Thoughts on Massage, Global Grief, and Overwhelm During the Holidays

As we approach the time of year where gift-giving is emphasized, I feel strange talking about sales and purchasing things when there is so much going on globally that makes consumerism feel empty.  Perhaps your hearts at times, feel heavy like my own, and overwhelm ebbs and flows, while you simultaneously look forward to gathering with loved ones and the cheer that the holidays can bring. I want to acknowledge the validity of both of these feelings and their coexistence together.

Our lives are an interconnected and collective experience. Witnessing the sorrows of the world and holding space for our grief along with the beauty and joy that are present is important. Deciding how we are to educate ourselves, engage in action, and connect with others to make a difference is important. As I consider ways in which I can contribute to the whole, one way is through my work. Touch is so important to human nervous systems--it  connects us to our bodies and helps us feel connected to others. It also lowers stress hormones, helps us sleep, reduces pain and nourishes us mentally and physically. This nourishment and grounding are much needed in this time and it brings me great joy to be able to assist in this process. 

As 2024 approaches, I continue to study nervous system regulation techniques and to gather tools to assist clients with nervous system regulation on and off the massage table. It's my hope to help clients connect more deeply to their bodies and to help everyone feel more grounded as they face the challenges of this world and move through life.

Wishing you peace, love and joy always.

~Karyna

Welcome Sheila!

Sole Purpose Massage is excited to welcome Sheila to our practice. Sheila is a graduate of Lakeside School of Massage Therapy and has been practicing massage for 19 years. She has a breath of massage experience and has studied within both the SAMBA and DeepFeet branches of Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage.

Her compassionate, intuitive style combines both relaxation and therapeutic work best described as medium deep tissue with fluidity.

You can book with Sheila on Saturdays and Sundays beginning on May 27th.

Grow with Us! Sole Purpose Massage is Hiring

Sole Purpose Massage is growing and we’re looking for a part-time massage therapist to join us! Let us take care of all the marketing, scheduling and studio expenses so that you can focus on doing massage in a low-drama, supportive environment.

About Sole Purpose Massage: We are Bend’s only massage studio specializing in Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage. We are primarily a therapeutic massage studio, but we also give clients the best of both worlds, with massages that get results and leave them feeling relaxed and nurtured. Each massage is as unique as the client and may incorporate elements of barefoot massage, trigger point therapy, neuromuscular work, myofascial release techniques, Thai stretching, hot stones, or cupping and gua sha. 

The owner/lead therapist at Sole Purpose Massage is an Ashiastu DeepFeet certified instructor and can provide CE’s through in person classes, refersher courses, and additional training if needed.

We are looking for someone who is skilled, creative, and comfortable providing treatment based massage that also feels good. The ideal candidate will have a desire to learn Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage, but a solid combination of other massage modalities and techniques is desirable and can substitute for the Ashiatsu training. An in depth knowledge of the body and a creative and holistic approach to treatment is desired, along with a thorough knowledge of several massage modalities. Modalities could include any of the following and other specialties the practitioner may have: Swedish, deep tissue, sports, Thai, NMT, SARGA, etc.

Job Overview

Perform a thorough intake, include assessment if needed, perform therapeutic massage, keep accurate client notes, and take payments.

The ideal candidate must possess excellent communication skills, must hold and maintain a current state license, and have their own liability insurance. 

Work is part-time; Up to three full days a week, although some half days are also possible.


General Responsibilities

∙Be on time for your shift, prompt with each appointment and perform services within the appropriate time allotted for the service.

∙Properly care for equipment and use proper amounts of product.

∙Uphold the standards of sanitation and sterilization as directed by law.

∙Perform prep work, & properly clean and restock room as required.

∙Handle client’s questions and concerns professionally and courteously.

∙Attend support training and staff meetings as needed.


Job Qualifications

∙High school diploma or equivalent.

∙Must hold and maintain a current Oregon massage license.

∙Must be available to work agreed upon hours, to be determined during interview process.

∙Must possess the ability to work without direct supervision.

∙Insurance billing experience is not required but is desirable.


Experience

∙Should be trained in some of the following modalities: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Hot Stones, Trigger Point Therapy, Shiatsu, Sports Massage, Thai Massage, Prenatal Massage, or Reiki. (Other modalities not listed here are also desirable.)

∙Must have excellent communication and listening skills, as well as basic computer knowledge.

∙At least one year of massage experience is preferred. 


Compensation

Compensation will be dependent on skills and experience, but will be in the range of $45-60 per massage hour plus tips. 

To apply: Email questions or your cover letter and resume to wellness@solepurposemassage.com.

Massage Rates for 2023

As of January 1, 2023 our massage rates are increasing. Pre purchased package prices and gift certificates will be honored through 2023.

30 minutes/$65
60 minutes/$100
75 minutes/$120
90 minutes/$140


Important Changes to our Packages
Our package offerings are changing slightly this year. Massages purchased in bulk (3 or more) will now be discounted by $10 for each massage. Additionally, these packages will only be available for purchase through January 2023 and must be used within the 2023 calendar year. If you would like to take advantage of this discount, we recommend purchasing your packages in advance for the year. Packages may be used for individual appointments or as a way to share massage with friends or family members by redeeming one of your packaged massages as a gift certificate.

2023 Package Pricing, Available Through January 31, 2023.

60 minute 3-Pack: $270
75 minute 3-Pack: $330
90 minute 3-Pack: $390

Fall 2020 Newsletter

To view this post with images: https://mailchi.mp/a104a417c203/fall2019news-4151145

Fall News + 2021 Preview

Fall is one of my favorite times of the year. There is something so invigorating about the crisp, cool air, and the colorful leaves everywhere. It feels like a fresh start after the heat and dryness of summer. I guess it is a start, of sorts, as we say farewell to long hours of daylight and hello to the dark time of year. Fall is a time of transition and our bodies feel that shift deeply. Maybe your joints ache a little more, or maybe you need a little more rest. Honor what your body is asking for during the changing seasons. Enjoy a warm meal, an extra nap here and there, or book some nurturing time in the warm infrared sauna and on our massage table.

Kelsey and I hope to see you soon!

~Karyna

Read on for information on changes on the horizon in 2021, a special winter massage offering, and my heartfelt thanks! ♥


FIRST THINGS FIRST: A QUICK AND HEARTFELT THANKS

This year has been a wild one on many levels! Besides more time spent outside, one silver lining has been gaining clarity about the things that are important to me going forward: this work, nurturing and supporting community, and a broader view of how I want to support your wellness are a few things that are guiding me forward into 2021.

Many of you supported me during the shut down by purchasing massage packages, and many of you supported me by returning as clients when I was able to reopen, and even more of you have supported me with your kind words, encouragement, and check-ins. From the bottom of my heart, thank you!

In such an uncertain time, when many small businesses have closed or are struggling, your support means the world to me. I'm excited to continue providing some of the best massage therapy services in Central Oregon, and in 2021, expanding my wellness offerings. (More on this below!)


WHAT'S NEW FOR THE HOLIDAYS?

If you are wondering what to get that special person on your list, we'll be offering a 'Winter Warm Up' treatment and gift certificate just in time for holiday gift giving. The Winter Warm Up is the perfect remedy for the dark, cold days of winter. It includes a 15-minute infrared sauna treatment along with an hour massage utilizing hot stones and a spirit-lifting Silver Fir infused massage oil (handmade by yours truly).

Shop locally from home, stay safe, and order massage gift certificates for everyone one your list this year. EVERYONE needs a massage right now. I promise!

Buy Gift Certificates or Book Online


SAUNAS: MORE THAN JUST A GOOD SWEAT

Many of you have been asking me about the health benefits of infrared saunas, so I thought this article deserved a replay. 

Saunas and heat therapy have been used for thousands of years by various cultures around the world, but infrared saunas are a more modern invention. Recent research shows heart-healthy, pain-reducing, life-extending benefits of infrared saunas. The appeal of saunas in general is that they cause reactions similar to those elicited by moderate exercise, such as vigorous sweating and increased heart rate. An infrared sauna produces these results at lower temperatures than does a regular sauna, which makes it accessible to people who can't tolerate the heat of a conventional sauna.

Several studies have looked at using infrared saunas in the treatment of chronic health problems, such as high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, dementia and Alzheimer's disease, headache, type 2 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, and found some evidence of benefit. (Mayo Clinic Website). Pain reduction, joint and muscle support, and cardiovascular healing are currently where infrared saunas are gaining the most attention. They’re also believed to have a parasympathetic healing effect, which means they help the body handle stress better.

What does that mean for you? Saunas are a great compliment to massage. Now, when you book an appointment you can choose a massage and sauna combo. Choose either a 15 or 30 minute sauna session before your massage, bring your own towel, swimsuit, and a water bottle. Just look for the Massage + Sauna service when you book online.


2021 Preview
For several years, I've been expanding my studies with particular interests in mindfulness and restorative movement. During 2020, ideas have started to take shape around new offerings that I can provide for clients during this transitional time.

As a massage therapist, my focus has been on the body, and that is still the lens through which I continue to focus and offer this additional work. But there are many other things I feel called to share for the greater good. Practices that I have found most helpful for my overall well-being include a regular mindfulness/meditation practice, breathwork, daily time outside in nature, journaling, connecting to the seasons, setting aside time for creative expression, and the support of plant medicines in the form of tinctures, flower essences, and Chinese herbal formulas. These are self-care practices and studies that have benefited me and I share them, not as an expert, but as a guide to encourage your own exploration and vitality.

Additional Offerings Forthcoming in 2021:

  • Mindful Movement + Self-Care Classes Online

  • Monthly Self-Care (Massage + Wellness) Membership Options

  • Body Care Product Line Launch (Herbal salves, oils, and scrubs for self-care at home and in the massage office.)

  • Seasonal Living Explorations for Women (Aligning our bodies with the seasons and moon cycles.)

I look forward to integrating these offerings into my practice over the course of the next year and hope many of you will enjoy them too! Please reach out if you have any questions or would like additional information.


Self-Care Tool Box

Resources for clients to explore, focusing on new ways of thinking about self-care and wellness.

Virtual Breathwork Classes in Bend with Tanya of Amulette Studios

Dermatologists Top Tips for Relieving Dry Skin

Personal Trainer JessBFit
I love her approach of keeping fitness fun and meeting clients where they are.

Are Infrared Saunas Healthy?

Get Creative While Sitting
Four floor positions for increased mobility while sitting.

COVID-19: Managing Infection Risks During Massage Care

At Sole Purpose Massage, we’re doing all we can to minimize the risks of transmission of COVID-19 during massage. While risk cannot be completely eliminated, we exceed all state and federal recommendations and want to share what we’re doing with you.

  • Face masks are required for clients and therapists during the session. Clients do not have to wear masks while face down, but are required to wear them while face up.

  • Scrub tops are worn and changed between clients.

  • We follow rigorous sanitation protocols.

    We clean and disinfect all surfaces used by the client and therapist between each massage session, paying special attention to the face cradle area and the table. We spray all surfaces with a disinfecting spray, and allow the allotted time to pass before wiping things down. The entire office is thoroughly cleaned daily. We use UV light in addition to a soap and water wash to sterilize our tools and our hot towels.

  • We practice rigorous personal hygiene.
    We wash our hands (and feet, because we perform Ashiatsu) before and after each client. We also use hand sanitizer as needed.

  • Improved office ventilation had been added.

    During the warmer months, we have added a window fan to increase the circulation of fresh air from outside.

  • HEPA air purification has been added.

    We’ve also installed a highly efficient HEPA air purifier to clean the office air. While research into the use of air purifiers in decreasing the risk of Coronavirus is pending, we believe that it shows promise and an additional layer of protection can’t hurt. Plus it’s great for those with seasonal allergies.

  • Touchless payment options are available.

  • We offer personal, individual treatment space.
    We are a small practice with no public access. We operate by appointment only, which means that only you and your therapist are in the massage office during your appointment. And there are only two other appointments on the same day as yours.

  • Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage provides more distance between the client and the therapist. It’s not exactly 6 feet, but compared to other forms of massage therapy, Ashiatsu does provide some distancing between the therapist and the client.

Sole Purpose Massage Will Reopen May 17th

Whew! This has been a long eight weeks. Some of you probably feel the truth of that physically, but no matter your physical circumstances during this global pandemic, we've all been on a wild, unpredictable, emotional ride. I feel changed in ways I don't yet fully understand, but I feel sure that the lessons will start to reveal themselves as our community takes its first baby steps back towards what used to be normal life.
As part of its Phase I reopening plan, the State of Oregon has issued new protocols for massage therapists to implement in order to reopen. In addition, I will be shifting to a lighter schedule during this initial opening, seeing a maximum of three clients in a day instead of four. Two hour massages will not be available during June. I am limiting massage times to 90 minutes maximum. A summary is included below:

  • Face masks are recommended for massage while you are face up. I will require clients to wear masks while lying face up and ask that you bring your own mask to your appointment.

  • There will be COVID-19 screening questions texted to you prior to your appointment which you must answer before coming in.

  • Each client must sign an updated waiver before receiving massage services.

  • There will be implementation of increased sanitization measures between clients (UV-C disinfecting, cleaning of all common surfaces, changing clothes.)

  • Clients are encouraged to bring their own water bottles for use after massage.

  • There will not be any charges for same-day cancellations.

I realize that these changes may be a little uncomfortable at first, but please keep in mind that nothing lasts forever. I am committed to providing massage as a means to help us navigate a highly stressful and for some, isolated time. I believe that massage is one of the best things for our health and sense of well-being, but I also want to mitigate some of the risk that is inherent in working closely with individuals during a contagious respiratory pandemic. My main goal in implementing these protocols is for us to keep each other as safe as possible should you choose to come in for massage. In doing this, I hope that Deschutes County's COVID cases will continue to decrease and that we'll soon be able to experience more of the people and things we enjoy in public spaces.

Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
~Karyna
 

Closed Until Further Notice

To fight the rapid spread of the Corona Virus, COVID-19, massage providers have been ordered to close our businesses immediately. Today, Governor Kate Brown issued Executive Order 20-12, directing everyone in Oregon to stay at home to the maximum extent possible and adding massage therapists to the list of businesses that will be temporarily closed to stem the spread of COVID-19 in Oregon. The order is effective immediately, and remains in effect until ended by the Governor.

For now we are canceling appointments through April 4th. If the Governor lifts the order before that time, we’ll be in touch with you via email. If you have a massage scheduled during this time, you do not need to cancel. We will be calling you to reschedule your appointment.

I look forward to the day when Sole Purpose Massage can begin providing pain and stress relief to you again.

Wishing you an abundance of wellness always,

Karyn

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Covid-19 Updates & Community Support 3/18/20

Dear Friends,

This global pandemic is a stressful and trying time for all of us. While I want to continue to care for each of you, I also want to do my part in flattening the curve and protecting our community. Although I feel that my office is a low-risk environment, with a maximum of two to four people visiting per day, and strong sanitation measures in place, I want to take this week to evaluate the situation, and see if there are ways to make it even safer. Although it saddens me to do this, I am canceling my appointments for the week of 3/18/20 through 3/24/20. I will reevaluate the situation next Monday and make a decision for the following week(s). Updates will be posted on my website at solepurposemassage.com and on my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/solepurposemassage If you have an appointment currently scheduled during these times, I'll be reaching out personally to let you know what's happening.

As you know, massage is my passion and the work that I want to be doing in this world. Deciding to close my office for week or more is the hardest decision I have had to make regarding my business. The unknown duration of this pandemic makes it hard to plan and I appreciate your patience and understanding while we all navigate these uncharted waters together.

If you would like to continue to support my small business during this time, purchasing gift certificates or a 3-pack of massages would be an easy way to do this. With 3-packs, you can purchase your massages in advance, at a discount, and have credits to use at a later date. I am also considering a monthly membership option that would include sauna use and priority booking once things get back to a more normal way of being. If I decide this is an option, you'll receive details in a future email.

I'll also post some wellness and self-care resources below. Please reach out with any questions, words of encouragement, or concerns. I truly believe that coming together as a community to support each other is the way that we'll weather this storm the best. Please let me know if there are any additional ways I can be in support of you.


Wishing you an abundance of wellness always,

Karyn

Self-Care Tool Box

Community: Pandemic Partners of Bend - A Facebook group offering direct support to those in our community.

Immunity: Herbs to Support the Immune System

Stress Relief:
Online Yoga Classes at The Yoga Lab or Tula Movement Arts

Sleep: Sleep expert Shawn Stevenson helps kick off a new season of Move Your DNA with Katy Bowman, delivering three great tips you can use to improve your sleep life.

Find Your Holiday Cheer Right Here!

If you are wondering what to get that special person on your list, we'll be offering a 'Winter Warm Up' treatment and gift certificate just in time for holiday gift giving. The Winter Warm Up is a perfect way to introduce a loved-one to barefoot massage and includes a 15-minute infrared sauna treatment along with a half-hour massage utilizing hot stones and a special vanilla-cardamom infused massage oil, all for $60.

For Small Business Saturday (November 30), all Sauna + Massage Combo gift cards and pre-paid Sauna + Massage appointments booked online that day will be discounted.

We want to help make your gift giving easy and stress free this year!

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Coming Soon To TULA Movement Arts: Deep Chill

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Join Proud Peacock Yoga and Sole Purpose Massage on August 23rd, for Deep Chill, a restorative yoga + massage experience. This 90 minute practice is designed to nourish and deeply restore your body and mind. Deep Chill involves resting in supported yoga poses while receiving gentle massage to further relax and open the body. Deep Chill creates a container for each person to experience deep, rejuvenating rest, so that they can go back into the world feeling whole. Visit TULA’s website to register.

When:Friday, August 23rd from 6:00 to 7:30pm

Cost: $40

Where: Tula Movement Arts: 2797 NW Clearwater Drive in their new Suite 500 space

Registration is limited to ten people!

A little bit about us: Nicole Baumann is a 500 hour RYT and proprietress of Proud Peacock Yoga. She teaches weekly at the Yoga Lab, leads chair yoga classes in Bend, and combines her love of music and movement by teaching yoga at music festivals throughout Oregon. Karyn Verzwyvelt is Bend’s barefoot massage specialist, and has grown a dedicated following of clients at her practice, Sole Purpose Massage. She has spent the last six years focusing on combining therapeutic massage techniques with her passion for barefoot massage modalities. She continues to add to her therapeutic tool box by studying plant folk medicine and restorative movement therapies.
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For registrants: Please make sure to wear tight fitting yoga or athletic clothing such as a tank top or T-shirt, with a warmer layer such as a cardigan for warmth. We also recommend wearing socks to keep your feet cozy! Additionally, we’ll be sending each participant a health related intake form. Please fill it out and email it back to us before class so we can ask you any questions about your intake privately before the class.

We look forward to sharing a relaxing and restorative experience with you!

Taking Care of the Men in Our Lives with Massage

June 10th kicks off Men’s Health Week—a weeklong celebration leading up to Father’s Day that promotes healthy lifestyle choices for the men in our lives. If you’re looking for a way to encourage your Dad/partner/husband this year, we offer an easy, convenient solution to introduce him to the healing power of regular massage. It’s been proven to help with sleep, alleviate anxiety, depression, hypertension and other common aches and pains, so why not let us help?

Purchase a gift certificate for a massage through our website, and let Dad experience firsthand how it can improve his life for many years to come!

Coming Soon To Life.Love.Yoga in Sisters: Deep Chill

It’s finally happening! On June 15th Proud Peacock Yoga and Sole Purpose Massage are teaming up for our first Deep Chill yoga + massage class. This 90 minute class is designed to nourish and deeply restore your body and mind. Deep Chill involves resting in supported yoga poses while receiving gentle massage to further relax and open the body. Visit Life.Love.Yoga to register.

When: Saturday, June 15th from 6:30-8pm

Cost: $40

Space is limited to ten people!

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Welcome, Kelsey!

Sole Purpose Massage is excited to welcome Kelsey to our practice. Kelsey is a graduate of the Ashland Institute of Massage. Her passion for bodywork stems from her own healing experience of the effects massage therapy has on performance and injury repair.  She enjoys helping others feel better in their bodies and believes receiving massage is fundamental to achieving balance, health and happiness. 

During sessions she blends a variety of techniques such as Ashiatsu barefoot massage, Myofascial therapy, Swedish massage, Deep Tissue massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, Thai massage and cupping. Kelsey emphasizes her love for Ashiatsu and the ability it has to decrease pain while promoting deep relaxation and rejuvenation.  Kelsey aims to create the most optimum level of care for each client as she possibly can.

During her free time she enjoys hiking with her husband and dog, practicing yoga, swimming and cruising around on the SUP board.

You can book with Kelsey on Sundays and Tuesdays beginning on February 12th.

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New Yoga + Massage Class Announced—Deep Chill

Join Nicole Baumann, RYT 500 and Karyn Verzwyvelt, LMT for a restorative yoga and massage class that will deeply relax your body and mind. Join us for Deep Chill!

This 75 minute hands on workshop will involve resting in supported yoga poses while receiving gentle massage to further relax and open the body. There are only five spaces in this workshop so reserve yours by emailing karynvlmt@gmail.com.

Cost: $35 per person

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Healing Plantar Fasciitis--Resources

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I'm not sure why, but as the season changed and fall settled in, so did a lot of plantar fasciitis (PF). I'm seeing several clients who are dealing with this problem and hearing about many more friends and family who also are suffering.  The causes can be complex and treatment requires a willingness to experiment with treatments to find out what is effective for you, followed by consistency. The good news is, if given proper treatment and time, your body will heal.

With that in mind, here are a few resources you may want to check out for yourself if you are suffering from plantar fasciitis.
Katy Says...Plantar Fasciitis & Tight Hams (A great blog with links to exercises and a book by my favorite biomechanist.)

Plantar Fasciitis--Prevention, Treatment, & Healing Techniques This blog is a huge informational resource for the curious.

Remember to stay curious and consistent. Find out what works best for you by trial and elimination, try new therapies for at least 5-7 days and observe any changes before moving on to the next thing. Good luck!

Sole Purpose Massage Owner Featured as DeepFeet Graduate of the Month

DeepFeet is an Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage training and certification organization and in November 2017 they honored me as their Graduate of the Month. "We are extremely proud to announce our November graduate of the month: Karyn Verzwyvelt from Sole Purpose Massage."

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Karyn lives in Bend, Oregon where she loves to garden, explore the outdoors and massage with her feet! She has a thriving practice named Sole Purpose Massage where she pushes the envelope with her Ashiatsu skills. Karyn works on many athletic clients and has created some innovative approaches to barefoot massage that are beyond any training she has learned in class, she's a truly one of a kind!

Thanks Karyn for showing your awesomeness and
stepping up in your career!

Learn more about Karyn's journey: http://www.deepfeet.com/deepfeet-alumni/grad-of-the-month/