Tell me about the EMMETT Technique
The EMMETT Technique is a unique form of body relaxation therapy for both people and animals, involving the application of light finger pressure at specific points. It is based on the belief that light touch can trigger a relaxation response in the soft tissues of the body, and that the therapist may thereby help relieve feelings of tension. Many people find they feel more at ease within their body and their emotional well being is enhanced. Animals appear more calm and at ease.
The result is often instantaneous feelings of greater comfort. See the Client Testimonials page to read some examples of the kinds of problems helped by the EMMETT Technique.
EMMETT is truly a complementary therapy. It may be applied in isolation but it also combines easily with all other bodywork and exercise specialities such as massage, chiropractic, physiotherapy, Bowen therapy, craniosacral therapy, yoga, Pilates and personal training as some typical examples.
How does EMMETT work?
Good question! It is based on the belief that light touch can trigger a relaxation response in the soft tissues of the body, and that the therapist thereby may help relieve tension which results in feelings of improved comfort.
We believe a good analogy is that of a digital touch-screen. With the touch-screen, if you touch too hard, nothing happens. If you touch on the wrong spot nothing happens. If you hold for too long, all the icons start to shake. But if you touch with just the right amount of pressure in a specific location, an application opens and you are good to go. We believe the EMMETT points are small sensory receptors that allow access to the brain via the therapists’ touch. With the correct light touch, the brain receives and evaluates this stimulus and initiates the relaxation response in the soft tissue. There are receptor points all over the body so the therapist can target the area of concern. It may sound surprising but the relaxation response and the feeling of ease in the area is often immediate.
The pressure required is not heavy or painful. “No pain no gain” has NO place in the EMMETT therapist’s approach.
Most Common Benefits for People
The relaxing nature of the technique results in people reporting typical responses such as:
- more restful sleep
- enhanced mood
- a sense of lightness within their body
- improved comfort and ease within the areas treated such as back, abdomen, hips, legs, knees, ankles, feet, shoulders, arms, hands and neck.
Most people report an immediate and significant improvement with the problem that has been troubling them. Many people who previously had limitations on what they could do, find that they can perform these actions more easily after treatment.
Most Common Benefits for Animals
The relaxation response is the same in animals. Typical symptoms that may be assisted include:
- Various injuries and lameness
- Emotional problems
- Stiffness
- Decreased suppleness
- Change in performance
What can I expect in a treatment?
People can be treated while sitting, standing or lying down. The treatment can be applied directly to the skin or through clothing. Sessions can last anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes if the EMMETT Technique is used alone – longer if combined with a relaxing massage or other modality.
Animals can be treated wherever they are comfortable eg in a field or in the home. Sessions can also last from 10 – 30 minutes.
The development of EMMETT Therapies
EMMETT Therapies Training
Benefits of the EMMETT Technique
EMMETT Technique Principles
EMMETT Therapies across the world
For more videos, visit the EMMETT Technique - UK YouTube channel. Click here.