Earlier this year, I participated in a five-day fresh cadaver dissection lab, an experience I approached with trepidation. Before the first day, I doubted my ability to withstand the intensity, uncertain if I could actively engage in the exploration of the body’s layers. However, my longstanding curiosity about this form of learning prevailed, compelling me to witness and physically feel the intricacies within.
Surprisingly, by the end of day 1, I found myself exhilarated and enriched by the phenomenal experience. It marked the beginning of a profound internal transformation, influencing my perception of the body on multiple levels-physical, energetic, emotional, mental, and spiritual.
On the second day, my amazement grew as I observed the beauty of the fascia, possessing a blue reflective property akin to mother of pearl. This newfound perspective altered my relationship with superficial fascia and adipose tissue (fat), revealing their deep significance. I grasped that these layers, once the primary adipose tissue is removed, reshape the form so dramatically that the person’s identity is no longer recognizable. Recognizing the importance of my own adipose and superficial fascia, which define my shape, robustness, and offer protection, was a revelation.
Day 3 brought the joy of rolling on the floor, a regulating and nourishing activity that seemed to restore internal equilibrium. The fourth day unfolded with a wealth of observations, highlighting the intricate interplay between the psoas, diaphragm, heart, and lungs. By the final day, my visualization skills had reached unprecedented levels, allowing me to delve into a profound body-state meditation. For the first time, I gained a semblance of my own inner layers, feeling the protective superficial fascia and adipose shell that give my body its unique form.
Engaging in self-palpation massage on Day 5, I felt and visualized my own heart, lungs, diaphragm, and the connection of my psoas into my leg. The experience was astonishing, leaving me with a sense of exhilaration. Throughout, we treated the donors (the bodies we worked on) with deep reverence, ensuring every part remained intact for their eventual return to the family.
Among the numerous takeaways, a few stand out:
- It’s not about ‘variation from the norm’; instead, ‘variation is the norm.’
- Emphasizing the importance of tissue hydration and the benefits of moving the body in diverse ways throughout the day, coupled with the value of intentional, loving touch.
- Acknowledging that the more one learns, the more they realize how much remains unknown-a beautiful realization.
- Appreciating the beauty and uniqueness of the muscle fascia layer, illuminated by its blue iridescence.
A poignant reminder emerged: in moments of unkind or judgmental thoughts toward oneself, particularly regarding body image, take a breath. Recognize that there is no ‘normal,’ and your individual variations make you unique. Variations are the norm, and your adipose tissue, often stigmatized as ‘fat,’ plays a crucial role in protecting vulnerable parts of your body. Embrace a state of love, gentleness, and acceptance, shifting away from the constant pressure to conform or view certain aspects as undesirable.