A brief discussion on polarity: how it might not be so “woo-woo”
It’s not uncommon for people to question what energy work is, whether it’s effective, or even if it’s real. This year, in our Human Microcosm Class, we had this very discussion, as we often do. A group of bodyworkers and natural health professionals were exploring how we define energy work and when it can be considered 'real.'
I personally love this discussion. It feels far more profound than defining this or that modality. It's a much richer conversation, one that’s more grounded in what it truly means to be human. It also speaks to what it means to be a legitimate practitioner while finding meaning in practices that may be considered 'fringe.'
Here are some of the more interesting insights that came out of my recent discussions with others in the field:
To demonstrate my point, I asked AI to give me an image of energy work for this article. I would say that lines up with what many people think a session might look like.
Simply ‘listening’ to an acupuncture point with gentle pressure can help ground a client experiencing sensory overload.
Observing and listening to a client’s cranial rhythms can alter their mood and affect, while simultaneously putting the practitioner in a meditative state.
Acupuncture channels are not mystical tubes of aether, but rather natural pathways through which energy flows.
Providing touch, even before applying specific techniques, can reduce pain, anxiety, and depression, while building rapport.
Helping a client reach a state of relaxation improves tissue health and reduces stress.
Why, then, do so many discussions about this work become misunderstood? Why do we often start with topics like crystal juggling, auras, and the like? I’m not suggesting there’s no value in crystals—after all, the first radios used crystal diodes, and the ground substance of our fascia is essentially liquid quartz. I’m simply pointing out that these are often the 'electives' that come alongside the core study of what we call energy work.
We also use the word 'energy' to describe a variety of concepts:"
Vitality, from its most general sense to the more esoteric.
Gravity, especially how it flows through a body when in alignment (e.g., good posture).
Emotions—'high energy,' 'low energy,' or 'feeling energetic.'
Vibration—people often use this term to describe their feelings or perceptions of others.
The energy boost from coffee, which can range from a pep in our step to a caffeine buzz, or even an anxiety attack.
Biological energies, such as how nerves and hormones communicate, or how ATP powers our cells.
Energy encompasses so many things before it ever veers into the 'woo woo' territory.
Polarity Work (the name brand for the energetic stuff I do), is grounded in early osteopathy (bone manipulation), naprapathy (fascia work), and vitalism (the belief in life energy). Polarity includes acupressure points and energy centers, which are a complex mesh of connective tissue, nerve structures, and, of course, are interpreted through the traditions passed down to us. It uses fascial manipulations, subtle spinal alignments, and cranial work to deepen the breath and allow energy to flow with more ease.
This work is particularly effective for individuals who are not yet ready for deep tissue work. It’s great for those with anxiety, sensory issues, or those who need to develop better interoception (awareness of internal states) and proprioception (awareness of body movement in space). Its wonderful after a traumatic event and supportive during an ongoing crisis. Its also great following deep tissue work or a structural integration series to help with integration.
