Oncology Massage & Esthetics

Benefits of oncology massage and esthetics:
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Decrease in pain, fatigue, nausea and anxiety
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Improved sleep and enhanced quality of life
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Relieving cancer-related skin conditions and improved skin health
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Re-establishing a sense of normalcy
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Supporting a healthy lymphatic system
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Receiving a customized skincare plan
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Supporting a healthy lymphatic system
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Reduce unpleasant sensation from chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN)
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Increase function in areas affected by scar tissue resulting from surgery and radiation
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Reduce post-surgical swelling and support rehabilitation and recovery
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In addition to working with people with cancer, I have extensive experience adapting massage and skincare sessions to work safely with each individual, whatever their current health status.
Oncology massage and esthetics are not specific techniques, they embrace a holistic approach that helps me to carefully assess and adapt traditional massage and skincare methods to cater to the individual needs of clients who are currently receiving or have received treatment for cancer. These adjustments are specifically tailored to address the side effects of cancer treatments and related complications.
A variety of massage and esthetic therapies can be safely administered, and services may target issues such as dry skin, rashes, redness, sensitivity, hair loss, nail lifting, and more. The scope of these treatments and their benefits is wide-ranging depending on client specific needs. The goal of many of these sessions is to help reconnect with the body in a kind, healing way. There is always some form of touch therapy that can be safely provided.
Self-care is a very important part of living with a cancer diagnosis. I can help establish and reach goals and make clean product recommendations, no matter the budget. This is a perfect time to examine what you are putting on your body and determining if they are helpful or harmful, and I am happy to help decode the very confusing world of beauty and self-care products.
In 2011 I completed a 300-hour oncology massage certification through the Peregrine Institute of Oncology Massage Training. The coursework was designed to give practitioners a high level of knowledge and hands on skill in order to safely support people with a history of cancer. The training incorporated both Eastern and Western perspectives. I have also completed foundational training in oncology skin care. Since then I have worked with people living with all stages of cancer, before, during and after treatment. I also offer services as part of palliative care. To learn more about my work with people with cancer check out this article in the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
A Therapeutic Intervention
Menu of Oncology Massage & Esthetics
“I’ve been receiving biodynamic Craniosacral sessions from Nissa on a regular basis for about a year now, and I have to say that my experience working with her has been transformational. She holds an extremely neutral and safe presence during each session – as a result, the inner healing is both deep and potent. I feel more ease, vitality, and resource in my body now than I’ve felt in my whole life. Nissa is an experienced, intelligent, intuitive, loving practitioner – I recommend her to everybody!!”
Amanda Leaveck

“After a typical Biodynamic Craniosacral session with Nissa, I feel like I’ve landed on Earth for the first time. Something in me has settled in a brand new way, and I’m able to delight in simply being in the moment. I’m able to approach my day-to-day experience with authenticity, vitality, and ease. Her sessions have become a resource for me as I seek relief from discomfort and seek to expand my capacity for creativity and joy.”
Oliver Adam

“In my experience, Craniosacral therapy is a modality of holding space. Space to heal. Space to be presently embodied. Space to be here, and space to arrive. Nissa’s presence within the sessions feels safe and from the heart. She creates a safe container for the body to feel held, heard, and seen. I’ve truly never experienced a more restorative healing practice in which my body is encouraged to heal itself. Thank you Nissa for the work you do – it’s been transformative and has touched every aspect of my life. I highly recommend!”
Emma Broderick

“My very first session of BCST was remarkable. I experienced an awakening of my nervous system that felt as if a cap had been removed and the energy could flow. I left that session with a beginning sense of calmness. Each session since then has continued to increase my self-healing. It is difficult to explain what I experience during each session, other than to say I am able to feel myself letting go of my struggles and gaining a better perception of self. As an example, I went to my third session with high anxiety. I left with an understanding of my strength as a woman. The anger from the past is slowly dissipating with each session. I am able to approach the stresses of my daily life with a calmness that did not exist before. Each session I am more aware of myself, the lives surrounding me, and the beauty of it all.
Pamela Jones

“Nissa and Ritual Self Care is part of my health, wellness, and medical care. Her holistic approach to skin and the body is one of the most important things I can do to take care of myself. My face is the window through which I experience the world. Nissa’s healing touch, delicate tending to issues and problem areas, ability to address deeper ailments, and pampering style offers a unique experience not duplicated in the metro area. If you are looking for a lovely ambiance, attention to detail, super soft sheets and towels, organic and nourishing products, and an experience to rejuvenate and replenish yourself, then book an appointment with Nissa.”
Sherri Moe

“During my first lymph drainage massage with Nissa, I felt almost instantly the magic of her touch. As she worked on different areas of my body I fell into this wonderfully peaceful and relaxed state. After my third session, I noticed a real improvement in the swelling in my lower legs, I did not need to wear compression socks as often as before. I look forward with anticipation to my upcoming sessions with Nissa.”
Caroline Bucquoy-Brown

“I had been suffering from constant sinus infections even after sinus surgery. I started seeing Nissa approximately 6 months ago for Manual Lymph Drainage, as I was tired of being on prescription medication that clearly was not working.
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“After the first session I could already feel a difference and within 4 sessions I felt like a new person. Nissa truly cares about the health of each client. I am now doing what I refer to as maintenance Manual Lymph Drainage which has allowed me to explore other services from Nissa. Last month I had an amazing Facial combined with my Manual Lymph Drainage and my hope is to add on a Massage by the end of the year.
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“As you can tell I can’t say enough about Nissa and her caring manner.”
Mary Anderson
