Introduction
Somatic Massage:
I have 15 years of experience offering Somatic Massage. Somatic Massage provides awareness of one’s own body through touch and movement. Individualized Sessions help clients identify and release patterns of stress, tension, and trauma. Malia uses a range of tools including: Fascia unwinding; Supported movement and assisted stretching; Light, mid and deep pressure tissue massage; Abdominal massage; Quiet, slow forms of touch that communicate with the body with gentleness and calm; and other methods to integrate shifts and changes. Every session is unique — responding to your body’s needs.
Location:
I am a co-founder and team member of Oshun Center, located in the Integrative Health Wing of Family Tree Clinic at 1919 Nicollet Avenue South in Minneapolis, MN. There are two parking lots, to the north of the building and at the church just across the street on Nicollet Avenue. More info about Oshun Center is at www.oshuncenter.org.
Covid Update:
I am fully vaccinated with boosters for Covid-19. I am currently seeing clients who are not actively experiencing symptoms and have not been exposed recently to someone known to have Covid-19. Proof of vaccination is not required. I will wear a N94+ mask during the entire session. Clients must wear a mask while entering and leaving sessions, due to Family Tree Clinic policy. During sessions your mask is optional. There is a HEPA air filter in the room. I am happy to answer any questions you have about Covid-safety before you receive your session. You may reach me through filling out this form.
Low-scent Space:
The massage studio I use, “Cedar Room”, is a low-scent space for those with environmental sensitivity. We request that clients refrain from wearing artificially scented products, or products containing lemongrass or citrus oils.
Preparing for your session:
Please arrive 5-10 minutes before your session so we can start right on time. There will be someone at the front desk to greet you and guide you to “Cedar Room” in the Integrative Care wing of Family Tree Clinic. There are several different waiting areas where you can settle and relax, draw tarot cards, journal, or enjoy a cup of tea. When it is your appointment time, Malia will find you and welcome you to the space. We can take 5-10 minutes to answer any questions, and check in about your intentions and preferences before beginning your session. There will be 5-10 minutes post-session to check in about your experiences and discuss any next steps or suggestions for integrating changes and continuing your somatic journey. For new clients, I can schedule a 15-minute phone call in advance of our session to answer questions and gather context about your intentions for your session.
More info about Somatic Massage: Sessions are done on a massage table, with clothes-off for mid to deep pressure massage using oils, or clothes-on for movement-based techniques, energy-work, and/or bodywork techniques with lighter pressure. You can let me know your preferences when we check in, on your intake form, or schedule a 15-minute phone call with me in advance. I use a wide range of techniques to help each client have a “conversation” with their body… listening and responding to the stories and messages embedded in one’s cells. Malia is experienced in trauma-informed care, and somatic release of emotions or experiences stored in the body. Somatic Massage can help with general relaxation; releasing tension; loosening “stuck” or disembodied areas; using visualization and creative associations to move and shift energy; and integrating changes.
Gift Certificates
Gift Certificates are available. Consider giving your loved ones a relaxing experience. Good for one year from the date issued. To order a Gift Certificate, please send an email to kochikaralove (at) gmail (dot) com, with the amount you’d like to donate, the recipient’s name and email, and any messages to include. I will reply within 1-2 business days with information on payment, and will confirm the Gift Certificate was sent. See this page for more information about my Sliding Scale: https://kochikara.com/rates/