Blue Lotus believes that body and mind are two aspects of one thing - you. The body is a reflection of the mind, and the mind can be deeply affected by what is done with and to the body. Through treating the body, the mind is also affected, and when we affect the mind, the body reveals this in various ways. "The unity principle states that the universe is fundamentally a web of relationships in which all aspects and components are inseparable from the whole and do not exist in isolation" - Ron Kurtz - Body-Centered Psychotherapy 

Emotions and memories are stored in the body. When we touch another human being, in massage or otherwise, we are also touching their emotions and memories. Here at Blue Lotus, we strive to cultivate and convey a sense of reverence and honor when touching the human body. For another to let you touch them they must be vulnerable, and therefore we treat this as a great privilege and never touch idly or without thought. 

"The basic work of health professionals in general...is to become full human beings and to inspire full human-beingness in other people who feel starved about their lives." - Chogyam Trungpa, Becoming a Full Human Being 

This is why personal growth and transformation are woven into every aspect of our program. In order to touch with true awareness and presence, the therapist must be present and aware first of him or herself. By coming into contact and dialogue with ourselves, we prepare to really contact another. 

Many types of massage focus on the body as an object to be manipulated and fixed. The massage we teach here at Blue Lotus, no matter how technically and medically apt always sees the body as an extension of the mind and emotions. When you are touching someone's tight shoulders, you are feeling directly their suffering and stress. Touching with this level of presence and attention makes every technique more integral and ultimately effective.