Cynthia Ryan Otto MS, LPC, CAADC

08/31/2025

The rib cage surrounds and protects vital organs, including the heart. The sensation of grief being "held" there suggests that the pain has settled deep inside, encompassing the heart itself.

Psychologically, this physical holding can be linked to suppressing feelings of sadness, anger, or fear. The body physically contracts to contain emotions that feel unsafe or overwhelming to release.

"Grief is like broken ribs": A popular anonymous quote captures this idea: "Grief is like having broken ribs. On the outside you look fine, but with every breath, it hurts". It describes a pain that is not outwardly visible but is constantly present and triggered by the simple act of living.

Kristin Neff's "Compassionate Body Scan" is a guided meditation that encourages self-compassion through mindful awareness of bodily sensations. It involves systematically directing attention to different body parts, acknowledging any discomfort or tension, and responding with kindness and acceptance. The practice aims to foster a more loving and understanding relationship with one's physical self.

https://youtu.be/FOm6dhob_tw?si=izTM5Pb83LFoFnjO

08/24/2025

Massage therapy relates to somatic movement by providing a somatic approach through touch, which helps clients become more aware of their body's internal sensations and release stored physical and emotional tension. While somatic movement is an active practice where the individual learns to move and self-regulate, somatic massage is a passive treatment that uses mindful touch to facilitate similar outcomes like improved body-mind connection, increased self-awareness, and relief from chronic pain and stress. Both modalities empower individuals, with somatic movement offering tools for ongoing self-care and somatic massage providing an external catalyst for healing through touch and conversation. 🙌

08/16/2025

08/13/2025

Suffering is an inevitable part of life, but we have the agency to choose how we respond to it. By shifting our focus from the pain to the lessons it offers, we can transform adversity into a powerful force for personal growth and resilience.

"If you focus on the hurt, you will continue to suffer. If you focus on the lesson, you will continue to grow."
🌱🛩

Massage therapy encourages mindfulness and can help individuals become more aware of their physical sensations and emotional responses. This heightened mind-body connection can lead to better emotional regulation and a greater ability to cope with stressors.

During challenging times, prioritizing relaxation and managing stress is essential for maintaining overall well-being.

Relaxation techniques: Try these steps to lower stress

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/relaxation-technique/art-20045368

Relaxation isn't only about peace of mind or enjoying a hobby. It's a process that lessens the stress effects on your mind and body. ☮️💜🌱🙌

08/10/2025

Neuroscience: "What you are thinking at any moment is changing your biochemistry."

Humans have a strong need for safety and security and look for those attributes in their environment.

A negative environment impacts physical health by inducing chronic stress, which elevates cortisol levels and suppresses the immune system, leading to conditions like hypertension, heart disease, and increased risk of illness. Environmental factors like air and water pollution can cause respiratory illnesses, while poor living conditions, lack of access to healthy food, and even clutter contribute to a state of perpetual stress that elevates blood pressure and heart rate.

Managing Environmental Stress: Therapy and Techniques:

https://click2pro.com/blog/managing-environmental-stress-therapy-and-techniques

08/04/2025

Addressing the wounds of the inner child is crucial for improving both physical and emotional health. Techniques like therapy, self-compassion, and mindfulness practices can help individuals reconnect with their inner child, process past trauma, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. By nurturing this part of themselves, individuals can foster greater emotional resilience, improve their physical well-being, and create a more fulfilling life.

When we ignore our inner child and the ways our past shapes our present, we do ourselves a major disservice. We can overlook formative experiences that can help us understand our triggers and heal some of our maladaptive coping mechanisms.

Massage therapy can be a valuable tool in inner child work by promoting physical relaxation, emotional regulation, and a sense of safety, which can help individuals reconnect with and heal their wounded inner child. It can help reduce stress, release stored trauma, and foster a sense of self-compassion, all crucial aspects of inner child healing.

https://www.verywellmind.com/inner-child-work-how-your-past-shapes-your-present-7152929

https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/inner-child-healing

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/inner-child-work

08/01/2025

07/26/2025

art by Anastasia Yarygina

07/26/2025

Your body is an incredible healer! With the right nutrition and a strong mind-body connection, you can unlock its amazing potential. Nourish your soul, fuel your body, and watch the magic happen. What’s your go-to healthy habit?

07/26/2025

No one else has ever had your voice, your light, your way of seeing. You are not here by accident. Let your gift rise—it’s why you’re here.