Kinesiology is a complementary health practice that uses gentle muscle testing as a way of exploring physical, emotional and energetic aspects of a person’s wellbeing. The word comes from the Greek kinesis, meaning movement, and kinesiology in its broadest sense is the study of human movement. It also encompasses a range of complementary therapies.
Complementary kinesiology developed from applied kinesiology, which emerged in the United States during the 1960s. Practitioners use muscle resistance testing – often involving a person holding an arm or leg in a particular position – to assess how the body supposedly responds to different physical or emotional stimuli.
Depending on the particular form of kinesiology, practitioners may use this process to identify areas of stress or imbalance and then suggest techniques intended to restore balance.
A typical session begins with a discussion about the person’s concerns and goals. The practitioner may then ask the person to perform simple movements or hold their arm in a particular position. The practitioner applies light pressure while the person resists.
Changes in the apparent strength or resistance of the muscle are interpreted by the practitioner as information about the person’s responses.
Getting physical
Some forms of kinesiology incorporate techniques drawn from other complementary practices, including acupressure, traditional Chinese medicine, nutritional advice, relaxation techniques and various forms of energy work. Precise methods vary considerably between practitioners.
Complementary kinesiologists believe muscle testing can provide a ytpe of feedback from the body that may reveal stresses or imbalances that aren’t immediately obvious. They may use it to guide relaxation techniques, lifestyle changes or other interventions.
People often report feeling more relaxed, aware of their emotions or generally better after a session.
However, it’s important to distinguish complementary kinesiology from the scientific study of movement, and also from established forms of physical rehabilitation such as physiotherapy.
There’s good scientific evidence that muscles and the nervous system can provide useful information about physical function, and muscle-strength testing is a legitimate part of medical and rehabilitation assessment. But claims that muscle testing can reliably diagnose allergies, nutritional deficiencies, emotional problems, illnesses or disturbances in a person’s ‘energy’ haven’t been established by high-quality scientific evidence.
Kinesiology sessions certainly provide relaxation, focused attention and an opportunity to discuss concerns with a practitioner. These factors can contribute to a sense of wellbeing even when the underlying diagnostic claims of the therapy aren’t scientifically established.
Persistent or concerning symptoms should always be assessed by an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
Approaching this therapy with realistic expectations, many people find complementary kinesiology a personally meaningful wellness practice.
Local practitioners include Cape Byron Kinesiology – Georgie Claire, Lin Bell, Sandra Davey and Kate Messenger.
