Ep 8: The Body Keeps The Stress - Healing Through Body Work with Lisa Santamera

In this episode of The Hairy Chin Podcast, I sit down with Lisa Santamera, a skin, lymph, and jaw health practitioner based in Barcelona, to explore the profound impact between stress and the body. Lisa shares her unique journey and evolution into specialty body work that includes lymphatic drainage, TMJ massage, facials and bespoke body treatments. She and I dive deep into the ways chronic stress manifests physically, the importance of the lymphatic system, and the often-overlooked benefits of jaw therapy. Lisa also discusses her approach to creating individualized care plans, emphasizing the importance of patient safety, connection, and a whole-body perspective. We also talk about how self-care can be an act of rebellion for females and the importance of creating non-negotiables in prioritizing health and wellness. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding how stress impacts the body and how to deal with it.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [2:27] Statistics about how stress manifests in the body
• [4:18] The most common physical symptoms of manifested stress seen by Lisa
• [6:47] The difference between stress and anxiety, the flight-fight response and what happens in a body under stress. 
• [13:27] Lisa’s journey into massage therapy and her passion for hands-on healing.
• [19:48] Pregnancy massage and when it is safe for an expectant mother to have a massage. 
• [21:09] The lymphatic system, lymph nodes and how body work can support the system through lymphatic draining. 
• [29:40] Understanding TMJ massage and its role in alleviating jaw tension, headaches, and stress-related clenching. 
• [38:11] The emotional connection between physical touch and healing
• [43:20] The role of facial massage in skin health and its impact on hydration, elasticity, and relaxation.
• [46:05] “Motion is lotion” in regards to the body
• [46:57] The importance of hydration 
• [49:04] The concept of self-care as an act of rebellion for women
• [58:48] Lisa’s final thoughts on breathing, boundaries and the importance of saying no. 

PLUCK THIS! SEGMENT: 

• Lisa is offering a special downloadable resource for TMJ Awareness Month! Get her Top 3 Jaw Exercises designed to help alleviate tension, reduce clenching, and improve jaw mobility. Visit the link here to access this exclusive guide.

TOP TAKEAWAYS: 

• Stress impacts the whole body. 
• Assisting your body’s lymphatic system when needed can alleviate symptoms of chronic inflammation and fluid retention. 
• UThe lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump and relies on physical movement to function properly. Motion is lotion in the body. 
• TMJ massage can provide relief for those suffering from chronic tension and jaw pain
• Physical touch can be a transformative experience that fosters a deep sense of safety and connection. 
• Regular facial massage can improve skin hydration and promote a glowing and healthy complexion.
• Staying hydrated and intentional breathing can have significant benefits for reducing stress.
• For many women, self-care is seen as a luxury, but it’s actually a vital part of maintaining mental and physical health.

RESOURCES

• Follow Lisa on IG: lisa.santamera.therapies 
• Read The Body Keeps The Score, by Bessel van der Kolk. Find it