Get to know: Julia!

Massage Therapist

Yoga practitioner & teacher

At Active Holistic Therapy, we believe that a strong, caring team is at the heart of exceptional massage therapy. Each of our therapists brings unique skills, passions, and personalities to the table, helping create a warm, welcoming space for every client. In this special “get to know you” post, we’re excited to introduce you to one of our dedicated therapists, Julia! Through a Q&A, you'll get a glimpse into her journey, skillset and what she loves most about helping others through massage therapy. Enjoy learning a bit more about the amazing people behind your care at Active Holistic Therapy!

What led to your decision to become a massage therapist?

I started Iyengar yoga practice in 2001, and after my first class I was so impressed by its profound effects and knew I was going to teach. I was working in corporate America and started teaching yoga in 2004. After a few years of working, teaching and attending teacher trainings I felt that I needed a change in my career and work directly with people, helping them in their healing journeys. Having had excellent results from massages, I thought that becoming a massage therapist will be complimentary to being a yoga teacher. 

Can you tell us a bit about your training and any special certifications you hold?

I trained at Lakeside School of Massage in Milwaukee, WI in 2006-2007. I am a certified massage therapist with trainings in myofascial release techniques, trigger point release, neuromuscular techniques, cupping, prenatal massage to name a few.

How would you describe your approach to massage therapy?

I'd describe it as an informed and educational approach. I observe my client's gait, foot placement, pelvic tilt, head carriage, postural habits. I ask a lot of questions before our session and during. I am there for my clients not only to help them relieve their symptoms, but get to the root cause and see how through our session, movement, self-massage they can move toward living with less pain and more energy.

Are there any particular techniques or styles you specialize in?

Deep tissue, myofascial release and neuromuscular techniques are my favorite. 

What’s something you think clients should know about massage therapy that they might not already?

What a great question. I would say that while a good massage therapist can do wonders for you, self-care is and should be everyone's priority. Whether it's mild exercising, yoga, walking, meditation, healthier food choices.  

What is your favorite part of connecting with clients, and what do you hope they take away from each session?

The educator in me loves giving my clients homework. Just a few ideas of self-massage, usually SCMs, some simple stretches, anything to get them through until our next session. I love watching people's facial expressions change between the time they walked into the office and the time they leave. There's always a sense of relief, joy, and gratitude.  

Do you have any routines or hobbies that help you stay balanced and focused?

My yoga practice is my best hobby. I have a dedicated home practice and study under guidance of two teachers with whom I started studying in Boston, MA in 2009. One of them, my mentor, moved to St. Pete, FL and I see her once a month in person.

Is there a quote or philosophy that motivates or guides you in your work?

Yoga Sutra II.16 "The pains which are yet to come can be and are to be avoided". These may be physical, emotional, mental, spiritual pains. It's what we do now (self-care, massage, yoga, meditation) which will prepare us to endure any sort of dis-ease.

What’s one thing you wish more clients would do to prepare or make the most out of their massage sessions?

Please move more. Any kind of mindful physical activity - walking, jogging, dancing, cycling, yoga. Best way to conquer stiffness, tightness and pain as through movement.    

What's your favorite way to spend your free time?

Family time, reading, yoga, being by the ocean. 

If you’d like to book with Julia, click here!

You can follow Julia on Instagram @yoga_with_julia_fl or find her yoga classes on her website www.yogawithjulia.net