How to be still, how to listen to the body, and how to help create change to decrease pain and restore function. Not to mention how incredibly amazing we are as humans. During treatment, I try to not have a set goal in mind. That being said, I let my hands feel what the tissues need, instead of following a set style or recipe. Since everyone has their own unique set of problem areas, I let that be
the starting point. I use a variety of techniques during the massage. Myofascial Release, Craniosacral, Visceral Manipulation, Swedish. Regardless of the technique I am using, I try to be as present and mindful as possible during the entire process, something that is invaluable to me. Treating the whole person is very important to me. What I mean by this, is most people experience pain in areas that are not the cause of the pain. Lower back pain can be caused by tight hip flexors. A stiff neck could be coming from pelvic misalignment. Because of this, I treat not only the symptom, but try to find the cause of the pain or muscle imbalance. Communicating this to you as the patient helps in the overall process. I feel if you know what is going on, you are more active in your own health care. With that, goes breaking down the power dynamic between the Therapist and the Patient. I fully welcome any feedback, positive or negative, to make your experience and treatment tailored to your specific needs. The time is for you. If you need that pillow adjusted, some heat on your back, or a change in pressure, all you need is to ask. Homecare, from my viewpoint, is more about being mindful of your body and how it moves. I give stretches from yoga poses, breathing techniques, or the simple act of being aware of how a certain body part is being held throughout the day. Strengthening the mind and body connection can be much more fruitful than giving an exercise to build one muscle. If we aren’t aware of how we are moving, exercise can just be a set of motions without intention. Future goals include: taking Continuing Education for Perinatal Massage, more intensive Visceral Manipulation, and going back to Vancouver College of Massage Therapy as a Clinical Instructor. I try to make my treatment room as safe as possible. I am body positive, knowledgeable in queer and trans* issues, kink-friendly, and work in a building that is accessible for those using wheelchairs. When I’m not massaging, I can be found hanging out with dog, Cypress. Knitting or crocheting something adorable. Finding a new restaurant. Trying to strengthen my meditation and yoga practices. Or just being surrounded by amazing people in my community.
