At Green Sprout Massage, we do things a little differently. Owned and operated by someone with an invisible and dynamic disability, we have unique awareness of the struggles faced by the disabled community.
Inclusive
What does it mean to be inclusive? An inclusive massage practice is a space where individuals feel safe, welcomed, respected, and supported.
At Green Sprout Massage, we recognize that this is easier said than done. In order to serve the diverse population of Vancouver, Washington, we strive to continuously educate ourselves on the unique needs of marginalized people, and adapt our practice to ensure their safety.
Because within the context of healthcare, failure to be inclusive can directly harm the most vulnerable people.
Providing inclusive massage therapy means pushing back against dominant culture and addressing common biases, especially in regards to body size, skin color, and gender. This is why Green Sprout Massage strives to actively be body-neutral, anti-racist, and gender-affirming.
This also means recognizing our limitations. As a thin white woman, I carry the awareness of how my identity has been weaponized against people who do not look like me. I recognize that some people may not feel safe or comfortable speaking up when I get something wrong, so it’s my responsibility to do everything in my power to learn these lessons outside of the treatment room, before my own ignorance causes harm.
I recognize the immense amount of trust placed in me by each client who gets on my massage table, and I do not take that trust lightly. I recognize the immense privilege and responsibility of being a massage therapist. It is my honor to do this work.
There are many nuances and layers to building an inclusive practice, but this is our foundation:
All bodies are good bodies deserving of care and attention.
Black Lives Matter.
Gender-affirming healthcare saves lives.
Green Sprout Massage: Our Story
Green Sprout Massage started as a name and a dream, a dream that started long before I knew that Vancouver, Washington would be where it would take root.
I’ve been dreaming about owning my own business since my massage school days. It was only a few years into my career as a massage therapist when I chose the name Green Sprout Massage. Since then, every massage session has been preparation for my own practice. From small clinics in Austin, TX to upscale hotel spas in Madison, WI, I’ve been working my way towards my own business.
A massage business that puts the client first. An evidence-informed massage business, one that doesn’t pressure people into expensive add-ons or restrictive monthly memberships for the sake of making a few extra bucks. A massage business with the highest standards of health and hygiene, one that doesn’t skimp on standards just because nobody’s watching.
An inclusive business, that ensures more than just thin white women feel comfortable seeking services.
An accessible business, where every decision considers those most impacted, from scent-free being the default to customization forms that make sure every part of your experience is tailored to your needs and preferences.
An affirming business, where individuals are put back in control of their own health narratives, where you are reminded of your own authority over your body.
To finally be bringing this business to life is a dream come true, and I couldn’t be happier to be putting down roots in Vancouver, WA, bringing to life my dream of a massage practice with evidence-informed approaches to relieving pain and tension, incorporated into a pampering experience that is like no other.