Mindfulness at A2 Physical Therapy


Mindfulness practices are embraced for many different reasons.  Life skills, personal and team resilience, creativity, deeper relaxation and better sleep, health and well being, self knowledge and mastery are just a few areas in our daily lives that can be enhanced with mindfulness practices. Similarly, studies show the broad impact that mindfulness can have on our lives. These include heightened awareness of the present moment, improved focus, paying attention to and reducing physical tension, not acting without thinking,  less preoccupation with the past and future, as well as improvements in sleep quality. 

Mindfulness can be described as employing intention and attention toward the present moment - paying attention in a particular way. The mindfulness sessions at A2, in alignment with our emphasis on physcial therapy and fitness, will emphasize body centered or somatic practices. Each week we will highlight one of more than twelve core areas. We will work toward developing both formal and informal daily practices that can serve individual circumstances, as well as celebrate the opportunities of practicing together. 

Monty Smith, who will facilitate the mindfulness sessions at A2, is a Tacoma based mindfulness instructor and coach. He has studied mindfulness and supporting practices for over thirty years, including living and studying for five years in India. He loves to share these practices with others. He has had a diverse work life as an Army Officer, Lawyer, Pastor and administrator. Currently he is a member of the Reflective Practices Faculty and serves on the Community Steering Committee for the Environmental Education Community of Interest/Puyallup Watershed Initiative. 

"A2 has been wonderful in helping me with my elbow pain. The skilled staff has attacked my ailment with an array of methods. I came in with 6-7/10 pain and after a few weeks my elbow is down to 1-2/10. The environment is warm and welcoming. The staff is friendly and very skilled. They take the time to listen and formulate a personalized plan. One of the tools they use is the Neubie. I have had amazing results using it. Its ability to target and safely load a specific area is very helpful. Overall, A2 is amazing and I would highly recommend it to any and all!"

− Kris

"Everyone at A2 is fantastic. Had a great experience from the 1st phone call. Don't change, you guys are awesome!"

− Doug

"Clear, communicative staff that showed great motivation in helping me return to my return to my recreational work and athletic activities Danny is super knowledgeable and had a strong sense of intuition in helping me identify and overcome my limitations. I’ve made an excellent recovery from a critical injury thanks to A2 and am now back to my usual flow."

− Keyon