NICE TO MEET YOU!
Hi! I'm Dara,
licensed massage therapist and founder of Peace & Quiet Therapeutic Massage.
I graduated in 2008 from Southeastern School of Neuromuscular and Massage Therapy in Jacksonville, FL. This is truly my life's purpose.
I started Peace & Quiet Therapeutic Massage because throughout my fourth pregnancy I couldn't find anywhere to get a massage. I had three other kids and worked so my time was limited and I could never get in before the massage studios closed and definitely no same day appointments.
My hectic schedule just didn't allow space for me to plan ahead, schedule an appointment and find a sitter. I was stuck with franchises and each one treated me like I was fragile. As if any wrong movement of their hands would send me into labor right there. I would leave needing a massage AFTER my massage.
Now that you've found me you have become a part of my dream. Peace & Quiet Therapeutic Massage is the beginning of something amazing. A space where you can feel comfortable, supported, nourished and connected. Where you can heal and find other resources for your journey in motherhood. I will personally guarantee that you will do all in... Peace and Quiet.
-Dara
Bio
- License number: MA53901
- Graduated from Southeastern School of Neuromuscular Massage in 2008
- Prenatal Massage Specialist 2015
- Nurturing the Mother Fertility Massage Specialist
- Certified Sacred Postpartum Mother Roaster 2022
- Certified Mercier Therapy Practitioner 2023
In addition to my massage therapy practice, I also enjoy uninterrupted showers, last minute Target runs, going to the movies, reading anything from Fantasy, weird stories to Self-Help (to further continue my training as a badass mom/business owner). Reality shows of train wreck couples and documentaries. Eating. Especially anything from the dessert menu. Listening to elaborate stories from my youngest. Adventure trips with the kids while documenting absolutely everything with my camera and running after our crazy Belgian Malinois girl.
FAQs
Here is a list of frequently asked questions for my practice.
If you do not see the answer to your question here. Feel free to contact me.
What exactly is prenatal massage?
Just like regular massage the purpose is generally for the treatment of body stress and pain.
The difference is that prenatal massage is performed by a trained specialist and targeted to the unique needs of mothers-to-be.
Is it ever too early or too late in pregnancy to get a massage?
Not at all! Because of my extensive specialist training you can come in at any time during your pregnancy. Including the first trimester.
Is prenatal massage dangerous?
No. Massage during a normal pregnancy is not harmful at all. Massage supports a healthy pregnancy and does not cause miscarriage or induce preterm labor.
That being said, not all massage therapists or spas who offer prenatal massage have extensive training or experience doing it, and if you receive one of those massages, you might be left unsettled and disappointed. Specialization makes a BIG difference; a cardiac physician assistant and a technologist know a lot about the heart, but they shouldn't be the one performing a heart surgery. Make sense?
Do I need a note from my doctor or midwife?
Not unless you have certain high-risk conditions that could be complicated by promotion of blood flow throughout your body via massage. A list of these conditions is in the Prenatal Questionnaire you will fill out before your appointment.
How often should I get massage during pregnancy?
I recommend the same as your prenatal care visits. Once every four weeks up to week 27; every other week up to week 36; weekly from week 36 until you give birth.
Can I bring my baby to the appointment?
Sure! The main goal is for you to enjoy some time to yourself but if the babysitter bailed on you, just bring your baby. They sleep most of the duration of the massage anyway. I personally know how frustrating it is to need a massage and not have anyone to watch my kids. So if you don't mind, I don't mind.
Why should I get postpartum massage? How soon and how often?
Well, because we rarely prioritize self-care! The first few days of having a newborn are intense. You are full of love but also sleep deprived, tired, achy. I know it sounds cliche but if you want to take care of others then you have to start with yourself.
Come back within the first 10 days of giving birth. Then, every other week at least for the first 16 weeks postpartum. It will CHANGE YOUR LIFE. You will be a healthier, happier mother.
Do you have one of those pregnancy tables with a hole cut out for the belly?
Oh no! I know they seem like a great idea but you have to keep in mind that we are not the same size. There is no "one size fits all" when it comes to our pregnant bodies.
I give massage with great care utilizing an advanced orthopedic cushioning system that allows you to lie face down with proper spinal alignment. You can also choose a "side-lying" position with your body fully supported with pillows.
At the end of the session you will feel restored and relaxed.
Can I lie flat on my back during pregnancy massage?
Only during the first trimester. After that, I will position you in a semi-reclined position with your head, neck and back supported. Your knees and feet slightly elevated too. This avoids the uterus from applying pressure to the vein that allows blood to flow from the legs to the heart.
Is it true that foot massage will induce labor or cause contractions?
FOOT MASSAGE WILL NOT INDUCE LABOR. Nor will it cause a miscarriage.
Many massage therapists and massage establishments perpetuate this myth. It's ridiculous. Think about it. If foot massage could put a woman in labor I would make sure to give a good deep foot massage to every woman 40 weeks and ready to have their baby that day.
If you look up all the known causes of miscarriage according to the information taught by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, foot massage is not on the list.
Every pregnant woman deserves an amazing foot massage. Your feet are so achy, tired and swollen especially if you are close to the end of your pregnancy.
"I have not had this great of a massage in several years. I loved the fact that you asked for information on what needs I had before I arrived and then followed up when I was there. I loved the ambience of the environment. I loved that I could enjoy the peaceful, relaxing atmosphere without hearing outside sounds. I will highly recommend your services!"