It all began when I lived in Hong Kong. During my eighteen months there, I visited China on three separate occasions and it was there that I discovered many different forms of massage and bodywork. I began my studies in the history of bodywork. Throughout my schooling I learned that, in those cultures, while modern doctors are available to the people some still choose more traditional forms of medicine and healing.
During the late 1980's, I visited Thailand and became enchanted by the traditional healing arts. Unfortunately, at that time, there were limited places to learn the art of Thai massage. Then, during the early 1990's, I was happy to learn a trend had started which saw many Thai massage schools open their doors to individuals wanting to learn the art of massage.
By 1993, I had started making annual treks to Thailand. My studies have taken me to various schools in Bangkok and Chiang Mai and I also learned and worked with other private teachers. I have also had the pleasure of working as an assistant teacher with Asokananda, a highly regarded Thai massage master teacher and author. He conducts classes in a small hill tribe village north of Chiang Mai.
In addition to my training in Thai yoga massage, I have complimented my experience and knowledge with Traditional Thai Foot Reflexology and Vipassana meditation. Combining these different disciplines has allowed me to blend techniques and develop a trusted and effective healing technique. This has greatly benefited my massage practice as it allows me to be more mindful. I am able to focus on a more compassionate and caring approach.
In the last three years, I have developed a private practice. I have also provided my massage services at a wellness spa in downtown Vancouver. I give workshops in stress reduction and meditation and have hosted them across Canada since 1996.
I am an authorized teacher as recognized by the International Society of Traditional Thai Yoga Massage. I am currently teaching part-time at the West Coast College of Massage Therapy in New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada.
Vispassana Meditation
- 1993-1999
annual retreats at Wat Kowtham, Thailand - 2000-2003
annual retreats at Wat Suen Mok, Thailand
Since 1993, I have also trained in Swedish deep tissue massage.
Thai Massage Training Certificates
- 2000
Old Medicine Hospital, Beginners (60 hours) - 2001-2002
Sunshine Network with Asokanada, Advanced (270 hours) - 2003-2004
Sunshine Network with Asokanada, Teacher Training (360 hours) - 2003
Wat Po Traditional Medicine School, Bankok, Thailand, Foot Reflexology (40 hours) - 2004
Lek Chaiya Nerve Touch Therapy and Medicinal Herb Packs Preparation (60 hours) - 2004
Authorized Teacher with the Sunshine Network with Asokanada - 2004
Authorized Teacher as recognized by the International Society of Traditional Thai Yoga Massage
Many hours of private one on one training with various teachers, masters and ongoing practice.
