Body • Mind • Spirit
BODY, MIND AND SPIRIT
the three primary interrelated, interacting and integrated layers that comprise a healthy, balanced and unified human being. Body refers to the three dimensional structure and functions of the eleven systems that make up the physical body. Mind includes the thoughts, feelings and emotions (psychology) and self-awareness. Spirit, the most underlying layer of the three, is responsible for organizing, catalyzing and enlivening both the Mind and Body. It includes that aspect which senses a connection to the higher or a deeper meaning in life and the fundamental vitality that animates all human life. When one or more of these layers is out of balance due to some physical, psychological and/or spiritual reason, a human is considered to be in a state of “dis-ease.” Acknowledging the mind/body/spirit connection, the massage therapy profession holds that massage therapy treatment can lead to improved health outcomes by facilitating the balance and connection of body, mind and spirit.*
References:
*MTBOK – Massage Therapy Body of Knowledge (May 15, 2010), Sponsored under the joint stewardship of the following organizations: American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP) Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) Massage Therapy Foundation (MTF) National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB)
