Access Consciousness Bars®

Relax and release thoughts, attitudes and feelings that hinder progress

Access Consciousness Bars® practitioners near you

How can Access Consciousness Bars® nourish you?

Access Consciousness Bars®, also known as Access Bars, is a non-invasive, gentle modality that involves a practitioner lightly touching points on the head which correspond to different aspects of life. As with Traditional Chinese Medicine or Shiatsu, it is based on the idea that energy runs through our bodies, and ‘stuck’ energy has a restrictive effect on a person’s life. However, Access Bars differs in that it views these energies as those accumulated through the thoughts, feelings and decisions[1] we have throughout our lives. 

There are 32 points in Access Bars, each of which is linked to a different issue. These issues range from healing, awareness and creativity to sex, power and money[2]. The practice of having this therapy done is known as ‘running your bars’ and has been likened to deleting files from a computer – the brain. It is based on the idea that the touching of these points can help to ‘release the electromagnetic charge’, clear the negative energy[3] underlying the limiting ideas and attitudes and therefore allow change to occur.

This modality was founded in 1991 by Gary Douglas, from a desire to create positive change in the world[4]. To this end, Access Bars is built around the idea that our consciousness can shift our realities[5] and is a complementary modality that can be used alongside other therapies such as psychology or naturopathy. To receive treatment of the highest standard, choose a practitioner who is trained and licensed through Access Consciousness[6].

Benefits of Access Consciousness Bars®

As a fairly new modality, there has been limited research into its clinical benefits. However, a 2015 research paper conducted by a neuroscientist measured the brainwave activity of participants during an Access Bars session. It found that there was an impact on brain function[7] during the session, with brain activity moving from a very active state to a relaxed state. Research using thermometry, the measurement of temperature often alongside the measurement of time[8], also found that Access Bars decreased anxiety and reduced levels of pain, inflammation and toxicity[9] in the participants.

Access Bars points relate to a wide range of areas – meaning that the therapy may help people achieve change in multiple areas such as sleep, stress, happiness and weight loss[10]. People who have had their bars run also report experiencing increased clarity and motivation, and a decrease in interpersonal conflicts[11].

Access Consciousness Bars may assist in relieving symptoms related to:

Achilles tendonitis Anxiety Brain fog and clarity Concentration, focus and problem solving Confidence and self-esteem Conflict resolution Inflammation and swelling Insomnia and sleep disorders Love and Relationships Mood imbalances Motivation and procrastination Pain relief Sadness Stress and tension Weight control and obesity Show all

What to expect from an Access Consciousness Bars session

At your Access Bars session, your practitioner will likely ask you to recline in a position that is most comfortable to you, whether this is lying down or sitting in a comfortable chair. One thing that you will be asked to refrain from is touching or crossing your hands[12], as this is believed to disrupt the flow of energy. You may also notice that unlike other relaxation-based modalities, there will be no music playing in the room, as this is believed to interfere with the brain activity occurring while your bars are being run. The running of the bars involves your practitioner touching various points on your head, and this is likely to feel like a gentle, relaxing massage.

A session can last for approximately 60 to 90 minutes, and some practitioners may speak with you about the issues you are facing[13], while others may be silent to allow you to fully relax. The most commonly reported experience is that of total relaxation[14], with many falling into the best sleep of their lives, while others have felt physical sensations such as tingling in their body[15]

As a non-invasive, gentle modality, Access Bars therapy is unlikely to cause any adverse effects. Regardless of this, it is always advisable to consult your medical professional before commencing. If you have any concerns at all, do raise these with your practitioner who will be happy to address them and customise your session. 

References 

  1. Frequently asked questions about the Bars. Access Blog [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  2. Natoli A. Access consciousness bars. Health by the Bay Sydney. 2017 [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  3. Kackar A, Juneja A. ACCESS BAR THERAPY: A REVIEW [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  4. Gary Douglas, Founder . Access Consciousness [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  5. About. Access Consciousness [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  6. Find a Facilitator. Access Consciousness [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  7. Access Consciousness  Bars Research 2015. Global Neuroscience Research Foundation [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  8. Thermometry. ScienceDirect [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  9. Access Bars: Science, Benefits and Experiences. Upward spiral; 2022 [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  10. 12 Amazing Benefits Access Bars has to offer. Access Joyful Body [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  11. 7 Surprising benefits of Access Bars Therapy you may not know. Blissful Evolution; 2023.
  12. What is the Access Bars® Treatment? Laura Kissmann Wellness [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  13. The Access Bars: A New Cure For Depression And Anxiety? shesaid.com [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  14. What are Access Bars® ? Access Consciousness [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 
  15. Access Consciousness. Integrative Holistic Health & Wellness [cited 2024 Oct 18]. 

Frequently asked questions

Access Bars is a non-invasive modality involving gentle touch on specific points of the head. Unlike some traditional practices like Traditional Chinese Medicine or Shiatsu, Access Bars views stuck energy as accumulated through thoughts, feelings, and decisions in one's life. It offers a unique perspective on energy flow and its impact on various aspects of life.

During an Access Bars session, you will be asked to recline in a comfortable position, either lying down or sitting. The practitioner will lightly touch points on your head corresponding to different life aspects. The experience may resemble a gentle, relaxing massage. It's important to refrain from touching or crossing your hands during the session, as it is believed to disrupt the energy

Access Bars sessions typically do not include music in the room. This is based on the belief that music may interfere with the brain activity occurring while the bars are being run. The absence of music is designed to create an environment that enhances the effectiveness of the modality.

Access Bars is believed to contribute to the release of stuck energy, potentially facilitating change in various aspects of life. While individual experiences vary, many people report positive effects on issues related to stress, relationships, clarity of mind, and overall well-being.

The duration of an Access Bars session can vary, but it typically lasts around 60 to 90 minutes. The frequency of sessions depends on individual preferences and needs. Some may find benefit from occasional sessions, while others may choose more frequent sessions to address specific challenges or maintain overall well-being.

Access Bars is generally considered safe for most individuals. It is non-invasive and gentle. However, if you have specific health concerns or conditions, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before trying Access Bars or any other alternative modality. Pregnant individuals, in particular, may want to inform their practitioner to ensure a comfortable and safe session.

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