David Monson

About

Dave is an evidence-based myotherapist and advanced body-worker offering Shiatsu and Zenthai Shiatsu, myofascial release and remedial massage with a deep tissue focus. Finding great joy in transactional, non-judgmental communication with his clients, Dave has two streams of client services. The first are those seeking evidenced-based assessment and treatment for musculoskeletal pains which might include manual therapy, joint and nerve mobilisation, graded functional movement and strength, pain... Dave is an evidence-based myotherapist and advanced body-worker offering Shiatsu and Zenthai Shiatsu, myofascial release and remedial massage with a deep tissue focus. Finding great joy in transactional, non-judgmental communication with his clients, Dave has two streams of client services. The first are those seeking evidenced-based assessment and treatment for musculoskeletal pains which might include manual therapy, joint and nerve mobilisation, graded functional movement and strength, pain science education and coaching, depending on a client’s challenges and goals. The second are those seeking bodywork. Dave has a deep appreciation for the synthesis of Taoist and neurobiological approaches and the importance of sensations that are meaningful for integrating, experiencing and mapping primary somatic neurology. Dave is passionate about supporting people to experience and engage the intrinsic elements of their bodies and connect deeply with their earthly experience. After studying and then working for some years in the field of urban and environmental planning, Dave was overcome with persistent pain and chronic fatigue. He found a way out by using the mind to protect and recondition his body, and over the next 15 years, developed practices in organic horticulture, yoga, zen meditation and mindfulness and barefoot running, as well as formal study in shiatsu, myotherapy, functional movement and pain science. He learnt to “reframe his pain”. Dave says contemporary research shows that to address long-term persistent pain, stiffness and fatigue in the body, we need to look at internalised vulnerability through changing beliefs around the causes of pain, engaging in more enjoyable life activities, exercise, strength training and mindfulness. He believes that clients whose goals relate to persistent musculoskeletal issues need to be prepared to take on more holistic aspects of themselves and their thinking around pain. Dave is currently doing a Research Masters in Mental Health Social Work, looking at social justice in persistent pain treatment. Read more

Languages

English

Therapies

Education and training

Advanced Diploma of Myotherapy - TAFE Queensland (2017) Diploma of Remedial Massage - Australian College of Eastern Medicine (2015) Diploma of Shiatsu and Oriental Medicine - Australian College of Eastern Medicine (2014) Zenthia Shiatstu Healing - Mt Ninderry Healing Centre (2010) Zenthia Shiatstu Remedial - Mt Ninderry Healing Centre (2010) Masters of Social Work - current