Michelle D.

Since a very young age, Michelle felt compassion and great enthusiasm for helping others. Even alongside motherhood and a demanding career in financial services, she has always found time for those in need. Her love and generosity isn’t just granted to her nearest and dearest; but takes special interest in senor citizens, hospice patients and their families, or children facing life-threatening illnesses, and it extends further to animal welfare, such as rescuing homeless dogs. Truth be told, Michelle’s amazing spirit, clarity and inner strength create an extremely sheltering, nurturing and dignifying presence.

Michelle brings comfort, brightness and smiles to others, and is an active volunteer within the ‘Make A Wish’ of Iowa foundation, hospice, and various animal rescue organizations.

Balancing her priorities Michelle left corporate after 20 years and became a massage therapist. She founded Healing with Heart Massage Therapy LLC in Ames, IA, a company that provides professional bodywork to the public and contracts with retirement communities, like Bethany Life in Story City.

Michelle quotes Winston Churchill ~ “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”, and says she’s found her true calling. Touch has become her magic tool for touching people’s lives. She happily shares her success and excitement with colleagues and students, who greatly benefit from her expertise.

Teaching at Body Wisdom, Michelle personifies the school’s philosophy of loving care that brings to light the immense essence and power of the individual for the benefit of a fulfilling life and the greater good of all.

Michelle and her husband, a professor at Iowa State University, live in Ames, together with their two spoiled dogs. They have four grown boys, and enjoy spending time with family and friends. Michelle’s hobbies include cooking, wine tastings, hiking, fishing, biking and traveling.

Instructor: Geriatric (Elderly) Massage

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