The magic of meditation lies in its central tenet: being present. Through monkey mind, through growing technology interruptions, throughkids-this and work-that, being present. While being up for that task is ever- and increasingly challenging, one avenue to help us get there is … tada … massage! Bodywork’s many modalities put you in tune with your body, and your practitioner is your body’s guide.  

In this issue of Body Sense, massage therapist, yoga instructor, and author Cindy Williams writes about massage therapists’not-so secret ingredient—the long, broad, fluid, and gliding strokes known as effleurage (“Constant, Fluid Contact”). Practitioners use this stroke to remain connected to clients during the session and to ensure constant, uninterrupted touch. Author Amrit Rai writes about honoring the innate intuitive healing wisdom of our bodies (“Heeding Our Inner Healer”). She points out that your body is speaking to you at all times. Are you listening? 

I often hear clients describe massage as a chance to “bliss out,” “tune out,” “escape.” But I’m here to tell you that massage and bodywork are also at the core of dialing into yourself. Therapeutic touch is key to feeling, to noticing, to being present. It may seem antithetical that something so relaxing can also help you become more aware of your body, but I see bodywork as the ultimate chance to know thyself.