Kathy Brock's interest in massage therapy began a decade ago, but the mother of four determined heading back to school was just not feasible.
When a licensed massage therapist offered tutelage with videos, books and hands-on training, she gladly accepted.
Husband Kirk became her "lab rat" - and subsequent architect/contractor for Quiet Pines Massage "headquarters."
"My way of learning is hands on," she said. "This is a job I absolutely enjoy." Her flexible on-call and on-site appointment schedule is a reflection of her dedication.
Brock, who performs relaxation massages, asks the client what he/she wants from the massage, relief from gardening aches, for example.
ADVERTISEMENT
Massage - or bodywork treatments - can be a powerful ally to a healthcare regimen.
Experts estimate up to 90 percent of disease is stress related. And stress adds to the aging factor. While eliminating anxiety and stress in today's fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can help to manage stress.
Long, flowing strokes are used to relax the client, Brock explains, relieving the aches and pains associated with everyday stress.
Massage relaxes the body, calms the nervous system loosens tight muscles and improves skin tone and circulation.
Massage therapy relieves tired, aching muscles while improving muscle tone and posture. Endorphins are released, which serve as natural painkillers.
And massage adds quality to sleep.
She advises drinking plenty of water after the massage to flush out the toxins that have been released during massage.
"And move slowly for awhile to savor the relaxed feeling in your body," she advises.
ADVERTISEMENT
The emotional balance massage provides can often be as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.
Massage should be a comfortable experience, Brock said. Many of her clients are uncomfortable with the idea of undressing, so she leaves the disrobing decision up to the individual.
"I'm concerned with the number of people who've never had a massage," she said of the rejuvenating, therapeutic - and luxurious bodywork.
Services available include a 30-minute chair massage, with no undressing necessary, and 30-minute and 60-minute table massages.
Residential and commercial onsite chair massages are available.
Quiet Pines Massage is located 7.5 miles north of Park Rapids at 24295 Highway 71.
She may be reached at 255-0977 or 732-9727.
