An embodied approach to awareness, connection and change
What is Spinal Energetics?
Spinal Energetics™ was developed by Melbourne chiropractor and holistic counsellor Dr Sarah Jane Perri as way of bridging Eastern and Western healing philosophies. It is grounded in the understanding that many experiences - physical, emotional and psychological - can shape the way the nervous system responds, adapts and protects over time, which in turn creates our daily experiences.
Using light touch along areas of the spine, together with off-body work though the energy field, the practitioner creates an environment in which the nervous system and body are invited to reorganise naturally through awareness, regulation and expression.
During a session, this may be experienced as changes in breath, subtle or more expansive movement, stretching, emotion, sound or deep stillness. At other times, much of the experience may be internal — a heightened awareness of sensation, thoughts, beliefs or patterns that have been operating in our subconscious.
Every person's experience is unique. The intention is not to chase outcomes, but to support greater connection and coherence between the body, nervous system and authentic self.
How does Spinal Energetics work?
Our bodies have an innate intelligence which aims to continually move us towards balance and homeostasis. This intelligence exists in every cell that knows how to operate, every cut that heals itself and every pattern of behaviour that developed to help us survive an experience.
The spine is central to this work, both as a vital pathway of communication within the nervous system and, in Eastern traditions, as the central channel of life-force energy and home to our energetic centres. Through presence, touch and feedback, the practitioner engages with the body's innate intelligence, inviting it to recognise what no longer serves and integrate those parts of ourselves back into wholeness.
On a physical level, this may mean identifying patterns of tension through the spine, muscles and fascia, allowing the body to unwind in its own way, leading to greater ease and freedom of movement.
On an emotional level, this can look like allowing the expression of emotions that have been suppressed or held for weeks, months and often years.
On a mental level, this may mean becoming conscious of beliefs, thought patterns and stories that developed through earlier experiences or were absorbed from family, friends and the world around us. This awareness offers the opportunity to rewrite the subconscious scripts that influence our choices and behaviours.
On a spiritual and soul level, it allows us to explore our place in the world, who we are beyond our stories, and how we wish to experience this life.
Over time, these explorations can lead to greater clarity, resilience, authenticity and ease.
01 ARRIVE
Your session begins from the moment you arrive at the cabin — a quiet space nestled amongst the trees, entered through an archway inscribed with the word REMEMBER.
We take time together to become familiar with the space and answer any questions. We may explore what feels most alive for you that day, or a particular theme you feel curious to explore. There is no need to arrive knowing what you want to work with.
You’ll move to lying fully clothed and face down on the treatment table. I’ll guide you through some grounding breaths or a gentle body scan, focussing your attention inward giving your body time to settle as we begin.
What does a session look like?
02 EXPERIENCE
Touch, sound, scent and music form part of the session, with sound used through the principle of resonance to engage the nervous system and support the experience.
You’re invited to simply notice what arises. This might include changes in breath or sensation, deep stillness, emotion or sound, or spontaneous movement such as stretching, arching, twisting or unwinding. All is welcome.
Some people experience a deepening of internal awareness or a mild altered state of consciousness, while remaining aware and in control throughout.
There is no particular response we are trying to create. Stillness is just as valid as movement.
03 GROUND
We finish gently, allowing time to reorient to your surroundings and reconnect with the physical space around you. I’ll invite some purposeful movement before you slowly make your way upright.
You’ll be offered some water or tea, and have the opportunity to step outside for some quiet time amongst the trees, or perhaps talk about anything that arose during the session.
There’s no need to rush. We allow space for you to ground, integrate and transition gently back into your day.
Feel drawn to experience it for yourself?
04 INTEGRATE
The integration period is just as important as the sessions itself. The effects of the session may still continue to be felt for up to 72 hours, and full integration can take up to a week or more. You will be given written information about what to expect, how to best support yourself and maximise the insights from your session.
Is Spinal Energetics right for everyone?
Spinal Energetics can be supportive in many different circumstances, but it isn’t always appropriate for everyone, or at every stage.
There are some physical and mental health circumstances where the work may need to be modified, postponed or may not be recommended. For this reason, all new clients are asked to complete a short screening form before booking their first session. This allows me to make sure Spinal Energetics is appropriate for you before we proceed.
Once your session is booked, you’ll receive a more detailed intake form to complete before we meet, giving me a fuller picture of your health, wellbeing and anything else that may be relevant to our work together.
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