Coatepec is a small town that offers a lot of surprises. In previous articles I have mentioned the coffee production for which it is world famous, and the lovely colonial houses that line the main streets around the quaint central park. Birds, butterflies and vegetation are in abundance and the townsfolk are friendly. These are all characteristics of many fine Mexican towns. But Coatepec has an additional distinction: it is considered to be one of the chakras of the world. Chakras are centers of energy and it is believed that the earth has a total of 156 of these centers, all considered of equal importance. Because of this a well known Ashram made its home in Coatepec many years ago.

Perhaps for this reason Coatepec seems to draw people who are interested in spiritual and physical health. Opportunities abound for those who would like to have a massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, or who are interested in alternative medicine. There is a weekly organic market featuring local produce, shade grown coffee and natural health products produced by regional cooperatives.

I have had massages by several therapists in town and all have been professional. A well trained therapist will have completed a course that includes a sound understanding of anatomy and physiology including our
• Muscular System
• Skeletal System
• Neurological System
• Digestive System
• Vascular System
• Respiratory System
• Urinary System
• Lymphatic System
• Endocrine System
• Cells and tissues
• Skin
• Reproductive System

In addition s/he will have demonstrated knowledge of massage theory, professional conduct and business awareness and passed an exam demonstrating the appropriate classical massage movements. Pressure must be adapted to suit the client, area and movement.

All the therapists to whom I have gone in Coatepec are highly professional and the massages have been beneficial and I would return to anyone of them.

However, this past week I had a very special one. I have not had any training in massages and have only learned by experience to distinguish what seem to be the various kinds. I usually have one that is for “de-stressing”…the kind that works the kinks and knots out of one’s muscles. If you have never had a massage here is how it goes: normally you start by laying face down and the therapist starts from the head and works down, kneading and massaging the head, back, arms, legs and feet. Then you turn over and the front of your body is worked on. It is incredible how relaxing it is to simply have your fingers and hands massaged! The therapist works on the theory of energy transmission so that as the body is rubbed, pounded and massaged, negative energy is forced out and the body is given an opportunity to relax and recuperate. Soothing music accompanies the massage.

The aspect that was so special this past week was the incredible way in which the therapist, Maria Louisa Perez Ortega, had of absolutely becoming one with the music. The flow of pressure from her hands was seamless and the sensation was given that the music was actually being transmitted from her. Her movements changed with the tempo and melody of the music. The only other time I have had this kind of sensation of “oneness” is when I have seen Michael Moschen (michaelmoschen.com) perform his juggling to music. This gift of magically transmitting the flow of music from oneself and into another’s body was phenomenal.

In reflecting on the experience I realized that, while I was mesmerized by the totality of this massage, I was also as impressed by the professionalism of the therapist. Here was a person who had lifted her profession to a higher level and whose dedication to achieving greatness was evident. It made me wonder how we can transmit this same desire for doing the best one can to others. I don’t know the answer to that but I do know that it is an admirable goal to reach for. And I know that, on this day, I found a true energy center in Coatepec.