The Californian Massage it has its roots in a cultural context, and therapeutic only. Born in the 1960s in the renowned Institute Esalenlocated on the coast of Big Sur, California, this massage is the result of the confluence of oriental traditions and western that focused on the body, the mind and the spirit. This technique was developed in an environment of exploration of new forms of healing within the Human Potential Movement, which sought to discover the maximum human potential.
Cultural influences and Therapeutic
The Californian Massage not came out of nowhere. It was influenced by several bodily practices and therapies developed by leaders of the movement, such as:
- Fritz Perls, the creator of the Gestalt Therapy, which placed emphasis on the awareness of body and emotions.
- Milton Tragerwith its focus on free movement through the Method Trager.
- Ida Rolf, a pioneer in the structural alignment and the creator of the Structural Integration.
- Stanislav Grof, one of the founders of the Transpersonal Psychologyseeking to transcend the human experience as usual.
- Gabrielle Roth and Moshe Feldenkraiswith their methods of dance and conscious movement, respectively.
These influences are intertwined to form a technique that combines long strokes and fluids with a deep connection between the therapist and the receiver, providing an experience that not only works on a physical level, but also emotional and spiritual.
Evolution and Formalization of the Technique
The development of the Californian Massage it was a joint work of professionals of the body and therapists committed to the healing. Ingrid May, kinesiologist, and her husband, Marcelo Bartrolíwere key in the formalization of this technique. Both contributed their experience and knowledge to provide structure and facilitate their teaching and expansion in the world of body therapies. Thanks to his work, the massage was officially recognized as "Californian Massage", distinct but related to the Massage Esalen.
Conclusion
The Californian Massage it is much more than a relaxation technique. It is the result of a long process of exploration and learning, influenced by the ideas of the Human Potential Movement and by the wisdom of great masters of body therapies. Today, this practice has spread throughout the world, offering a space of deep connection with the body and the emotions, a legacy that continues to grow and evolve.
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