Empowering Movement and Transforming Therapy into Self-Sufficiency
- Brainz Magazine
- Apr 11
- 14 min read
Suzette Obiana-Martina, a seasoned Cesar Exercise Therapist, combines over 15 years of expertise with a unique, supportive approach to empower people in managing and preventing physical complaints. Her passion is teaching self-reliance through precise, therapeutic movement for lasting wellness.
This approach to therapy goes beyond treatment; it focuses on teaching skills that individuals can apply themselves. "Empowering" highlights how clients regain control over their bodies, while "Transforming Therapy into Self-Sufficiency" emphasizes that therapy is not about dependence but about enabling people to take charge of their own recovery and well-being.
A unique education: Studying at the Hogeschool van Utrecht
Oh, how happy I am with my choice of study! I have always wanted to work with people, but in combination with movement and therapy. As a child, I often accompanied my father when he gave training sessions to children outside his regular working hours. He was a physical education teacher. I enjoyed these moments and was even allowed to participate sometimes.
Because of his background in physical education, I was introduced to sports at a very young age. I took swimming lessons and practiced karate, judo, badminton, and ballet. Ballet was the sport I practiced the longest, from my early childhood until the second year of high school.
After graduating from high school, I moved to the Netherlands to pursue my higher education at the university level. I lived in Utrecht and studied at the Hogeschool van Utrecht, where I enrolled in the Cesar Exercise Therapy program. Marie Cesar founded this therapy method in September 1937 in Utrecht. She had a background in ballet, dance, and rhythmic gymnastics.
The exercises in this therapy closely resemble ballet movements, and mastering them required strict precision; everything had to be executed flawlessly. However, because of my ballet background, I understood the pursuit of perfection and why this level of precision was essential.
What is Cesar exercise therapy?
Cesar Exercise Therapy is a specialized form of movement therapy and a paramedical treatment method focused on improving posture and movement in daily life. Many physical complaints arise from incorrect posture and movement patterns, often without people realizing it. Think of back, neck, and shoulder pain caused by prolonged sitting, tension due to stress, or strain from certain professions.
At the core of Cesar Exercise Therapy is awareness and behavioral change. Through targeted exercises and coaching, clients learn how to move more efficiently and healthily in everyday situations, such as standing, sitting, walking, and working. The goal is not only to reduce complaints but also to prevent them in the long term.
What does a Cesar exercise therapist do?
A Cesar Exercise Therapist is a specialist in posture and movement with a holistic approach. Rather than just treating symptoms, the therapist looks for the root cause of complaints and helps clients move in a healthier way.
A Cesar exercise therapist:
Analyze the client's posture and movement patterns
Explains how certain habits cause or sustain complaints
Provides personalized exercises and advice tailored to the individual and their daily activities
Works with people of all ages, from children to the elderly
Helps with a wide range of complaints, such as chronic pain, tension-related issues, breathing difficulties, pre- and post-operative complaints and rehabilitation, and work-related complaints
What makes Cesar Exercise Therapy unique is that the therapy is not just about exercises in the treatment room, but mainly about practical application in daily life. Clients learn how to take control of their complaints and regain ownership of their bodies.
Who can benefit from Cesar exercise therapy?
Cesar Exercise Therapy is suitable for anyone who:
Suffers from chronic pain, such as back, neck, and shoulder pain
Experiences frequent stress or tension in the body
Struggles with breathing or relaxation issues
Wants to become more aware of their posture and movement
Aims to prevent work-related complaints (such as those caused by office work, heavy physical labor, or repetitive movements)
Seeks a long-term solution rather than temporary symptom relief
Understanding posture and movement: The key to long-term relief
By understanding your own posture and movement, you can achieve long-term relief from physical discomfort. This approach goes beyond treatments; it empowers you with the knowledge to improve how you move and prevent future issues.
During an intake session, I gather all the information I need to assess the situation and discuss my findings with the patient or client. However, I must acknowledge that this form of treatment is not suitable for everyone. Not everyone wants to take control of their own healing. Some individuals prefer to remain dependent on others for their recovery, and I respect that. But for those who are willing to take charge of their own healing, this approach can be truly transformative.
In my practice, I work with both groups. The individuals who want to understand their bodies, movements, and posture, and who are willing to actively participate in their recovery, follow my instructions, do their exercises, and correct their posture in daily life. As a result, they complete their treatment sooner because they have become independent of the therapist.
On the other hand, those who prefer the therapist to take full responsibility for their treatment tend to have longer treatment durations. This is also influenced by the therapist’s schedule, as they are not the only patients receiving treatment. While I do have assistants, and I ensure they are trained as extensions of my practice, there are still specific techniques that only I can perform.
What I always tell my patients and clients is that I will equip them with knowledge so that they have a toolbox of solutions to choose from whenever needed. Whether you're traveling, at work, in the middle of the night, or at school, you can treat yourself. Isn’t that amazing? I truly believe in this approach, and I love sharing it with others. The more open you are to understanding your complaints, the more effectively you can help yourself achieve sustainable results.
Self-sufficiency in therapy: Teaching clients to take control
Our therapy is not just about receiving treatment but also about learning the skills to take control of one's own recovery. We emphasize the importance of active participation and self-sufficiency, allowing individuals to manage their health independently rather than relying solely on a therapist.
Many people seek therapy hoping for a quick fix, something external that will eliminate their discomfort. But true, lasting relief comes from within. In my practice, I have seen time and time again that those who actively engage in their own healing process recover faster, experience longer-lasting results, and ultimately become independent in managing their health.
Taking responsibility for your own well-being is empowering. Instead of relying solely on a therapist to "fix" you, imagine having the tools and knowledge to recognize harmful movement patterns, correct your posture, and prevent discomfort before it even begins. This is the foundation of Cesar Exercise Therapy, the method I studied at the Hogeschool van Utrecht. It’s a structured approach that helps individuals understand how their body moves and how they can improve it.
Why taking responsibility matters
Pain and discomfort don’t just appear out of nowhere. They are often the result of repetitive habits how you sit, stand, walk, or even breathe. Many people are unaware that these unconscious patterns contribute to their pain. Learning how to move efficiently is the key to preventing long-term issues.
Those who embrace this approach:
Learn to recognize and correct poor posture before it leads to chronic pain.
Become less dependent on continuous therapy sessions.
Reduce healthcare costs by preventing recurring issues.
Gain confidence in their own ability to maintain a healthy body.
On the other hand, those who prefer passive treatment, where the therapist does all the work, often remain in therapy for extended periods. This not only makes them dependent but also increases the costs of ongoing treatment.
The time and cost factor
People who actively participate in their own recovery usually require fewer sessions than those who rely entirely on the therapist. My clients who follow instructions, do their exercises, and integrate better movement habits into their daily lives recover faster and need fewer follow-ups. Those who prefer a more passive approach, where the therapist continuously provides manual treatment without behavioral adjustments, often stay in therapy much longer.
Investing in your own health saves money in the long run. Instead of spending years on treatment, you gain independence, reduce the need for frequent appointments, and improve your quality of life. My goal as a therapist is to equip my clients with the knowledge and skills they need so that they don’t need me forever.
You have the power
"Imagine having the confidence to manage your own well-being, no matter where you are. Instead of waiting for an appointment or relying on someone else to 'fix' you, you’ll have the skills to take immediate action. Your body is constantly communicating with you. When you learn to listen and respond effectively, you take control of your health in a way that no one else can. This is not just about temporary relief; it's about building lifelong resilience."
Breaking the cycle: Why awareness is essential for lasting change
Many people unknowingly get caught in a cycle of pain, stress, and poor movement habits that lead to recurring discomfort and chronic issues. This cycle often looks like this:
Pain or discomfort appears: Caused by poor posture, repetitive movements, stress, or lack of movement.
Compensation and avoidance: To reduce pain, the body starts compensating with unnatural movement patterns, which often create new issues.
Temporary relief through passive treatments: People seek quick fixes like painkillers, massages, or adjustments without addressing the root cause.
Return to old habits: Without awareness and correction, they continue the same patterns that caused the problem in the first place.
Pain returns: And the cycle repeats.
Why do so many people stay in this cycle?
Lack of awareness: They don’t realize how their daily habits contribute to their discomfort.
Short-term solutions: They rely on external treatments instead of learning to manage their own well-being.
Busy lifestyles: They prioritize work and responsibilities over their health, pushing through pain instead of addressing it.
Fear of change: Modifying movement patterns or posture feels unnatural at first, making it easy to fall back into old habits.
How to break the cycle step by step
Build awareness: Learn to recognize how your body feels throughout the day. What triggers your discomfort? What postures or movements feel off?
Understand the root cause: Instead of only treating symptoms, identify the daily habits and patterns that keep the pain coming back.
Take responsibility: Accept that lasting change comes from consistent effort, not external treatments alone.
Make gradual adjustments: Small, mindful changes in how you sit, stand, move, and breathe can make a big difference over time.
Strengthen and retrain the body: Specific exercises help correct imbalances, improve posture, and restore natural movement.
Stay consistent: Change takes time, but by practicing awareness and applying what you learn daily, you prevent problems before they escalate.
The power of awareness
Breaking the cycle isn’t just about reducing pain; it’s about reclaiming control over your body and well-being. When you become aware of how you move, sit, and hold tension, you can actively make better choices. Instead of being stuck in a loop of discomfort, you create a new, healthier pattern that leads to lasting relief and true self-sufficiency.
Are you ready to break the cycle and take control of your health? It all starts with awareness.
From theory to practice: How I apply this knowledge daily
Understanding movement and posture isn’t just something I teach; it’s something I live every day. In my practice, I apply my knowledge by constantly observing, analyzing, and adjusting both my own movements and those of my clients. Whether I’m demonstrating exercises, correcting postures, or explaining how certain habits contribute to pain, I always focus on making theory practical and actionable.
Throughout my day, I pay attention to my own body as well. I adjust my posture when working at my desk, take movement breaks to prevent stiffness, and remain mindful of how I stand, walk, and lift objects. This helps me stay pain-free and serves as a living example to my clients.
During sessions, I don’t just treat symptoms; I educate. I guide my clients to recognize their movement patterns, make conscious adjustments, and take control of their own healing. By applying these principles daily, I ensure that movement awareness isn’t just an idea but a way of life both for myself and those I help.
Movement awareness is not just something I teach; it’s something I embody in every aspect of my life. I believe that even the smallest daily movements can have a huge impact on our well-being, which is why I am constantly mindful of my own posture and movement patterns. By sharing my personal experiences, I help my clients understand that movement awareness isn’t just for therapy sessions; it’s a lifelong habit that can prevent pain and improve quality of life.
For example, whenever I experience pain, I immediately pause to analyze where the discomfort is coming from and where I might be unconsciously holding tension. When lifting a laundry basket at home, I take a moment before picking it up to ensure my core is engaged. While driving, I frequently adjust my sitting position to maintain good posture. Even when applying makeup, I remind myself to keep my shoulders relaxed while putting on mascara. These may seem like small adjustments, but they prevent long-term strain and discomfort.
Sharing these experiences with my clients makes my approach more relatable and personal. Many people think that movement correction only applies to therapy exercises, but in reality, it’s something we should practice throughout the day. When my clients hear that I, too, have to be mindful of my posture and movement, they realize that this isn’t about perfection; it’s about continuous awareness and small, intentional changes.
As a therapist, I believe that leading by example is one of the most powerful ways to inspire change. When I share my own journey, I show my clients that I truly understand their struggles and that movement awareness is not just a theory but a practical tool for everyday life. This connection builds trust, encourages motivation, and empowers them to take charge of their own healing. After all, if I can do it, so can they!
Beyond treatment: A lifestyle approach to pain prevention
Preventing pain isn’t just about getting the right treatment; it’s about adopting a lifestyle that supports your body every day. Many people wait until pain becomes unbearable before seeking help, but true well-being comes from daily awareness, movement adjustments, and consistent self-care. Instead of relying solely on therapy sessions, we must integrate healthy movement habits into our routines to prevent issues before they start.
Pain often develops from repetitive strain, poor posture, and unconscious movement patterns. Whether it's sitting for long hours at work, lifting heavy objects incorrectly, or even standing in a way that creates unnecessary tension, these habits add up over time. The key to pain prevention is recognizing these patterns and making small but meaningful corrections throughout the day.
For example, instead of slouching at your desk, you can adjust your chair height and engage your core. Rather than putting strain on your back when carrying groceries, you can distribute the weight evenly and use your legs for support. Even something as simple as stretching after waking up or before bed can improve mobility and reduce stiffness.
When you shift your mindset from “fixing pain” to “preventing pain,” you take control of your health. This lifestyle approach requires consistency, but the rewards are long-lasting: fewer injuries, better mobility, and greater overall well-being. By making conscious movement a daily habit, you’re not just treating pain; you’re ensuring a healthier, more resilient future.
Preventing pain is far more effective than treating it once it appears. Many people wait until they experience discomfort before taking action, but by then, the body has already endured unnecessary strain. Prevention is not just about avoiding pain; it’s about creating a strong, resilient body that can handle daily demands without breaking down. When we prioritize prevention, we move from a reactive approach to a proactive one, ensuring long-term health and mobility.
Why prevention is so beneficial
Saves time & money: Frequent therapy sessions and medical treatments can be costly and time-consuming. Preventing pain through better movement habits reduces the need for constant intervention.
Reduces suffering: Chronic pain can take a toll on mental and emotional well-being, leading to frustration, stress, and even depression. Prevention helps maintain a higher quality of life.
Enhances daily performance: Whether at work, during exercise, or in simple daily tasks, a pain-free body allows you to function at your best without limitations.
Supports longevity & independence: As we age, the ability to move freely and without discomfort becomes even more critical. A prevention mindset ensures long-term mobility and independence.
How to develop a prevention mindset
Shifting to a prevention-focused lifestyle requires self-awareness and daily consistency. Here are a few essential steps:
Listen to your body: Pain is a signal, not an inconvenience. Instead of ignoring discomfort, learn to recognize early signs of tension, stiffness, or fatigue.
Analyze your movements: Become mindful of how you move throughout the day—when sitting, lifting, driving, or even applying makeup. Small corrections in posture and muscle engagement can make a big difference.
Strengthen & support your body: A strong core and well-conditioned muscles help absorb strain, reducing the risk of injuries. Regular stretching, mobility exercises, and strength training are key.
Adopt ergonomic habits: Optimize your work and home environments to reduce strain. Adjust your chair, take standing breaks, and position screens at eye level.
Make prevention a daily practice: Prevention isn’t something you do occasionally; it’s a habit. Just like brushing your teeth to prevent cavities, mindful movement should be part of your daily routine.
A lifestyle, not a quick fix
Prevention is a long-term investment in your well-being. Instead of constantly “fixing” pain, imagine a life where discomfort rarely disrupts you. This shift in mindset leads to greater confidence in your body, increased energy, and overall better health.
By making conscious movement a daily habit, you take control of your physical well-being rather than relying on temporary solutions. Prevention isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. The more intentional you are with your movements today, the more freedom and ease you will experience in the future.
Are you ready to stop chasing relief and start embracing a lifestyle of prevention? The choice is yours!
Spreading awareness: Why more people should know about this method
Too many people live with pain, believing it’s something they just have to endure. They go from one treatment to another, seeking temporary relief without truly addressing the root cause of their discomfort. But what if there was a different way? A method that not only treats pain but empowers individuals to take control of their own recovery and long-term health?
My approach to therapy goes beyond traditional treatment; it focuses on education, awareness, and self-sufficiency. Instead of relying solely on a therapist, clients learn to understand their movement patterns, identify habits that contribute to their pain, and make the necessary changes to prevent future issues. This is not just about feeling better for a few days; it’s about lasting change.
Why more people should know about this method
It helps people regain control: No one should feel helpless when it comes to their body. By understanding movement and posture, people can reduce pain and prevent future issues without depending on constant treatment.
It provides long-term results: Quick fixes may feel good in the moment, but real, lasting relief comes from changing the way you move and use your body every single day.
It saves time and money: Investing in knowledge and prevention reduces the need for ongoing therapy sessions, expensive treatments, and unnecessary medication.
It improves quality of life: Pain doesn’t just affect the body; it impacts mood, productivity, and overall well-being. A body that moves well leads to a happier, healthier life.
Join the movement: Take control of your health
I believe that everyone deserves to understand their own body and how to keep it strong and pain-free. If this resonates with you, I invite you to join me on this journey!
Email me if you want to learn how this method can help you: prowellnessandtherapycenter@gmail.com
Share this message with someone who needs to hear it because everyone deserves to move without pain!
It’s time to stop chasing short-term relief and start embracing a sustainable, empowering way to care for your body. Are you ready? Let’s do this together!
Read more from Suzette Obiana - Martina
Suzette Obiana - Martina, Cesar Exercise Therapist
Suzette Obiana-Martina, a licensed Cesar Exercise Therapist with over 15 years of experience, empowers patients to modify daily habits that contribute to their physical complaints. She provides quality time and tailored solutions to improve their personal and professional lives. Her mission is to make people self-reliant, equipping them to manage their own well-being. With extensive training in corporate exercise therapy, foot therapy, coronary diseases, psychology, and psychosomatics, Suzette connects deeply with her patients. By fostering positive encouragement, Suzette helps patients achieve more than they ever thought possible.
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