Footsteps To Bodywork

The journey to Footsteps to Bodywork began from a place of personal need. After spending two decades sitting behind an office desk, I found myself struggling with lower-back and elbow tension. This physical discomfort was a wake-up call, prompting me to seek a healthier path, not just for myself but for others who might be experiencing similar challenges. Through introspection and a deep desire to help, I felt drawn to the world of massage therapy. Graduating from Boulder College of Massage Therapy in 2001, I embarked on a fulfilling career dedicated to aiding individuals in their pursuit of physical well-being.

My Commitment to Quality

At Footsteps to Bodywork, I prioritize the quality of care I provide. This commitment goes beyond the therapeutic touch; it encompasses every aspect of your experience. I hold myself to the highest standards, reflected in my credentials and the products I use. As a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) in Illinois, I possess the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective massage therapy within the guidelines set by the state's Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. I have also earned the respected designation of Certified Massage Therapist (CMT) through a voluntary process that demonstrates my dedication to professional development and adherence to rigorous standards. Furthermore, I am a Board Certified Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (BCTMB) practitioner, signifying a high level of expertise and having successfully passed an exam that requires a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and legal and ethical practices within the massage therapy profession.

In addition, I consistently strive to enhance my knowledge base by pursuing continuing education, including specialized training in Infection Prevention and Control to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for all my clients.

Services Offered

My services are designed to cater to a wide range of needs, promoting relaxation, pain relief, and overall well-being.

Integrative Massage: This unique modality, developed at Boulder College of Massage Therapy, draws inspiration from the work of Wilhelm Reich. It utilizes a blend of creative strokes and techniques to guide clients towards greater embodiment and self-awareness. By fostering an awareness of sensations, breath, and energy, integrative massage facilitates the release of holding patterns and encourages a deeper connection to one's physical and emotional selves.

Swedish Massage: One of the most widely recognized forms of massage therapy, Swedish massage employs a variety of long, gliding strokes, kneading, friction, tapping, and vibration techniques. This gentle yet deeply relaxing modality promotes circulation, lymphatic drainage, and muscular relaxation, helping to alleviate tension and stress while reminding the body of its innate healing abilities.

Neuromuscular Therapy: This targeted approach focuses on the normalization of soft tissues to address postural dysfunction and traumatic injuries. Neuromuscular therapy utilizes techniques such as trigger point therapy, lymphatic drainage, cross-fiber friction, and muscle energy techniques to release tension, improve joint mobility, and restore proper muscle function.

Chakra Balancing: Chakra balancing is a holistic practice that addresses the seven major energy centers within the body. These chakras, or "wheels" of energy, can become blocked or imbalanced due to physical, emotional, or energetic stressors. Through a combination of gentle touch, energy work, and mindfulness practices, chakra balancing aims to restore harmony and flow to these energy centers, promoting overall well-being.

Reflexology: This ancient healing art focuses on the reflex points located on the feet, hands, and ears. This technique operates on the principle that each reflex point corresponds to a specific organ or system in the body. By stimulating these reflex points, reflexology is believed to promote healing and balance throughout the body.

Deep Tissue Massage: This powerful modality employs focused pressure applied to deeper layers of muscle and fascia (connective tissue). Deep tissue massage is particularly effective for chronic muscle pain, tension, and stiffness, helping to break up adhesions, release trigger points, and improve range of motion. Stone therapy may also be incorporated, utilizing smooth, heated stones to encourage relaxation and further enhance the therapeutic effects.

A Place for Healing

Footsteps to Bodywork is more than just a practice; it's a sanctuary where clients can find relief from pain, reduce stress, and reconnect with their bodies. Whether you're seeking deep relaxation, therapeutic relief, or guidance on your wellness journey, I am committed to providing you with a personalized and transformative experience.