Belonging Matters

February marks the forward momentum of the seasonal cycles and offers a reminder that Spring is not far. Even though everything remains snow-covered outside, as the days grow longer, we can feel a sense of growth we can’t readily see. It won’t be long before the early bloomers pop up and reward our spirits with their bright reminders of our continuous growth and that we can do hard things!

As we confidently face life’s challenges and heartfully celebrate its joys, we invite you to follow February’s example and do so, too. 

After working almost 20 years in the medical field, Natalie took a break when she became a new momma to a sweet baby boy. Leaning into a more holistic approach as she became more curious and educated herself, especially after having her son, she knew, given she had the choice, she would never return to the hospital/outpatient setting in the traditional Western medical sense. Recognizing that the U.S. health system here is very broken, Natalie didn’t want to be submerged in it daily.  She also recognized that though she absolutely loved being home with her son, she was not cut out for being a homemaker. It was time to listen to her heart and follow a new path.

As massage seemed to call to her, she reached out to KCHA on a Thursday, met with Shawn the next day, and was in class the following Monday. It was like the stars lined up, and she couldn’t ignore the signs; it was meant to be.

At KCHA, Natalie was forced to slow down, especially after being in a very fast-paced work environment. Though it was hard at first, it was truly a blessing. She found the space where she felt fully accepted and safe to explore who she longed to be in her body, mind, and spirit. KCHA has cultivated an atmosphere to explore what self-care looks and feels like and really puts emphasis on its importance. During the 12 months Natalie was a student, she began to believe she had the power to make her life anything she wanted it to be.

After seven years of not being in a work environment and longing for connection, Natalie discovered that morning check-ins were a highlight of her school days. These shares filled her bucket by gifting her daily with people who made it easy to share and shared their concerns, desires, stresses, and whatever else they needed to vent.

One of Natalie’s most memorable moments was taking advantage of KCHA’s continuing education beyond the classroom and clinical setting, learning more in-depth about myofascial work with Pete Whitledge. She will never forget how supported she felt and the depth of knowledge she received from him. Pete truly changed her as a person and as a therapist.  

The core values of Natalie’s practice include:

Inclusivity – intentionally creating a space where everyone feels welcome and safe

Education – continuous personal growth to ensure she is providing the best bodywork for her clients

Integrity – keeping true to what she knows is right and true

Honesty – being honest when a client’s needs are outside of her scope of practice or area of expertise and creating a community of care providers to call on when needed

Client-centered care – making the time to listen and fully understand what each client is asking for at every visit

Natalie is excited about a fulfilling and flexible career that balances her home and work lives, allowing her to homeschool my son. She’s also found that receiving a massage is always beneficial for her well-being, and sharing this experience has brought her great joy and meaningful connections with people.

             Check the booking site for more details.

Are you ready to experience the light touch technique of CranioSacral Therapy?

Craniosacral therapy, or CST, is a noninvasive technique that directly connects to the central nervous system and the body’s innate wisdom to heal itself when given the opportunity and possibility. It can release tension, pain, and dysfunction deep in the body where long-lasting effects of past trauma may have gone unnoticed yet still influence your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Therapy, or CST, is a non-invasive technique that directly connects to the Central Nervous System and the body’s innate wisdom to heal itself when given the opportunity and possibility. It can release tension, pain, and dysfunction deep in the body where long-lasting effects of past trauma may have gone unnoticed yet still influence your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Besides physical changes, CST can affect and release emotions buried in the tissues.

CSW1 and CSW2 are being offered as a package:
CSW1 will be on March 22-23, 2025, from 9 AM – 6 PM  CSW2 will be on May 3-4, 2025, from 9 AM – 6 PM

In these sessions, you will learn the:
* History of CST
* Anatomy of CST
* Relationship between fascia and diaphragms

A massage at Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts Student Massage Clinic is a perfect gift to give or receive. As students near the end of their training and are ready to provide sessions for the public, these sessions are relaxing, and the price can’t be beat! 

Gift certificates are available, as are monthly specials. Check the booking site for more details. 

February invites us to surrender, let go, and prepare for the rebirth that spring promises:

Be sure to check out the KCHA calendar for additional events!