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Other common
name(s): Rosen Method bodywork, Rosen Method
psychospiritual bodywork
Scientific/medical
name(s): none
Description
The Rosen Method combines bodywork with talk therapy. The
purpose is to reach the unconscious mind through touch, making the
patient aware of subconscious thoughts and painful emotions that are
thought to be stored in the body as muscle tension or tightness.
Overview
People who subscribe to the Rosen philosophy believe that
people protect themselves by tightening muscles to help shut down the
emotional pain of difficult situations. This muscle tension can become
persistent and can lead to limited movement or chronic muscle pain. It
can also serve to keep the conscious mind from being aware of emotional
pain. Proponents of this therapy claim that these feelings and memories
may be reclaimed and let go through touch, awareness, and breathwork.
How is it promoted for use?
The Rosen method is promoted as a complementary therapy to be
used along with talk therapy or traditional psychotherapy and as a
measure to enhance health and wellness. It is promoted for diverse
groups, including people with physical pain, poor posture, or
restricted breathing as well as for people wanting to know more about
themselves, artists, dancers, musicians, singers, actors who use their
bodies for creative expression, people who want to explore body-mind
connections, and people in psychotherapy or counseling who may feel
'stuck.'
It is not recommended for people with severe emotional
disturbance or acute physical pain.
What does it involve?
The patient lies down on a massage table, and the therapist
sits or stands nearby to touch the muscles and watch for changes in the
patient’s breathing and other responses. These changes guide
the therapists touch and words, which are said to help the client
recognize repressed memories and feelings. A period of quiet reflection
is often recommended after the session, which typically lasts about one
hour.
What is the history behind it?
A physical therapist named Marion Rosen developed this
treatment method in the 1970s based on the belief that repressed
emotions cause muscular tension.
What is the evidence?
No research results relevant to the Rosen method as a
treatment for cancer or its symptoms have been published in medical or
scientific journals. Available scientific evidence does not support the
idea that discovery of repressed feelings can influence the course of
diseases such as cancer.
Are there any possible problems or
complications?
The Rosen method involves light touch and is considered safe.
However, relying on this type of treatment alone and avoiding or
delaying standard medical care for cancer may have serious health
consequences.
Additional Resources
More information from your American Cancer
Society
The following information on complementary and alternative
therapies may also be helpful to you. These materials may be found on
our Web site (www.cancer.org)
or ordered from our toll-free number (1-800-ACS-2345).
References
Alternative medicine encyclopedia: Rosen method. Answers Web
site. Accessed at http://www.answers.com/topic/rosen-method on June 12,
2008.
Murphy J. Rosen method releases pain and emotion. Rosen Method
Bodywork Australia Web site. Accessed at
http://www.rosenmethod.com.au/Artcl3.html on June 2, 2008.
Wooten S. Rosen method bodywork. Two Rivers Center Web site.
Accessed at http://www.rosensouthwest.com./rmbodywork.html on Accessed
June 2, 2008.
Note: This information may not cover
all possible claims, uses, actions, precautions, side effects or
interactions. It is not intended as medical advice, and should not be
relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor, who is
familiar with your medical situation.
Last Medical Review: 11/01/2008
Last Revised: 11/01/2008
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