Hello, I have always loved helping others. I worked for many years in special education. I also had a strong interest in a more natural, whole body form of wellness, and preventative care. I practiced yoga for many years and that led me to the path I am on now. When a client who has been suffering from pain or stress has improvement of their symptoms or a client who has been embarrassed of their skin starts to really love the way they look it is truly the best feeling! I love being a massage therapist and licensed esthetician and consider it a great honor to be a part of your wellness plan. I see my clients as individuals and their treatments should be too. Your needs and comfort level are my highest priority. My massage therapy training took place at Soderworld Academy for the Healing Arts in Willowbrook, where I also received my 200 hour Hatha yoga teacher training. It is a small, private school with an excellent reputation. I received massage training with a focus on proper techniques, individual attention, and energetic principles. I have training in both therapeutic and relaxation modalities so I can confidently give both types of treatments, as well as adding energy work if that interests you. My yoga training also gives me insight into how strength, breath, and stretching is important to keeping the body healthy, and I incorporate this, as well as pieces of the modalities I learned, into my bodywork. I have also always had an interest in skin care and ingredients and how they pair with a good overall wellness routine. I began a course in esthetics at Naperville Skin Institute where I learned about skincare ingredients, proper hair removal techniques, and facial machines to help with a variety of skin types and conditions. I furthered my interest in natural and organic ingredients. I used these interests to choose organic products and techniques that I believe will have the best results for my clients. At Awaken Massages and Skin Care there won't be any sales pitch or rushed treatments. I will take the time to assess what the best treatment is for you and make sure that you agree with the plan of action. There won't be any one size fits all massage or skin care treatments. I look forward to talking with you. The investment in yourself will be worth it. Thank you, Shannon