This interview with Kerri Lautamus was originally published in Golden This Week in February 2016.
Q. What services do you offer at Nourish Clinic?
A. I offer relaxation and deep tissue massage sessions during which I combine various modalities that I’ve studied over the last 13 years – deep breathing techniques, Ayurvedic massage, Thai massage, Jin Shin Do (acupressure) and Reflexology. By incorporating the awareness that each thought communicates with every cell in the body, I also encourage the use of positive visualizations and words. I use different techniques in each treatment to meet the needs of each individual client.
A popular choice of treatment amongst my clients is the 60 minute massage followed by 15 minutes of Reflexology. Reflexology stimulates all areas of the body including the organs and glands by applying pressure to corresponding areas on the feet.
Prenatal massage is also available for the mother-to- be. The treatment focuses on the areas of her choice, while relaxing tension along the whole spine as well as the hips, neck and shoulders.
The massages are complemented by warmed oil and towels. The encouragement of a deeper breath helps to create state of relaxation. Clients are left feeling rebalanced and calm as well as relieved of their muscular tension.
Q. Where did you complete your training for these techniques?
A. I completed my initial massage training at the Foothills College of Massage Therapy in Calgary in 2002. I studied reflexology with Joan Cosway-Hayes in Calgary. My Jin Shin Do certificate comes from the Canadian College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in Victoria, BC. A month long course at Wat Po in Bangkok, Thailand learning Thai massage was an incredible cultural experience. My doula certificate was acquired during training in Tofino and through volunteering at a number of births. I learned the art of abhyanga and shirodhara with an Ayurvedic Practitioner. Last but not least, in 2015 I spent 5 weeks at Shanti Yoga in Nelson, BC completing my 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training which focused on spinal alignment and pranayama (the regulation of breath through various exercises and techniques).
Q. Who is your typical client?
A. My clients range in age from 5 – 75 and everywhere in between. Some are elite athletes looking to resolve injuries or get rid of lactic acid, others have chronic illness they are seeking to grow out of. Parents find their children are able to focus and relax more easily after a massage. Some people simply see me as part of their regular health and wellness program. The common thread is they all enjoy the quiet and healing environment which is created for them and they appreciate the complete focus they receive.
Q. Is there a principle or concept which unites your work?
A. Yes. I believe true healing begins when we find a tranquil space to breathe deeply and are able to completely relax our body and mind. Nestled in this place, the nervous system feels safe and nurtured, and knots begin to slowly unwind. This is a process which absolutely involves the dedication and commitment of the person seeking change within their self.
Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself and what brought you to Golden?
A. I spent my childhood on a farm in Saskatchewan. The day after high school, I moved to Canmore, following my dream of living in the mountains. I have called both Galiano Island and Victoria home as well. World travels have taken me to New Zealand, the Kingdom of Tonga, the Cook Islands, Spain, Morocco, Thailand, Cambodia and Malaysian Borneo. I moved to Golden almost six years ago after spending a season couch surfing between shifts while working for CMH.
An avid gardener with a deep love for cooking, I am passionate about all things food. I have a diploma in textile design, play the accordion and love to sing and dance. Outdoor pursuits of biking, skiing, ski touring, and hiking keep me healthy and happy. I also teach a weekly drop in yoga class on Saturdays at 4:30 at Golden Lotus Yoga, which is above Element Therapeutics.
Q. Is there a phrase or quote which inspires you?
A. There is a beautiful quote which I often bring to my mind throughout the day from Thich Nat Hahn, “Smile, breathe and go slowly”. I like the simplicity and gentle reminder to enjoy each moment fully and remain present through the breath, sharing that joy with others through a genuine smile.
Please get in touch through Nourish for more information, or to book an appointment with Kerri.