by urban-acupuncture | Jun 5, 2025 | Massage Therapy
The Trager Approach, developed by Dr. Milton Trager, is a unique and innovative form of bodywork that promotes deep relaxation, increased joint mobility, and a greater sense of ease in movement. Unlike other therapeutic modalities that focus on forceful manipulation, the Trager Approach relies on gentle touch and rhythmic movements to help release physical and mental tension patterns.
Understanding the Trager Approach
Dr. Milton Trager, an American physician and movement therapist, developed this technique over several decades, blending his knowledge of medicine with his passion for movement. His goal was to create a therapy that would help individuals reconnect with a sense of lightness and fluidity in their bodies. The Trager Approach is based on the idea that accumulated tension and stress can lead to restricted movement and discomfort, and that these patterns can be unlearned through mindful, soothing touch and movement.
How It Works
The Trager Approach consists of two main components:
- Tablework – During a session, the practitioner gently rocks, shakes, and stretches the recipient’s body in a relaxed state. These movements are designed to communicate sensations of ease and effortlessness to the nervous system, helping to release deep-seated tension.
- Mentastics – Short for “mental gymnastics,” Mentastics are simple, mindful movements that clients can practice on their own to reinforce the sense of relaxation and freedom gained during the session.
Unlike traditional massage therapy, the Trager Approach does not involve deep pressure or kneading. Instead, it focuses on the quality of movement and how it feels, allowing the body to naturally let go of restrictions.
Benefits of the Trager Approach
The gentle and holistic nature of the Trager Approach makes it beneficial for individuals dealing with various physical and emotional challenges, including:
- Chronic pain relief – Helps alleviate discomfort from conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and back pain.
- Improved mobility – Increases range of motion and flexibility by reducing muscular tension.
- Stress reduction – Encourages deep relaxation and mental clarity.
- Enhanced body awareness – Helps individuals develop a more fluid and effortless movement pattern.
- Support for neurological conditions – Has been found helpful for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and other movement disorders.
Who Can Benefit?
The Trager Approach is suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. It is particularly beneficial for those recovering from injuries, managing chronic conditions, or seeking relief from stress and tension. Since the technique is non-invasive and gentle, it is a safe and effective choice for people who may find other forms of bodywork too intense.
The Trager Approach offers a profound yet gentle way to release physical and emotional tension, leading to increased relaxation and improved movement.
Through the combination of skilled hands-on work and mindful movement exercises, this therapy provides a unique pathway to greater ease and well-being. Whether you are looking for relief from chronic pain or simply wish to move more freely, the Trager Approach may be the key to unlocking a new level of physical and mental harmony.
Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH For More Information
For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy, electroacupuncture and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488 or click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.
by urban-acupuncture | Jun 1, 2025 | Holistic Health, Treatments
Ways Herbal Medicines Affect the Immune System
Herbal medicines can impact the immune system in cancer patients by acting as immunomodulators, which means they can enhance, restore, or modify the immune response. This is crucial in cancer treatment, as cancer often evades immune surveillance due to its low immunogenicity. Here are some ways herbal medicines affect the immune system:
Impact of Herbal Medicines on the Immune System
- Immunomodulation
Herbal medicines like Ganoderma lucidum (reishi mushroom), Sophora flavescens, and Scutellaria baicalensis have been shown to stimulate the immune system by activating macrophages, T lymphocytes, and natural killer (NK) cells. These cells play a key role in recognizing and eliminating cancer cells.
- Enhancing Innate Immunity
Herbs such as Astragalus membranaceus and Panax ginseng are known to increase white blood cell counts, which can help restore immune function in cancer patients. This is particularly important during chemotherapy, which can suppress the immune system.
- Regulation of Tumor Microenvironment (TME)
Some herbal compounds can regulate the TME by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic effects on tumors. This regulation helps in creating an environment unfavorable for cancer growth and progression.
- Adjuvant Effects
Herbal medicines can also enhance the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy, potentially improving treatment outcomes. For example, certain herbs may increase the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic agents by modulating immune responses.
- Safety Considerations
While herbal medicines are generally considered natural and safe, they can interact with conventional treatments or have side effects, especially in high doses or with prolonged use. It’s essential for cancer patients to consult healthcare providers before using herbal remedies.
Several herbal remedies have shown promise in cancer treatment, although they are generally used as complementary therapies rather than replacements for conventional treatments. Here are some of the most promising herbal remedies:
Promising Herbal Remedies for Cancer Treatment
- Turmeric/Curcumin
Turmeric contains curcumin, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is used for both cancer prevention and treatment.
- Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects in lab studies. It is particularly effective in reducing chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting.
- Astragalus
Astragalus may reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea and fatigue, and improve quality of life for cancer patients. It is often used in combination with conventional treatments.
- Dong Quai
Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, dong quai may offer protective effects against heart damage caused by certain chemotherapy drugs. However, its safety and efficacy for cancer treatment need further research.
- Moringa Tree
Moringa has been shown to kill ovarian cancer cells in test tube studies and may help alleviate symptoms such as difficulty breathing and joint pain.
- Berberine
This compound, found in plants like goldenseal and barberry, has shown promise in fighting lung cancer in laboratory experiments.
- Essiac Tea
While not proven to cure cancer, Essiac tea contains antioxidants that may help manage symptoms and support overall health.
- Ginseng
Ginseng is believed to reduce inflammation and tumor growth and protect healthy cells from damage. It is often used to mitigate chemotherapy side effects.
- Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola)
This herb has shown potential as an anticancer agent by inhibiting tumor cell proliferation in animal studies.
- Phyllanthus amarus
Known for its antitumor effects, this plant may inhibit carcinogenic compound activation and induce cell cycle arrest.
While these herbal remedies show promise, it’s crucial to consult with healthcare providers before using them, as they may interact with conventional treatments or have side effects.
Learn More About Herbal Therapy at UAC…
Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH For More Information
For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy, electroacupuncture and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488 or click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.
