• Where are you located? Chicago, Illinois, USA
  • What kind of massage do you do? The massage work I offer is a culmination of all the I have learned in the past 14+ years of being in the massage industry. I work with the nervous system first to help reduce the effects stress and anxiety can have on the body and mind. My work is mindful, supportive and never aggressive. I offer trauma-specific bodywork sessions, but all of my bodywork sessions are trauma-informed. Every single one. This goes for all my work: SE, Bodywork & Yoga. This means that I work very hard to hold space that will feel safe for all folx, and to avoid potential re-traumatization - whether or not I know about a person's trauma history. 
    • Trauma-specific sessions are for folx who are in the earlier stages of their trauma healing process, have never had a massage, or are new to safe, healing touch. Essentially, anyone who may not be ready for what might look more like a classic massage in certain respects (disrobed, under sheets, using oil,). A Trauma-Specific session is done fully clothed in the style of Thai Massage or Shiatsu and often begins off the table with some gentle exercises in consent and communication. 
    • If you choose to book a 60 or 90 Minute Bodywork session: These sessions are all still trauma-informed meaning consent, communication, collaboration & compassion are the foundation of everything I do. Massage sessions with me may include: myofascial release, sports massage, clinical massage, Swedish & deep tissue, Reiki, trigger point work, Lomilomi techniques, Thai massage techniques, Sankalpa / intention setting, SE techniques, breath work & visualization techniques. You will always be included in the decision making process creating a session that is customized and unique to you!
  • How much do your sessions cost? ​ Bodywork pricing can be found on Five Point’s website: https://www.fivepointholistichealth.com/
  • Do you offer discounts / sliding scale? Five Point offers tiered pricing and also session packages to reduce the cost of individual sessions.
  • Do you do in-home massage or travel for massage? At this time I am not taking on new in-home clients.
  • What are your cancellation policies? I extend the courtesy of a first time free pass in the event of a late cancellation. After the first time free pass is extended, you will be charged 50% of service price for cancellations within 24 hours. No shows are charged 100% of the session. True emergencies, such as illness, are exceptions as long as I am notified no less than 4 hours before the scheduled session.!
  • Where do you teach yoga? I am currently taking a break from teaching group lessons. For private lessons please email natalie@fivepointholistic.com​
  • What kind of products/oil do you use? In bodywork sessions I use Santa Barbara unscented massage cream which is a blend of coconut oil, olive oil & beeswax and I also use pure jojoba oil which is hypoallergenic.
  • Do you offer private yoga lessons? Absolutely. Send me an email and we will talk about what you are looking for. 
  • What is Somatic Experiencing®? I am so glad you asked!! The Somatic Experiencing® method is a body-oriented approach to the healing of trauma and other stress disorders. It is the life’s work of Dr. Peter A. Levine. Learn more about SE™ HERE 
  • Do you offer Somatic Experiencing® in sessions? ​I am currently enrolled in the Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute's 3 year professional training program and am able to integrate SE™ techniques into my work.
  • What should I wear? 
    • Massage clients: you are welcome to wear whatever you like to your appointment. For your session you will be invited to disrobe to your comfort level. Throughout your massage you will be resting cozily, underneath a full sheet & blanket.
    • Trauma-specific massage clients: please bring or wear comfy clothing (think t-shirt & sweat pants) for your sessions as they are primarily done fully clothed in the style of Thai Massage or Shiatsu. Please contact me with any questions.​
    • Yoga students: please wear whatever you feel comfortable sitting, standing, moving, stretching & resting in. Feel free to bring a cozy pair of socks for meditation, savasana & restorative practices. Your comfort is key.
  • This is my first time receiving bodywork, what should I expect? When you come in for a massage, we will spend some time at the start of the session chatting about the reasons for your visit, including intentions, past injuries, current areas of discomfort, etc. Based on what we talk about you & I will create and tailor a session especially for you. I will share my perspective & thoughts about how to proceed with your treatment after which I will confirm that you are comfortable with this plan and obtain your consent. When it is time for your session to begin I will step out of the room to wash my hands & forearms. While I am out of the room you will have enough time to undress to your comfort level, and lay underneath the table linens. I will knock before coming back in. After I return I will check in with you to make sure you are comfortable on the table (ie the temperature, the face cradle positioning, etc). I will also invite you to tune into your breath and the feeling of your body resting on the table. During your massage I will check in with you periodically to make sure you are comfortable and enjoying the pressure. You are welcome to let me know at any time if you would like adjustments to pressure or table heat and to share any questions or concerns if they arise. After your massage, I will discuss what to expect in the few days following your session, and will follow up with you in an email one to two days later to see how you are feeling, post-massage. If at any time you feel discomfort, I encourage you to share any thoughts, feelings, or experiences. Our work together is a collaboration. Communication is key for creating productive, safe and powerful sessions.
  • ​How should I prepare for my massage? Please do your best to hydrate and make sure that you have showered somewhat recently. Otherwise, come as you are and prepare to be pampered and supported.
  • Oops, I didn't shave my legs! This is not a problem at all! Body hair is natural and does not offend me in the least. I promise that I will not be surprised, offended or put off by unshaven legs, underarms or faces. This also goes for dry skin / feet, moles, freckles, etc! Your human body is welcome here.
  • How often do you suggest I get a massage? It varies person to person, but depending on your intentions & goals, as regular as your schedule and budget allows. Once a week or once a month are common options for folx looking to create change that is lasting. Our nervous system and muscles have memory, and can easily return to familiar patterns. Re-educating the body takes time, commitment and consistency.
  • What if I fall asleep during my massage or even in yoga class? Falling asleep in session is the ultimate compliment. It also means you and your body feel supported, safe and comfortable which all help to facilitate regulation and deeper healing. 
  • Can I talk during my massage session? Sometimes, especially when we first arrive on the table, we feel like we just need to talk. If that is your truth, I am here to support you . So, if you need a moment to share what's on your mind, I will be happy to hold space for that. That being said, it is helpful to remember that a HUGE benefit of massage is when we settle into the "relaxation zone." That powerful state between asleep and awake where so much integration, processing and healing take place. (It really is where the magic happens!) It is almost impossible to get into that powerful place when we are talking. All that said, should questions or concerns arise during your session, or if you experience discomfort at anytime, please communicate that with me.
  • How should I care for myself post-massage? Please remember to drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is so important for feeling comfortable in our bodies. It is helpful to rest and be gentle with your body 24-48 hours after your session. Vigorous activities and workouts that are engaged in too soon after a massage run the risk of injury. Instead of heavy workouts or intense activities, spend time enjoying the results of your session; observe how the work is landing in your body and mind. Do things that are fun and relaxing. Eat your favorite foods and orient towards pleasure and beauty.