Equinox Practice Philosophy
“I chose ‘Equinox’ as the name for my massage practice to honor the concept of balance. Equinox means “equal night,” referring to the time of year when day and night are equal lengths, and the earth’s hemispheres are balanced at equal distances from the sun. A balanced body is the ideal goal, and too often our muscle imbalances create underlying tension and stress that we only feel on a subconscious level. My connection with the outdoors dictates that I NEED my playtime in the outdoors, and I find that by receiving regular massage my body stays more balanced and efficient. I have found that I receive the best bodywork when I am interacting with the therapist, and take an active role in listening to my body and trying to interpret what it needs. I strongly encourage my clients to do the same, and this helps me to provide them with the best treatment possible.”
Continuing Education
2019
Nemerov Method of NeuroMuscular Therapy – 12 CE Hours
Yet another class based on neurological principals, this incorporating the functional principles of motor control theory into manual therapy.
2018
Neural Reset Therapy for the Upper Body – 16 CE Hours
This is another class that like DNM uses neurological principals to reset the nervous system. It uses the laws of Reciprocal Inhibition and Symmetry to “trick” or communicate certain things to the nervous system, which in turn allows the muscle tone to reset. More on this later too…I hope!
2017
Contemporary Cupping Methods – 24 CE Hours
Cupping falls in the category of decompressive therapy, opposing massage which tends to use compressive forces to accomplish therapeutic results. I often come across tissues in the body which seem to be stuck together, and have wanted to better way to increase movement and local circulation which help those stuck areas have room to move and glide as intended. This is the way to do it!
Introduction to DermoNeuroModulation (Dermo = skin/Neuro = nervous system/Modulation = change) – 17 CE Hours
I am still trying to wrap my head around the ins and outs of this one. I’ve had some success, and the best way I can explain it is that it works with the stretch of the skin and the nerves that terminate there to put them in a place of comfort…and allows it to reset. More to follow…I hope!
2016
Structural Relief Therapy: Neck – 8 CE Hours
This was my first introduction to this modality, and I have had great results applying this knowledge including treatment of whiplash as well as chronic conditions. SRT is described as, “an efficient protocol developed for complex and chronic medical conditions to stop involunatary muscle contraction, restore range of motion, instantly change posture and dramatically decrease pain in the first treatment.”
Balancing the Pelvis – 21 CE Hours
The hip and pelvis combine to transfer the forces from two legs and into the one spine and therefore has a hugely complex role to fulfill in the body. The pelvis has been described as ‘the joint that determines symmetry’ and it is easy to see why. Differences between the hips can affect down into the legs or up through the spine. Achieving balance here can be essential for long lasting results in any therapy.
Conservative Management for Patients with SI Joint Dysfunction – 6 CE Hours
I have so many clients with a complaint of SI joint dysfunction that this class was of particular interest to me. However, it was most useful in helping me realize that not all “SIJ dysfunction” clients have actual SIJ dysfunction, but regional pain in the sacrum/low back area. John Winter of Winter’s Health and Fitness in Kingfield also attended this class, and the exercises that we learned fit better in his wheelhouse and treatment model than they do mine. I am more than happy to use the knowledge gained here to refer out to him!
2015
Cadaver Dissection Lab: Low Back, Hip, & Organs of the Chest & Abdomen – 7 hrs
As a visual and hands-on learner this amazing opportunity brought my x-ray vision to a whole new level!
Intergrating Scar Tissue – 21 CE Hours
Less about breaking sown scar tissue, and more about getting it to morph into a form of connective tissue that is more integrated with the surrounding area. Read more about ScarWork »
2014
Advanced Concepts for Treating the Head, Neck, & Shoulders – 7 CE Hours
2013
Two Integrated Approaches to Shoulder Pain – 24 CE Hours
Anatomy Trains (Myofascial) and Orthopedic Massage with Tom Myers and Dr. Ben Benjamin.
Advanced Myofascial Mobilization – 48 CE Hours
Continuation of studies started with Jeff Mahadeen of the Muscular Wellness Institute. Advanced Myofascial Release and Soft Tissue Mobilization for the Leg, Hip, Neck, Back, Chest and Shoulder.
Strengthening Therapeutics – 64 CE Hours (October 2015 -January 2014)
Integration of strength and functional assessment to improve strength, stabilization and muscular balance. Includes National Personal Trainer Certification upon satisfactory completion of certification written and practical tests and 30 hour internship. **UPDATE** Did not receive personal trainer certification. Could not attend final class weekend due to friend’s memorial service.
2012
Myofascial Mobilization Certification – 48 CE Hours
Introduction to Myofascial Release and Soft Tissue Mobilization for the Leg, Hip, Neck, Back, Chest and Shoulder with Jeff Mahadeen of the Muscular Wellness Institute.
The Benjamin Institute 6 CE Hours
Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) Webinar Series with Judith Delaney
2011
AMTA’s New England Regional Conference 18 CE Hours
Spinal Anatomy and Pathology – Diane Polenso; Bodysaver ‘No Thumbs’ Deep Tissue, and Advanced Therapeutic Chair Massage – Patrick Ingrassia; Active Engagement Techniques for Neck and Upper Extremities (2/2) – Whitney Lowe; Active Isolated Stretching for Carpal Tunnel and Tendonitis – Marjorie Brook
WISH LIST…
Active Release Techniques, Orthopedic Assessment and Massage, Kinesiotaping, Visceral Mobilization, more Structural Relief Therapy, more DermoNeuroModulation, more Dissections…