Wilson Shook LMT, CMT

My Work

Wilson Shook, CMT: Visceral Manipulation, Craniosacral Therapy, Bodywork, and Massage in Oakland, Berkeley, and San Francisco Bay Area, California.

Winter Garden Healing Arts

 

Visceral Manipulation

Therapeutic Bodywork

 
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I am a manual therapist specializing in Visceral Manipulation, Craniosacral Therapy, and integrative therapeutic massage. I use gentle, targeted, osteopathic techniques to relieve restriction within and around the internal organs, brain, nervous system, and vasculature, restoring healthy movement and function. By assisting the body in working through its internalized responses to physical and emotional trauma, I prioritize the often neglected root causes of chronic injury, illness, structural imbalance, and dysfunction. Sessions incorporate a balance of visceral, cranial, and musculoskeletal work, with the goal of restoring your body’s ability to adapt and heal on its own.

I particularly value holding space at the intersection of physical and emotional wellness. I am consistently honored and humbled to work safely with trauma and the residual effects of injuries, illnesses, and surgeries that each of us carries throughout life. Any of these experiences leaves its mark on the body, and can show up in unexpected ways even years later — often as functional impairment of a particular organ or musculoskeletal dysfunction caused by patterns of compensation. A skilled practitioner can accurately and quickly identify the structures involved, and work to release tension, improve function and lighten the emotional load of the tissues.


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Emotional and visceral wellness are intimately related.  The organs record physical and emotional trauma, and retain this information throughout life. Particular organs may respond to stress or other stimuli in ways that mimic dysfunction in the organ, although there may be nothing otherwise wrong with it. Likewise, physical experiences can trigger distinct memories or emotions. When these reactions exceed our ability to cope in healthy ways, they require a treatment that appreciates the fundamental interrelation of these systems. Visceral Manipulation interrupts this cycle, while supporting you in finding a greater sense of balance, ease and embodiment.

By approaching the body as an integrated and interdependent whole, my work is effective in treating a variety of issues, including motor vehicle injuries, reproductive and urinary issues, postural imbalance, PTSD, digestive issues, migraines, nerve pain, heart and lung issues, brain injuries, anxiety, depression, chronic or unexplained illness, and much more.


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I work with people of all backgrounds, all genders and body types, in all stages of life.  I strive to be welcoming and respectful, to provide a safe healing space and a supportive presence. I’m always happy to talk about my work, so please get in touch with any questions you may have! 

I studied massage at the Northwest Academy of Healing Arts. I have studied Visceral Manipulation, Cranial Osteopathy, and related disciplines extensively with the Barral Institute, and serve as a teaching assistant in their VM curriculum.

I spend my free time underneath a pile of books, or out exploring the urban environment, camera in hand. I also play saxophones, ride bikes, and start more projects than I’ll ever finish. Some of my creative projects are visible here.


California CMT license no. 74314.