If you’re looking for massage therapy in Spokane Valley, Damian Woodard is the massage therapist to see. We’re delighted that he decided to pursue certification as a Master Myoskeletal Therapist (MMT). Achieving this certification, one of the highest standards for a massage professional, is not easy. It takes a burning desire to get results for your clients and a great deal of commitment. You can read a little bit about his journey below. We know you’ll be in great hands when you book an appointment with Damian. For massage therapy in Spokane Valley, contact Damian. The links are below.
My background in massage and bodywork started 10 years before enrolling in massage school when I received a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from Eastern Washington University. My goal of entering the physical therapy program didn’t happen, so in 2017 I decided to apply the knowledge gained from my exercise science degree and enroll at the American Institute of Clinical Massage. There, I was fortunate to graduate at the top of my class and found my passion in medical massage and functional movement training. I always felt like a healer wanting to help others and this was the perfect opportunity. I discovered MAT after reading Erik’s Advanced Myoskeletal Techniques textbook located in my massage school library, and that inspired me to search and view dozens of Erik’s techniques on his YouTube channel. What first impressed me was his “work smarter not harder” longevity concept. Instead of wearing my body out performing deep tissue work for 7 to 8 hours a day at Massage Envy and later at Elements Massage, I was finally able to relax into the work and improve my body mechanics and refine my touch. I really like the concept of involving my clients in active movement using “enhancers” that help retrain the brain to help release protective muscle guarding. This concept really works well with nerve entrapment syndromes. I now feel like I can pinpoint issues better without having to chase the pain, and since I’m using less energy in my sessions, I’m able to help more clients. MAT is a good system that, in time, will elevate your skill set. When I purchased the Complete Library Bundle, I found it helpful to first read one of Erik’s three textbooks for an overview of the program and then learn and practice each technique until I was comfortable enough to build a customized session for each client’s needs. My advice to those interested in pursuing the Master Myoskeletal Therapist program is to take your time with the info in each textbook and then find a variety of people to practice on so you are prepared to work with ‘real-world’ clients in a pain management setting.
Damian Woodard
Spokane Valley, Washington