Category: FAQ

  • The Enlightened Approach to Pain & Discomfort: Beyond Just Massage

    Living with chronic pain, persistent stiffness, or recurring physical discomfort can significantly impact your quality of life. Many people seek massage for relief, and while that’s a wonderful step, at Enlightened, we offer an approach that goes deeper. We aim not just for temporary comfort, but for lasting relief and improved functionality by addressing the whole you. Let’s explore some common questions about how we can help you on your journey to move with greater ease.

    1. I have chronic pain/stiffness. How can Enlightened help?

    At Enlightened, we understand that chronic pain and stiffness are often complex, with multiple contributing factors. Our holistic approach means we look beyond just the site of pain. Larissa Giles uses her combined expertise as a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), and Holistic Health and Wellness Coach to assess your situation comprehensively. We aim to identify underlying imbalances, movement patterns, and lifestyle factors that may be contributing to your discomfort, and then create a personalized plan that can include therapeutic bodywork, movement guidance, stress management techniques, and more.

    2. What makes Larissa’s massage therapy different for pain relief?

    Larissa’s massage therapy is uniquely “PTA-informed.” This means her extensive knowledge as a Physical Therapist Assistant—understanding anatomy, biomechanics, injury patterns, and rehabilitative exercises—is directly integrated into every massage session. She doesn’t just work on muscles; she considers how your body moves as a whole, looking for connections and root causes of your pain. This allows for more precise, targeted, and often more effective therapeutic work aimed at lasting functional improvement.

    3. How does the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) knowledge specifically benefit my massage?

    The PTA knowledge allows Larissa to:

    • Perform more detailed assessments of your posture, movement, and areas of restriction.
    • Understand the potential biomechanical reasons behind your pain or stiffness.
    • Apply massage techniques with a deeper understanding of their impact on tissues and joints.
    • Identify when certain techniques are more appropriate (or contraindicated) for your specific condition.
    • Offer more effective self-care advice, including stretches or exercises that complement the bodywork and support your progress between sessions.

    4. Is deep tissue massage always the answer for pain?

    Not necessarily. While deep tissue massage can be very effective for certain types of chronic muscle tension and adhesions, it’s not always the most appropriate or beneficial approach for everyone or every condition. Sometimes, gentler techniques like Myofascial Release, Cranial-Sacral Therapy, or even focused relaxation massage can be more effective in releasing tension, calming the nervous system (which plays a big role in pain perception), and promoting healing. Larissa will assess your needs and discuss the best approach with you; it might be a blend of techniques.

    5. What other services at Enlightened can help with physical discomfort?

    Beyond massage, several other services at Enlightened can support your journey to physical comfort:

    • Assisted Stretching: Integrated into sessions or as a standalone to improve flexibility and ease stiffness.
    • Holistic Wellness Coaching: Can address lifestyle factors like stress, sleep, and ergonomics that contribute to pain.
    • The Enlightened Apothecary: May offer natural topical remedies or internal support for inflammation or muscle relaxation (with appropriate guidance).
    • Spiritual Wellness Practices (like Sound Healing or Meditation): Can help manage the stress and emotional components often linked with chronic pain.

    6. Can holistic wellness coaching help with my physical pain?

    Yes, significantly! Physical pain is often influenced by stress levels, sleep quality, nutritional habits, movement patterns, and even your mindset around the pain itself. Holistic Wellness Coaching can help you:

    • Identify and manage stress triggers.
    • Develop healthier sleep and nutrition habits that support tissue healing.
    • Explore mindful movement practices.
    • Shift your perspective on pain and build coping strategies.
    • Create sustainable lifestyle changes that reduce strain on your body.

    7. How does stress relate to physical pain, and how do you address that at Enlightened?

    Stress and physical pain have a strong bidirectional relationship. Stress can cause muscles to tense up, leading to pain, and chronic pain, in turn, is a significant stressor. At Enlightened, we address this by:

    • Using relaxation-focused massage techniques.
    • Teaching breathwork and mindfulness through coaching or spiritual wellness sessions.
    • Helping you identify and manage life stressors through coaching.
    • Creating a calming and supportive environment for all our services.

    8. What’s the role of movement and stretching in managing discomfort?

    Movement and stretching are crucial! “Motion is lotion” for the joints and tissues. Larissa’s PTA background makes her particularly skilled in guiding clients with:

    • Safe and effective stretches to improve flexibility and reduce tension.
    • Gentle exercises to strengthen supporting muscles and improve posture.
    • Education on healthy movement patterns to prevent re-injury or aggravation.
      The goal is to help you find “serenity in motion.”

    9. Are there any natural remedies from the Apothecary that can support pain relief?

    The Enlightened Apothecary focuses on natural support. Depending on your specific situation, Larissa might discuss herbs known for their anti-inflammatory properties (like turmeric or ginger, often used internally with caution and awareness of interactions) or topical applications (like arnica or comfrey-infused salves for bruises, muscle soreness, or joint discomfort). Any recommendations are made with careful consideration and education.

    10. What can I expect in terms of relief and long-term management?

    Our primary goal at Enlightened is to help you achieve “decreasing pain and discomfort. Increase functionality” [cite: Larissa’s Goal Alignment Workbook S.txt]. While some clients experience significant relief quickly, addressing chronic issues is often a journey. We focus on:

    • Providing immediate relief where possible.
    • Identifying and addressing root causes for more lasting change.
    • Empowering you with self-care tools and knowledge for long-term management and prevention.
    • Collaborating with you to set realistic goals and celebrate progress.

    Ready to Move Towards a More Comfortable Life?

    If you’re tired of living with persistent pain or discomfort, Enlightened offers a holistic, integrated, and deeply knowledgeable approach to help you find relief and reclaim your joy in movement.

  • Your First Visit to Enlightened: What to Expect from Our Holistic Services

    Taking the first step towards prioritizing your well-being can sometimes feel a little daunting, especially if you’re new to holistic practices or to Enlightened. We understand! Our goal is to make your experience with us as comfortable, welcoming, and supportive as possible right from the start. To help ease any uncertainties, here are answers to some common questions about what you can expect during your first visit to our Warren/Youngstown area practice.

    1. What happens during an initial consultation at Enlightened?

    Your initial consultation is a dedicated time for us to connect. Larissa Giles will sit down with you to listen deeply to your health history, current concerns, wellness goals, and what you hope to achieve. It’s a conversation – a chance for you to share your story and for Larissa to understand your unique needs. This helps us collaboratively determine the best path forward, whether it’s a specific service or an integrated approach.

    2. Do I need to choose a specific service before my first visit?

    Not necessarily! While you’re welcome to book a specific service if you know what you want (e.g., Therapeutic Massage), many clients start with an initial consultation. If you’re unsure which service would best suit you – whether it’s massage, holistic coaching, spiritual wellness, or a combination – the consultation is the perfect place to explore options and get personalized recommendations.

    3. What should I wear or bring to my first massage/bodywork session?

    For most massage sessions, you’ll undress to your comfort level. You will be professionally draped with a sheet and blanket at all times, with only the area being worked on exposed. Comfort is key, so wear what feels good to you for arriving and leaving. If you are scheduled for Thai Yoga Massage, please wear loose, comfortable clothing like yoga wear or athletic attire, as this modality is performed fully clothed on a mat. For other sessions, just bring yourself and an openness to relax and heal.

    4. How is a PTA-informed massage different from a regular massage?

    A PTA (Physical Therapist Assistant)-informed massage at Enlightened means that Larissa brings her in-depth knowledge of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology (the study of movement), and rehabilitative principles into your session. This allows for a more targeted and often more effective approach to addressing specific pain points, injuries, or functional limitations. While relaxation is still a key component, there’s an added layer of assessment and technique aimed at promoting lasting functional improvement, not just temporary relief.

    5. What can I expect from my first Holistic Wellness Coaching session?

    Your first coaching session is primarily about discovery and connection. You’ll discuss your wellness vision, current challenges, and what you’d like to achieve. Larissa will ask insightful questions to help you clarify your goals and identify potential areas for focus. It’s a collaborative, non-judgmental space where you’ll begin to outline a personalized path forward, and you’ll likely leave with a few initial action steps or points for reflection.

    6. I’m interested in Sound Healing/Arts Integration but have no experience. Is that okay?

    Absolutely! Our Spiritual Wellness services, including Sound Healing and Arts Integration, are designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of prior experience. No artistic talent or musical ability is required for Arts Integration – it’s about the process of self-expression for wellness. For Sound Healing, you simply relax and receive the healing vibrations. Larissa will guide you gently through the experience.

    7. How long are typical sessions?

    Session lengths vary depending on the service:

    • Massage Therapy: Typically 60 or 90 minutes.
    • Holistic Wellness Coaching: Initial sessions might be 60-75 minutes, with follow-ups typically 50-60 minutes.
    • Spiritual Wellness Sessions (Sound Healing, Arts Integration): Often range from 60 to 90 minutes.
      Specific durations will be confirmed when you book.

    8. What is the atmosphere like at Enlightened?

    Our intention is to create a “relaxed,” [cite: Larissa’s Goal Alignment Workbook S.txt] peaceful, and nurturing environment where you feel safe, respected, and truly cared for. We aim for a calm, welcoming space that supports your healing and relaxation from the moment you arrive.

    9. Will I be pressured to buy products or book many sessions?

    No. At Enlightened, our focus is on your well-being and providing the care that is right for you. While Larissa may make recommendations for follow-up sessions or suggest supportive apothecary items if she genuinely believes they will benefit you, there is absolutely no pressure. We believe in empowering you to make informed choices about your health journey.

    10. How can I best prepare for my first appointment to get the most out of it?

    The best preparation is to come with an open mind and a willingness to communicate your needs.

    • Think about what you’d like to achieve from your session.
    • If it’s a bodywork session, note any specific areas of pain or tension.
    • Allow yourself a little extra time so you’re not rushing.
    • Drink some water beforehand.
    • Most importantly, give yourself permission to relax and receive.

    We’re Here to Support You.

    Your first visit to Enlightened is the beginning of a partnership dedicated to your holistic health. We look forward to welcoming you and supporting you on your path to feeling your best.

  • Living an Enlightened Life: Integrating Holistic Practices for Long-Term Well-being

    You’ve embarked on a journey with Enlightened, perhaps experiencing relief from pain, a newfound sense of calm, or a deeper connection to your inner self. These are wonderful milestones! But the path to holistic well-being doesn’t end when a session concludes. The real magic happens when you begin to weave these principles and practices into the fabric of your daily life. Many clients in the Warren/Youngstown area ask how they can sustain their progress and truly live an “Enlightened life.” Let’s explore some common questions.

    1. I feel great after my sessions, but how do I maintain these benefits in my daily life?

    This is a key question! Maintaining benefits involves consciously integrating what you learn and experience during your sessions into your everyday routines. This could mean:

    • Practicing self-awareness to notice early signs of tension or stress.
    • Regularly incorporating recommended stretches or movements.
    • Using breathwork techniques when you feel overwhelmed.
    • Making mindful choices about your nutrition and rest.
    • Applying self-care strategies discussed during coaching or bodywork.
      It’s about taking ownership of your well-being between visits.

    2. What are some simple holistic practices I can do at home between appointments?

    There are many!

    • Mindful Moments: Take 5-10 minutes daily for quiet reflection, meditation, or deep breathing.
    • Gentle Movement: Incorporate simple stretches, a short yoga routine, or a mindful walk.
    • Nourishing Rituals: Prepare a healthy meal with intention, or enjoy a calming herbal tea.
    • Journaling: Reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and progress.
    • Creative Outlet: Engage in a hobby that brings you joy and allows for self-expression (like those explored in Arts Integration).
      Larissa can help you identify practices that best suit your needs and lifestyle.

    3. How can I create a more “holistic” environment at home or work?

    Your surroundings significantly impact your well-being. Consider:

    • Decluttering: A tidy space can promote a calmer mind.
    • Natural Elements: Bring in plants, open windows for fresh air, and maximize natural light.
    • Sensory Comfort: Use calming colors, soft textures, and perhaps aromatherapy with safe essential oils.
    • Ergonomics: Ensure your workspace supports good posture.
    • Minimize Noise: Create quiet zones or use noise-canceling headphones if needed.
    • Positive Influences: Surround yourself with uplifting imagery or objects that bring you peace.

    4. What’s the importance of consistency with holistic practices?

    Consistency is crucial for creating lasting change. Just like exercising a muscle, holistic practices strengthen your resilience and well-being over time. Occasional efforts are good, but regular, consistent practice builds new habits, rewires neural pathways (in the case of mindfulness or stress reduction techniques), and allows your body and mind to adapt and heal more deeply. Small, consistent actions often yield more significant results than sporadic, intense efforts.

    5. How does Enlightened support clients in their ongoing wellness journey, beyond individual sessions?

    Our goal is to empower you, not to create dependency. Enlightened supports your ongoing journey through:

    • Education: Providing you with knowledge and understanding during sessions.
    • Personalized Self-Care Strategies: Recommending specific practices you can do at home.
    • Holistic Wellness Coaching: Offering ongoing support, accountability, and guidance for integrating changes.
    • Resources: Through our blog and (in the future) other materials, we aim to provide continuous learning opportunities.
    • Follow-up: Checking in and being available for tune-up sessions or consultations as needed.

    6. Can I combine different holistic practices? How do I know what’s right for me long-term?

    Yes, combining practices is often very beneficial, as it addresses your well-being from multiple angles (mind, body, spirit). For example, combining regular massage with mindfulness and healthy eating creates a powerful synergy.

    Knowing what’s right long-term is a process of self-discovery. Pay attention to:

    • What genuinely makes you feel better, more balanced, and more joyful?
    • What practices are sustainable for your lifestyle?
    • What aligns with your core values and wellness goals?
      Larissa can help you explore and refine this through coaching.

    7. What if I fall off track with my wellness routines?

    This is perfectly normal and human! Life happens. The key is self-compassion, not self-criticism.

    • Acknowledge that you’ve strayed without judgment.
    • Gently remind yourself of why these practices are important to you.
    • Start again, simply. Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment. Even a small step back into your routine is a victory.
    • Reflect on what caused you to fall off track and see if you can adjust your routine to be more sustainable.

    8. How can I continue to learn and grow on my holistic path?

    Embrace lifelong learning!

    • Read books and articles on topics that interest you (holistic health, mindfulness, herbalism, personal growth).
    • Attend workshops or classes (online or in-person).
    • Stay curious and open to new ideas and perspectives.
    • Connect with like-minded individuals or communities.
    • Most importantly, continue to listen to your own body and intuition – they are your best teachers.

    9. What does it mean to truly live an “Enlightened life” day-to-day?

    Living an “Enlightened life,” from our perspective, isn’t about achieving some state of perfection. It’s about:

    • Living with awareness of your mind, body, and spirit.
    • Making conscious choices that support your overall well-being.
    • Approaching life with compassion for yourself and others.
    • Embracing growth and learning from your experiences.
    • Finding balance that works for your unique life.
    • Connecting with your inner wisdom and living authentically.
    • Cultivating joy and gratitude in everyday moments.
      It’s an ongoing, evolving practice of nurturing your whole self.

    10. How can I inspire my family or friends to explore holistic wellness?

    The most powerful way is often by being the example. When people see the positive changes in your energy, mood, and overall well-being, they naturally become curious.

    • Share your experiences authentically, without preaching or pressure.
    • Offer to share simple practices if they express interest (e.g., a calming tea, a simple breathing exercise).
    • Invite them to join you in a gentle activity, like a walk in nature.
    • Share resources (like a helpful article or book) if it feels appropriate.
      Focus on sharing your joy and the benefits you’ve experienced, and allow them to find their own path in their own time.

    Your Enlightened Journey Continues…

    Living a life of holistic well-being is a beautiful, ongoing adventure. At Enlightened, we are honored to be a part of your journey, providing support, guidance, and tools to help you thrive.

  • The Power of Touch: Understanding Therapeutic & Specialized Massage at Enlightened

    Touch is one of our most fundamental senses and a powerful tool for healing. At Enlightened, we believe in the profound ability of skilled massage and bodywork to restore balance, alleviate pain, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. Larissa Giles, a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) with the added expertise of a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), offers a diverse range of modalities tailored to your unique needs. Let’s explore some common questions about the types of massage and bodywork available to you in our Warren/Youngstown practice.

    1. What types of massage and bodywork do you offer at Enlightened?

    Larissa is skilled in a wide array of techniques to ensure your session is perfectly suited to you. These include:

    • Therapeutic Massage (PTA-Informed)
    • Deep Tissue Massage
    • Myofascial Release
    • Cranial-Sacral Therapy
    • Assisted Stretching
    • Pregnancy Massage (Pre-natal & Post-natal)
    • Reflexology
    • Relaxation Massage (Swedish Inspired)
    • Hot Stone Massage
    • Thai Yoga Massage
    • Needle-less Acupressure
    • Ion Detox Foot Spa (as a complementary therapy)

    2. How does therapeutic massage help with more than just relaxation?

    While relaxation is a wonderful benefit, our Therapeutic Massage, especially being PTA-informed, goes much further. It focuses on:

    • Addressing specific areas of pain, injury, or dysfunction.
    • Improving range of motion and flexibility.
    • Releasing chronic muscle tension and trigger points.
    • Supporting injury rehabilitation and recovery.
    • Correcting postural imbalances.
    • Enhancing body awareness for long-term functional improvement.

    3. What is Myofascial Release, and who is it good for?

    Myofascial Release is a safe and very effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle, sustained pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. Fascia is a web-like connective tissue that surrounds and supports your muscles, bones, and organs. When it becomes tight or restricted (due to injury, inflammation, trauma, or poor posture), it can cause pain and limit movement. Myofascial Release is beneficial for individuals with chronic pain, postural issues, fibromyalgia, headaches, and restricted mobility.

    4. Can you explain Cranial-Sacral Therapy and its benefits?

    Cranial-Sacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, non-invasive modality that works with the subtle rhythms of the craniosacral system – the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Using a very light touch, the practitioner helps to release restrictions in this system to improve the functioning of the central nervous system. Benefits can include deep relaxation, stress reduction, relief from headaches and migraines, TMJ support, and improved overall nervous system balance.

    5. What is Thai Yoga Massage like, and what are its advantages?

    Thai Yoga Massage is a dynamic and ancient form of bodywork. It’s performed on a comfortable mat on the floor with the client fully clothed in loose attire. It combines acupressure, gentle rocking, and assisted yoga-like stretches. The therapist uses their hands, thumbs, elbows, knees, and feet to move you into a series of stretches. Advantages include increased flexibility and range of motion, relief from muscle tension, improved circulation, stress reduction, and enhanced energy flow throughout the body. It can feel both relaxing and invigorating.

    6. How can Pregnancy Massage support expectant mothers?

    Pregnancy Massage is specifically tailored to the needs of pregnant women as their bodies go through significant changes. Larissa uses safe positioning and techniques to:

    • Relieve common discomforts like back pain, hip pain, sciatica, and swelling in the legs and feet.
    • Reduce stress and anxiety.
    • Improve sleep.
    • Promote relaxation and a sense of well-being for both mother and baby.
      Post-natal massage can also aid in recovery after childbirth.

    7. What is Reflexology, and how does it work?

    Reflexology is based on the principle that there are reflex points on the feet, hands, and ears that correspond to all of the glands, organs, and parts of the body. By applying targeted pressure to these points, reflexology aims to stimulate nerve function, increase energy, boost circulation, eliminate toxins, and induce a deep state of relaxation, helping the body to heal itself and restore balance.

    8. How do you decide which massage techniques to use in a session?

    Your session at Enlightened is always personalized. It begins with a conversation about your current concerns, health history, and wellness goals. Based on this intake and her assessment, Larissa will discuss with you which modalities or combination of techniques she believes will be most beneficial. Your comfort and preferences are always paramount. Often, a session will intuitively blend several approaches to achieve the best outcome.

    9. What is Needle-less Acupressure?

    Needle-less Acupressure applies the principles of acupuncture without the use of needles. Instead, firm, targeted pressure is applied to specific acupressure points on the body. These points lie along energy meridians, and stimulating them is believed to help release blocked energy (Qi), relieve pain, reduce tension, improve circulation, and promote the body’s natural healing abilities.

    10. How can an Ion Detox Foot Spa complement my wellness?

    An Ion Detox Foot Spa is a gentle therapy where your feet are placed in a warm bath of water with a device that emits a small electrical current, creating an ionic field. It’s believed that this process helps to draw out toxins and impurities from the body through the pores in your feet, promoting a sense of lightness and rebalancing your body’s energy. It’s often used as a complementary therapy to support overall detoxification and relaxation.

    Experience the Healing Power of Personalized Touch

    At Enlightened, we are dedicated to providing bodywork that not only feels good but also contributes meaningfully to your overall health and vitality. Larissa Giles’s unique blend of skills ensures you receive expert care tailored to your specific needs.

  • Understanding Holistic Wellness at Enlightened: Your Questions Answered

    In today’s fast-paced world, many of us are seeking more than just temporary fixes for what ails us. We’re looking for a deeper sense of well-being, lasting relief, and a genuine connection to ourselves. This is where holistic wellness comes in, and at Enlightened, it’s the cornerstone of everything we do. But what does “holistic” truly mean, and how can it benefit you? Let’s explore some common questions.

    1. What does “holistic wellness” really mean at Enlightened?

    At Enlightened, holistic wellness means we view you as a whole person—mind, body, and spirit. We understand that these aspects are deeply interconnected and that true health arises when they are all nurtured and in harmony. It’s not just about addressing a specific symptom in isolation; it’s about looking at the bigger picture of your life, your environment, your stressors, and your joys to support your overall vitality. Our aim is to help you heal your body as a whole.

    2. How is the approach at Enlightened different from some conventional treatments?

    Conventional medicine often excels at treating acute conditions and specific diseases, which is incredibly important. The holistic approach at Enlightened is complementary and aims to understand and address the root causes of imbalance or discomfort, rather than solely managing symptoms. We focus on empowering you with knowledge and self-care strategies, fostering your body’s innate healing capabilities, and promoting long-term well-being and functionality. We seek to understand how physical discomfort may be linked to emotional stress or spiritual disconnection, and vice-versa.

    3. What is the mind-body-spirit connection, and why is it so central to your philosophy?

    The mind-body-spirit connection is the understanding that our thoughts, feelings, physical health, and spiritual sense of self are not separate but are constantly influencing each other. For instance, chronic stress (mind) can lead to muscle tension and pain (body), or a lack of purpose (spirit) can impact your overall energy and motivation. At Enlightened, nurturing this connection is paramount because we’ve seen that “clients have shown greater success on their wellness journey by incorporating the trinity of mind, body, spirit”. Addressing all aspects leads to more profound and sustainable healing.

    4. Who can benefit from adopting a holistic wellness approach?

    Honestly, anyone! While we often say, “Anyone is welcome”, individuals who particularly benefit are those:

    • Seeking relief from chronic pain, discomfort, or stiffness.
    • Feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or the demands of modern life.
    • Experiencing symptoms of burnout or low energy.
    • Wanting to make sustainable, healthy lifestyle changes.
    • Interested in natural remedies and self-care (like herbalism or aromatherapy).
    • Looking for a deeper connection to themselves or a greater sense of purpose.
    • Seeking to improve overall functionality and vitality.

    5. Is holistic wellness compatible with the medical care I’m already receiving?

    Absolutely. Holistic wellness practices are generally designed to be complementary to, not a replacement for, conventional medical care. We encourage open communication with all your healthcare providers. Larissa is always happy to work as part of your broader wellness team, and it’s important to keep your doctor informed about any holistic therapies or herbal remedies you are using.

    6. What kind of results can I realistically expect from holistic wellness practices?

    Results vary for each individual, as your journey is unique. However, clients often report:

    • Reduced pain and physical discomfort.
    • Improved mobility and physical function.
    • Better stress management and reduced anxiety.
    • Increased energy levels and vitality.
    • Enhanced emotional balance and self-awareness.
    • A greater sense of inner peace and purpose.
      The focus is on gradual, sustainable improvements and empowering you with tools for long-term well-being.

    7. How does Larissa Giles’s unique background (LMT, PTA, Holistic Coach) shape the care at Enlightened?

    Larissa’s diverse qualifications are what make the approach at Enlightened truly unique and integrated.

    • Her LMT skills provide expert therapeutic touch.
    • Her PTA knowledge offers a deep understanding of body mechanics, pain, and rehabilitation, enhancing the effectiveness of bodywork and movement guidance.
    • Her Holistic Health and Wellness Coaching certification allows her to guide you through lifestyle changes, stress management, and achieving your broader wellness goals, tying everything together.
      This synergy means your care is informed by multiple perspectives, leading to a more comprehensive and effective plan.

    8. Do I need to subscribe to a particular spiritual belief system to benefit from your services?

    Not at all. While we offer Spiritual Wellness services for those who are interested, our overall holistic approach respects all individual belief systems, including those who do not identify with any specific spiritual path. The “spirit” aspect of our mind-body-spirit philosophy refers to your inner essence, sense of purpose, connection, and what gives you meaning in life – which is deeply personal. We meet you where you are.

    9. How long does it typically take to see changes or improvements with a holistic approach?

    This is also very individual. Some people may experience immediate relief from certain symptoms (like relaxation after a massage). Deeper, more lasting changes related to chronic conditions, lifestyle habits, or emotional patterns often take more time and consistent effort. Holistic wellness is a journey, not a quick fix. We focus on sustainable progress and empowering you with tools for the long term. Larissa will discuss realistic expectations with you during your consultation.

    10. I’m new to all of this. What’s the best first step to take at Enlightened?

    The best first step is often to schedule an initial consultation. This allows you to discuss your needs and goals with Larissa, learn more about our services, and collaboratively decide on the most appropriate path for you. It’s a no-pressure way to explore how Enlightened can support your journey to well-being.

    Ready to Explore Your Path to Holistic Wellness?

    At Enlightened, we’re passionate about guiding you towards a life of greater balance, vitality, and peace. If you have more questions or are ready to begin your journey, we invite you to connect with us.