Kinesiology
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How can kinesiology nourish you?
In the strictest sense, kinesiology is defined as the study of movement and mechanics involved in human anatomy[1]. More popularly, the term has become associated with a form of TCIH therapy that uses muscle testing as a way of identifying energetic and physiological imbalances[2]in the body.
The central premise is that individual muscles are associated with specific organs[3], and can also provide information about unresolved stresses within the subconscious mind. By monitoring reflexive responses to gentle pressure or ‘challenges’ to individual muscles, a kinesiology practitioner aims to identify nutritional, emotional and mental imbalances[4].
Developed by Dr George Goodheart in the 1960s[5], kinesiology originated as an extension of chiropractic which involved a specialised form of massage. Dr Goodheart also incorporated osteopathic principles linking musculoskeletal function with other bodily systems[6]. After developing the modality that was later trademarked Applied Kinesiology, Dr Goodheart introduced traditional Chinese concepts such as meridians as the pathways of energy flow through the body.
A key belief in kinesiology is that your body not only has an innate ability to heal itself, but also an awareness[7] of what is needed to facilitate that healing. The aim of kinesiology is to access this information and apply suitable remedies[8] to restore balance; these may involve acupressure or massaging meridians, counselling, nutritional advice[9], or other strategies.
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Practitioners offering Kinesiology
Benefits of kinesiology
Kinesiology is a gentle and non-invasive healing modality[10] that may be used to address a wide variety of complaints. Instead of being regarded as a ‘cure’ for acute ailments, kinesiology is intended mainly as a catalyst[11] for stimulating the body’s own healing mechanisms.
Kinesiology practitioners must undergo extensive hands-on training[12]before becoming accredited in this well-regarded modality, and research supporting the possible benefits of kinesiology is ongoing. The results of one study suggest it may be an effective way to relieve the symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress[13]. There are many published testimonials and case studies of improvements in wellbeing[14] that may be attributable to kinesiology therapy.
It is reported that kinesiology may help alleviate chronic pain from conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis[15]. Kinesiology is said to help identify sensitivities to foods and other allergens, as well as possibly supporting the treatment of respiratory and digestive disorders[16].
It is believed to promote a sense of vitality, improved concentration and motivation[17], as well as help you find inner peace and help you sleep[18]. There are also reports suggesting kinesiology may help people suffering from ADHD and other difficulties[19] related to learning.
Kinesiology may assist in relieving symptoms related to:
What to expect from a kinesiology session
After learning about your medical history and any specific health concerns, your kinesiology therapist will usually ask you about what you hope to achieve through the treatment and help you clarify your intention[20] if needed.
You will then be invited to lie on a massage table, fully clothed, and your kinesiologist will perform movement analysis of individual muscles to identify imbalances which may be affecting your wellbeing. This process involves you raising an arm or leg or placing your head in a particular position[21] while the kinesiologist gently exerts pressure against your body and observes the effects.
Once your kinesiologist has identified any imbalances or blockages of energy, nutritional deficiencies or other issues, they will offer a treatment strategy to harness your body’s natural healing powers. This can take many different forms, ranging from acupressure, sound therapy and flower essences, to counselling and advice regarding lifestyle factors, such as adjusting your diet or avoiding an identified allergen[23].
The session will typically last about 60-90 minutes[24]; the number of sessions required will vary, but practitioners suggest that approximately three treatments[22] are often adequate to help you resolve a health issue.
As with any exercise or wellness program, please consult your medical professional before commencing kinesiology. If you have an injury or other health issue, or any concerns at all, also speak to your kinesiology practitioner, who will be happy to address these and customise your session to suit your individual requirements.
References
1. Kinesiology | medicine. Britannica; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
2. What is Kinesiology? Australian Kinesiology Association Inc.; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
3. About Denise. Better Life Kinesiology; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
4. What is Kinesiology? News Medical Life Sciences; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
5. What is Kinesiology?Kinesiology is a holistic therapy testing muscle response Kinesiology Association; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
6. An appreciation of George Goodheart, DC, originator of applied kinesiology | Document.. Gale Academic OneFile;
7. What is Kinesiology? Australian Kinesiology Association Inc.; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
8. What is Kinesiology? Kinesiology Connection; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
9. Is kinesiology for me? Body and Soul; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
10. What is Kinesiology and how does it work? By The Bay Kinesiology; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
11. Experience Kinesiology. Australian Institute Of Kinesiologists Ltd; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
12. Diploma in Kinesiology commencing March 2020. Kinesiology Connection; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
13. Poole D. The Effectiveness of PKP Kinesiology in Reducing Stress and Anxiety and Depression. Canberra Kinesiology; 2024.
14. Case Studies. Kinesiology Association of NZ; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
15. Kinesiology Tape. Physio Works;
16. Uses of Kinesiology | Kinesiology Connection | Melbourne – Uses of Kinesiolog. Kinesiology Connection;
17. Osteopathy: Everything you need to know. Medical News Today; 2017.
18. Benefits of Kinesiology. Kinesiology Association of NZ; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
19. What is Kinesiology. Perfect Health Body & Mind; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
20. What to expect from a kinesiology session. Affinity Wellness;
21. What happens during a kinesiology consultation and assessment. Kinesiology Association; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
22. What happens in a session? Holistic by Nature; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
23. What is Kinesiology | Kinesiology Connection | Melbourne What is Kinesiology. Kinesiology Connection; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
24. Members Addresses. Kinesiology Federation; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
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