Massage Therapist Spotlight: Jamie McCurdy

Since the beginning, we here at Embody Wellness have prided ourselves on the quality of our massage therapists. We choose our therapists specifically for the effectiveness of their bodywork as well as for their professionalism and ethics as a therapist; it doesn’t hurt that they’re all amazing people, too!

So, please allow us to introduce Jamie McCurdy!

EW: How long have you been a Massage Therapist?

This year is my 5th year as a Massage Therapist.

EW: How long have you worked for Embody Wellness and what drew you or keeps you at EW?

I’ve been working at EW for about 3 years. I love the people who work here and the clients we attract!

EW: Where did you go to school, how many hours have you completed?

I went to the Kali Institute for Massage and Somatic Therapies here in Ventura. I’ve done over 500 hours of training there, learning techniques including Swedish and Thai Massage, Neuro Structural Bodywork, Cupping, Pregnancy Massage, to name a few..

EW: How do you continue your education now that you’re out of school?

I am constantly reading up on new techniques, looking at my anatomy books and websites, watching videos and, most importantly, getting worked on by my colleagues!

EW: How and/or when did you decide to become a Massage Therapist?

I decided to go to massage school during a major transition in my life. I was recently divorced, the future I thought was ahead of me had disappeared and I didn’t know what to do next. Massage brought me a sense of purpose that I had never felt before.

EW: Do you have any other certifications?

No, but I would like to study acupressure and Reiki next

EW: What style is your favorite type of massage/ bodywork to receive?

I love energy work. I’m highly sensitive to it and find that it brings me healing in physical, emotional and spiritual ways

EW: Do you receive massage/ bodywork regularly and why?

Yes! Not only is it essential to maintaining my body so that I can do this work, it’s the best way to learn!

EW: How would you describe your massage style, what can clients expect to receive during your session?

My style is a mix of corrective and relaxing. I bring techniques from all the modalities I’ve learned, incorporating Thai stretching and deeper techniques as needed. Massage does not need to hurt in order to be effective! Listening to the tissue and allowing it the time to let go is usually the most effective approach.

EW: What is your favorite style of massage/ bodywork to give?

I love all styles of massage! I’m partial to my prenatals; I love to honor my mamas-to-be! Most of my work is corrective, I enjoy the opportunity to try to determine what is the deeper cause of pain so that I can target the areas that will be the most effective at allowing the body to heal itself.

EW: What new styles/techniques are you interested in studying or plan to offer to your clients in the future?

I’m very interested in acupressure, studying the meridians has been fascinating and I would like to know more. Although I already do my own energy healing, I would like to hone that aspect of my work.

EW: What are the three top things you’d like to teach clients about what massage/bodywork can do?

Number 1: it doesn’t have to hurt to be effective! If you can breathe into it, great, but if it’s too much, say something!

Number 2: the more you communicate with your massage therapist, the better they can serve you.

Number 3: I am not the one healing you, I am merely attempting to help your body heal itself. Remember to breathe and focus on relaxing and releasing your muscles during your massage.

EW: What are some hobbies you are passionate about?

Hiking! Get out in nature, use your legs, move your body!

EW: Would you like to share some details about your family/home life?

I am recently engaged to the love of my life and we also just adopted a sweet little doggie named Gus. I’m looking forward to the next chapter in my life!

EW: Have you travelled to any exciting places recently/ at some point in your life?

One of my favorite places to visit is Big Sur. I love the coastal redwoods and breathtaking views, it is such a beautiful place.

Read Jamie's bio here, and request them the next time you call for an appointment!

Embody Wellness | 805-217-3307 | 3897 Market St. Ventura, CA 93003