NA: What particular massage therapy modalities will this expansion of the practice offer?
community spotlight
Manage Your September Stress with the Benefits of Massage by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer
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s this final month of summer transitions into the first whispers of autumn, life is accelerating at a busy, hectic pace. Children are back in school and extra-curricular activities. Adults are balancing their job and family obligations. Calendars are full to the brim with piano lessons, soccer games, work projects, household chores, the list goes on. It’s no wonder that stress levels tend to peak more in September than most other times of year (Google Misery Index). But if you feel stretched in numerous directions right now, physical and mental relief is available. In this month’s Community Spotlight, I want to introduce you to one of Southwest Florida’s newest massage therapy practices and an extension of Sandhill Healing Center, located in the Port Charlotte area. To learn more about what this massage 18
Sarasota/Manatee Edition
therapy clinic has to offer, I spoke with Dr. Cecilia “Cheech” Hill, DOM, AP, CCT (MA13356), who owns Sandhill Healing Center. As a Licensed Massage Therapist herself, Dr. Hill was quick to answer my questions and share her insights on just how beneficial this modality can be for relaxation, stress management, pain alleviation and health overall. Please enjoy our conversation below:
Natural Awakenings: When will this new massage therapy branch open its doors?
Dr. Cheech Hill: It is with so much excitement and pleasure that the former massage therapists from Bayfront Health in Punta Gorda will be joining our team at Sandhill Healing Center. We are currently accepting massage appointments while our expansion facility is under construction, and we anticipate the official grand opening this fall.
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Dr Hill: Below is a breakdown of just a few of the massage techniques we provide. • Swedish: This modality uses kneading, compression and long strokes to help soothe the muscles, increase circulation, and promote energy and relaxation. • Deep Tissue: This modality uses firm pressure to target the deep muscle layers and connective tissues to relieve pain and muscular tension. • Sports: This modality helps to strengthen, stretch and lengthen the muscles, tendons and ligaments in order to alleviate the pain of athletic injuries. • Aromatherapy: This modality combines both gentle and firm strokes, along with the use of essential oils, to promote healing and deep relaxation. • Hot Stone: This modality helps to melt away muscular tension and stiffness with the placement of smooth, water-heated stones on the body. • Thai: This modality compresses, pulls and stretches the entire body in order to help increase flexibility and boost energy levels. • Lymphatic Drainage: This modality uses gentle motions and pressure to help stimulate blood circulation, body fluid balance and immune function.
NA: Who are the massage therapists joining your team at Sandhill Healing Center? Dr. Hill: Suzie Boland is a Licensed Massage Therapist with over 29 years of experience in her current field, as well as over 30 years of experience as a recreational therapist. She is trained in both craniosacral and relaxation massage with techniques specifically designed to enhance circulation, blood flow and overall health. She feels that a team approach to therapy ensures the best outcome for achieving health and wellness (Lic. #MA20202). Dawn Lautner is a Licensed Massage
