Lukela | Licensed Massage Therapist

EDUCATION

Alexandar's School of Natural Therapeutics, 2016

SUMMARY

With over 25 years as a high level judo athlete, I understand the toll chronic pain takes on both the body and mind. Years of intense training left me searching for relief, but traditional healthcare providers only offered temporary fixes. Medications masked the pain without addressing the root cause. Chiropractic adjustments felt good but didn't create lasting change, physical therapy often took a one size fits all approach that ignored the complexity of my condition. I was told to "manage" my pain rather than overcome it, but I refused to accept that as my reality. Determined to find the real solutions, I spent years studying Somatic bodywork, structural integration, biomechanics and functional movement, discovering how to heal my body. Just as I had reclaimed my mobility and strength, a major car accident forced me to start the healing process again. This experience deepened my understanding of pain, recovery and the mind-body connections, reinforcing my belief that true healing requires addressing the body as an interconnected system, not just treating isolated symptoms.

EXPERIENCED WITH

Deep Tissue, Swedish/Relaxation, Myofascial Release, Sports Massage, Somatic Bodywork, Biomechanic movement and training, Lymphatic Drainage techniques, Psoas work, Migraine/Headache treatment, Plantar fasciitis, Injury/ Surgery Treatment, Reiki, Geriatric massage, Minor massage and working with those with special needs.

SUCCESS STORIES

A full time musician and real estate agent , suffered chronic pain from a severely compressed spine due to a surfing accident. He sought help from numerous physicians, underwent spinal injections in multiple vertebrae and found no lasting relief. What truly helped this individual was bodywork. Through consistent treatment, the client was able to surf, garden and perform gigs pain free.

WHAT DO YOU MOST APPRECIATE WHEN RECEIVING MASSAGE

I appreciate when the therapist is confident in their skills and education, listens well and communicates transparently, is highly intuitive and empathetic and delivers results.

WHAT KEEPS YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT MASSAGE

What drives me is the profound impact I've witnessed firsthand- Not just with my own healing journey but in the lives of my clients. There is deep satisfaction in helping someone break free from chronic pain or regaining mobility. Every person is unique and each session is an opportunity to apply my expertise in a way the brings lasting relief and restores function.