By Ellen Saltonstall
With conversations around safe alternative methods for pain relief showing no signs of slowing down, I was interested in certified bodywork teacher and yoga therapist Ellen Saltonstall’s latest book, The Bodymind Ballwork Method (North Atlantic Books). It’s a wonderful illustrated guide to what she calls “bodymind ballwork,” a practice in which small rubber balls are applied to different areas of the body as self-massage. It’s a somatic-informed approach to healing that’s great for everything from relaxing tight muscles to working through trauma. I gave the practice a try before my regular asana practice and it proved to be a great way to loosen up!
—JACKIE CASSIDY