WHAT IS DEEP STILLNESS MASSAGE?
Deep Stillness Massage is a slow and profoundly calming deep tissue modality developed by Rachel Hamm Van Valkenberg over the past 15 years. It is designed for those who feel overstimulated by traditional massage styles that are fast-paced or overly vigorous, and instead seek a therapeutic approach that works with the body rather than against it.
Using gently applied, comfortably deep pressure and extremely slow, broad strokes, this modality invites the nervous system to soften and release tension without force or aggression. There is minimal movement or stretching during the session—allowing clients to fully surrender into stillness, tune into their body's sensations, and experience deep states of relaxation and healing.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Before the Session:
Your experience begins with a thoughtful intake conversation. Rachel will talk with you about your goals, sensitive areas, medical history, and anything you'd like to focus on or avoid. She’ll walk you through how to prepare, and then step out while you get settled on the table.
During the Session:
Rachel typically works from head to toe on both the back and front of the body, using strokes that flow toward the feet and then toward the head. Expect extremely slow, intentional movements and deep yet gentle pressure. While sensations may feel intense at times, they should never be painful—Rachel will check in periodically, but open communication is encouraged throughout.
The session is fully passive for you as the client. Many people find themselves entering meditative states or even falling asleep.
After the Session:
Once the massage concludes, Rachel will exit the room so you can re-dress in privacy. You’ll then reconnect for water, post-session reflection, and personalized recommendations. If desired, she can also discuss an ongoing treatment plan.
BENEFITS
Here are just a few of the ways Deep Stillness Massage can support your physical and emotional health.
Physical Benefits:
Tension Relief
Eases chronic muscle tension, migraines, and stress-related headaches with slow, targeted pressure.
Chronic Pain Support
Helps manage symptoms of conditions like fibromyalgia, sciatica, and TMJ syndrome by calming the nervous system and reducing inflammation.
Injury Prevention & Recovery
Relieves strain from repetitive motion patterns and encourages balanced alignment and posture.
Nervous System Regulation
Gently shifts the body out of fight-or-flight mode, allowing the parasympathetic nervous system to take over and promote healing.
Improved Body Awareness
Increases your ability to sense and connect with your body, which can support posture correction and mindful movement.
ADHD-Friendly Approach
Offers a calm, consistent rhythm that can be especially helpful for clients with ADHD or sensory sensitivities.
Mental and Emotional Benefits:
Deep Relaxation
Creates the space for meditative stillness, allowing clients to fully let go and often drift into sleep.
Stress & Anxiety Reduction
Calms the mind and body, helping reduce anxious thoughts, emotional tension, and overwhelm.
Emotional Release
Provides a safe, grounded environment for emotions to surface and be released without judgment or effort.
PTSD & Trauma Support
Offers a gentle, non-invasive approach for clients healing from PTSD or C-PTSD, without triggering overstimulation.
Mental Clarity
Clients often report feeling lighter, more present, and mentally clear after their session.
Whole-Person Healing
Encourages holistic wellbeing by addressing the mind, body, and spirit—acknowledging that physical care supports emotional resilience.
OFFERINGS
Deep Stillness Massage is available in a variety of session lengths to suit your schedule and wellness needs. Choose the time that allows you the space to fully unwind and reconnect.
30+ MINUTE
Targeted focus on one or two areas of concern; great for maintenance or introduction to the modality.
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60+ MINUTE
A full-body reset with time to ease into deeper release and relaxation.
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90+ MINUTE
Extended session for deeper work, more integration, and a truly immersive experience.