The Enteric Nervous System
The Enteric Nervous System (ENS) is a collection of neurons that extend from the esophagus to the anus. As part of the autonomic nervous system, “the second brain” controls the motor function and enzyme secretions of the GI tract. This story shows the connection of the ENS/GI tract and brain through the fascial web.
A six-year-old presents with sensory issues, occasional meltdowns, and constipation. He sometimes has pain in his head, neck, and stomach. In the medical world none of these conditions are related.
He has a history of three ruptured eardrums and ear tubes. Doctors have diagnosed him with PANS (pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome) and CFD (cerebral folate deficiency).
On examination he had a zero-second brain cycle and tight abdominal fascia. The point of this essay is to note the direct connection between the abdominal fascia of the enteric nervous system and brain function.
As I spent 40 minutes just working his abdomen, the tissues started to release nicely through many layers of strain. I never touched his upper body in therapy.
His brain started to respond, and at the end of the visit his brain cycle reached 120 seconds. Wow, I am still amazed with this phenomenon; the fascial interconnectivity concept never gets old.
Sometimes when a patient presents with a zero-second brain cycle, we tend to solely focus on the head and neck tissues for the answer. Since the web connects everything, a lower body strain may be at the root of the problem.
The Gillespie Approach is a massage modality that helps the body release its tight connective or fascial tissue from its physical and emotional traumas. We have a special interest working with newborns, whose untreated fascial strains from birth trauma can result in a lifetime of health issues.
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2023 Foundation Trainings
Gillespie Approach Foundation Training is designed for work with children and adults.
- March 9–11 | Greenville, SC
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Gillespie Approach Infant Training is designed for work with infants.
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- March 18–20 | Greenville, SC
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- October 15–17 | Holland, MI
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