Whittlebury: 01327 437832

Ware: 01920 465051

Fran Aitken

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ’s).

If you have a question that is not asked below then please contact us here.

During your visits to Awaken in Whittlebury & Ware, you will partake in NSA sessions known as entrainments. Entrainment, a term signifying synchronization, involves a wave-like deepening of your breath and a subtle rocking of your spine. These sessions are designed to facilitate the release of tension in your body.

Remaining fully clothed, you will lie face-down on a table while Dr. Aitken evaluates your spine, muscles, posture, and breathing patterns. Using gentle pressure on specific points along your spine, she will induce the tension-releasing Network Wave. A typical entrainment session lasts approximately 15 minutes, leaving you with a sense of increased relaxation, energy, and peace. Entrainments are just one facet of the “Technologies of Transformation” awaiting you at Awaken.

On other visits to Awaken, you will engage in a technique known as Somato Respiratory Integration (SRI). During these sessions, we will teach you specific body-mind SRI exercises tailored to your individual needs. With a total of 12 SRI exercises available, you’ll learn how to utilize them independently to expedite your progress.

Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) is a chiropractic technique developed by Dr. Donald Epstein in the 1980s. It focuses on enhancing the body’s self-regulation and healing abilities through gentle touches along the spine. Unlike traditional chiropractic, which involves manual adjustments, NSA uses light touches at specific points to release tension in the nervous system. NSA emphasizes the body-mind connection and promotes wellness on all levels, aiming for self-healing and personal transformation.
Results from Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) can vary from person to person, but some individuals may experience immediate effects such as reduced tension, increased relaxation, improved posture, and enhanced mobility. Others may notice changes in their breathing patterns, energy levels, or overall sense of well-being after a session. However, it’s essential to remember that NSA is often part of a more comprehensive care plan, and significant changes may develop gradually over time with regular sessions.
During a Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) treatment, it’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement and access to the spine. Loose-fitting clothing such as T-shirts, yoga pants, or athletic wear is ideal. Avoid wearing clothing with belts, zippers, or restrictive fabrics that may interfere with the practitioner’s ability to perform gentle touches along your spine. Additionally, it’s helpful to remove any jewelry or accessories that may get in the way during the session. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure your comfort and the effectiveness of the treatment.
Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) uses gentle touches on specific points of the spine to release tension and stored stress in the nervous system. By stimulating the body’s innate ability to heal, NSA helps create “spinal wave” patterns, promoting adaptation to stress and overall well-being. Through sessions, clients develop awareness of their body’s responses to stress, fostering self-healing and personal transformation for physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness.

Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) can potentially help a wide range of individuals seeking to improve their overall well-being and quality of life. It may benefit:

  1. Those experiencing physical discomfort or pain: NSA’s gentle touches can help alleviate tension and discomfort in the spine and nervous system, potentially reducing symptoms of back pain, neck pain, headaches, and other musculoskeletal issues.

  2. Individuals dealing with stress or tension: NSA aims to release stored stress within the nervous system, promoting relaxation and stress relief. It can help individuals manage stress more effectively and develop healthier responses to life’s challenges.

  3. People seeking to improve their posture and mobility: NSA sessions may help improve spinal alignment and mobility, leading to better posture, flexibility, and ease of movement.

  4. Those interested in personal growth and transformation: NSA emphasizes the connection between the body, mind, and spirit, fostering self-awareness, personal growth, and emotional well-being. It can help individuals develop greater resilience, emotional intelligence, and overall vitality.

  5. Anyone looking for holistic wellness support: NSA takes a holistic approach to health, addressing not only physical symptoms but also emotional and spiritual well-being. It can complement other wellness practices and therapies, promoting a more balanced and integrated approach to health and wellness.

Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) stands out from traditional chiropractic methods and other wellness practices in several key ways:

  1. Gentle Approach: NSA utilizes gentle touches along specific points of the spine, known as “spinal gateways,” rather than forceful manual adjustments. This gentle approach makes NSA suitable for individuals of all ages and physical conditions, including those who may find traditional chiropractic adjustments uncomfortable or inaccessible.

  2. Focus on Self-Regulation: NSA focuses on enhancing the body’s innate ability to self-regulate and heal. Instead of seeking to “fix” specific symptoms or conditions, NSA aims to facilitate the body’s natural healing processes, promoting overall wellness and vitality.

  3. Mind-Body Connection: NSA recognizes the intimate connection between the body, mind, and spirit. Practitioners work with clients to help them develop greater awareness of their body’s responses to stress and to facilitate personal growth and transformation on emotional and spiritual levels.

  4. Holistic Approach: NSA takes a holistic approach to health and wellness, addressing not only physical symptoms but also emotional and spiritual well-being. By considering the interconnectedness of various aspects of health, NSA aims to promote balance and integration on all levels.

  5. Long-Term Results: While individuals may experience immediate benefits from NSA, such as reduced tension or increased relaxation, the ultimate goal is to promote long-term improvements in overall health and well-being. Through a series of sessions, clients may develop greater resilience, adaptability, and vitality, leading to sustained improvements in quality of life.

Research on Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) is still developing, and while there is some evidence to support its effectiveness, more robust studies are needed to fully understand its mechanisms and benefits. Some research studies and literature reviews have examined various aspects of NSA, including its effects on pain, stress, quality of life, and spinal function. Here are a few examples:

  1. A pilot study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2017 investigated the effects of NSA on pain, stress, and quality of life in individuals with chronic pain. The study found significant improvements in pain levels, stress levels, and overall quality of life following NSA care.

  2. Another study published in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research in 2007 examined the effects of NSA on self-reported wellness outcomes in a group of individuals receiving chiropractic care. The study found improvements in various wellness indicators, including physical symptoms, emotional well-being, stress levels, and life enjoyment.

The frequency of Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) sessions can vary depending on individual needs, goals, and the practitioner’s recommendations. In general, NSA is often delivered in a series of sessions over a period of time to allow for optimal progress and integration of changes. Initially, NSA sessions may be more frequent, such as once or twice per week, to establish a foundation and address any immediate concerns or areas of tension. As progress is made and the body responds to the care, the frequency of sessions may gradually decrease.

If you’ve been suffering from back pain for years, it’s essential to seek professional guidance to address your condition effectively. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Consult with a healthcare provider: Start by consulting with a healthcare provider, such as a chiropractor, physiotherapist, or orthopedic specialist, who can assess your back pain, diagnose any underlying conditions, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

  2. Consider Network Spinal Analysis (NSA): Since you’re interested in NSA, you may want to explore this gentle chiropractic technique as part of your treatment plan. NSA focuses on enhancing the body’s ability to self-regulate and heal, which may offer relief from chronic back pain and promote overall well-being.

  3. Develop a comprehensive treatment plan: Work with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the underlying causes of your back pain. This may include a combination of therapies such as NSA, manual therapy, exercises, stretches, ergonomic modifications, and lifestyle changes.

  4. Address lifestyle factors: Take steps to address lifestyle factors that may contribute to your back pain, such as poor posture, sedentary behavior, stress, and unhealthy habits. Incorporate regular physical activity, stress management techniques, proper ergonomics, and healthy habits into your daily routine to support spine health and overall well-being.

I’m sorry to hear that you’ve been dealing with headaches for years. While I can offer some general suggestions, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance and treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Here are some steps you can consider:

  1. Consult with a healthcare provider: Start by consulting with a healthcare provider, such as a primary care physician or a neurologist, to discuss your headaches. They can help determine the underlying cause of your headaches and recommend appropriate treatment options.

  2. Consider Network Spinal Analysis (NSA): Since you’re interested in NSA, you may want to explore this gentle chiropractic technique as part of your headache management plan. NSA focuses on enhancing the body’s ability to self-regulate and heal, which may help alleviate tension and stress that contribute to headaches.

  3. Identify triggers: Pay attention to any potential triggers for your headaches, such as certain foods, stress, lack of sleep, or environmental factors. Keeping a headache diary can help you track patterns and identify triggers that may be contributing to your headaches.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, there are several ways in which our programs can help you manage stress and improve your overall well-being:

  1. Stress management techniques: Our programs include stress management techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and relaxation practices. These techniques can help you calm your mind, reduce tension in your body, and cultivate a sense of inner peace amidst life’s pressures.

  2. Self-care strategies: We emphasize the importance of self-care for managing stress and promoting overall well-being. Our programs provide guidance on prioritizing self-care activities such as exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and spending time on activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

  3. Mindfulness practices: Mindfulness practices, such as mindful awareness of the present moment and non-judgmental acceptance of your thoughts and feelings, can help you develop greater resilience and equanimity in the face of stress. Our programs offer mindfulness exercises and techniques to cultivate a more mindful approach to life.

Ensuring that our office is a good fit for you is essential for your well-being and satisfaction. Here are some steps you can take to determine if our office meets your needs:

  1. Research: Start by researching our office online. Visit our website, read reviews from other clients, and learn about our services, approach, and philosophy. This can give you a better understanding of what to expect and whether our office aligns with your preferences and goals.

  2. Consultation: Schedule a consultation or initial appointment to meet with a member of our team. This allows you to ask questions, discuss your concerns, and learn more about our approach to care. Use this opportunity to assess how comfortable you feel with the practitioner and whether you feel listened to and understood.

  3. Compatibility: Consider whether our office environment and culture feel welcoming and supportive to you. Pay attention to factors such as the demeanor of the staff, the atmosphere of the office, and the level of professionalism and care demonstrated by the team.

  4. Communication: Communication is key in any therapeutic relationship. Pay attention to how effectively our team communicates with you, including their ability to listen attentively, explain treatment options clearly, and address any questions or concerns you may have.

We are not registered with either BUPA or AXA.  However if you have a cash plan policy you are entitled to claim some treatments back under your policy, provided you have a receipt from us.  The amount you would be entitled to claim back will be dependent on your insurance policy, so please do check with them.  When you come in for treatment, please make sure our front desk knows on arrival. 

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