Susan Athey, LMT
My path to becoming a massage therapist started in California in the 1990s. I had moved to San Diego from Midland, Michigan with a friend after high school and quickly fell in love with the “new age” lifestyle with all its crystals and essential oils. It was there with some local body workers that I started to learn about physical energy fields, massage, and healing – all with the glorious Pacific Ocean as my backdrop. It was magical and there was certainly nothing like that back home in Michigan! I was familiar with massage of course but not as a career, plus the idea of Eastern medicine and healing was always appealing to me so I knew massage school was my next step.
A couple of years later I returned home to Michigan, enrolled in Lansing Community College’s Massage Therapy program and began my massage therapy career. I later went on to complete a Physical Therapy Assisting program and enjoyed a 15 year career as both a massage therapist and PTA in California, Illinois, and Michigan before returning exclusively to massage, my original passion. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family, painting, writing, gardening, and beekeeping.
What to Expect
If you’ve never received a massage before, here’s a few things to expect.
- You’ll be emailed an intake form to help me know what kind of outcome you’re looking for or special concerns you would like addressed.
- After arriving and getting settled in, I will step out to let you disrobe (underwear is optional).
- Masks are optional. I am vaccinated and will wear a mask if you would like. I disinfect the entire room after each massage.
- The room will be darkened, soft music will be played and the table will be heated.
- Talking is optional – whatever is comfortable for you.
Follow-Up Instructions
I do provide some simple stretches for people dealing with injuries or persistent problem areas.
- Increase your water intake for the first 48 hours after the massage.
- If you have any soreness, it may help to take a hot bath with Epsom salt.
- I recommend at least one massage per month.