Blog

Exploring SomatoEmotional Release: A Personal Journey

I recently completed my second course through the Upledger Institute in SomatoEmotional Release work, and I wanted to take some time to reflect on the experience. I won’t lie: SomatoEmotional Release really challenges my left-brain tendencies. I love cold, hard facts and extensive studies. SomatoEmotional Release, however, is grounded in Dr. John Upledger’s extensive work … Continue reading Exploring SomatoEmotional Release: A Personal Journey

Continuing Education: Advancing My Skills to Better Serve You

By Valerie Carsey I feel incredibly fortunate to pursue my passion for a living. One of the things I value most about this work is the opportunity for continuous learning and growth. I’d love to share some of my recent educational adventures and what’s ahead. SomatoEmotional Release (SER) Taught by the Upledger Institute, SomatoEmotional Release … Continue reading Continuing Education: Advancing My Skills to Better Serve You

Adapting to Your Massage Hesitations

By Valerie Carsey Massage therapy offers more than just relaxation—it supports pain relief, emotional wellness, and overall health. Yet many people avoid getting massage care due to personal hesitations or concerns. Know that your session can and should be tailored to your specific needs. Here are some ways that a massage can be adapted to meet your specific … Continue reading Adapting to Your Massage Hesitations

Maintenance Massage for Your Health

By Valerie Carsey Over the years, I have had numerous clients miss a month of their regular massage appointments and return saying, “I really noticed the difference.” However, many people only visit a massage therapist for a “special occasion” or in response to an injury or accident. Maintenance massage involves a consistent routine, typically every … Continue reading Maintenance Massage for Your Health

Prenatal Massage FAQs

by Valerie Carsey Pregnancy is both an exciting and challenging time. Prenatal massage can help reduce anxiety and depression, alleviate swelling, ease nausea, relieve pain, improve sleep quality, increase circulation, and oxygenate muscles and tissues. Below are some frequently asked questions to consider when thinking about prenatal massage. Can I get a prenatal massage in … Continue reading Prenatal Massage FAQs

CranioSacral Therapy and Neurolymphatic Drainage: Exploring Overlapping Modalities

by Valerie Carsey, LMTMassage modalities often overlap in technique, drawing from diverse theories and methodologies. This is particularly true for CranioSacral cranial holds and Neurolymphatic Drainage holds. Understanding CranioSacral Therapy CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is based on the theory that practitioners can work with the craniosacral rhythm—the rate at which spinal fluid is produced then dispersed … Continue reading CranioSacral Therapy and Neurolymphatic Drainage: Exploring Overlapping Modalities

Understanding Tension and Its Causes

By Valerie Carsey, LMT Definition.com describes tension as "the act of stretching or straining." In the body, tension refers to the stretching and straining of soft tissues. Soft tissues include anything in the body that is not bone, such as fascia (the connective tissue that wraps around bones, muscles, and organs), muscles, tendons, ligaments, and … Continue reading Understanding Tension and Its Causes