• Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Program
• Amazing Alumni
• Core Massage Therapy Training Program
• NHI Believes

For Rowena Mondala, a graduate of both the Core Massage Therapy and Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy (ANMT) programs at NHI San Jose, the journey into massage therapy has been a profound exploration extending far beyond the study of bones and muscles. As she reflects on her time in the ANMT program, Rowena shares a powerful reminder: as massage therapists, we connect with our clients on a deeply human level, holding a sacred space for healing and well-being.

In a beautifully metaphorical piece, Rowena shares the key lessons imparted by her teachers, wisdom gleaned from the “wise tree,” the “persistent groundhog,” the “steady rock,” and the “knowing bird” – insights that illuminate the deeper essence of this healing profession.

The Wise Tree and the Gift of Grace

“There was this tree… wise, resilient, and beautiful, whose branches have weathered each storm and stood strong with leaves even more brilliant each Spring,” Rowena writes. In a quiet moment of reflection, she asked this metaphorical tree what she was missing. The simple, yet profound answer resonated deeply: “GRACE.” This gentle reminder speaks to the importance of extending compassion, both to ourselves and to our clients, acknowledging the challenges they face and the effort they bring to the healing process.

The Persistent Groundhog and the Necessity of Practice

Next, Rowena introduces the “groundhog,” whose unseen work beneath the surface reveals hidden pathways. “Seemingly grumpy, unintentionally so, and still continuing to push through each day nonetheless. Groundhogs predict the next season year after year with hopes of leaving their shadows behind and looking forward to a brighter tomorrow.” When Rowena sought guidance on becoming a better Neuromuscular Therapist, the groundhog offered a straightforward yet crucial piece of advice: “Just PRACTICE!” This underscores the fundamental role of dedication, repetition, and hands-on experience in honing the skills necessary for effective therapy.

The Steady Rock and the Importance of Trusting the Process

The “rock” embodies steadfastness and unwavering support. “Steady, grounded, quietly watching and always offering support if one ever needed a place to hold on to or sit. Rocks can look sharp and edgy until tumbled and smoothed into beautiful gemstones, and when put under tremendous pressure, rocks have the capacity to turn into diamonds.” When Rowena inquired about what she needed, the rock’s silent wisdom echoed: “Trust the Process.” This speaks to the often non-linear nature of healing, both for the therapist and the client, and the importance of patience and faith in the journey.

The Knowing Bird and the Inner Wisdom

Finally, a fleeting encounter with a “bird” brought a powerful affirmation. “This bird flew by… quickly I asked what it saw from its perspective, and with my eyes wide open like a deer in headlights, I wondered what the answer was, and the bird chirped, ‘You know this. I KNOW you know this.'” This poignant reminder highlights the inherent knowledge and intuition that develops within us as we learn and grow, encouraging us to trust our instincts and the wisdom we’ve already gained.

Learning to Swim in the ANMT Program

Rowena beautifully connects these metaphorical lessons to her experience in the ANMT program, using the analogy of learning to swim. “The ANMT program is a lot like learning how to swim: in the 1st module, you dip your toes in the water and maybe splash around a little… 2nd module you start to get an idea of what’s going to happen and how things flow, and by the 4th and 5th modules, things start to click. You learn to float, and you’re doing different strokes.” This illustrates the gradual yet progressive nature of the program, building confidence and skill over time.

Ultimately, Rowena’s reflection underscores a vital truth about massage therapy: it is a practice rooted in empathy, dedication, patience, and trust. “With practice, grace, and trusting the process, we’ve finally found ourselves at the end of the tunnel, seeing that bright light into our futures.” In closing, Rowena extends heartfelt gratitude to those who supported her journey: “I’d like to say a huge THANK YOU to my husband and kids, my instructors (now colleagues), and my classmates (who are also now forever friends). I am truly grateful for the unconditional love, support, and space that you’ve held for me. I can’t say that I could have done it without you, so thank you <3”

Rowena’s insightful words serve as a powerful reminder to all aspiring and practicing massage therapists: by embracing grace, committing to practice, trusting the process, and listening to our inner wisdom, we can truly make a profound difference in the lives of those we touch.

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