* First International Fascia Research Congress (www.fascia2007.com) Excerpt from Science Magazine, Nov 23, 2007:
“The meeting ...would be the first dedicated to the soft part of the body’s connective tissue system — an important but medically neglected organ. It would bring together top scientists from fields as diverse as cell biology and biophysics, but it would also include alternative medicine practitioners.
“...This conference was a first venture within the field of the human fasciae to bring together scientists and clinicians and it was not at all certain that getting these two diverse groups together would satisfy everyone or produce constructive collaboration. ...Yet, by the end of the second day, it was obvious there was a meeting of minds. So much so that a leading researcher in biomechanics, Peter Huijing, PhD, of Vrije Unvesiteit in Amsterdam has agreed to help organize the next conference in Amsterdam in 2009...”
If that doesn't work, try this link Click here For Fascia 2007 list information and functions.
Abstracts are/were available via the Abstracts View Page
And includes "Fascial mechanoreceptors and their potential role in deep tissue manipulation Excerpt" from: Schleip R 2003: "Fascial plasticity – a new neurobiological explanation." Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 7(1):11-19 and 7(2):104-116. [ Editor's note: I found this abstract to be the most related to innervation (per the theory page here). It mentions what are now known to be the largest group of (type III & IV) sensory nerve fibers, now commonly called interstitial muscle receptors. "A better name would be interstitial myofascial tissue receptors since they also exist abundantly in fascia... are hardly mentioned in most textbooks." -cp]
* When scanning through web pages (Nov '00) I found a reference that describes almost exactly what I have seen/felt that led me to write the "theory" on my fascia-memory page, among other insights: "The Acupuncture System and The Liquid Crystalline Collagen Fibres of the Connective Tissues" by Mae-Wan Ho. At least this is as close as someone else's version of such can be, anyway, considering her vocation/career in physics. And her interests include conductivity, resonance or 'coherence', and healing via cellular alignment. Also to note is her essay, "Bioenergetics and Biocommunication." Most of these are via http://www.i-sis.org, and the first mentioned is http://www.i-sis.org/lcm.shtml
* Other Key References include those by Candace B. Pert, Ph.D. Her recent great discoveries in this regard are published in her ground-breaking book, Molecules and Emotion (http://www.candacepert.com/). Also most timely and important is the work of psychologist Paul Pearsall, Ph.D. His book, The Heart's Code, The New Findings About Cellular Memories and Their Role in the Mind/Body/Spirit Connection, is about the
* Folks to watch for research and practical application in Preventative Maintenance include The Institute of HeartMath (Heartmath.com), author of Freeze-Frame: Fast Action Stress Relief and Self-Empowerment. Here, they have found correlations in heart activity to changes in the immune system and changes in hormonal balance, as well as to changes in perception and intelligence.
* All of the above would not have been possible were it not for the Research in Microtubules, Ordered States, & Consciousness, in Cellular Memory, Engrams, & supportive Cell Biophysics, particularly by the prolific Stuart Hameroff (http://www.consciousness.arizona.edu/hameroff), author of Toward a Science of Consciousness and many other publications cited in the Related References section. Lead-up work has been performed by Roger Penrose (http://www.reed.edu/~rsavage/qbrain.html), and I. Prigogine, *From Being to Becoming,* Freeman, San Francisco, 1980, and with I. Stengers: *Order out of Chaos,* Heinemann, London, 1984.
* Other Instrumental works were by Karl Pribram, *Languages of the Brain* 1977, Wadsworth Publishing, and "The Neurophysiology of Remembering," Scientific American, January 1969 issue, 220:75).
* Pietsch, P., 1981. Shufflebrain. The quest for the holographic mind. houghton Mifflin, Boston. Book details his research (incl. 700 operations on salamander brains) attempting to disprove Pribrams theories re: Holographic Memory and implications for the brain, but ended up convincing himself of its accuracy. [noted in 2nd article, p.78 Massage Therapy Journal, Fall 95].
* Squire, L.R., Memory and Brain. [2/73; quoted from 2nd article, p.73 Massage Therapy Journal, Fall 95:] "Over the years a number of different lines of evidence have been developed to support the holographic model of memory and to show that some of the remarkable aspects of memory are virtually impossible to explain by any other concept. A very readable discription of this theory can be found in Michael Talbot's book, The Holographic Universe." (This is summarized in the Massage Therapy Journal's 2nd article).
* Julesz, B. and K.S. Pennington, 1965. Equidistributional information mapping: An analogy to holograms and memory. Journal of the Optical Society of America 55:604. [noted in/quoted from 2nd article, p.73 Massage Therapy Journal, Fall 95: "...made explicit suggestion that memory is stored in the brain as interference patterns comparable to those used in holography." * Lashley, K., 1950. In search of the engram, in Physiological Mechanisms in Animal Behaviour, New York, Academic Press, pp.454-482. ["distinquished Harvard psychologist who spent virtually his entire scientific career, 30 years, in an unsuccessful search for the engram." Karl Pribram was student of Lashley.]
* Leith, E.N. and J. Upatnieks, 1964. Wave front reconstruction with diffused illumination and trree-dimensional objects. Journal of the Optical Society of America 54:1295-1301; Leith, E.N. and J. Upatnieks, 1965. Photography by laser. Scientific American, June Issue, 212:24.
* Collier, J., C.B. Burckhardt, and L. H. Lin, 1971. Optical holography. New York, Academic Press.
* DeValois, K.K., R.L. DeValois, and W.W. Yund, 1979. Responses of striate cortex cells to grating and checkerboard patterns. Journal of Physiology 291:483:050; DeValois, K.K. and R.L. DeValois 1980. Spatial vision. Annual Review of Psychology 31:309-341.
* Gabor, D., 1972. Holography, 1948-1971. Science 177:299-313.
* F.M.K. Lam Jr., Tsuei, J.J. and Z. Zhao. "Studies in Bioenergetic Correlations--Bioenergetic Regulatory Measurement Instruments and Devices." American Journal of Acupuncture, Vol. 16, No.4, Oct.-Dec. 1988.
* Dr. Bruce H. Lipton, Ph.D.,In his article "The Biology of Belief," describes research in which a cell's nucleus is removed, and the cells "continue to survive and exhibit a regulated control of their biological processes." He describes the structure of the cell membrane, the outer, protective wall of the cell, as having receptors (integral membrane proteins - IMP's) that are responsive, not only to chemical molecules, but also to electromagnetic and acoustical signals, gravity, and temperature. These receptors can activate genes in the DNA and direct cellular responses. He writes "These findings are relevant for they acknowledge that biological behavior can be controlled by "invisible" energy forces, which include thought." www.brucelipton.com
* Rupert Sheldrake, the British botanist, a former Research Fellow of the Royal Society and Director of Studies in biochemistry and cell biology at Clare College, Cambridge University, England, some years ago proposed the theory of ‘morphic resonance’. His first major book, the controversial *A New Science of Life,* published in 1981, was praised by the New Scientist as "an important scientific inquiry into the nature of biological and physical reality." His basic argument is that natural systems, or morphic units, at all levels of complexity -- atoms, molecules, crystals, cells, tissues, organs, organisms, and societies of organisms -- are animated, organized, and coordinated by morphic fields, which contain an inherent memory. Natural systems inherit this collective memory from all previous things of their kind by a process called morphic resonance, with the result that patterns of development and behavior become increasingly habitual through repetition. Sheldrake suggests that there is a continuous spectrum of morphic fields, including morphogenetic fields, behavioral fields, mental fields, and social and cultural fields. see http://www.sheldrake.org/ Note: Sheldrake has stated that there needed to be some way to confirm the existence and role(s) of morphic fields. I am wondering if research in the directions indicated above might be a useful and relatively easy way to research morphic field theory. The fascial system is small enough and workable enough, that with some medical scanning equipment and bio-electric field measuring devices that are already developed, a good computer man to integrate the assessments, a good visionary and a few left brainers to keep things heading in the right directions ... well, Sheldrake could have his micro-cosmic example of inter- AND intra-active (via adjacent, multi-level contained, and/or overlapping) memory fields. And the emotional aspect of the memory wouldn't have to be established before this is proven, I think -- the neurosynaptic data, when compared in block groups over time and experience (eg: on/in a living biological organism's system) with such equipment as described above, would give a relatively quick idea of where to go with the study from there. -BC Pringer
References From Dr. Taras Kochno (March 2000):
"I am a physician of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. I recently became interested in fascia releases through the work of Aaron L. Mattes. ...I'm in the process of analyzing athletic performance, based on range of motion, strength/torque ratios, and proper bio mechanics, in their success or failure. My theory is that poor fascia conditioning and flexibility leads to constriction, contracture and resultant strains or tears of musculoskeletal tissue.
"PET scans used for analysis of glycogen metabolism of the brain, in order to assess the activity within different centers may be beneficial, if one studies major joints or motor points of muscles. The motor points yield the highest concentration of vascularization and neuro integration. From a physics perspective, they also are the focal point of maximal contraction. Additionally, there exists new technology to map energy fields. For the study of fascia, it would be important to note changes in the fields as one tries different modalities or manipulative techniques... Additionally, I should tell you that I agree with your pursuit of spirituality and emotional harmony in light of a well balanced and healthy system... I found your articles using search engines Lycos/Hot Bod using the key words of Fascia and Muscle Memory." Dr. Taras Kochno’s references include the following.
* Aaron L. Mattes RKT, MS, LMT ... created a system called Active Isolated Stretch. This involves segmental 1-2 second stretch and releases of muscle groups to facilitate function and neurological restoration /facilitation. He has had excellent results with athletic injuries, optimizing performance and functional neuromuscular recovery in brain injured, spinal cord injured and other degenerative diseases. His approach is based on facilitating joint position and as a result increase the areas vascular re-perfusion.
* Dr. John Basmajian, MD, author of Muscle's Alive... is one of my old professors in anatomy... pioneered work on muscles and rehabilitation. For 25 years he taught and studied anatomy. He authored many books and edited much more. He did investigative work on muscle function and physiology. He utilized EMG studies extensively. Presently, he is retired at age 79, but is in a process of editing another book in rehabilitation. I do not believe he has an Email address. I will see him at our Annual Academy meeting in Washington, DC this November... I have called (him and he...) states that he is not aware of any research to support your theories or help explain our restorative results..." -Dr. KOCHNO
* Dr. Oschman Ph.D. [noted above] is the author of an interesting section in an acupuncture book of HARA an author from Japan who integrates Eastern and Western Medical Science. Dr. Oschman (out of New Hampshire) has studied the embryologic aspect of fascia and the pizoelectric fields and implies that acupuncture points are the fascial's neuro-vascular points. Other References cited by Oschman, J.L. include: 'Structure and properties of ground substances.' American Zoologist 24(1):199-215; 1984. 'The connective tissue and myofascial systems.' Privately published manuscript; 1981. 'How does the body maintain its shape': A series of 3 articles that appeared in Rolf Lines, the news magazine for Rolf Institute members, Boulder, CO, ending with Vol. 18(1):24-25; 1989, 1990. 'Sensing solitons in soft tissues.' Guild News (Guild for Structural Integration, Boulder, CO) 3(2):22-25. 1994.
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Chalice Bridging Ministries Body-Mind-Soul Integration for a Healthy Planet
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REPRODUCTION: I welcome my writing/artwork being reproduced, provided that it is in it's original and complete form (or an editing or excerpt by agreement with the author), and contact info are intact and readable ("Chris Pringer, Chris.pringer@chalicebridge.com, www.chalicebridge.com"), and so long as the following conditions are applied:
a) Hardcopy reproduction is ok so long as it is for personal or non-profit organizational use only; b) Distribution and posting on web pages, blogs, and forums with my permission (mostly because I want to know where it's been put, and I'd be most honored to be asked). c) Any distribution of my writings or artwork must be w/o charge unless with prior agreement in writing with the author. d) The only exception to that regards the World Healing Prayers, which I encourage people to make all the copies they think will be used effectively without obligation to get my permission or even contact me. By the way, I have yet to ever sell -or give permission for anyone else to sell- any of my artwork on E-Bay or anywhere else. [noted 12/27/07]
DISCLAIMER: None of my writing, chalice art, or PolyPsyArt is intended to be, to replace, or discourage the appropriate use of, medical attention and/or treatment, but as educationally informative for the purpose of overall health enhancement and preventative maintenance. So far as I know, I have not quoted any other person without saying so. I have emulated a number of writers and teachers, so I wouldn't be surprised if many of my statements have very similar words and meanings as they. In any case, I have always tried to say what I believed. If you find that I have plagiarized anyone to any degree, please let me know -- by noting the complete published reference, and including the full quote and a few sentences of text before and after). This given, I will duly correct the writing.
AUTHORSHIP: Unless otherwise noted under the titles, all essays, artwork, prayers, pages at this site and sub-directories (as at my previous site at AOL), and with exception of some of the solid color and cloudy-sky color backgrounds and logo/headers for others' sites as noted) has been composed, rendered, and/or web-authored by myself, Christopher Pringer, a member of Veteran's for Peace, ch.92 and of the "Seattle 12," practitioner in Body-Mind-Energy Integration Therapies since 1984, and ordained minister (Chalice-Bridging Ministries) since 1987. Most of the personal health-oriented essays at this site were written in the early 90's, as compared to the social/political health oriented pages since 1997.
ABOUT THE ART: The symbols for the "Chalice" - or Holy Grail - that I often use are drawn essentially from ancient archetypes. Here, the Chalice is essentially a "cauldron" for the balancing and integrating of Humanity with the Divine - individually and communally. And just to forestall any hasty categorization, I should say that these archetypes pre-date the Jewish faith by many centuries. They have their own rich meanings as related to the spiritual dilemma or paradox, balancing or synthesis of qualities (such as Yin & Yang), and healing transformation. The "Chalice-Star" over the three traveling magi is used in my Solstice or Christmas Card design to represent our quest - in this earthly dimension of body, mind, and spirit - for the inner-most Source of one's spirit and faith -- whether that would be the Inner Christ, Inner Buddha, Inner Mohammed, or the Divine Mother's Spirit connecting All Life, etc.
That disclaimer said, you may find out the actual origins of my relationship with these archetypes at Home Page for Body-Mind-Chalice Integration (and related artwork). If you feel well served by what you found here, I would certainly appreciate your support. Although there is virtually 3 large books (and probably over a thousand hours) worth of written material and artwork here, nothing has ever been sold at this site (although I do promote my therapy practice and desktop publishing skills).
In any case, IF YOU FEEL SO INCLINED TO SUPPORT THIS WORK (there are also ways besides donating money), please check out the Chalice Bridging Ministries / PolyPsyArts Support System.
COMMENTARY/Feedback is MOST APPRECIATED via the Guest Book or directly via Chaliser@iinet.com. I Hope you have found this page useful. Please let me know if it (or any parts of it, or other pages here) do not make sense to you, or don't seem consistent, etc. Extra points given for being specific. <grin> It's nice to hear from visitors in any case. I will probably reply. Here is to your continuing to receive the benefits of your drive to discover you. --Chris
Click here to see the Organization Chart / Site Map (New 9'08), as well as "How and Why this Site Is Different - A study in Cross-Discipline Knowledge Sharing and Utilization." About the critical challenge of, and our potential for, optimal integration of diverse perspectives, talents, and capabilities. And how that relates to *Chalice-Bridging* - and to personal, community, and planetary healing. (And the full-size graphic!)
Professional Bio & Quotes
Chris, 1984
Chris, 2008
I began my studies in multi-level self-healing when in the service, in Thailand in the Winter of '73. The focus then was on self-help psychology, consciousness, and eastern and western mystical perspectives. This continued through my university studies in Norman, OK '74-'79. 1980 took me into naturopathic studies, primarily nutrition and herbology when I lived in Oklahoma City. Not seeing the naturopathic doctor route as affordable at the time, I found direction via a five-evening massage course, Fall '83. That led to a six month professional practice, followed up with the training in Sante Fe, NM, '84-'85 (described in the next paragraph).
Since then I have practiced massage and/or healing facilitation for others, initially in Santa Fe, NM (during/after my training), then San Louis Obispo, CA, and Seattle, WA. This includes exploring personal challenges and self-healing methodology. A session may include various energy work modalities, Body/Energy-Awareness based Preventative Health Maintenance Instruction, or only Reiki or relaxation work in total silence. A client chooses based on whatever stress, pain, or concerns are present at that session. A client may request a "Body Pattern Reading," as well as various massage/bodywork therapies, all of which techniques are listed & described in my brochure. Individual, program, and 3-6 week interval-based rates are available.
My interests have primarily centered in three areas:
1) Body-Centered Psycho-Spiritual Process (as in "Hakomi" style of) counseling and bodywork, including as assessing an individual for the most efficient means of addressing connective tissue injury, short and long term, and the most efficient application of the results of that assessment (on physical and/or emotional levels);
2) in The Basic How's And Why's Of Psycho-Emotional Storage In The Body-Mind, and in the related fascia memory storage dynamics - referring to the technical aspects of neuro-physical interface between connective tissue, emotion, and the brain);
3) "Chalice-Bridging" style chakra balancing - based in the perspective that the chalice, far more than just a cup in this interpretation, is about the human embodiment of Spirit into the three "lower bodies" (mental, emotional, and physical) which compose the "Body-Mind". Which is also a "cauldron" for the balancing and integrating of Humanity with the Divine - individually and communally.
My training includes over 1370 hours of classes and practicum, including with the New Mexico Academy of Massage and Advanced Healing Arts in Santa Fe, NM (1984-85), and with various accredited bodywork and therapy workshops (`86-present), as well as 100 hours training with the Alchemical Hypnotherapy Institute (1989), over 100+ hrs apprenticeship with healing practitioner Robert "Mitra" (`85-`86), and 150 hours apprenticeship with Silena Heron in Herbal Studies (`83-`84). For the detailed version my training, you may go to the latter half of my Reiki Therapy Practice Brochure. Which also includes (and relates context for) links to essays elaborating on aspects of imbalance and injury, assessment, and healing.
Personal Quotes on Body-Mind Awareness [ cp, 12'07 ]
BODY-MIND AWARENESS, at the core of preventive health awareness, is one of the most simple, efficacious, & cost-effective forms of HEALTH INSURANCE there can be. Hence, massage is far from just "a luxury item," and bodywork therapies can be indispensable for the healing of certain conditions.
MUSCLES RELATE TO ATTACHMENTS - to what we use to take our stance, to hold our place, to perceive and respond to our environment, and to extend who we are and/or want to be. Or used to be (in too many cases, perhaps). That speaks not only to the body's condition and function, but to how it communicates awareness of where one is along one's path (of becoming who one truly is).
THE BODY IS . . . among other amazing things, a unique communications system -- intimately linked with one's TOTALITY.
Establishing rapport with one's body can be a PATH to self realization.
ONE OF MY DREAMS is a society where/in all children are taught how to feel/see/read their own body-mind communications such that preventive health maintenance eventually becomes second nature. And actually, for the most part, they would be encouraged to re-awaken and build upon what I believe to be a NATURAL INCLINATION - conscious self-healing and continuous expansion of awareness.
And the above goes FOR ALL OTHER ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES, to the degree that one utilizes them to improve such awareness and causative/pro-active connection with one's body-mind, and to employ the most effective tools for maintaining/improving one's health under any given condition or circumstance.
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