful, simple series of hand movements and meditation which can be practiced in only 20 minutes. It is simple to learn and can be practiced individually or in groups.  Please visit www.pangu.org for more information.  Several years ago, Mary Beth developed her own form of Qi gong. Compassionate Bones is a moving meditation that focuses on healing yourself and others. It is simple to learn, easy to practice and perfect for beginners and people of all ages and abilities.