MOVEMENT MODALITIES
Pilates and Gyrotonic Equipment by Balanced Body www.Pilates.com
"Chronic pain is often due to the cumulative effect of incorrect patterns of movement. After years of relying on such patterns, we actually believe that their use is normal rather than being the source of our physical distress.”
Tudor Marinescu, MD, PhD.
It follows then, that movement is the modality most effective for reducing pain through re-establishment of correct bio-mechanics, stability, balance and muscle firing sequence. Extensive training in the following state of the art movement modalities allows Kerry to design a conditioning or rehabilitation program matched to your specific needs, using the best these systems have to offer.
Core Conditioning
This centered training focuses on and re-educates the deep postural muscles, improving or eliminating neck, shoulder and low back pain. We work together to create strength and flexibility on the deepest levels. This work is based on research known as "the Australian Method" and that of Stuart McGill, Diane Lee, Eric Franklin, Tom Meyers and other cutting edge leaders in the field. Note: Core work is NOT sit-ups or crunches.
Pilates
Pilates builds strength by adding load to correct core alignment and stabilization. Practiced faithfully, Pilates yields increased lung capacity and circulation through deep, healthy breathing, strength and flexibility, particularly of the abdomen and back muscles and coordination-both muscular and mental. Posture, balance, and core strength are all increased; bone density and joint health improve. Kerry is a member of the Pilates Method Alliance and completed the Pilates Certification with Marie-Jose Blom at Long Beach Dance Conditioning. For more information about Pilates click here: Pilates Method Alliance.org
GYROTONIC Expansion System®
GYROTONIC Expansion System ® consists of a totally new exercise system, created by Juliu Horvath using GYROKINESIS® as the basis to exercise the musculature while mobilizing and articulating the joints. This "System" is served by a series of specially designed exercise equipment, which is built around the human body with all regards to total freedom in movement, no restriction to speed and versatility, and enhances rather than distracts from coordination, strength and flexibility.
The motion patterns are natural, turbulence free and pure with no interruption, creating a bridge between contraction and extension through the rotating movement of the joints, resulting in a balanced support system for the skeleton. Kerry is a certified Foundation Level Gyrotonic Instructor, and has completed the Level 2 Prep, Specialized Equipment Jumping Stretching Board, Leg Extension, Feet and Hands and Gyrokenisis teacher trainings. A wonderful interview with Juliu, explaining his philosophy of movement as life can be found here.
Yamuna Body Rolling™
Yamuna Body Rolling combines core strengthening with the release of deep tissue massage. An empowering tool for self care, Yamuna Body Rolling™ is a revolutionary approach to health and fitness using balls designed exclusively for this practice. Unlike other ball exercises, YBR goes far beyond random movement and stretch. It's systemized protocol allows one to work specific muscles in detail, to create suppleness in tight areas and optimize range of motion and build core strength. Yamuna Body Rolling™ re-educates muscles and stimulates bone, creating positive, permanent changes in the body. Kerry is a certified Level 2 Body Rolling Instructor. More information about the system can be found at YamunaBodyRolling.com. Click here for schedule of classes.
Yamuna Foot Fitness
Yamuna Foot Fitness protocol releases restrictions and adhesions in the feet caused by injury, high heels, standing and other abuses. Restores healthy gait patterns and is especially effective with pronation, bunions, plantar fasciitis and other foot and lower extremity pain and dysfunction. Click here for schedule of classes.
Yoga
Hatha Yoga is the ancient combination of breath, alignment, conscious movement and intention. An opportunity for reflection and growth creating health of body, mind and spirit. Kerry began her journey at the Center for Yoga on Larchmont under Ganga White in 1974 and from whom she received her first teaching certificate in 1989. She received her most recent yoga teaching certificate from Shiva Rea with whom she traveled to India in 2004. She has been priveledged to study with and been profoundly influenced by B.K.S. Iyengar, Judith Lasater, David Life and Paul Grilley.
Breath Work
Breathing in our culture is a lost art. Breath work enhances all performance, restoring full function to the respiratory and nervous systems. Essential for asthmatics, controls and heals anxiety, postural issues, headaches, insomnia and improves metabolism. The most essential work of all.
Copyright 2010, Kerry O’Brien, All Rights Reserved
“Each time I work with Kerry I get a deeper understanding of how my habitual posture is making my lower back scream. She gives me simple exercises and concrete tools that I can do on my own to help change muscle memory and strengthen abdominal muscles I never knew I had. I walk, stand, sit, drive and even lie down differently now.”
Karen Aschenbach
Creative Process Coach, LA
Joe Pilates, Age 77
