Maureen Henderson, LMT: Massage Therapist, Poet, and Nature-Lover
We are pleased to welcome to Ruscombe, massage therapist Maureen Henderson, LMT. Recently we sat down to learn more about her practice and passion for healing.
Ruscombe: Thanks so much for your time, Maureen. Can you tell us why you wanted to bring your practice to Ruscombe?
Maureen Henderson, LMT: It has been a long time wish of mine to be part of the healing community of practitioners at Ruscombe Mansion. I am overjoyed to open my massage and healing arts practice, called Blue Willow Wellness Retreat, at Ruscombe. It is the perfect location for my practice. It enchants my vision of creating a serene atmosphere with its retreat type grounds. Being part of this beautiful historic site is a bonus for my practice. I am looking forward to being part of the working community and taking part in events. Ruscombe incorporates my vision for the services I am offering. It’s everyone’s slice of heaven. I admire the dedication of the practitioners who have called Ruscombe home for decades, creating a striving practice of their own.
How did you come to your specific practice?
I came into the world of healing, because I had a calling to give back to others in need of healing. After a car accident, which resulted in me having neck surgery, and receiving healing energy of touch therapy, I knew I had to do this for others. My practice is based on Gratitude, Compassion, Nurturance, Deep Listening and Doing Good. I became a massage therapist in 2006 and have been practicing ever since. I received my training from Anne Arundel Community College, Therapeutic Massage Program.
I offer an array of different bodywork modalities, Energy Healing, Yoga Nidra, Sound Healing, Touch Drawing Art Facilitating, and Wellness Retreats for Women. My latest training is in Life Engagement Coaching, Certification, from Anne Arundel Community College, the only community college to hold ICF Accreditation.
With all my training and wisdom, I create a custom blend of therapies that best suits my client’s current needs. I am passionate about being part of my client’s healing process.
Tell us more about Touch Drawing and Sound Baths and some of the more unusual practices you incorporate into your unique approach.
Touch Drawing was accidentally created by Deborah Koff-Chapin, an art student, 50 years ago. One way it is used is as a form of self-expression, to journey into yourself, causing you to come into a meditative state. It is essentially using your hands, fingertips, or palms to form images onto tissue paper on a board with wet paint. Touch Drawing is now used in a variety of ways by many professional practitioners, for various purposes, such as Alzheimer’s and dementia patients.
With my Reiki practice, Bodywork, Life Coaching, Personal Development/Growth in all different fields, etc., I like to call it “Soul Expressions.” It’s a journey into your inner voice, inner being. It can be used daily with a series of drawings, as a visual journal.
Sound Healing is a profound healing experience that is deeply relaxing and meditative all in one. A variety of musical instruments are used, either as an individual session or in a group setting known as a Sound Bath. I use it in my massage practice and coaching sessions. It’s great for stress management and relief. One of my favorite healing practices!
How do you stay grounded and balanced with so much going on in the world?
Staying grounded and balanced with busy lives is not the easiest thing to achieve. I must make a conscious effort to make time for myself. I am a big fan of stillness and breath, which brings me to a place of deep knowing and insights. Writing poems takes me on a journey that is very anchoring and grounding. I have just taken up Vocal Sounding, which is very mediative and brings balance to my well-being. It all feeds my soul!
When you’re not healing others, what lights you up?
When I am not healing others, you can find me heading to some State Park or other. I love being in nature, as it gives me healing that I did not know needed. It certainly lights me up. Feeling my lungs fill with the cold air, my breathing improves, and I feel like I have taken a week’s vacation.
How do you recharge yourself?
Recharging for me in this stage of life is very simple: Nature, Beach, and a day of not doing anything, without guilt!
How can folks contact you?
Maureen B. Henderson, LMT
(410) 793-2244