My name is Rachel Hargrave and I am a certified massage therapist here in California. I understand and appreciate the many ways in which massage can benefit the human body. Massage can greatly reduce stress, promote better sleep, relieve chronic or acute pain, increase mobility, allow for pure relaxation, and so much more. Working with individuals on their specific needs and desires regarding their body is exceptionally fulfilling. Each person is unique in a multitude of ways, their body is only their own and its needs are exclusive to them. Although the personal relationship between oneself and their body is truly intimate, occasionally it can be challenging to understand what is actually going on, where the pain is stemming from and why. Finding answers can be a discouraging process, and oftentimes turning to doctors or surgeons can be costly and increasingly frustrating. There is broadening research that supports the claim that massage can avoid these situations, such as surgery or an extensive period of time on medication, and lift people out of pain and onto a path of recovery, a path of healing, a path of being fully oneself. 

 

I have experienced this process firsthand, along with the seemingly magic solution of massage and self care. For roughly six years I struggled with severe chronic back pain as a result of playing competitive club and college soccer. When the pain began my life was turned upside down. I went from a capable athlete, unflinchingly confident in my physical abilities, to almost entirely debilitated. This sharp and sudden dichotomy led me to rush to several doctors, to an array of chiropractors, and finally, after little to no success, to a mindset where I thought that life was simply like this now, pain was just my reality. It wasn’t until COVID took our world by it’s grasp and forced me to look at my life in a deeper way that I realized I was not satisfied with that reality. I became intent on solving my chronic pain on my own, and in doing so I began learning at Chico Massage School. It was there that I developed an understanding of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology, only to realize that my chronic pain did not stem from my back, but my hips. I was able to isolate the muscles that were the cause, and either perform self care on those areas, or have other massage therapists assist in my process of healing. 

 

It is sincerely a process, as so much of life is. Pain does not disappear overnight, but with help and dedication to one’s body, it can be reduced to nonexistent over time. My experience with this truth has fostered a lifelong goal to help others through their own, personal and unique process. My mission is to assist in determining the root cause of my client’s pain, addressing the symptoms of this cause, reduce the stress associated with pain, teach ways in which my client can help themselves, and create a path towards recovery. Everyone deserves to be confident and comfortable in their body. 

 

If you so choose, I would be honored and grateful to assist you through your process, however that looks for you personally. Thank you.