I fell in love with running and the human body when I was 12. My quest for knowledge of anatomy and movement led to me obtaining a degree in Exercise Science from ISU and then to University of Iowa for a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2008. I loved helping people at a fundamental level by teaching people to walk, stand, and move better after experiencing catastrophic events or a hard diagnosis. I found so much joy in helping people take their first steps.
My most transformative time as a clinician was spent at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago from 2009-2016. I was a senior staff therapist primarily working in Inpatient Rehab but floated and did rotations to ICU, Day Rehab, all acute care floors, outpatient, and did research. Working in a fast-paced academic hospital challenged me not only from a complexity of diagnosis and problem solving “once in a lifetime” patients daily but working with a diverse patient population taught me to meet people where they are with the resources they have available.
After the birth of my first baby, it made the most sense for our family to move to Des Moines area. My family grew to 3 boys in 3 years, & I continued to work with patients at a fundamental level of mobility.
With time & experience, my interests evolved and I became more interested in lymphatic and fascial system as they impact every system of the body. Personally, the unexpected death of my mom in 2022 and working with COVID patients in ventilators really made me start to question “healthcare.” The desire for knowledge has led me to pursue additional certifications in Vodder Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Advanced Head and Neck Lymphedema Certification, LSVT BIG, Stott Pilates, deep core and numerous other certifications through the years.
Through my last 15 years of direct care, I have noticed a significant link in affect and physical manifestation of ailments. Many of offerings provided at CryoWellness Studio are rooted in my own quest to be the best me without relying on meds or invasive procedures.
So no matter where you are in your journey, I invite you to dive into the well of your body and end up in another world.
Before vs After Lymphatic Drainage Sessions#
What’s happening inside your body during lymphatic drainage?
1.Your circulatory system naturally leaks fluid into the surrounding tissues, stimulation of lympahtic system helps clear the space
2.Swelling, puffiness, and stagnation begin to decrease
3.Lymphatic flow and circulation are gently encouraged
4.The body starts clearing excess waste and fluid more efficiently
5.You may notice feeling lighter, less bloated, more mobile, and deeply relaxed 🤍
#lymphaticdrainagemassage #lymphaticsystem #lymphatichealth #lymphaticmassage
Pregnancy can significantly impact your lymphatic system, as increased fluid volume and hormonal changes can slow lymph flow—leading to swelling, puffiness, and that heavy, achy feeling.
To support your body, simple habits can make a difference: stay gently active (like walking), elevate your legs when you can, wear loose or compression clothing if recommended, and stay well hydrated. These small steps help encourage healthy circulation and lymph movement.
If swelling feels sudden, severe, or uneven, it’s worth checking in with your provider, your body is doing a lot.
Your lymphatic system plays a major role in how you feel every day 🌊
Here’s what you should know:
~ It’s your body’s detox network, helping remove waste, toxins, and excess fluid
~ It doesn’t have a pump like your heart, so it relies on movement, deep breathing, and massage to flow
~When it slows down, you may notice puffiness, low energy, brain fog, or skin concerns
~ Hydration is essential without enough water, lymph fluid can thicken and become sluggish
~ Lymphatic drainage treatments can help support circulation, reduce swelling, and leave you feeling lighter.
Taking care of your lymphatic system = supporting your overall wellness 🤍
Ready to feel your best?
5 simple ways to calm your nervous system 🤍
Remember you can only give to others if you give to yourself. Take time for you in small ways each day to slow down, reflect, and find gratitude.
Invest in your body, your home.
Your body didn’t just give birth… it’s now trying to clear, heal, and rebalance all at once.
Postpartum isn’t about “bouncing back.”
It’s about supporting a system that’s been pushed to its limits.
During pregnancy, your blood volume increases by ~50%. After birth, your body has to move all that excess fluid out → cue the puffiness, swelling, and that heavy, inflamed feeling.
At the same time, your lymphatic system (the one responsible for clearing fluid + waste) doesn’t have a pump.
It relies on movement, breath, and manual support to do its job.
That’s where lymphatic drainage comes in.
Not as a quick fix but as support for what your body is already trying to do.
Think:
• less swelling + water retention
• de-puffing (face, under eyes, body)
• better circulation + healing
• nervous system support (so important postpartum)
Your body isn’t broken. It’s just overloaded.
You don’t need to “bounce back.”
You need to drain, support, and rebuild.
#postpartumrecovery #lymphaticdrainage #postpartumbody #wellnesssupport #guasha
