How do you describe your approach to massage?
My approach to massage is an integrated one. I incorporate many modalities in each of my sessions. Often I don’t know which modalities and styles until my hands are on the body, because everyone is so different! It’s an intuitive detailed approach, utilizing a lot of myofascial work, trigger point, deep, structural body work.
What led to you practicing massage?
When I was in high school I knew I didn’t learn in a way that fit with traditional western education. I knew I wasn’t going to jump into college to go into debt when I really didn’t know what I wanted to do. My fascination with holistic healing started as a teenager. I looked into acupuncture school but it required a degree I wasn’t ready to pursue. I came across massage therapy in a career encyclopedia in high school, and made the decision to go right out of high school. I’m blessed because I was working professionally at 19,and I fell in love with my job. Not many people can say that.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned through massage?
I’ve learned the value of human connection from practicing massage. We have so much to give and learn from each other. Many of my clients I’ve had for 7-8 years, and I have varying degrees of a therapeutic relationship with many of them. There’s a trust that is built when someone trusts you with the health of their body, which plays a huge part in the quality of their life. It’s not just about pain that resides in the body, for many it starts with emotion- which manifests on a psychological level. My work improves the quality of people’s life and that’s something I try and carry in my every interaction with people.
What do you like most about Austin Massage Company?
I love that Austin Massage Company is so involved in the community. We work with a lot of local companies and organizations. Which means more opportunity to reach more people. Michelle does a great job with connecting people and involving herself in the community. Ive never been more inspired by the place I work, and the people I work with.