Personal Development 15 January 2008

At the end of last year I noticed certain shifts had taken place, on a physical and emotional level, plus in my approach to day-to-day tasks.

The physical shifts appear significant as they alleviated a deep-held problem with my shoulder.  After five years, it has at last returned to its original, anatomical position.  With bioenergy treatments on top of yoga practice, the shifts consolidated themselves over two evenings: on the first, the shoulder was released down, to be level with the other; on the second, the clavicle (collar bone) moved back, slotting into its rightful place and making firm the previous evening’s adjustment.  These were noticeable and fairly rapid releases, demonstrating the ability of Bioenergy Healing Techniques to retrain the body.

Emotional shifts have also been noted; I have reacted to certain situations much less emotionally, with a clearer head, therefore responding with more clarity.  As a result, relationships that have historically been difficult seem to have entered a new smoother phase.  I am also noticing that my feelings on particular issues have turned on their head, and I relish what previously seemed to be problematic.

These personal experiences have demonstrated to me that mental shifts can indeed happen without the process being noticed and without the need for cognitive work.  I did not need to focus on particular issues, just noticed them when they had changed.  Shifts can be rapid, intense, and move you just as rapidly into a more balanced state.

On a practical level, I have even noticed a change in my attitude to tasks that previously grated and were therefore always put on hold.  Suddenly I found myself looking at the job in hand as easy and quick.  The above and more indicate that bioenergy healing will change you.

Over the last month I have been more relaxed in the clinic, and am willing to speak with clients about my own experiences of using the technique.  Every week is of course a challenge, with tasks and expectations increasingly widened to continuously stretch my efforts.  Currently I am experimenting with a gluten free diet (one month) and using the probiotic Prime Directive/ SELF. 

Working in the clinic with Michael has been a great and challenging experience so far. The diversity of clients makes for very interesting sessions, interspersed with workouts designed to push my physical boundaries, and study time allowing for understanding of the underlying mechanics of the technique.

Self treatment with BHT has already brought emotional and physical shifts. These have been experienced with some detachment, with personal questions being brought to light, but a minimum of stress.

Movement beyond past physical boundaries has already been noticed; my usual yoga practice has shifted up a few gears with surprising ease and in a very short timeframe. My attitude to unfamiliar exercise has also changed; it now seems natural to go out for a run (although distance covered is not yet very impressive!).

There has been experimentation with cleansing and diet: bentonite clay with psyllium and food combining. Highlighted is the need for increased water intake and the integration of increased fitness work. There have also been glimpses of the ‘ideal’ day: one encompassing exercise, study and treatment - either of self or practicing on others.

Bentonite Clay cleanse

For this cleanse I set out to follow the instructions of the Tao cleanse; twice daily for 4 weeks. In the event, 3 weeks felt sufficient.

Drinking the mixture was no problem with apple juice (once tried with water – was foul and undrinkable). For the first 3 days I had no psyllium and took the bentonite alone – a method recommended by Neal’s Yard – however, this meant I had a swollen belly and constipation; adding the psyllium proved vital in allowing expulsion.

A variety of symptoms were noticed over the cleanse period:
1. My facial skin became spotty (despite becoming quite clear with increased exercise of the previous weeks)
2. I experienced lucid dreams
3. One night I experienced an unusual sensation of energy pouring into my centre from all over my body; this lasted only a few moments but was very distinct
4. Stools became lighter in colour and were bigger, firmer, easier to pass.

Additionally, I felt more connected with my surroundings, with a clearer head.
However, after three weeks, I felt that for my body, continuing would be an 
‘overload’ and the cleanse came to a natural end.

I have recommended this to friends who witnessed me drinking the mixture; it
has proved popular for reasons of physical cleansing of the colon and the
acknowledged health benefits. 

Food Combining

Seeking inspiration for new recipes, I had picked up a copy of Gillian
McKeith’s ‘You Are What You Eat’. This contained excellent information for starting with the food combining approach. As well as clear explanations of the different food groups, properties of individual grains, vegetables and herbs, Mc Keith gives suggestions for adding to the store cupboard and introducing different flavourings into dishes. Her recipes were simple, clear and adaptable. 

I undertook to follow her regime for four weeks. I found it gave me increased energy, particularly post-lunch which had previously been a dip time for me. Also following the evening meal, I experienced less lethargy, which I had not even realised was an issue. Food felt generally lighter, more nutritious (despite believing I had a generally good diet beforehand) and took on more of its real role – as fuel. I also found that I further increased fresh fruit, veg and herbs in my diet. 

The food combining approach continues to influence how and what I eat. I would recommend it to anyone as an energy and vitality booster. Food combining also has an inbuilt capacity for natural slimming without any need for reducing the amount of food, but the type of food eaten and what it is eaten with.