Deborah Haukedal
Deborah Haukedal (she/her)
Massage Therapist
I am a Massage Therapist and have have been drawn to massage since my childhood. I believe in the incredible power of touch to nuture the body, mind, and spirit. I now have over 25 years of experience supporting people with their well-being through the powerful modality of Intuitive Massage. Intuition harnesses the energy within to facilitate deep healing and releif from from trauma within your body. Touch is infused with purpose and intention to guide you on a path to healing.
I have specialized in Therapeutic Massage, a deep tissue modality that targets problem areas for long-term relief. I work with people who have chronic conditions as well as those dealing with more recent injuries. I love the hands-on part of massage, and how I get to witness the body's healing process on a daily basis.
Although Deborah is a highly trained therapist, her sessions are not eligible for coverage through extended health insurance plans.
Add me to your Wellness Plan Team!
The real purpose of giving massage is to foster more depth of feeling for one another in order to bring out the love that often lies buried beneath the pain of everyday suffering.
- Robert Calvert
Enhanced Therapeutic Massage
Therapeutic Massage involves the manipulation of soft tissues, such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue, with the aim of promoting overall well-being and improving physical and mental health. The Massage Therapist uses their deep understanding of anatomy and physiology to assess the client's health history, current physical condition, and any specific concerns before designing a treatment plan.
Every session is customized and personalized, ensuring massage is safe and effective for the client. Physically, massage can help:
- reduce muscle tension
- improve circulation
- enhance joint flexibility
- and contribute to the overall relaxation of the body
Mentally, massage can:
- reduce stress and anxiety
- and promote a sense of well-being
Various massage techniques may be used in Enhanced Therapeutic Massage, depending on the client's needs and the goals of the session. From the moment you step through our doors, you enter a space of tranquility and warmth, designed to facilitate deep relaxation and transformation.
Get To Know Deborah
01
Tell us about yourself as a person and as a Massage Therapist.
I am told I am kind, and I know I am really excited for what's coming. I am learning to simply trusting what's next. I love massage, I love the people, and I love helping. It has never felt like a job for me - massage is my happy place.
02
What is Therapeutic Massage?
In Therapeutic Massage, we locate a physical pain point in the body and the relieve it through touch. I am generally drawn to an area, and then we dig a little deeper. I have the gift of being able to feel where the body is off. I can see the difference between healthy muscle, scar tissue, a knot, and trauma , injury, and then provide the appropriate therapeutic response. I am able look beyond the obvious and explore how did it get here and what's happening at a deeper level.
03
What drew you to this work?
Growing up I used to massage people whenever I could. I wanted to be a doctor when I was a kid, because I really wanted to help people get better. I have a desire to figure things out and help the body to heal. In my 20's I was planning to be a massage therapist, and though I didn't take the path back then. I know it's always called to me. It was a big accident that opened the door to this work, and I am so grateful for that.
04
What is the hardest thing about specializing in Therapeutic Massage?
Because it's physically demanding work, sometimes it can take a toll on the body. There is inevitable wear and tear on my own body, so I have to be careful. I try to engage in various activities like yoga, chiropractic, and other tools to make sure my own body is okay so I can be at my optimal best for my clients.
05
What do you love most about your job?
The miracles. When you are going to heal a muscle, it's not necessary going to change in an hour...but sometimes there is a spontaneous healing, which is incredible to witness. I also I love meeting new people.
06
What is the one thing about Massage Therapy that most people don't know?
It's bigger than the muscles. If you're someone who doesn't get touched all the time, this can be a much bigger experience.
07
What would you say to someone who is unsure about trying Therapeutic Massage?
Tell the practitioner that you are nervous. Remember that everyone's different, so even if you don't like a particular session or a certain practitioner, it doesn't necessarily mean massage isn't for you.
The Dragonfly community awaits you
Joining our community means having access to first-rate therapists and coaches, hundreds of expert-vetted courses and workshops in our Dragonfly Resource Centre, and safe, judgment-free groups where you can bond with kindred individuals and heal together. See just how much we take your mental health seriously by filling out the contact form below.
