child. Then, the old injury manifested and I couldn't walk for a period of time. I was told I wouldn't be able to massage anymore – I was devastated. That is when I discovered whole-body chair massage. I wrote a manual and taught for six years all over Victoria and Vancouver. Whole-body chair massage is designed for seniors and considers issues specific to them. I provide both table and chair massage and have other accredited modalities while continuously updating my training. Hilary Davidson-Sparks is the Massage Specialist at Stem to Stern. She has trained at the Upledger Institute and advanced training through the Saskatchewan Shiatsu Therapists Association. She is a certified registered member of the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada and specializes in aromatherapy, craniosacral therapy and shiatsu. What is the difference between a Massage Specialist and a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)?
Massage Specialists practise many different modalities of massage. For example lymphatic, hot stones, reflexology etc. An RMT is trained to fix medical issues that are a result of
"Samantha creates balance and calm through her love, passion and belief that massage can prevent and cure illness and help us live longer, happier lives." accidents or injuries. Their services are covered by extended health insurance. What are the reasons people come to Stem to Stern and who is your main clientele? We work with clients from the whole community ranging from eight to 101. The most common things people come for are a
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deep massage. We see people who want to balance their wellness and most come weekly. Our rooms are designed to calm. They are heated, scent-free and mobility friendly. What keeps you motivated in your work? I believe in it so much; I believe massage can keep disease out of the body as it removes stress which is one of the biggest killers. My mother died unexpectedly last year on the Power Paddle to Puyallup. She went on all the canoe journies, and Elder Chief Eugene Harry (XIQuelem) from the Cowichan Tribe officially gave her the name Medicine Woman of the Salish during her celebration Journey; Tribal Canoe Journey for the search for medical plants. Traditionally, this name is passed down four generations which means it passed to me. I have officially taken on my mom's history and power and intend to honour her through my work. For more information, visit www.stsmassage.com.
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250.656.1199 250.652.0132 7865 Patterson Road, Saanichton 5401 Hamsterley Road, Victoria
#104 - 9845 Resthaven Drive, Sidney
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