Diversified Health’s RMT – Cassandra Shkrabuik

One of the benefits of any health or wellness program is not just the treatment, but the experience you have with your health care practitioner.  Many clients have had the same chiropractor, massage therapist or acupuncturist for years, and during that time have developed a deep trust and respect for their practitioner.

Cassandra Shkrabuik is one of Diversified Health’s registered massage therapists. Cassandra graduated from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy in a 3000 hour RMT program in 2012.  She has lived on the island for seven years and has fallen in love with the highly holistic nature of the island.

Recently I sat down with Cassandra and asked her some questions on massage therapy and on her life.

Q: Is there a benefit to having a longer massage session ( over 60 minutes )

A:  The main benefit to a longer massage is deeper relaxation, and clients suffering from multiple health issues can have all of them addressed in one session.

Q: What are 3 benefits of a massage?

A:  1. Improved circulation – Having an increase in blood flow and circulation to areas of your body helps promote cell growth and organ function.

2. Elimination of toxins through the skin  –  Skin eruptions are an indication of toxicity and the body’s attempt to eliminate them, so massage can increase the circulation to the skin and de-congest the pores.

3 The feeling of well-being  –  Massage increases the available levels of dopamine and this explains the satisfaction experienced during and after a massage. Also, serotonin regulates mood and has a calming effect; a low serotonin level has been implicated in depression, and massage seems to increase the level of available serotonin, producing an overall sense of calm.

Q: How often should you have a massage to achieve maximum health benefits?

A: Everyone is different, but with no health issues, every 4-6 weeks is a good place to start.

On a more personal note:

Q: Where is your favorite place to “chill” on the weekend?

A:  Walking and hiking in any forested area.

Q: Favorite music style?

A: Most of my day is spent listening to calming soft music with my clients, so when I get home I enjoy the fast beat of Electro-jazz and any good classic rock songs that gets you going.

Q: If you can only eat one type of food what would it be?

A:  SUSHI!!!

Q:  Name one thing that most people don’t know about you.

A: Most people don’t know that I foster cats with behaviour issues and also feral kittens.

Q: What event is a must see for you in Victoria?

A: Anything to do with fireworks, specifically Canada Day and the Symphony Splash.

Q: Where is your favorite place to “snoop” in the city?

A: With out a doubt china town, because there is always something going on!

*Cassandra works Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Please contact our front desk to book an appointment with Cassandra.