is an alternative healing approach that focuses on optimizing the function of the spine and nervous system, aiming to improve the body's overall health and well-being. It was developed by Dr. Carli Axford, a chiropractor and holistic health practitioner.

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 Core Concepts of Spinal Flow Technique: 

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1. Spinal Health and the Nervous System: The technique is rooted in the idea that the spine plays a central role in maintaining the function of the nervous system, which controls and coordinates every function in the body. Misalignments, tensions, or blockages in the spine (often referred to as "subluxations") can lead to dysfunction or interference in the nervous system, which in turn can manifest as physical or emotional health problems. Within the autonomic nervous system, we have our sympathetic nervous system which protects us during times of threat (fight/ flight). Whether it's physical, emotional or chemical; if the body experiences something it doesn't like it goes into protection mode. Curling in to protect the heart, ramping up adrenals and hormones. To balance that out, we have our parasympathetic nervous system (rest/ digest). It is designed to bring our levels back down to its natural state after the threat has passed. However, in today's society we're inundated with stress on a daily basis which makes it hard for that natural balance to take place. When stress isn't properly processed it remains stored in the spine. This is even more prevalent with emotional stress or traumatic events. Every time we replay a stressful event in our mind, our body can't differentiate that the threat is in the past. This reactivates the fight/ flight response and all the ramped up levels of the sympathetic nervous system and keeps the body stuck in fight/ flight. 

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2. Energy Flow: Spinal Flow is based on the concept that the body has a natural energy flow, sometimes referred to as "life force energy" or "innate intelligence." This energy is thought to move freely through the spine and nervous system when the body is in alignment. Disruptions in this flow—caused by physical trauma, stress, or emotional blockages—can lead to illness or discomfort. The technique aims to restore the natural flow of energy, thereby promoting self-healing and improved health. 

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3. Gentle Touch and Specific Adjustments: The technique employs a light, non-invasive touch along the spine to detect and address areas where the flow of energy is blocked or restricted. This touch can be quite subtle, with the practitioner often using their hands to sense changes in the body’s energy and make very gentle contact to activate the body’s own self-healing mechanisms and encourage the restoration of energy flow. 

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4. Awareness and Mind-Body Connection: One of the key principles of Spinal Flow Technique is the idea of increasing the individual’s awareness of their body and mind. The technique aims to help patients tune into their internal sensations and recognize areas of tension or discomfort, which can help them achieve a greater mind-body connection. It encourages relaxation, mindfulness, and emotional release during treatment. 

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5. Holistic Healing: Spinal Flow is often considered a holistic healing approach, addressing not just physical symptoms but also emotional and energetic imbalances

and how carrying years of stress has a huge impact on overall health. The technique aims to help individuals achieve greater balance in all areas of life, enhancing physical vitality, emotional well-being, and mental clarity. 

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What Happens During a Session? 

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● Initial Assessment: A session typically begins with a consultation where the practitioner asks about the individual’s health history, physical complaints, and any emotional or mental stresses. The practitioner will also perform an assessment to determine where there may be restrictions or misalignments in the spine that could be causing interference in the energy flow. 

● Spinal Flow Activation: The practitioner then uses their hands to apply a light touch along the access points on the sacrum and sphenoid / occiput area of the skull. The goal is to gently "unlock" areas of tension and allow the body to release blockages by promoting the flow of the cerebral spinal fluid. 

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Benefits of Spinal Flow 

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While research on the specific effectiveness of Spinal Flow is still limited, proponents report various benefits of this approach, which may include: 

● Improved Spinal Alignment: The technique is intended to help with spinal misalignments, which could potentially relieve pain, discomfort, and muscle tension.

● Stress Reduction: By improving energy flow and enhancing relaxation, Spinal Flow may help to reduce chronic stress, which in turn can improve mental clarity and emotional well-being. 

● Pain Relief: Many individuals report a reduction in pain, especially related to musculoskeletal issues like back pain, neck pain, and headaches. 

● Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility: Restoring energy flow is believed to improve overall flexibility and mobility in the body, allowing individuals to move with more ease. ● Holistic Healing: The technique aims to support the body’s natural healing abilities, addressing both the physical and energetic aspects of health. 

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Who Can Benefit? 

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Spinal Flow Technique can be used by individuals of all ages, from infants to seniors. It is often used for: 

● Chronic pain or stiffness 

● Headaches or migraines 

● Postural issues 

● Stress, anxiety, or emotional challenges 

● General health optimization and energy flow 

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Is It Safe?

Spinal Flow Technique is a safe and gentle technique. There are no contraindications with Spinal Flow Technique. 

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Conclusion: 

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Spinal Flow Technique offers a gentle, holistic approach to spinal health and energy flow. By addressing blockages or imbalances in the nervous system, it aims to improve physical, mental, and emotional well-being. While it shares similarities with other bodywork techniques like chiropractic and osteopathic care, it distinguishes itself by emphasizing the energetic aspect of health and healing from the body's own healing mechanism of the nervous system and cerebral spinal fluid. It is best suited for those looking for a non-invasive treatment that focuses on restoring balance and supporting the body's natural healing processes from the inside out.