WHAT EXACTLY IS SRT?
The focus and goals of Soft-Stretch Release Techniques (SRT) are multifaceted in the approach. SRT was defined by the owner's need to better work with, and help assist, the types of client issues he was seeing. While there are many styles of stretching that exist today, SRT has been showcasing a direct focal point on the Nervous, Fascial and Lymphatic Systems. An infusion of modalities and styles have been brought together to truly define the SRT style and what makes it so effective.
BASE MODALITIES OF SRT
Passive stretching is also referred to as relaxed stretching, and as static-passive stretching. A passive stretch is one where you assume a position and hold it with some other part of your body, or with the assistance of a partner or some other apparatus. For example, allowing the Professional to lift and bring your leg into any position without your active assistance or resistance. The Active can be implemented when asked to help assist the stretch from an activation standpoint by the client.
PNF - Dynamic Stretching (not isometric)
PNF stretching is currently the fastest and most effective way known to increase static-passive flexibility. PNF is an acronym for proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation. It is not really a type of stretching but is a technique of combining Passive Stretching and Isometric Stretching in order to achieve maximum static flexibility.
Most PNF stretching techniques employ isometric agonist contraction/relaxation where the stretched muscles are contracted isometrically and then relaxed. Some PNF techniques also employ isometric antagonist contraction where the antagonists of the stretched muscles are contracted. In all cases, it is important to note that the stretched muscle should be rested (and relaxed) for at least 20 seconds before performing another PNF technique.
With SRT we have found that re-education of joint movement from a Dynamic PNF approach has been more effective in clearing ranges of motion, installing the mind-muscle connection better, and improving weakness along the path of movement resistance. While traditional PNF Isometric wants to create a static barrier when activating, SRT's focus is to create a moving barrier, where we allow the activation to occur, but provide a moving resistant barrier that the client pushes or pulls against, while still moving through a partial or full range of motion.
MyoFascial Release techniques (MFR)
MFR involves applying gentle, sustained pressure to areas where the fascia is restricted, aiming to improve range of motion, relieve pain, and restore proper tissue function. Tissue under tension time can vary widely from 7 seconds to multiple minutes based upon individual issues and restrictions.
Through the use of MFR we also indirectly address the lymphatic flow and stimulation of primary lymph nodes as we work proximal to the hip and shoulder and neck to start. The direction of the MFR glides can also be positioned for SRT Lymphatic Specifics if desired.
Lymphatic Treatment (MLD)
Manual Lymphatic Drainage works directly with your lymphatic system.
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes, and organs that transport lymph, a fluid containing infection- fighting white blood cells, throughout the body. It plays a vital role in the immune system by helping to remove
toxins, waste, and excess fluid from tissues. Unlike the circulatory system, which relies on the heart to pump
blood, the lymphatic system depends on muscle movement, breathing, and external stimulation to function
effectively. Using MFR pressure also helps to assist indirectly in MLD, or SRT-MLD specific can be used.
ENERGETIC - EMOTIONAL
When it comes to the metaphysical components pertaining to the nervous system, we direct our understanding to the 5 senses, energy, frequency, and vibrations. All aspects of the universe are made of energy, including emotions, feelings and thoughts. You've heard of positive and negative thoughts, positive and negative feelings, etc. When you experience these metaphysical pieces, your physical body has no other choice but to respond, as your nervous system bridges the gap between these two arenas.
You've probably heard a few of these sayings before, "Makes my blood boil. Carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. I've got butterflies in my stomach." These are just a few sayings that pertain to the energetic and emotional connections between your mind and body.
When you experience feelings of anger or rage, you feel hot. "Hotheaded" is a word used to describe irrational reaction. But, making your blood boil also is commonly used. The experience of the feeling of anger, immediately has a direct physical response.
Stress, also consists of "carrying the weight of the world." Your neck, shoulders and back suffer the most in coorelation to these feelings, and you will physically feel it in your muscles, joints, tissues and lymphatic system.
The butterflies you might feel tend to arise from anxiety or worry. The nervous feeling and the unsettled tension in your stomach can affect your muscles, digestive system, enteric nervous system, and immune system.
When you start to understand how intricately connected the metaphysical is to the physical, you will begin to look at SRT from the deeper levels that it is designed for. Soft, Slow, Safe and Supported applications with the focal point being on the nervous system down-regulation, creating a safe space for the energies and emotions to move through.
SRT ACCREDITATIONS & RECOGNITION
Global Pioneer in Holistic Movement Therapy
Leader in Transformative Wellness Education
Approved Continuing Education Providers (USA)
- Licensed Massage Therapists & Personal Trainers / ATCs
Approved Continuing Education Providers (CANADA)
- Registered Massage Therapists & Trainers
- Osteopathic Therapists & Holistic Practioners
