Belonging Matters

November inspires us to trust our journeys and believe in the changes ahead. Transformation is not always immediate; it takes patience and commitment, and often begins with acknowledging pain, loss, challenge, and discomfort with compassion. To do this well, we typically need to allow ourselves supportive and comforting people and structures, such as fellowships, family, friends, health care providers, pets, and our favorite entertainment.

At KCHA, we are grateful for the gift of the learning community we consciously nurture and benefit from each day. We support one another through the highs and lows with compassion, grace, and confidence.

We hope you enjoy meeting this month’s Intern, Nicole Hunter. Consider registering for the November 15 Resolving Hip and Lumbar Issues with MFR Workshop with Mark Duval, LMT. And, learn more about how Massage can support those struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder in this month’s Health Talk.    As always, KCHA’s Student and Intern Clinics are open and ready to help support your wellness. We’ve included a link to our booking page at the end of the newsletter. 

This one-day course is led by Mark Duval, LMT, a bodyworker with 35 years of experience using applied Myofascial Release (MFR) techniques to resolve chronic pain issues.  Intended for currently practicing Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs) who have completed at least a basic MFR course, the course aims to provide LMTs with the skills to address chronic pain, restore function and alignment, and “recession-proof” their practice by getting referrals from various medical professionals. 

The course focuses on assessment and evaluation skills, including visual assessment of alignment, palpation for mobility versus immobility, and functional muscle testing and range of motion (ROM).  The course curriculum includes:

• Intake, evaluation, and assessment skills, such as standing alignment, palpation, and hip flexor tests.  
• Face-up table work, focusing on releasing the psoas, iliacus, quadriceps, and diaphragm. 
• Face-down table work, which includes releasing hip extensors, hip rotators, hamstrings, and working on the SI joint.  
• Hands-on labs with a partner and a “client” to practice the techniques.

The course is based on Mark Duval’s approach to bodywork, where clients remain clothed in mobile clothing, and various types of testing and evaluation are performed before, during, and after treatment. The treatment is also highly dependent on client feedback, and the bodywork is not limited to the massage table; it may also include clients sitting and standing. The class specifically addresses hip and low back issues such as lordosis, pelvic tilt, herniated disks, sciatica, and SI joint pain.

Learn more about Mark in last month’s Spotlight article.

Register for the course now!

Hello! I’m Nicole, and here is my story…

Discovering Massage School 

I had been working in the healthcare field, helping others for most of my life. Though my career as a Physical Therapy Assistant was rewarding, over time, I felt burnt out.   Through a lot of soul searching, clarifying my purpose, and identifying my desire to have the greatest impact on people and the world, I was led to massage. I knew massage would allow me to use my gifts and the healing power of touch to make a positive impact on people’s lives.

Unexpected Gifts 

I never could have anticipated how impactful and powerful my experiences at KCHA would be. I thought I was just signing up to attend school to refresh my knowledge of the body’s muscles and learn some massage techniques, but boy, was I wrong! I immediately felt a sense of home and had that feeling in my gut that this was the right place for me when I walked into KCHA for the first time and saw the “You Belong Here” sign. My life was starting again at the end of my comfort zone!

I found joy and purpose again in my life through my healing transformation and the knowledge I gained in massage school. It was life-changing and lifesaving! I learned to embrace difficulties as opportunities to grow and feel confident in the uncomfortable. I now know I can make a positive impact on my clients’ well-being and on the massage profession through my valuable experiences at KCHA.

The Foundation of my Practice  I am committed to bringing my best to my clients each day, providing a healing, welcoming, nurturing environment that fosters comfort, wellness, and relaxation.     Through a compassionate, personalized approach rooted in intuition and keen attention, I consciously connect with my clients, offering understanding and addressing each individual’s unique needs and concerns, while ensuring a holistic experience that promotes physical, emotional, and mental well-being.    With an open mind and heart, I offer a variety of massage techniques, including breathwork, myofascial work, and energy work, to empower those on their healing journey.    As a commitment to my continued growth and healing, and to providing for my clients, I will continue to pursue professional development in massage and bodywork techniques. I am especially looking forward to expanding my knowledge in Reflexology and Hot Stone Massage.

Dream Fulfilled I am delighted to share that I passed my MBLEX on October 28 and am now licensed! While I am currently an intern at KCHA through November 13th, I will be starting my new business, Soul N Purpose Massage, in Three Rivers, Michigan, on November 18. Please allow me the privilege of sharing this special place and my gifts with you and your loved ones. Contact me for more details at: Soulnpurposemassage@gmail.com.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a legitimate form of depression that follows a predictable pattern. According to the DSM-5 criteria, SAD requires a regular temporal relationship between mood episodes and specific times of the year, with complete remission occurring when seasons change. In other words, symptoms tend to recur and then improve at about the same time each year. 

What causes SAD?  When sunlight reaches our eyes, it signals the brain to regulate two crucial hormones: serotonin, which is associated with happiness, and melatonin, which regulates sleep. Reduced daylight disrupts this delicate balance, causing serotonin levels to plummet while melatonin production becomes erratic, creating the perfect conditions for depression, fatigue, and disrupted sleep patterns.  To help diagnose SAD, a thorough evaluation generally requires a careful mental health exam and health history, performed by a psychiatrist or other mental health provider.

Typical treatment for seasonal affective disorder may include light therapy (starting in the fall), psychotherapy, and medications.  Complementary treatment plans may also consider Massage. 

How Massage Can Help 

Research has shown that a single massage session can increase serotonin levels by 28% and dopamine levels by 31%. Additionally, research consistently indicates that massage therapy effectively manages symptoms of depression through multiple pathways:

• Neurotransmitter Modulation: Every stroke and pressure-point activation sends signals through your nervous system, triggering the release of mood-regulating chemicals that act like a natural antidepressant. 
• Stress Hormone Reduction: Massage significantly lowers cortisol levels, the stress hormone that SAD often exacerbates. Lower cortisol levels lead to reduced anxiety, better sleep, and improved immune function. 
• Circadian Rhythm Reset: Massage is particularly beneficial for those with SAD, as it helps rebalance the sleep-wake cycle through deep relaxation, which makes it easier for the body to respond to light therapy and other treatments.  

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a serious condition that affects many individuals each year, particularly during the darker months. Understanding its symptoms and underlying causes is essential for effective treatment. While traditional therapies such as light therapy and psychotherapy are commonly used, incorporating complementary approaches like massage therapy can significantly enhance overall well-being. If you or someone you know struggles with symptoms of SAD, seeking professional help and exploring a range of treatment options can pave the way toward a brighter and more balanced future.

Help support yourself or a loved one during the darker months with a massage! Whether you’re looking to relieve stress, ease muscle tension, or recharge, regular massage can help you embrace the season with renewed energy and well-being. 

A massage at Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts is a perfect gift to give or receive. As students near the end of their training and new graduates hone their skills, they are ready to provide massage for the public. These relaxing sessions are affordable. Gift certificates and monthly specials are available. 

Check the booking site for more information!“

Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more.” ~Melody Beattie