My journey with Kinesiology - What is it and how does it work?

My Journey with Kinesiology

My introduction to Kinesiology came in the form of NAET (Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Techniques). From a young age I experienced mild to moderate eczema and throughout my life it came and went in varying degrees. What I didn’t know back then was that my eczema was triggered by emotional stress and exasperated by a number of food sensitivities. I was also frequently impacted by hay fever, a cat allergy, a severe horse allergy and a few other dust and plant sensitivities. As many of us do I took antihistamines on a regular basis, treated my eczema with steroid creams and thought that was it. In the Western/conventional medicine paradigm a Doctor will treat your complaint head one by sending an intervention to directly counter the problem, an approach that often brings unwanted side effects. For any eczema sufferers out there you'll know that topical steroid withdrawal is not a pleasant experience and it is long and drawn out. 

When visiting family in the USA my Aunt introduced me to a GP who was also qualified to practice Chinese Medicine and NAET, a branch of Kinesiology that focuses on the elimination of sensitives and allergies. Using NAET the doctor identified all the sensitives that my immune system was fighting. I booked in for several appointments, my niggly patches of eczema disappeared, my eyes and nose stopped itching and my energy increased. I didn't understand what Kinesiology was at that time but I was blown away. I had not taken any pills or applied any creams and the results were obvious. I was learning for the first time, through Kinesiology and what that GP has explained to me about Chinese medicine and the flow of energy in our body is directly linked to our physical state and emotional wellbeing. I hadn’t grown up with any form of energy medicine or eastern medicine practices so this was a dramatic shift in my awareness of the body being more than just a physical vessel. 

A few years later I experienced an emotionally challenging time.  My eczema returned worse than I'd ever experienced before. I was red, sore and embarrassed. Doctors prescribed steroids. The eczema got better. I stopped the steroids, the eczema got worse, and so the cycle continued. I understand now that the eczema was a direct link to the emotional stress I was experiencing. I was in a toxic relationship that did not serve me and I was not being true to myself. Of course, I couldn't see it at that time. The longer I wallowed here the weaker my immune system became, sensitivities built up, allergies developed again and my energy levels and self esteem plummeted. It was at this point in my life that I discovered Reiki, but that's a story for another day!

When I moved to Sydney later that same year I quickly found a Kinesiologist. I began regular appointments and once again, almost immediately my eczema disappeared. My immune system bounced back and my energy levels increased again. I was no longer in that same relationship that had created so much emotional stress and I felt strong and healthy. This experience pushed me to learn more about Kinesiology and energy medicine, and I felt a strong desire to bring both Reiki & Kinesiology to others.

During my studies I learned that Kinesiology and working with energy is far bigger than I ever could have imagined. So big in fact that the possibilities with this modality feel infinite to me. I am constantly learning, and still now after over ten years I am still blown away by its ability to shift energy and affect change in myself and my clients. Kinesiology has the ability to link the emotional, physical, chemical, mental and spiritual aspects of a being, and so offering a completely holistic approach to health and wellbeing. I learned that everything which limits us in any area of our life; health, career and relationships for example, is the manifestation of something bigger, something that lies much deeper in our subconscious, something that can be explored and freed so that we can be and feel our best. When I realised that Kinesiology was much more than eliminating allergies I understood the power it has to serve each and every one of us. For me personally, Kinesiology is one of the ways I navigate life. I have regular Kinesiology sessions to work through anything that may be surfacing in my life at any given time, where that be emotional, physical or spiritual. 

Since its beginnings Kinesiology has developed into many branches but essentially muscle reflex testing and balancing energy in the body is the foundation of all forms of Kinesiology. As a Kinesiologist we can use the muscle testing to tap into the body's energy systems and subconscious to help gain an awareness of what is happening beneath the surface. Muscle testing is used to allow us to ask the body what support it needs to help it release blocked emotions and energy. Thus re-balancing the energy of the body, with this restored balance comes health and vitality. In my Kinesiology sessions I focus on techniques that clear stress, fear, trauma and pain from the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual bodies. Using Kinesiology I tap into the subconscious mind to clear negative patterns, limiting beliefs, sabotage programs or any mental/emotional stress.

What is Kinesiology and how does it work?

Kinesiology was first founded in the 1960′s by George Goodheart, a Chiropractor, who discovered that each major muscle has a corresponding organ relationship. From here it was later discovered that the meridian system (used in the ancient practice of Chinese Medicine) was also connected to the muscles and organs. Using a combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, concepts, tools and Chiropractic techniques Applied Kinesiology was born. The International College of Applied Kinesiology (ICAK) was founded in 1975 to provide instruction on Goodheart's research to interested health care professionals.

Applied kinesiology (AK) which is also known as muscle strength testing, is a method of diagnosis and treatment based on the belief that various muscles are linked to particular organs and glands, and that specific muscle weakness can signal distant internal problems such as nerve damage, reduced blood supply, chemical imbalances or other organ or gland problems. When we correct this muscle weakness, you can help heal a problem in the associated internal organ.

Since its’ beginnings in AK, Kinesiology has developed into many branches (including NAET and Kinergetics) but essentially muscle testing and balancing energy in the body is the foundation of all forms of Kinesiology. As a Kinesiologist we can use the muscle testing to tap into the body's energy systems and subconscious to help gain an awareness of what is happening beneath the surface. Muscle monitoring is used to allow us to ask the body what support it needs to help it release blocked emotions and energy. Thus re-balancing the energy of the body, with this restored balance comes health and vitality.

What is muscle testing?

Muscle testing is what Kinesiologists use to assess what is happening with the energy systems of the body and subconscious mind. A light pressure will be applied to the muscle for no more than two seconds to determine how the muscle is responding. This information is then used to determine what the body is communicating.

Kinergetics

In my clinic I work with Kinergetics, a comprehensive modality of Kinesiology that has the flexibility to encompass other modalities of energy work and brings them together in a very logical way. In my sessions I incorporate other modalities of Kinesiology, aspects of Reiki, EFT (tapping), essential oils, card readings and much more to give your body exactly what it needs to restore balance and find its way back to wholeness. Kinergetics is a simple, gentle and clear way to work with Kinesiology, working with all energy systems of the body on a multi-dimensional level. It is incredibly powerful, restoring hope even when all other options have been exhausted.

What is Kinesiology good for?

Kinesiology is for everyone and we can work with any aspect of your life. Here are a few examples of what I can help you with:

• Chronic muscle or physical pain

• Physical ailments and symptoms

• Chronic fatigue

• Food sensitivities

• Irritability and mood swings

• Detoxification of heavy metals

• Releasing emotional traumas

• Stress management

• Reducing anxiety

• Increasing energy & resilience

• Increasing self-esteem & confidence

• Addressing fears

• Dealing with unresolved emotion

• Communication blocks

• Relationship challenges

What can you expect during a Kinesiology balance/session?

This is different for everyone and can really depend on the content of the balance and how deep you allow yourself to explore. A session is interactive, as we receive information from the body through the muscle testing we will discuss the relevance of this in your life or in the context of what we are working on. Often the first session involves a lot of talking as we get to know each other, which is why I recommend at least three sessions to experience the true benefits of Kinesiology. Once your Kinesiology journey gathers momentum you will start to feel more balanced and you will start to see signs of improvements.

How will you feel after a Kinesiology balance/session?

This is different for everyone and will vary from session to session. For me personally, after a balance I feel sense of clarity and motivation. I'm ready to make decisions with confidence. Usually the mountains I arrived with are reduced to mole hills. A balance can take a few days to integrate while your energetic system re-balances. It’s not unusual to feel a little out of sorts and vulnerable over the following 24/48-hour period. Depending on what we have uncovered in the balance there could also be a release of toxins from the body, which may make you feel a little unwell. Rest assured these are signs that the balance has worked and will soon pass, leaving you with an improved sense of wellbeing and wholeness.

Is Kinesiology for you?

In clinic I work with an array of issues from anxiety and insecurities to diagnosed diseases and chronic pain, from broken hearts and emotional or physical trauma to career challenges and transitions. The beautiful thing is you don’t even need to know what you are coming to see me for, even if you just feel something isn’t right. With Kinesiology your body can guide us and let us know where it needs help and support.  If you’re not sure if Kinesiology is for you then why not give me a call on 041 6972 230, I’m happy to answer any questions.

hello@hhwithanna.com

Reiki - What's it all about?

Reiki has been in my life for around eight years, prior to that I’d heard of Reiki and I’d always been curious about it but I had no idea what it was or how it could help me. Just as I was about to encounter an emotionally challenging time in my life something drew me to seek out a Reiki practitioner, the day after I booked in that session, my life as I knew it at the time changed significantly. I truly believe now that that was no coincidence. I believe I was guided to Reiki to help me cope with the challenges and decisions that lay ahead of me, and so that I could experience the powerful healing abilities of Reiki first hand, as it was with this knowledge and experience that I knew I had to share Reiki with others.

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a Japanese word loosely translated as 'universal life force'. Reiki is a form of energy, of which there are many, each vibrating on their own frequency; Reiki energy is available for us to tap into and use as a source for healing. It is available to us all and anyone who chooses to become attuned to Reiki energy can learn to use it and it’s healing benefits on themselves and others. Attunements are passed down from Master to student, opening up the student to receive and become a channel for the Reiki energy to flow through and from. I am attuned to Reiki Master Level 3 in the Tibetan Usui lineage.

Reiki accelerates the body's ability to heal physical and emotional aliments, which often lead to stress and or feeling unwell, and assists you to correct imbalances of body, mind, spirit and heart. Harmonising these elements Reiki locates imbalances and clears blockages leaving you feeling relaxed, calmer, grounded and more balanced.

The Chakras

Reiki is often associated with and commonly used for balancing the Chakras of the body. The seven chakras are generally thought of as being centres of energy within the human body, aligned with the spine, which correspond to our feelings, and emotional and behavioural characteristics. Each chakra is also commonly associated with an organ and bodily function; and is usually represented by a colour (made up by the colours of a rainbow).

A person's body, mind and spiritual well-being are balanced and healthy when all of their chakras are 'clear'. When chakras are 'blocked', the related functions and feelings will be adversely affected, as a result the balance of the person is upset because other chakras are forced to compensate. Blocked chakras can be caused by anything from stubbing a toe to serious emotional or physical trauma, they are a part of our daily life and just as it is important to service your car, it is important to service and maintain the balance of your chakras.

The seven chakras are located at the following points of the body, along the line of the spine:

• base of the spine - Root chakra (red)
• lower abdomen/lower back (below the navel) - Sacral chakra (orange)
• between the navel and base of sternum - Solar Plexus chakra (yellow)
• centre of chest - Heart chakra (green)
• base of neck - Throat chakra (blue/turquoise)
• lower forehead, between eyes - Third eye chakra (indigo)
• top of the head - Crown chakra (purple)

The lower chakras govern our more basic instincts related to survival and physical self, whereas the higher chakras govern our mental characteristics and feelings related to thought and consciousness. It is said the heart chakra bridges the two, being strongly linked both to physical and emotional feelings.

When all chakras are open and balanced, the mind, body and spiritual self, are healthy and happy. Reiki is one of several techniques and methodologies which can 'open' or 'free' chakras that are blocked (which causes other chakras to become over-active), and thereby to restore a person's natural balance.

What happens in a Reiki healing/session?

This will vary but most Reiki practitioners will use their hands to channel the Reiki energy either by hovering their hands over the body or as I do with a very light touch to the body. The Reiki energy is innately intelligent and can tune in to the energy of your body, this allows the Reiki to go where it needs to for your highest good. As a Reiki Master we are able to facilitate this process further by using our own intuition and experience to guide the flow of energy to where it is needed most by placing our hands on these areas. Often this is not on or over the Chakra but on or over a body part or joint where energy and emotion tends to get blocked or stored.

What can you expect to feel during or after Reiki?

This is unique and different for everyone. My clients report feeling a deep sense of calm and clarity, as if a fog has been lifted. Others report feeling more grounded and connected to themselves or their heart allowing them to make better decisions and feel more in control of their life. For others it can be a spiritual experience; finding a deeper connection to Spirit, Source, or the Universe depending on your beliefs.

It is not unusual to fall asleep during Reiki, the body will take what it needs and you will still gain the same benefits as if you were awake. Many clients experience waves, tingling or hot and cold sensations, which is often a sign that energy is moving and/or emotion is releasing from the body. Others report feeling nothing at all until after the session is complete, an energy balance can take time to integrate and isn’t always immediate. When we move energy and emotion we also release toxins from the body and this can sometimes appear in the form of headaches, tiredness or nausea so it’s important to take time to nurture yourself after Reiki, stay warm and drink plenty of water or herbal tea. Whatever you experience you can be assured that Reiki can never be harmful and is always working in your highest good.

In my Reiki sessions some clients like to open up and share issues they are working through before we start. For others it’s a space to withdraw from the world, a space to find stillness, reconnect and recharge. I always leave time at the end of the Reiki to discuss the experience and any insights gained. Often this is the most profound moment of a healing, as Reiki will allow awareness to surface from your subconscious.

I can honestly say that Reiki changed my life. My first Reiki experience was deeply moving and it opened up a whole new way of perceiving myself and the world around me. It has taught me a new way to cope with daily stresses, as well as the bigger challenges that life throws at me.

So what is Reiki actually good for?

The simple answer is anything and everything but here are some examples:

• Relaxation - reducing stress and your reactions to stress
• Finding space to switch off and be still.
• Reducing pain and tension
• Managing and calming anxiety
• Fatigue and running on empty
• Irritability and mood swings
• Self-neglect, blame or negative self-talk
• Loss of direction or connection to self
• Emotional healing - dealing with loss or heartache
• Spiritual healing and guidance
• Connection to self
• Chronic muscle or physical pain
• Physical ailments and symptons

Is Reiki for Men?

YES Reiki is for Men! As I mentioned it is for anyone and everything. There is no doubt that more women than men are drawn to complimentary therapies. Women innately view things holistically and it is little wonder that an interest in holistic therapies would be a consequence of that fact. It is also commonly known that unlike women who tend to confide and share emotional issues with each other, most men never share at the same level with other men and so it is easy for emotion and energy to become blocked in the body.

Reiki can be a very passive process and often my male clients find it comforting to know that they can receive all the benefits of Reiki without having to enter into a discussion, if it is not comfortable for them to do so. An ethical Reiki practitioner does not interfere with your own life or provide you with answers. These are for you to find but after a good Reiki session you may feel as if a weight has been lifted, as if you have shared or got things off your chest even if you haven’t spoken. As a result stress and anxiety may feel reduced and answers to your inner problems may come to you more quickly.

Is Reiki safe during Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is one of life’s most beautiful and spiritual experiences. However, the journey to motherhood can also be accompanied by a number of different stressors on the mind, body and soul. Reiki offers healing energy not only to mothers-to-be, but also to their unborn babies.

At all stages Reiki is safe and can assist in reducing anxiety related to pregnancy & birth. Reiki can help expectant mums connect with their unborn baby. In all my experiences of working with pregnant women the energy of the baby is strong and present no matter what stage. An unborn baby will respond to the Reiki energy and depending on your stage can be felt moving in response almost immediately. It is completely safe for both mother and baby. Your growing baby will enjoy the soothing benefits of Reiki as it is passed from you to your unborn child during the session.

In my experience pregnant women who receive Reiki report feeling more relaxed, balanced and radiant after treatments. Reiki can also help you let go of any fears, anxieties or negative feelings you may be experiencing during your pregnancy. A good Reiki practitioner will make sure you are comfortable for you session, assist you with cushions or pillows and allow you to lie or sit in a position which is most suited to your needs.

Simply put Reiki is for everyone from unborns to newborns, toddlers, children, teenagers, adults young and old at any age. No matter what life stage or you are at you can benefit from Reiki.

Curious?

If you are curious or drawn to this modality of energy healing I encourage you to give it a go, there is a probably a reason you are intrigued. You should find a practitioner that resonates with you and that you feel comfortable with, we are all unique. Reiki should always be carried out in an environment where you feel completely safe and comfortable. You should feel cared for and nurtured by your Reiki practitioner. It is always my intention that clients will leave feeling safe, stable and calm. If you would like further information on Reiki and it’s benefits please don’t hesitate to contact me at hello@hhwithanna.com.

Hello

Welcome to Happy and Healthy with Anna. And my first blog!

This is kind of a big day for me. I have a new website and I’ve written my first blog post to go with it!! This may not seem like much to some but being public doesn’t come naturally to me. Unveiling myself online and expressing my thoughts, feelings, passions and experiences outside of my nearest and dearest is out of my comfort zone. I’m exposed. I feel vulnerable. Yet I constantly tell others that the best things happen when you push through your fears, when you surrender to vulnerability and step out of that all too familiar comfort zone. So here I am and here’s what I do at Happy and Healthy with Anna.

I have been practicing at my Bondi clinic for over 4 years and my passion is helping people find happiness and health on all levels of their being; emotional, physical, mental, energetic and spiritual. Working intuitively with Kinesiology, Reiki and other forms of energy healing and holistic therapies I help clients restore balance in their body, heart and mind.

My role in clinic is to help clients unravel stresses, and guide them to feel safe, stable & calm in a supportive and nurturing environment. For many of us self-care is one of those precious things that too often gets bumped to the bottom of the to do list. This is why when you make the choice to invest in yourself and your own wellbeing, the investment should extend well beyond the time that we have together in clinic. I want clients to leave feeling cared for, nurtured and loved.

My love for Kinesiology and Reiki, stems from not just experiencing their healing abilities but also from knowing that our bodies are innately intelligent and they know exactly what is needed to restore balance to the entire being. Despite what you may have been told your body is always working for you, not against you. That’s why I work with Kinesiology & Reiki, as both modalities allow your body to guide us. Your body will let us know what it is that is blocked so that you can gain insight and awareness into the root cause of a problem. It is with this insight that you are able to release and let go of the core issue or emotion of the imbalance.

In clinic I work with an array of issues from anxiety and insecurities to diagnosed diseases and chronic pain, from broken hearts and emotional or physical trauma to career challenges and transitions. The beautiful thing is you don’t even need to know what you are coming to see me for. You may just need a space to share, slow down and breathe. You have found me for a reason, trust in yourself and your body.

I didn't grow up with any form of energy healing in my life, it was something that came to me in my mid-twenties. Kinesiology initially brought balance to my body when I was experiencing a number of uncomfortable allergies, I was intrigued by this ‘magic’ and curious to learn more. A few years later I came across Reiki; a truly profound moment in my life. At a time when I was going through emotional trauma and heartache Reiki gave me comfort and peace. It was from here onward that I knew my purpose in this life form was to bring this healing to others and so began my journey with energy work, which continues to unfold in many surprising and beautiful ways.

If you have stress or anxiety in your life, if you have physical symptoms that just won’t go away no matter what you try, maybe you have a broken heart that won’t heal or perhaps you are seeking clarity and direction. I am here to help you. Share with me, slow down and breathe. hello@hhwithanna.com