A Swedish Institute instructor and massage therapist for the United States Tennis Association (hello, Andy Roddick), Robert Wolf is aces when it comes to therapeutic bodywork and somatic movement. So what makes this Zeel Expert's rubdown different from all the rest?
Robert uniquely integrates breathwork-much like mindful yogic breathing-into his practice, providing clients with physical relief as well as mental balance, equilibrium and an overall sense of groundedness. We talk to Robert to get the details on his exclusive technique.
What is breathwork, and how can it enhance a massage?
Breathwork simply means the bringing of awareness to your breath and body. It's not a physical therapy session; it's actually a much more subtle element during a massage. For example, Robert might ask a client to think of a word like "balance" as he or she breathes in. Ultimately, breathwork can bring a client to have a better understanding of the connection between their body and mind.
What are the benefits of breathwork on the massage table?As Robert puts it, he wants to inspire, empower and educate his clients so that they can continue to implement simple protocols such as controlled breathing in their daily lives. In other words, breathwork is a relaxation technique on the massage table, but it may also be utilized long after a session is over.
What can a newcomer expect during a massage with breathwork?
Robert typically gives his clients an overview of his method at the beginning of a session. A client who complains of neck pain, for example, may be encouraged to bring awareness to features near the neck by softening the jaw while he kneads the affected tissues. "The work is made a little more dynamic and sustainable by bringing awareness into the equation," Robert explains.
Who can benefit from breathwork during a massage?
Anyone can enjoy the advantages of breathwork. But more specifically, breathwork tends to work particularly well with people who already see the value of mindfulness. Many of Robert's clients say that they feel much taller after a session, describing a newfound sense of length and space in their bodies both physically and mentally.
For a private massage in his studio or at your home, or to learn more about his specialized methods, book an appointment with Robert through Zeel.
