Me
When I was about two years old, I became ill very quickly and my fever spiked to a dangerous temperature. My parents brought me to their chiropractor and, I am told that ten minutes after a treatment I was back to my rambunctious self.
This is the first of many stories from my personal life in which I benefited from holistic / homeopathic or “Eastern” medicine. These experiences have made me a strong believer in the healing power of what the earth provides us. I am also repeatedly amazed by the human body, and its constant efforts to be healthy and balanced – a state called homeostasis.
When I was 17 years old, a senior in high school and singing regularly I developed a severe case of tonsillitis. I took my normal routine of supplements and tried homeopathic methods, but my parents and I quickly decided that I needed to see an Otorhinolaryngologist (an Ear, Nose & Throat Doctor- I just love using that word). I was put on heavy antibiotics, steroids and vocal rest for several weeks, because permanent damage to my vocal cords was a real concern. Thankfully, I still have a voice, and I will refrain from making any jokes about the many people who may not be as happy about that fact. This was an experience that made me grateful for modern, or “Western” medicine, and the fact that I was able to get treatment from a skilled and caring doctor.
I share these stories because they demonstrate why I approach healthy living the way I do. I use supplements, Essential Oils & am interested in learning more about the benefits of natural things. This does not mean I am against doctors, or medicine. My body works every day to be balanced. I try to take note of that, since my body is a lot smarter than I am.
To try and put my theory of massage into a short statement, it would read;
“A balanced, healthy body requires utilizing all that nature and science provide. Correctly utilizing those provisions requires knowing and understanding our individual bodies.”
Massage Therapy is my job, and a rewarding way to help others. It is also one of my most valuable tools as I strive for balance in my life. I have spent years working with chiropractors, as well as studying privately with many types of healers. I am a graduate of The Massage Arts Center of Philadelphia (2007) and more recently a student of Dr. Josh Axe’s Institute of Nutritional Leadership (2014)
Clients have said to me, “Who knew I had that many knots in my body?! I have no idea how you found them all.” I guess we all have gifts and mine is a unique one! I am one of the most truly blessed people in the world - I work in a space that is entirely devoted to the release of stress and not the other way around. Many sessions end with a hug from my client. I have gone through some amazing times when I wondered how so many wonderful things could be showered upon one person. I have gone through some other times when I was convinced I was living on a reality prank show...In the end, I would not ask for a single one of the difficult experiences to be removed from my story. They only make me more grateful / they only make me realize how amazing life is / they only make me more passionate about each day I am alive. It's all about that never ending quest for balance. Each part of us, from our cells to our soul is on a daily quest to achieve it. When we do finally find that balance, it means our journey is done. I dont want to look back with any regret and wish I had enjoyed myself IN THE MOMENT. I try to look at every moment for the the once-in-a-lifetime experience that it is.
Abouttt
everyone who has shared their story, and for those whose stories we will continue to share.
To view the Captions associated with these images,
please tap, click or hover over the image box (depending on the device you are using)
ttTHERAPY, located in Center City Philadelphia, is a Total Body Wellness Practice, focusing on Therapeutic Massage, Nutrition and Self Care as Fundamental Elements of a Healthy Life.
Anyone searching for a great massage experience is going to be somewhat overwhelmed as more Therapists are appearing, and as Massage Therapy is becoming so mainstream that we now have "Massage Chains." It is amazing to think that millions of Americans are now aware of Complimentary & Integrative Health (a term updated in 2015) whereas in the 1990s, it is difficult to gauge just how many people knew about 'alternative medicine,' becuase roughly 23% of patients even admitted having knowledge of something so.... alternative to their own Primary Care Physician. With technology moving faster than our brains can keep up with, information overload is something we all face. It is a challenge for Therapists to explain our style to an online community whose knowledge about Massage is so widespread.
In order to help potential clients decide if a visit to ttTHERAPY is the right choice, I will describe the type of person that I believe will benefit from my style of therapy and overall goals for my Practice. Anyone who is open and willing to learn about themselves willl be a good fit. Having a background of masssage or chiropractic is not at all necessary. Being a member of a gym - not necessary. In other words, it is all about a person's mindset when they arrive. One of my motto's is "MASSAGE IS 50/50." Half of the work is performed by the Therapist and half of the work is the Client allowing work to be done. I can only do so much if my client's body is not ready to respond. Being responsive is, in large part, dependent upon the brain stepping aside & letting go of what it thinks is going on. My ideal client is in search of a focused and personalized massage experience. This individual is seeking information about his/her body and how to better understand the incredible capabilities and possibilities it has to offer. Education is as important as relaxation - I want each client to walk out of my office with a deeper understanding of their own body. This site will always be a work in progress. The same can be said for my practice. The same can be said for me. Expect this site to grow and change constantly. I plan to share information and hope visitors will share their knowledge and experiences as well. My personal experience is an adventure. Building/growing a network of like-minded people can only make the adventure better.
