Meeting the Body Where It Is
Spinal Energetics is a gentle, non-invasive body-based modality that works with the spine, nervous system and energetic field. Rather than forcing a physical response, the practitioner holds space for the body to respond in its own way and at its own pace.
At Soul Recovery Service in Wauchope, Joel Mervyn-Jones offers Spinal Energetics as one pathway towards greater body awareness, connection and a sense of being more present within yourself.
What Is Spinal Energetics?
Spinal Energetics was developed by Australian chiropractor and counsellor Dr Sarah Jane and draws upon both Eastern and Western understandings of the body. During a session, Joel may use gentle contact around different areas of the body as well as hands-off techniques.
This is not chiropractic manipulation, and the practitioner does not physically create the movements that can sometimes occur during a session. Instead, the approach is gentle and responsive. The body is met where it is.
What Might I Experience?
Some people become deeply still and relaxed. Others may notice spontaneous movements such as stretching, arching, twisting or gentle shaking. You might become aware of warmth, tingling, changes in breathing or sensations in areas of the body you hadn’t been consciously noticing. You may experience very little movement at all. That’s equally valid. A dramatic physical response isn’t the goal, and the amount your body moves isn’t a measure of how successful or meaningful your session has been.
Holding Space for the Body
An important part of Joel’s approach is creating and maintaining a supportive environment for your experience without forcing an outcome or deciding what that experience should be. Joel is present and responsive throughout the session, while allowing you to experience what arises in your own way.
Feeling Safe in Your Body
We often notice the body when something hurts or feels uncomfortable but pay much less attention to the quieter signals it gives us throughout the day. Feeling safe in your body can mean being able to notice those signals with greater awareness. It might mean recognising that you’re holding your breath and then allowing yourself to breathe more freely. Noticing tension in your shoulders without immediately needing to change it. Feeling supported by the surface beneath you. Or simply becoming more comfortable with being still and present with yourself.
For some people, developing this greater awareness and sense of embodiment can contribute to feeling more settled, connected and safe within their own body.
What Happens During a Session?
You will remain fully clothed and lie comfortably on a treatment table. Joel works gently around the body using light-touch and hands-off techniques while observing and responding to your individual experience.
Is Spinal Energetics Right for Me?
People explore Spinal Energetics for many reasons. You may be interested in body awareness and nervous-system-focused practices. You may already enjoy somatic or energetic modalities. Or perhaps you’ve simply heard about Spinal Energetics and want to experience it for yourself.
If you’re uncertain whether Spinal Energetics is appropriate for you, Joel welcomes questions before you book.
Spinal Energetics at Soul Recovery Service
Soul Recovery Service grew from a simple intention: recovery for the whole self. Today, Joel works with a range of modalities involving the nervous system, body, touch, movement, sound and light, maintaining an underlying respect for the body and the person experiencing.
Ready to Experience Spinal Energetics?
Book a Spinal Energetics session with Joel at Soul Recovery Service in Wauchope.
Not sure whether this is the right place to begin?
Spinal Energetics is a complementary wellbeing practice and is not a substitute for medical or psychological care. Contraindications apply. Please discuss relevant health conditions with Joel before booking.
Internal links:
Massage & Somatic Bodywork → “Interested in another body-based approach?”
Journal article → “Learn more about Spinal Energetics”
Spinal Energetics FAQs
Do I stay fully clothed during Spinal Energetics?
Yes. Spinal Energetics is generally experienced fully clothed. Comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely is recommended.
Will Joel physically move my body?
Spinal Energetics does not involve forceful manipulation or Joel deliberately creating the spontaneous movements sometimes seen during sessions. Joel may use gentle touch as well as hands-off techniques while holding space for your body’s individual response.
Why do some people move during Spinal Energetics?
Responses vary considerably between individuals. Some people may experience spontaneous stretching, arching, twisting, shaking or other movements, while others remain relatively still.
Does more movement mean the session is working better?
No. A dramatic response isn’t the goal, and the amount of movement someone experiences isn’t a measure of the depth or value of their session. Your experience is individual.
What if nothing happens?
There is no response you’re required to have. Your experience might involve movement, physical sensations, changes in breathing, deep relaxation or quiet stillness. Try not to judge your session by comparing it with videos or another person’s experience.
Can I stop the session?
Yes. Your comfort and choices remain important throughout the experience. You can communicate with Joel, ask questions or request that the session stop at any moment.
Is Spinal Energetics suitable for everyone?
No. Spinal Energetics has contraindications and may not be appropriate in certain circumstances. Please discuss relevant health conditions, pregnancy, recent surgery or injury, medications and any other concerns with Joel before booking. Seek advice from your healthcare professional where appropriate.
