As a graduate of the Swedish Institute I have developed strong skills in both Western and Eastern styles of massage. My training has given me a solid knowledge base in the biosciences, and an emphasis on integration of these components into practical applications. The study of anatomy, physiology and pathology has provided me with the foundation needed to develop confident therapeutic skills. Before my decision to specialize in Thai Massage, I studied and practiced Swedish massage and have integrated advanced Western modalities such as medical massage, sports massage, myofascial techniques and trigger point therapy. Five-Element Shiatsu provides an Eastern perspective which emphasizes the flow of Qi, or energy, through the body. Eastern and Western modalities are incorporated into my work. Clinical strategies, assessment and ethics are also a part of my professional development. My initial goal upon beginning a career in massage therapy was to practice medical massage. In the last semester at Swedish Institute, we were asked to choose electives. During the first five weeks of the semester I studied Thai Massage. I will always remember exactly how my partner was stretching me when I decided that this modality is superior to all those that I had previously been exposed to. That same day I began to make plans to study in Thailand. If you are a fellow massage therapist who has an interest in Thai Massage, feel free to enquire in an email message about working together to extend this wonderful tradition. I periodically get requests for couples massage and would like to increase my options for practitioners to work with.

Zen Massage Center considers massage a necessity rather than a luxury and caters to "professionals who need massage to perform their jobs without pain and discomfort." The cozy 650-square-foot, three treatment room spa is located in Maywood, New Jersey. Interiors are Oriental-inspired with pastel yellow walls, Japanese tatami mats on the floor, and screens decorating the facility. The spa's focus is massage and offerings include deep-tissue, Swedish, sports, shiatsu, hot stone/raindrop, reflexology, and medical. Clients may also arrange home visits for massages as well. Lypossage, a body contouring and cellulite treatment is also available. New clients get a discount on their first one-hour massage.