The Craven Clinic

Zero Balancing

A New Approach to Energy Bodywork

What is Zero Balancing?

Zero Balancing (ZB) is a gentle yet powerful hands-on method of balancing body energy with body structure. Using finger pressure and held stretches, it invites the release of tension accumulated in the deep structures of the body. the quality of touch enables physical structure and energy to be engaged simultaneously in a way that harmonises the relationship between them. ZB provides a point of stillness around which the body can relax, giving a person the opportunity to let go if unease and pain and experience a new level of integration.

How did Zero Balancing originate?

Dr Fritz Smith, an osteopath, physician and acupuncturist, developed the principles of Zero Balancing in 1975 as a way of integrating his different trainings in body structure and energy work. The name Zero Balancing arose spontaneously out of an early recipient's description of the session she had received. Fritz Smith describes his insights into Western and Eastern models of health care in his book "Inner Bridges", (available from ZBA UK). He has taught internationally, training practitioners and teachers to use and teach ZB. All Zero Balancers* are also healthcare professionals in another field.

*The term Certified Zero Balancer is reserved for those who have completed the Certification Programme and actively maintain their status through membership of ZBA UK.

How can Zero Balancing help?

Zero Balancing promotes a deep sense of harmony and as a result our natural healing processes are empowered. It is beneficial for a wide range of people and has extensive application in health care and personal development. The following are some of the areas in which it may be especially useful:

Stress Reduction

Zero Balancing is a refined and painless way of dealing with stress. It encourages energy to flow smoothly through the structures of the body helping to release stressful patterns.

Body Pain

Pain often occurs where energy flow is blocked or weakened. This can be caused by emotional, mental or spiritual problems or as a result of an accident or illness. Zero Balancing works with the whole body during which specific areas of physical pain can be addressed.

Flexibility and Posture

Zero Balancing bodywork focuses on a particular group of joints that have special characteristics. These joints are involved with the smooth transmission of forces through the weight-bearing skeleton - in effect acting as shock absorbers. ZB evaluates how these joints are functioning and works towards an optimum balance in the way they relate to each other in the whole body. This allows a natural realignment and improved posture.

Reparative Touch

Sometimes our natural responses to touch have been distorted by events in our personal history. This may happen because of trauma, abuse or prolonged physical pain. ZB establishes a clear interface between giver and receiver in which the boundaries of touch and communication are both sensitive yet well defined. The safety of this respectful connection enables a person to fully inhabit their body and to rediscover the positive aspects of human touch.

Personal Process

Zero Balancing can facilitate the release of mental habits and patterns of emotional response which no longer serve us. Unresolved issues from our personal history may be held in the body and act as obstacles to personal development. ZB can help access and clear these obstructions, strengthening our ability to adapt to change and reconnect with our essential selves.

Zero Balancing is part of Complementary Health Care. It is a complement to medical health care and not a substitute for it. ZB is not designed for the acutely ill or disturbed person and is inappropriate immediately after surgery or bone fractures until sufficient structural healing has occurred. The Certified Zero Balancer will advise you of any unsuitability Os using ZB based upon the history and needs of the client.

What happens during a Zero Balancing session?

Zero Balancing is hands-on bodywork done with the recipient clothed and lying on his or her back. A session may take anywhere between twenty and forty minutes. ZB promotes a deep state of relaxation and it is common for people to feel refreshingly rested and more centred within their body after their first session. It is recommended that a person has three sessions to begin with and then decide with their practitioner what frequency would best serve them. Some people continue to have ZB on a regular basis, whilst others find it beneficial at times when they need to be functioning at their best or want help during transitions in their lives.

People who receive ZB may also move into a new awareness from which old patterns in our bodies and minds may be more readily released. This may manifest itself as noticeable changes in the way we experience our physical structure and movement or as a shift in our inner landscape so that new opportunities and choices become apparent.

Contact Information

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