The John F Barnes’ Myofascial Release approach is safe, gentle and consistently effective in producing positive and lasting results. Myofascial release is a hands-on technique which provides sustained pressure into myofascial restrictions to eliminate pain, headaches and to restore motion. The theory of myofascial release requires an understanding of the fascial system (or connective tissue).

Fascia is a tough connective tissue which spreads throughout the body in a three dimensional web from your head to your feet without interruption. Trauma or inflammation can create a binding down of fascia resulting in excessive pressure on nerves, muscles, blood vessels, bones, and/or organs. Since all of the standard tests such as x-rays, myelograms, CAT scans, electromyography, etc. do not show the fascial restrictions, it is thought that an extremely high percentage of people suffering with pain, headaches, and/or lack of motion may be having fascial problems, but most go undiagnosed.

Fascia is a specialized system of the body which has an appearance similar to a spider’s web or a sweater. Fascia is a very densely woven covering that interpenetrates every structure of our body. The fascial system is not just a system of separate coverings; it is actually one uninterrupted structure which exists from your head to your feet. In this way you can begin to see each part of the entire body is connected to every other part by the fascia, like the yarn in a sweater.

In the normal healthy state, the fascia is relaxed and wavy in configuration. It has the ability to stretch and move without restriction. When we experience physical trauma or inflammation, however, the fascia loses its flexibility. It becomes very tight, and can be a source of tension to the rest of the body. Trauma, such as a fall, whiplash, surgery or just habitual poor posture over time has a cumulative effect. The fascia can exert excessive pressure producing pain, headaches and or restriction of motion.

Myofascial release allows us to look at each patient as a unique individual. Our sessions include hands-on treatment during which use a multitude of myofascial release techniques and movement therapy. The goal of myofascial release is to restore the individual’s freedom so they may return to a pain free, active lifestyle.

-John F Barnes, PT

Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's "life force energy" is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy.

The word Reiki is made of two Japanese words - Rei which means "God's Wisdom or the Higher Power" and Ki which is "life force energy". So Reiki is actually "spiritually guided life force energy."

A treatment feels like a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. Reiki treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind and spirit creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security and wellbeing. Many have reported miraculous results.

Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing and self-improvement that everyone can use. It has been effective in helping virtually every known illness and malady and always creates a beneficial effect. It also works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.

How Does Reiki Work?

We are alive because life force is flowing through us. Life force flows within the physical body though pathways called chakras, meridians and nadis. It also flows around us in a field of energy called the aura. Life force nourishes the organs and cells of the body, supporting them in their vital functions. When this flow of life force is disrupted, it causes diminished function in one or more of the organs and tissues of the physical body.

The life force is responsive to thoughts and feelings. It becomes disrupted when we accept, either consciously or unconsciously, negative thoughts or feelings about ourselves. These negative thoughts and feelings attach themselves to the energy field and cause a disruption in the flow of life force. This diminishes the vital function of the organs and cells of the physical body.

Reiki heals by flowing through the affected parts of the energy field and charging them with positive energy. It raises the vibratory level of the energy field in and around the physical body where the negative thoughts and feelings are attached. This causes the negative energy to break apart and fall away. In so doing, Reiki clears, straightens and heals the energy pathways, thus allowing the life force to flow in a healthy and natural way.

Q. How is a Reiki treatment given?

A. In a standard treatment Reiki energy flows from the practitioners hands into the client. The client is usually laying on a massage table but treatments can also be given while the client is seated or even standing. The client remains fully clothed. The practitioner places her/his hands on or near the clients body in a series of hand positions. These include positions around the head and shoulders, the stomach, and feet. Other, more specific positions may be used based on the clients needs. Each position is held for three to ten minutes depending on how much Reiki the client needs at each position. The whole treatment usually lasts between 45 and 90 minutes.

Q. What does a Reiki treatment feel like?

A. What one experiences during a Reiki treatment varies somewhat from person to person. However, feelings of deep relaxation are usually felt by all. In addition, many feel a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and surrounds them. As the Reiki energy encourages one to let go of all tension, anxiety, fear or other negative feelings a state of peace and well-being is experienced. Some drift off to sleep or report floating outside their bodies or have visions and other mystical experiences. At the end of the treatment, one feels refreshed with a more positive, balanced outlook.

Q. What can be treated with Reiki?

A. Reiki has had a positive affect on all forms of illness and negative conditions. This includes minor things like head or stomach aches, bee stings, colds, flu, tension and anxiety as well as serious illness like heart disease, cancer, leukemia, etc. The side effects of regular medical treatments have also been reduced or eliminated. This includes the negative effects of chemotherapy, post operative pain and depression as well as improving the healing rate and reducing the time needed to stay in the hospital. Reiki always helps and in some cases people have experienced complete healings which have been confirmed by medical tests before and after the Reiki treatments. However, while some have experienced miracles, they cannot be guaranteed. Stress reduction with some improvement in ones physical and psychological condition are what most experience.

-The International Center for Reiki Training

No prior experience is required, and this work is not connected to any religious tradition or belief system. Sessions are approached in a grounded, respectful way and do not require any spiritual framework. People of all backgrounds are welcome.

Before your session, it can be helpful to allow a little space for transition. Arriving at a slower pace and with fewer expectations supports the body’s ability to respond and integrate more easily.

Light preparation is recommended. Avoid heavy meals immediately prior to your session, and consider limiting caffeine or other stimulants beforehand. Comfortable clothing is encouraged for Reiki, CranioSacral Therapy and/or spiritual guidance.

For physical bodywork sessions, please do not apply oils or lotions to the skin on the day of your appointment, as these can interfere with maintaining a connection to the fascia.

Myofascial Release treatments are performed directly on the skin. Wearing loose-fitting shorts, sports bra or tank top is generally recommended. No special preparation is required beyond this.

At times, physical sensations, spontaneous movements, intense emotions, or moments of insight may arise. If this happens, allow yourself to feel it as deeply as you can. There may be dialouge if it seems helpful. This is what authentic healing looks like. There is no need to suppress or analyze the experience. The session is a supportive space where whatever arises can be met without judgment. There is no expectation to have a particular experience. Each session unfolds in its own way.

After a session, allowing for a relatively calm environment—when possible—can support integration. This may include easing back into daily activities, limiting overstimulation, or allowing time to rest or reflect.

As the work integrates, you may notice changes in posture, movement, pain patterns, or insights that may continue to arise in the days or weeks to follow. Temporary soreness, fatigue, or emotional releases can be part of the body’s natural adjustment. These experiences are part of the body’s natural process of organizing and responding to change. Integration unfolds in its own time and varies from person to person.

Although somewhat rare, a “Healing Crisis” may occur. This usually never lasts more than a few days and although it is uncomfortable it is perfectly normal and part of the healing process. Relax and surrender into the sensations knowing that deep healing is taking place.

While some people begin with a single session, many benefit from a series of visits that allow the body to respond, adjust, and integrate gradually.

Myofascial restrictions often develop over months or years from injuries, posture habits, repetitive movement, or emotional stress. One session can help, but lasting change takes time because often we need to address outer layers before deeper restrictions release and repeated sessions help your nervous system adopt new, healthier movement patterns.

In general, most acute cases will resolve with a few treatments. The longer the restriction has been present, generally the longer it will take to resolve. Many chronic conditions (developed over many years) may require three to four months of treatments three times per week to obtain optimal results. It is suggested that less than two treatments per week may result in fascial tightness returning back to the level prior to the last treatment. Your home care with movement and stretching exercises will keep this regression between sessions minimal.

While both involve hands-on work, sessions here are not structured as massage therapy. The focus is not on routine muscle work or predetermined techniques, but on responding to how the body presents. The pacing is slower, without oils and long-flowing strokes, and the approach more intuitive than traditional massage.

Integrative bodywork sessions will pull from all modalities and techniques in my skillset as needed.

Myofascial Release sessions are very patient, with primarily long, slow holds (at least 5 minutes) as we wait for the fascia to release.
MFR is gentle, but it has profound effects upon the body tissues. Do not let the gentleness deceive you. You may leave after a treatment feeling like nothing happened. Then a day or two later, you may begin to feel the effects of the treatment.

Reiki and/or light bodywork sessions may be used as supportive care alongside medical treatment, including during periods of illness such as cancer or while undergoing chemotherapy. This work is not a replacement for medical care and does not involve diagnosis or treatment. Sessions are approached with sensitivity to energy levels, treatment schedules, and individual capacity.

Yes. Sessions are available for children with a parent or guardian present. Work with children is approached gently and attentively, with pacing adapted to the child’s needs. A reduced rate is offered for children. Details can be discussed when scheduling.

Yes. These sessions are approached gently and with care, supporting rest and regulation during a period of significant physical and emotional change. Sessions are adapted to individual comfort and stage of pregnancy.

Reiki and subtle body work for animals may be considered in specific situations. Sessions are discussed individually to ensure the setting and circumstances are appropriate and respectful of the animal’s comfort.

Yes. Group Reiki sessions are potentially available for existing groups or private events such as meditation gatherings, sound baths, retreats, or similar settings. These sessions are arranged by request and tailored to the context of the gathering.

In certain circumstances, mobile sessions may be considered for clients who are unable to travel due to health, mobility, or situational limitations. Mobile work is not routinely offered and is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Group Reiki sessions for existing gatherings or events are discussed separately and are not considered part of routine mobile work.

The building has stairs. If you have mobility needs, please let us know when scheduling your appointment. An elevator entrance is available on the side of the building, and we are happy to coordinate access.

Yes, Ananda is formerly Sattva Myofascial Release & Bodyworks. Shiva Ananda was Shane Ginder and had a legal name change in ‘2

Same guy, substantial upgrades.