About
Cristy Pennell’s Journey into Massage Therapy
In recent years, the connection between mental and physical health has become increasingly recognized. As more people seek holistic approaches to wellness, massage therapy has emerged as a powerful tool not only for physical relaxation but also for mental health support. This blog post explores how massage therapy can be integrated into a comprehensive mental health plan, enhancing both emotional well-being and physical health.
Cristy Pennell’s appreciation for massage therapy began back in 1999, during one of the most stressful times of her life.
Overwhelming stress led to debilitating headaches and sharp pains in her back, affecting her sleep and even her breathing. It was during this time that Cristy made her first visit to a massage therapist. The relief was immediate and profound. Amazed by the effects, Cristy vowed to receive regular massages and to never let her body endure that level of stress again.
Since then, monthly massage sessions became Cristy’s sanctuary—a medical necessity she wholeheartedly embraced. The results were astonishing: the once-frequent migraines that used to require prescription medications vanished completely. Cristy’s headaches never returned as long as she stayed on track with her massage routine.
Massage therapy didn’t just benefit Cristy; it helped nearly every member of her family. Whether it was healing injuries, relieving pain, or simply reducing stress, massage became an essential part of their well-being. Even her son experienced the healing power of massage at just six weeks old! Though Cristy had often thought about becoming a massage therapist herself, the demands of being a new mom made it impractical to pursue at the time.
Fast forward to Cristy’s 40th birthday. She decided to challenge herself by running a half-marathon, and she received massages every two weeks throughout her training. The experience was eye-opening. She completed the 13.1-mile race successfully, feeling strong and ready for more. However, her next half-marathon attempt was a different story. The rigorous schedule left little time for massages, and just a week after the second race, Cristy injured her knee, ultimately requiring surgery. This experience gave her a renewed appreciation for how crucial massage therapy is, especially for athletes—she knew firsthand the difference between training “with massage” and “without massage.”
After over two decades in corporate America, Cristy decided it was time for a meaningful change. This time, she was ready to follow her passion and answer the call to become a massage therapist. She excelled as a student and was invited to complete an advanced clinic internship, where her dedication and passion for the art of massage therapy were evident to both her classmates and her new clients.
Cristy’s true passion lies in helping people overcome pain and stress.
She knows firsthand how dangerous and debilitating stress can be, and she’s made it her mission to help others combat it. From headaches to back pain, Cristy provides thoughtful, thorough, and therapeutic treatments that aim to not only alleviate discomfort but also improve the overall quality of life. She is also deeply honored to work with local athletes, helping them train and recover from marathons, cycling races, and triathlons.
A massage from Cristy Pennell is more than just a treatment; it’s a personalized experience focused on healing and wellness. With her intuitive ability to find and treat hidden trouble areas, Cristy’s massages are thoughtful and meticulous, ensuring that each client leaves feeling rejuvenated and restored. Her journey from a client who experienced the healing benefits of massage to a dedicated therapist has shaped her into a truly special practitioner—one who understands both the art and the science of what she offers.
For more about what a massage by Cristy Pennell is like, please visit the Testimonials page and read the experiences of satisfied clients.