Luminous Heart Reiki & Massage

I updated my website to include the word “gentle” next to “massage”. A friend asked me why, as now everyone seeking deep tissue bodywork would not schedule with me.

Well, that’s exactly why I did it! Those people just aren’t my clients. (No offense if you’re one of them. Unless you’re wanting to try something radically different, you will best be served by another therapist.)

Over 20+ years of doing this work, I’ve developed a niche. I’ve seen amazing results with soothing, therapeutic touch and know how it feels in my own body to do the work that is aligned with my goals of providing deep healing and a compassionate presence.

My gentle approach is quite effective for cultivating relaxation and relieving stress and pain. I believe in showing muscles that it’s safe to let go rather than punishing them for being tight, which, btw, only seems to make them tighter!

I’ve heard countless stories from folks who had a previous painful experience with another therapist and were cautiously hopeful that it could be different on my table.

It is. 🙂

I’m not trying to convince anyone to try my style of massage when they are seeking something more intense.

Go forth and get pummeled if that’s what you wish!

If you’re seeking a different experience and don’t want to have to breathe through the discomfort or wake up tomorrow feeling like you’ve been hit by a bus, then maybe a gentle massage is for you.

Gentle does not necessarily mean light pressure.

It might. I have several clients who prefer a light touch.

Gentle means that I meet the muscles where they are and back off at the first sign of resistance. Sometimes it’s quite firm pressure. It means that I can adapt based on what your body is allowing but never try to force anything.

I call it Goldilocks pressure. Not too hard, not too light. And often it changes from one body part to another and from week to week. I’ve learned to tune in and read the muscles and wait for cues to sink in. I’m vigilant for signs that I’ve gone too far.

I’m aiming to melt the muscles by releasing tension via calming the nervous system. It feels like this:

I welcome communication about how we can find a way for you to be comfortable and relaxed. Most importantly, I will absolutely listen to you if you want me to use less pressure. We can have a discussion about that before we begin. Because it totally matters.

Massage doesn’t have to hurt. I’m sorry if you’ve had the experience in the past and you didn’t want that. I’d be delighted to give you a new experience if you’re open to it. Or you might consider a Reiki treatment. It has deeply relaxing and powerful healing results without any pressure at all.