The Full Story
About
I grew up in Northern BC, balancing my time between competitive sports and being outdoors exploring and connecting with nature. In 2022, I graduated from the Alberta College of Massage Therapy with Distinction, and I am a Certified Yoga teacher and Certified Coach Practitioner. I am a passionate student of the human body and believe that we are truly never done learning. I am advancing my knowledge of manual therapy through the Upledger Institute International and the Barral Institute with ongoing studies in craniosacral therapy, visceral manipulation, and neural manipulation. In additional to being a forever student of anatomy, I am humbled to be a faculty member with the Alberta Yoga College sharing my passion and knowledge of trauma informed yoga with future yoga teachers. When I am not working, I loves cooking, photography and spending time outside in the wild with my family.
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Massage Therapy
My whole-body approach was inspired by my own personal experience recovering from a career-altering concussion and TMJ injury I sustained while playing hockey, which left me in chronic pain for several years.
Through alternative manual therapies I was able to regain my health and wellness, which inspired me to pursue a career in manual body work and create a practice to help others as a registered massage therapist.
I offer a variety of techniques and modalities such as craniosacral therapy, visceral manipulation, cupping, fascial work, muscle energy techniques, and breath work to support the individual wellness goals of each client.
Journey to Yoga
My approach as a yoga teacher is based on authenticity and my own perfectly imperfect journey to yoga. I found yoga when I was navigating post concussion syndrome and reproductive trauma/infertility and was unable to do any other type of physical activity - it became a physical outlet for gentle movement and a sanctuary for healing.
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The classes I offer are permissive, choice-based, and infuse a variety of styles or practices such as breath work, mindfulness, somatic movement, therapeutic and/or functional movement, and meditation.
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In 2016, I completed a 200 hour yoga teacher training with the Alberta Yoga College. In 2021, I dove deeper into exploring yoga and completed a 300 hour yoga teacher training with the Canadian Institute of Therapeutic Yoga. I also hold certifications in Yin Yoga, Trauma Informed Yoga, Yoga for First Responders and YogaEd.
Grit, Grace & Gratitude
I am grateful for everybody who has played a role in my my journey thus far and who has pushed me, challenged me, mentored me, and had my back every step of the way.
To all my clients, past present and future, thank you for trusting me to be a part of your wellness journey. I am beyond humbled to hold space for you either on a yoga mat or a treatment table. I truly believe a therapeutic relationship involves the client and the therapist to be invested and committed - I am committed to working with you to meet your treatment goals. I believe your mind, body and soul are designed to move freely, without pain or restrictions. I am here to support you on your wellness journey.
- Shanda Harper
