Paul’s secret to staying focused

MANILA, Philippines - Staying out of the limelight and staying focused are two things Paul Soriano has done successfully given his stature as a sought-after director.

The latter Paul credits to a healthy work-life balance and his discovery of the ancient Japanese body alignment technique, Karada, a wellness center with roots in Japan that specializes in the age-old tradition of restoring the body’s inner balance through muscle and bone alignment.

Paul, who learned of Karada through his mom as recommended by his aunt, recalls the first time he tried the treatment at the Karada Body Therapy Center.

“After a session at Karada, I instantly felt recharged and energized. The therapists are very specific to the kind of treatment your body needs which is why I like it so much,” says the 33-year-old film director, who recently got engaged to his long-time girlfriend, Toni Gonzaga.

As someone who spends long hours behind the camera, stress is something Paul is exposed to every day. His schedule is mostly divided between several meetings to brainstorm with the pre-production team and actual production work, which can be anything from producing, executing and directing TV commercials and feature films.

Hitting the greens, therefore, has become the young director’s diversion, which he says helps him clear his mind and allow new ideas to come in. “Playing golf once or twice a week really improves my focus and creativity,” he shares. Outside the golf course, he also finds time to shoot hoops or watch his favorite movies, either at home or in theaters. “Sometimes, a day is good enough for me to recharge and get ready for the next project.”

Paul looks forward to a trip to the Karada Body Therapy Center once or twice a month to have the AP Balance treatment, short for Atlas and Pelvis Balance. The technique was originally developed by Karada using the combined principles of Chiropractic, Seitai and Judoseifuku. It targets the atlas (neck and shoulders), and the pelvis area by realigning the pelvic position to its natural state resulting to improved posture and balance as well as noticeable relief from back pains.

“I usually tell the therapist what’s bothering me at that specific time and they instantly apply their treatment. After the session, the pain and discomfort are gone,” he says.

Karada Body Therapy Center branches at the new Glorietta Wing in Ayala, Makati with tel. no. 553-8731; Greenbelt Radissons in Legaspi Village, Makati, 843-7425; Greenbelt 1, Legaspi Village, Makati; Serendra in Bonifacio High Street, 823-6716; Unit 205B Fox Square Bldg. 53 Connecticut St. Northeast Greenhills, San Juan City 510-8946 and at the second floor of Westgate Hub Filinvest City, Alabang, 894-1575.