For Appointments: 206.729.6211   

Kate and Fritz Smith, MD at Esalen

What is Zero Balancing?
Zero Balancing is a subtle, full-body system designed to enhance one's life and well-being by facilitating the integration of the body's energetic system with the body's basic structure. Created by Fritz Smith, MD, osteopath and acupuncturist, Zero Balancing is considered to be at the leading edge of current body-mind therapies. Zero Balancing goes beyond the Western medical concept of body structure by incorporating Eastern understanding of energy and healing thereby enabling a Zero Balancing practitioner to work simultaneously with the receiver's structural and energy bodies to help return balance to the overall system.

When structure and energy are balanced, the body's innate awareness is better able to detect and discard such unwanted burdens as musculoskeletal pain, dysfunctional habits or old emotional patterns. The purpose of Zero Balancing is to facilitate a balance between structure and energy that will in turn facilitate healing.



How is ZB performed?
Zero Balancing is received fully clothed. Sessions begin with a seated evaluation, and the recipient then reclines comfortably on the table for the remainder of the protocol. The practitioner continuously evaluates the structure-energy balance and manipulates the body accordingly. Throughout the entire session, the skeleton is the primary point of reference because it is the densest material in the body and thus contains the deepest and strongest patterns.

Zero Balancing is accomplished primarily through gentle movement and traction of key joints and bones. Zero Balancing, (affectionately called "ZB" by those who practice and receive it), is powerful work that has all of the benefits of a more complicated, in-depth treatment but is received clothed and comfortably laying on a bodywork table. Many recipients of Zero Balancing experience a sense of fluidity, integration and well-being following a session. Additionally, recipients of ZB report long-term effects such as being able to function better with daily stresses, and enjoy more robust health.



Does Zero Balancing hurt?
No, Zero Balancing should never be painful.



How often should you have ZB?
The number and frequency of sessions you receive depends largely on individual goals and circumstances. A minimum of three sessions is recommended, however, since each one is part of a progression which incorporates the work of previous sessions. Maintenance sessions should be at intervals of every two to four weeks. Consult with your practitioner to determine a schedule that is appropriate for your needs.



Who can benefit from Zero Balancing?
Nearly everyone can benefit from Zero Balancing. Zero Balancing is ideal for both addressing various disorders and promoting and enhancing already existing wellness. The process is designed to be complementary with all other modalities, including primary healthcare. Through integrating the body, mind and spirit to promote optimum functioning, ZB can be a major adjunct to maintaining and enhancing wellness even in the hectic pursuit of daily life.



Where can you learn more?
Call Kate Chase, LMP, CZB at 206.388.9870 or contact her via email at kate@therapeuticmovement.com.  You can also visit the Zero Balancing Health Association’s website at www.zerobalancing.com.