Urban’s New Massage Therapist Stacey

We have a new massage therapist at Urban Skin Care who we want to introduce you to. Her name is Stacey and you are going to love her! We had her answer some questions about herself and the massage techniques she specializes in to help you learn more about her and the services she offers.

What is your background?

I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Physiology from the University of Cincinnati. I also gained my massage education through Body Mind College in Sorrento Valley, where I studied both massage therapy and holistic counseling. I studied Reiki through the Ohio Academy of Holistic Health and gained my Master Reiki certification there. I also received my teacher training certification to teach Ashtanga Yoga under David Swenson and Tim Miller. Over the years I have taught yoga, ballroom dance, aquatics, coached soccer, and have been a personal trainer! Recently in Austin while working for a chiropractor, I lead their detox/nutrition program.  We assisted many in achieving their overall weight loss and health goals through this program. Most recently I have completed my S.A.M.P. certification which is small animal massage. If you have a furry friend, I am able to work on them as well! They do so much for us, sometimes it’s nice to do a little something extra for them.

Why did you choose to become a massage therapist?

I have always loved learning about the body and being a dancer and athlete myself, I have had my set of issues too. Many injuries later I wanted to learn more so I could “fix” my own body. I also fell in love with holistic health and was intrigued by how many modalities and techniques are out there to aid us in our own healing mentally, emotionally, and physically. The body holds many emotions and can sometimes be stubborn about letting them go. I love the body/mind connection and thrive on helping others release and heal.

Why do you love what you do?

I like it all really because everyone’s body is different and every modality is unique in its purpose. If I had to choose a massage I love best, I enjoy most doing Deep Tissue Massage combined with Trigger Point. I enjoy being able to help relieve someone having chronic pain or tightness/stiffness and restore it back to its normal state of being.

What types of massage do you specialize in?

I specialize in Deep Tissue, Swedish, Trigger Point, Sports, Shiatsu, Lymphatic, Pregnancy and Reiki.

Tell us about these types of massages.

Swedish: More for relaxation, increase circulation, decrease stress, helps to bring oxygen to the organs and increase our “feel good” hormones.

Deep Tissue: Targeting areas needing more attention such as stiffness in the neck where you are going beyond the surface tissues and muscles to address the issue.

Trigger Point: Applying pressure to points on the body which connect to a specific muscle/organ/system to help release pain or whatever other element is being held onto and allowing flow and movement back into the area.

Sports: A lot more stretching and active joint movement usually site specific. Great for athletes.

Shiastu: An eastern modality of massage where the client is not on the table, but lies on a mat on the floor. Similar to Thai Massage.

Pregnancy: 2nd and 3rd trimester massage in side-lying position catered to our expectant mothers possibly have back/neck shoulder/leg tightness and cramping. Also helps to decrease stress hormones and relax both mother and child.

Lymphatic: A pumping style massage that helps to increase the flow and movement of lymph fluid in the body. Lymph is not like blood that has its own pumping system yet can be detrimental to our health if it’s not moving through the body and disposing of all the bacteria, viruses, pre cancer cells and other toxins that it carries. Lymph massage helps alleviate ailments in the body and helps to flush the entire system. Known symptoms of sluggish lymph flow can be fatigue, depression, weight gain, cellulite, flu-like symptoms and allergies.

How do clients know which massage is best for them?

Sometimes clients do not know which type of massage is best for them, but by having them explain to me their needs and/or problem areas I can do an assessment as to what they can benefit from. Most of my massages are more of a recipe of different styles of massage to help provide my client with a more holistic approach to their body’s needs.

Thank you to Stacey for answering our questions! Come in and visit us to meet Stacey – She will help you find the best massage technique for you. You can schedule your next massage with Stacey by call the front desk at 619.233.0306

In Health and Beauty,

Erin and Larissa