ERT - Emotional Release Therapy, is a hands on modality, that is a creative synthesis of specific bodywork and inner child work. Points on the body are 'opened' or activated, allowing trapped emotions that were held, because it was not safe, or they were not allowed, an opportunity to express. The body has hundreds of points/ doorways that have become 'clogged' over the years. With breath and opening, there is an invitation to the channels of the body to clear stagnant energy. When openea, memories can resurface, emotions can move, and we can learn to embrace the wounded parts of ourselves in order to be who we are meant to be; peaceful loving beings.
I cannot think of any other healing modality performed on a massage table that requires the active participation of the client more than ERT. Most types of work are passive - the person comes and receives something from you. We are each our own healers. Each person's body's wisdom knows what to do with their trauma. Our minds do not have a clue. But our minds really need and want to make sense of things. Our minds will tell us to stop, or that we can't handle it, or if we open the door and begin to cry or express, we'll never stop. For the person that has survived due to their brain, congratulations, you are not alone. Your brain will need to have a job. The job of the brain, during an ERT session is to come inside and explore the body, to turn towards ana get curious about what is happening. The active presence and participation of the person you're working to help is essential in order for this modality to be effective; the idea MUST originate with them.
WHY DO WE DO IT?
ERT can help to diminish or eliminate the root cause of both physical and emotional pain by allowing unfinished feelings that got trapped in the body, to express fully. The body really does keep the score. This modality can be a preemptive method to help dis-ease from taking root in the body. In addition, it can break the repetitive patterns that we attract into our lives in order to allow these emotions to surface.
All childhood responses that weren't safe to express often tether to the present day. Often, we subconsciously attract situations that exacerbate the feelings we rejected, in order ERT can help to diminish or eliminate the root cause of both physical and emotional pain by allowing unfinished feelings that got trapped in the body, to express fully. The body really does keep the score. This modality can be a preemptive method to help dis-ease from taking root in the body. In addition, it can break the repetitive patterns that we attract into our lives in order to allow these emotions to surface.
All childhood responses that weren't safe to express often tether to the present day. Often, we subconsciously attract situations that exacerbate the feelings we rejected, in order to have an opportunity to express the stuck feelings. Once expressed and integrated, we have new space, which allows us the freedom to explore and create new realities that are more in alignment with our highest self.
HOW DO WE DO IT?
BREATH
The breath is one of the primary tools we use in this work.
Breathing is unique in that it is both autonomic (ie. we do it without having to think about it, and voluntary. Breath is the only major bodily function that we can override and consciously control. In this way, the breath is a bridge between the realm of the subconscious and the conscious. Perhaps this is why so many spiritual and healing practices have it as their focus. The breath alone can move so much.
In ERT, we use an open mouth breath; it allows for more air, and also it triggers our sympathetic nervous system, which is activating. This is purposeful as we are looking to transmute Stuck energy. Our breath falls in and is not forced; a surrender into the body, a deep exhale, a warm invitation. Watch for your client blowing out of their body. This would be an avoidant (though usually subconscious) response and you can coach them on how they can use their breath to fall inwaras. Also, you can notice where people are breathing by inviting them to lift your hand with their breath. If they're avoiding the area, you'll see their breath causing other parts of their body to rise. In this way, you can help them work to be specific with where they are breathing to. Where the breath and sound are coming from is very indicative and telling in a session.
As practitioners, we share the role of investigator with the person coming for a workshop or session. Together, we work to get curious about solving the 'puzzle' that is the person on the table (or standing if they're in a workshop). Puzzle is in quotes because no one is broken, we're just all covered up. Being witnessed is important and validating. This is a big part of why we only get so far when we attempt to do our work solo. We also tend to have a lot of blind spots. It's not your job to tell people about themselves, but rather to reflect what you notice for them to take or leave. They'll discover what they need on their own timeline, and as their body and psyche is ready.
Questions and Answers
Q1: What is emotional release therapy? A1: Emotional release therapy is a therapeutic approach that helps individuals identify and release pent-up emotions. It focuses on acknowledging feelings that may be buried or repressed, allowing for emotional healing and balance.
Q2: How does emotional release therapy work? A2: The therapy typically involves various techniques such as talk therapy, guided imagery, and physical movements. Practitioners encourage clients to express their feelings through words, actions, or creative outlets, which helps to process and release those emotions.
Q3: Who can benefit from emotional release therapy? A3: Anyone experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or unresolved emotional issues can benefit from this therapy. It’s particularly helpful for those who find it challenging to express emotions verbally.
Q4: What techniques are commonly used in emotional release therapy? A4: Common techniques include breathwork, somatic experiencing. These practices help in reconnecting with emotions and releasing them.
Q5: Is emotional release therapy a one-time session or ongoing? A5: It can vary based on an individual’s needs. Some may find relief after a single session, while others might require ongoing sessions to fully process and release their emotions.
Q6: Are there any side effects of emotional release therapy? A6: While it’s generally considered safe, some individuals may experience temporary discomfort as they confront difficult emotions. It’s important to have support during this process, whether through a therapist.
Q7: How can someone get started with emotional release therapy? A7: To get started, individuals can seek out a trained therapist specializing in emotional release therapy. It's helpful to have an open mind and be willing to explore feelings in a safe environment.
Diet and Emotional Preparation for Emotional Release Therapy
Three days before your session, begin to prepare your body with a simple, clean diet. This helps support the emotional work we’re about to do. Focus on eating whole, plant-based foods and drinking plenty of water. Avoid heavy like meat or processed foods, alcohol, and sugar, as these can impact your energy and emotional sensitivity.
During these three days, start gently connecting with your emotions it is VERY IMPORTANT . Simply be aware of what you’re feeling without judgment or expectations. Allow yourself to observe your emotional landscape as it is, without the need to control or change anything.
Please come to the session without expectations. Each session is unique, and we never know what will arise in the process.