Bereavement Massage
As a bereaved parent, I know firsthand how grief can be held in the body. What I have learned through my own grieving experience is how physical grief can be - sore shoulders, aching jaws, headaches, but also digestive issues, and deep fatigue. Grief hurts across all planes of the body, and the physical manifestations can often be ignored. Therapeutic massage can help the body and mind process grief, and support the nervous system to bring much needed rest, relaxation, improve sleep, and digestion.
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I also know how challenging it can be to find practitioners who can offer space for your story and loss(es) to be witnessed, without necessarily having to recount and relive the details. I aim to offer a quiet, relaxing, safe(r) space for grieving people to rest and receive care without the pressure of being "on." I always follow your lead - if you'd like to talk, there is space to do so. If you'd prefer silence, I respect your needs. If tears flow, we let them flow. This is your space and time.
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"Grief is a full-body, full-mind experience... The physical nature of grief often comes as a surprise. It makes sense that your physical body rebels: it can only hold so much."
- Megan Devine
What makes bereavement massage different from regular massage?
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The main difference between a "bereavement massage" and a "regular massage" is the lens through which I view and approach our time together when I know my client is experiencing grief. As with any massage treatment, my techniques are tailored to your specific needs and areas of concern. Grieving people may find that their needs and comfort levels are very different from their "normal," especially in the early period following a loss/losses (and "early period" is defined by each individual). Some folks may prefer light touch, while others crave deep pressure. Aches and pains may deviate from their "normal" or typical pattern. Clients may choose a completely silent treatment (no talking and/or music), or may wish to process emotion as it arises. As always in my practice, needs and preferences may change during our time together, and I will always respect and follow your lead.
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Please note, I am not a mental health professional, but a parent who knows firsthand the trauma and complexity of deep grief.
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