About Lesley Pearl
 

I used to hate my body. At times it seemed, at best, too large, too flabby; at worst, uncooperative, a source of pain. As I received and gave bodywork, those sentiments changed. I came to understand my body as a tool, the vessel ferrying me through this universe, and all its iterations as messages -- play, stretch, move, rest. My goal is to bring massage and bodywork to my clients and to aid in their own journey toward peace and health within their bodies.

My formal massage training includes more than 600 hours of education, including 100+ hours of anatomy and physiology training and specialized course work in pre-natal massage, geriatric massage and neuromuscular therapy. I have a special interest in body image and weight-related issues and bring my experience as a Weight Watchers meeting facilitator to this work.

In addition to maintaining a private bodywork practice, I've also taught massage at the McKinnon Institute in Oakland, Calif. and lead basic massage workshops for couples and small groups, and infant massage training for parents and caregivers. I hold a Bachelor's of Arts degree in Journalism with a minor in Religious Studies from Michigan State University.

What to expect:

At your first visit you will be greeted warmly and asked to fill out a client intake form. At this time we will discuss your medical history, your experience with massage and your expectations of massage and bodywork. I will also give you an overview of how we can work together and what to expect, for example:

  • Undress only to your level of comfort. Your body will be covered by sheets and blankets except for the area being addressed

  • Let me know if there are ways that I can make you more comfortable and enhance your experience room temperature, choice of music, depth of pressure

With this knowledge, I am able to approach your body with work suited to your tastes and desires, often combining many different techniques. In this way, each session is personalized and crafted toward your needs.

I work with a wide range of clients with differing needs. A typical day in my practice might include a mother-to-be managing fatigue and low-back pain, an injured worker receiving neuromuscular therapy for repetitive strain, an elder – supported by pillows – experiencing gentle massage in her wheelchair, an athlete seeking to improve performance, and any number of individuals looking for general health, wellness and relaxation.

Following your treatment we will talk about how you feel in your body, any areas of tension or stress that I noticed, and the potential for stretching and corrective exercises that could be beneficial to you. We will also discuss when it makes sense for you to return for another visit.

Ultimately, I believe that massage and bodywork can and should be incorporated into one's wellness design at each and every stage of life.

 

Celebrating the Body at All Stages in Life
233 E. Erie Street, Suite 414  Chicago, IL 60611
www.lesleypearl.com   312.637.9202   lesley@lesleypearl.com

© 2007 Lesley Pearl