the spa at tranquil space welcomes michell stanley! michell will be offering her services thursdays from 9am-7pm. read on or ring 202-328-9642 for details...

michell stanley is a licensed clinical social worker and certified teacher through yoga alliance (ryt-200). she has been practicing yoga for over 10 years while gaining diverse clinical experience in working with dc’s homeless and mentally ill populations, public schools, court systems, and private practice healthcare. her most recent career endeavor culminated in the successful implementation of an innovative youth diversion program for the district’s child welfare and juvenile justice systems.

michell’s dynamic approach to therapy looks at ways to enhance our “life’s tool box” to help people live the life they wish for. although her treatment specializations include anxiety and mood disorders, the concept of michell’s approach is working to create balance rather than fixing something that is “wrong”. her role in sessions is to provide support and practical feedback to help facilitate personal growth. psychotherapy sessions at tranquil space can also include guided relaxation, meditation, life coaching, and integration of therapy concepts with asana practice.

michell's services:
take yoga off your mat and into your life! the path of fulfillment is attained through training the mind: psychotherapy sessions are dynamic and tailored to the needs of each client. techniques may involve incorporation of simple strategies that help to create new life habits. cognitive therapies to improve symptoms of anxiety, stress, or depression. reconstructive therapies explore the subconscious and assist in changing long-standing patterns or attachments that are not effectively serving our best self.
individual psychotherapy 60/90 min: $120/$150
(the above services are eligible for reimbursement through most health insurance companies)
couples counseling (60 min): $120
PREPARE ENRICH couples assessment (60 min): $150
life coaching phone consultation (30 min): $50

by now, you may have seen my blog posts about a new jewelry line named dogeared and felt my excitement for it to arrive in the boutique. well, the jewelry is here and the response from customers has been equally enthusiastic.

the skin is the largest organ in the body, but is often overlooked when people start the process of detoxification or getting in shape. part of the integumentary system, the skin, among its other functions, excretes waste material through the pores. as part of a regular skin care regimen, or even as part of an occasional detox routine, there are several things you can do to keep the skin healthy and aid it in this process.

yes, it sounds funny, but dry brushing the skin is a quick way to exfoliate and increase circulation. skin brushing is also excellent for movement of lymph. skin brushes are typically flat with a handle or hand strap, and made with soft, natural bristles. before stepping into the shower or bath, start brushing the skin in light upward strokes (always moving toward the heart), and with small circles around the stomach, breasts, and at the joints.

epsom salt is rich in magnesium and sulfate, both of which are poorly absorbed by the stomach, but easily absorbed by the skin. research suggests several benefits from proper magnesium and sulfate levels, including improved circulatory health, reduced stress, and flushed wastes from the cells, easing sore muscles. put 2 cups in a warm bath, and soak for at least 15 minutes, rinsing afterwards. for an added benefit, try adding a few drops of lavender or jasmine essential oil to the bath.

an easy recipe: 1/2 cup of sea salt mixed with a little bit of oil (try sesame, almond, or olive oil). salt can be replaced with sugar in this recipe, making the scrub more emollient rather than detoxifying. you can also add a little bit of honey, jojoba oil, or vitamin e for added benefits.

oil is good for your skin.

yes you read that right.

we are told so often and sold products that convince us that oil + our skin is a bad thing, that the very idea of applying more is sure to send some of you shaking your heads. but try this: before a shower in the morning (and after dry brushing!) rub a small amount of an oil of your choice (sesame is great) into your skin. ALL over. and just stand in the warm shower for a few minutes....not scrubbing, just standing. let your skin soak it up...then get out, and pat (not rub) dry with a towel. you should feel amazing.

you deserve it.

ps--please be careful any time you bring oil into the shower. afterwards the shower with become very slick.