Review of “Somatic Techniques for Massage Therapists,” by Gabriel Posner
Review by John Loupos
Let me start off by saying what a pleasure it was to read and review Gabriel Posner’s new book about Somatics and massage, especially given that I too have recently completed a somewhat parallel manuscript for a book about Somatics and Tai Chi. Posner’s book is well timed as we haven’t seen a new book about Somatics in quite some time. “Somatic Techniques for Massage Therapists” makes for a welcome addition to the field.
Right off in Chapter 1, the author makes it clear that his is not a book merely about massage-friendly Somatics methods and techniques, but rather a book that frames his intended message in the more meaningful backdrop of global politics (not in their popular newsy context, but rather as the unavoidable expression of collective values) and of a congruent humanistic philosophy. Posner does a quite thorough and engaging job of building on this foundational premise through ensuing chapters with a good amount of information on general somatic history, theory, and evolutionary branches within the somatic field.
In explaining the rationale for his various assertions about the benefits of Hanna Somatics for massage professionals, Posner always manages to navigate an inclusive line, inviting his readers to consider the merits of his claims without ever coming across as dismissive of other methods. Throughout his text the author’s writing style is clear, affable, and engaging. He manages to explain the points he’s making so that even a novice can follow along, but without ever lowering the bar for his intended professional audience.
I had the feeling as I read along that if I were a massage therapist reading this book I might be entranced by the possibilities inherent in HSE. I expect this book will spike interest throughout the massage community in Hanna Somatics as an allied and complementary discipline worthy of further investigation, and I’m sure that massage professionals will flock to this book once word gets out.
Starting in his penultimate chapter, Posner shifts from theory to practical application as he guides readers through a series of pandicular maneuvers. There is much good information here, even for readers already well versed in Somatic’s more clinical aspects.
In his final chapter, Posner augments with an additional series of sitting and standing movement patterns, while also reemphasizing the importance of Somatics as a congruent life philosophy. The message is that good techniques are made better when either or both parties to a Somatics encounter are able to bring their best and most authentic selves, and that standard massage techniques can easily be enhanced by incorporating Hanna Somatic methods. To this end the author offers readers detailed practical guidance in how to become an effective somanaut, or intrapersonal pioneer. I’m sure this book will be well received by all who read it.
John Loupos, M.S, H.S.E. is the author of “The Sustainable You - Somatics and the Myth of Aging,” 2011, as well as several books on Tai Chi Chuan.