B E S T Technique: Mind-Body Approach to Your Health

What is the Bio-Energetic Synchronization Technique (B.E.S.T)

The Bio-Energetic Synchronization Technique, or B.E.S.T., offers a gentle yet profound path to wellness that diverges from traditional methods. 

Developed by Dr. M.T. Morter, Jr., B.E.S.T. was born out of a quest to understand the deeper connections between the body’s physical functions and its energetic counterparts.

So, what exactly is B.E.S.T? Imagine your body as a complex network, not only composed of nerves and muscles but of energy fields communicating in a language beyond words. B.E.S.T. is the skilled translator, interpreting and addressing the imbalances in this delicate system. Unlike other invasive approaches, this technique doesn’t rely on force but rather on the subtle realignment of these energy pathways.

Dr. Morter’s work was a response to a pivotal question: What if many of the pains and ailments we suffer from are the result of energetic misalignments? This led to a hands-on, non-invasive approach that stands out in chiropractic care and beyond. It’s not just about adjusting the spine but the life force itself (1). 

Then how does it operate? Imagine each thought, every stressor, as a pebble in a pond, creating ripples that can disturb the serene waters of your body’s energy. These disruptions can manifest physically— aches, tensions, and misalignments. B.E.S.T. practitioners are trained to identify these ripples and smooth them out with gentle touches.

What truly sets B.E.S.T. apart from other healing techniques is its holistic approach. It doesn’t just look at the symptom but dives deep into the root cause – often rooted in the subconscious. Besides gentle pressure on the pressure points, the methods of B.E.S.T might also include guided visualization, breathwork, and posture analysis, all of which support the stress response and optimize blood flow. 

Mind-body healing approach in ancient Chinese medicine

The Bio-Energetic Synchronization Technique (B.E.S.T.) is frequently compared to the time-honored methods of ancient Chinese medicine. The question naturally arises: how does a contemporary practice like B.E.S.T. find kinship with ancient wisdom? 

It’s in the shared belief that our well-being is not just flesh and bone but a delicate energy flow and alignment of mind, body, and spirit.

Ancient Chinese medicine is a time-honored tradition that views health through the lens of balance and energy flow, or ‘Qi’. 

Imagine Qi as the vital force, the animated breath that courses through every living being. This energy flows through pathways in the body known as meridians, akin to rivers nourishing a landscape. Just as a dam disrupts a river’s flow, emotional and physical stress can block Qi, leading to illness or discomfort.

The foundational principles of this tradition stand on the pillar of interconnectedness between mind and body. The Chinese sages observed that emotional stress could manifest as physical symptoms and vice versa. 

It’s this principle that resonates with B.E.S.T., which also addresses the disruptions to body systems caused by stress and subconscious thought patterns.

But how do we quantify such an ethereal concept as Qi? Modern research has begun to explore the physiological markers of this energy. Studies using functional MRI (fMRI) have shown changes in brain activity corresponding to the stimulation of acupuncture points, which are integral to directing Qi flow in Chinese medicine (2).

In practice, ancient Chinese medicine encompasses more than just acupuncture. It includes herbal remedies, Tai Chi, and Qigong — all aimed at nurturing Qi.

Bio-Energetic Synchronization Technique (B.E.S.T): Eastern meets West wisdom?

So, how does B.E.S.T integrate Eastern philosophy? 

At its heart, B.E.S.T. draws inspiration from the Eastern concept of energy flow, or ‘Qi.’ It recognizes that our bodies are not just composed of tissues and organs but are also conduits of vital energy. Eastern wisdom teaches us that when this energy is flowing freely, we experience health; when blocked, we encounter disease.

B.E.S.T. translates this concept into practice by identifying and correcting the energy imbalances. It speaks the language of the nervous system — a concept Western medicine is well-versed in. The technique uses precise touch points to ‘reset’ the body’s internal communication, like rebooting a computer, and ensuring the messages sent and received are clear.

But how does this differ from Western medical practices? Traditional Western medicine often focuses on symptoms and their direct causes. It’s a world of scans, surgeries, and pharmaceuticals. 

B.E.S.T., on the other hand, seeks to find and resolve deeper imbalances that may be at the root of physical symptoms. It’s less about the immediate fix and more about restoring the overall balance and harmony within the body.

However, it’s important to note that B.E.S.T. doesn’t shun the advances of Western medicine; rather, it aims to complement them. By acknowledging the emotional and mental factors that contribute to physical health, B.E.S.T. offers a more holistic approach to well-being.

Multiple studies reflect on B.E.S.T’s effectiveness on our health. A study on B.E.S.T. involving 24 chronic pain patients showed notable improvement in well-being, mood, and pain relief after a 5-week program. Post-treatment, 82% of participants were satisfied, suggesting B.E.S.T. as an effective alternative to conventional chiropractic methods for pain management (3).

Another study from Parker College of Chiropractic found that B.E.S.T. and traditional spinal manipulation both effectively reduced chronic musculoskeletal pain, with no significant difference in outcomes between the two treatments (4).

These studies might suggest that B.E.S.T. can be an effective substitute, especially for people who haven’t found relief with conventional treatments.

Health benefits of B.E.S.T: All you should know

The Bio-Energetic Synchronization Technique isn’t just about seeking relief; it’s about discovering a pathway to a more holistic life. So let’s unwrap the multitude of gifts that B.E.S.T offers for your health:

• Stress reduction: B.E.S.T. practitioners report marked reductions in stress levels among their patients, attributing this to the technique’s ability to harmonize the body’s energy fields.
• Pain relief: Chronic pain can be a relentless thief of joy. B.E.S.T. has been shown to help alleviate various forms of pain — from the acute sting of a backache to the enduring ache of arthritis.
• Enhanced mental clarity and emotional well-being: B.E.S.T. can provide people with improved focus and emotional balance, leading to a brighter outlook on life.
• Improved physical function: B.E.S.T. doesn’t just stop at alleviating symptoms; it aims to optimize the body’s overall function, which can lead to better digestion, hormonal balance, and even lower blood pressure.
• Increased energy levels: With the body’s energies in alignment, many report a natural boost in vitality — a zest for life that comes from within.

Is B.E.S.T right for you?

But who stands to gain from this transformative technique? The simple answer is everyone. 

B.E.S.T. is adaptable, making it suitable for all ages and stages of life — from the vibrant youth seeking an athletic edge to the wise elders seeking comfort and mobility.

However, here are two tips to help you determine whether B.E.S.T is the treatment you’ve been looking for:

• Personal assessment: It’s about listening to your body; it is always communicating with you regarding its needs. Are you dealing with persistent pain, stress, or a sense of imbalance? B.E.S.T. could be the ally you need.
• Consultation with practitioners: A conversation with a certified B.E.S.T. practitioner can illuminate the path forward, helping to tailor the technique to your unique needs.

Other mind-body healing approaches to improve your health

Building a healthy life is a multifaceted journey. While B.E.S.T. opens avenues for energy alignment and healing, it can be part of a broader ensemble of practices that enhance overall well-being. Let’s explore other mind-body techniques that can work in alignment with B.E.S.T. to cultivate a healthy life.

Meditation: The art of stillness

Meditation is often hailed as a sanctuary for the mind, a practice that can bring about a profound sense of peace and clarity. By focusing on the breath or a mantra, meditation can reduce stress, which in turn can have a ripple effect on physical health, reducing inflammation and improving heart function (5, 6). What’s more is that meditation can promote neurogenesis in the brain, supporting new neural pathways and connections. 

Studies have shown that regular meditation can lead to changes in brain regions associated with memory, sense of self, and empathy. It’s also been linked with decreased blood pressure and lower instances of depression (7).

Qi-gong: Cultivating life energy

As an ancient Eastern practice that combines movements, breathing techniques, and focused intention, Qigong’s main goal is to balance and cultivate ‘Qi’ or life energy.

Within the scope of Qigong, Falun Gong (also known as Falun Dafa), an ancient Qigong practice, stands out with its unique blend of four exercises and meditations designed to improve mental and physical wellness through the cultivation of mind and body (8). Research into Qigong has indicated potential benefits, including improved immune function, enhanced balance, and better quality of life among practitioners (9, 10). 

If you’re interested in practicing Qigong, you can find guided practices online and start with daily 10-minute practices. As you do, you might feel each breath and movement bring you closer to a centered, more vibrant self.

Yoga: Unity of mind and body

Yoga is more than twisting yourself into a pretzel and saying ‘Namaste.’ It invites a deeper connection between mind and body through postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. 

Clinical trials have repeatedly shown that yoga can aid in reducing anxiety and improving cardiovascular health (11). One of the prominent mechanisms in which yoga exerts its benefits is through activation of the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS)–  the body’s rest, digest and restore mode. 

Another way in which yoga supports our health is by releasing blockages in the body. Research suggests that many of our stressors, including suppressed emotions, may reside in our tissues or fascia (12). For those with chronic lower back pain, studies have shown that regular practice can lead to significant improvements, making daily life less of a ‘pain'(13).

Integrative nutrition: Feed your health

Let’s dive into the concept of Integrative Nutrition. It’s not about munching on kale chips and quinoa salads just because they’re trending on Instagram. It’s about curating a diet with the right nutritional balance that supports both mind and body.

Studies show that diets embracing the whole spectrum of mother nature’s gifts—think a rainbow of fruits and vegetables, nuts and legumes, as well as quality proteins and fats —can turn the tide on mental fog, giving your brain a boost in clarity (14). In particular, the nutrient density and anti-inflammatory properties of the Mediterranean Diet have been noted to support brain health. These wholesome foods can also reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes with their high phytochemical content (15).