About Me
My First Concern Is your Health and Well-Being!
My name is Rick Hepler. I am a California Massage Therapy Council certified (CAMTC #72419) and New Mexico Licensed (MT-2024-0226) and Insured Massage Therapist.
I am a former cancer patient who, after much deliberation and hand wringing, had chemo-therapy. At the time, 2013, my knowledge of health and nutrition was not so good. Cancer and lots of free time allowed hours of study and learning. The more I learned, the more convinced I became that most illness is caused by nutritional imbalance and exposure to toxins. By the time I completed Chemo, I was certain I had made a poor decision by having Chemo-Therapy.
In the three weeks between diagnosis and the start of Chemo I began a new regimen, using some "alternative" treatments, Cannabis, Baking Soda and Turmeric. I also stopped consuming caffeine, alcohol, sugar in any form, red meat, wheat, corn, soy and any highly acidic foods.
Prior to starting the new regimen, I was having excruciating pain and was taking oxycodone every 6 hours. By the time I began Chemo, just three weeks later, I was rarely needing the pain pills.
To keep it short, I got through the Chemo without nausea and was able to completely stop taking pain meds by the middle of the first of three rounds of Chemo.
I have continued to study and learn more since then. I may post a more complete explanation of the protocol I followed and why, on the blog found on this web site.
Diet and supplement recommendations are available if desired, after I obtain detailed info on your health, current diet, and exercise habits. When coupled with regular massage therapy, you will be on your way to a happy, healthy life.
If you do not already practice meditation, I recommend you start! There are many web sites that offer free guided meditations for beginners.
A Therapist Who Cares
In order to provide you with the best experience, I will match you with the right massage therapy for your specific issue.
Experienced Knowledge
I can determine your needs so you get the perfect massage you'll love. The majority of my therapeutic massage is a combination of the modalities listed below along with some tricks picked up over the years.
My Massages
Swedish Massage
The goal of Swedish Massage is to melt away muscle tension and increase the blood flow to your heart. Swedish Massage consists of light to medium pressure and is extremely therapeutic as it decreases muscle toxins, increases oxygen levels in the blood, and improves flexibility in the body.
Deep Tissue
Deep Tissue massage is designed to relieve severe tension in the muscle and the connective tissue or fascia. This type of massage focuses on the muscles located below the surface of the top muscles. Deep tissue massage is often recommended for individuals who experience consistent pain, are involved in heavy physical activity, such as athletes, and patients who have sustained physical injury. It is also not uncommon for receivers of Deep Tissue Massage to have their pain replaced with a new muscle ache for a day or two. Deep tissue work varies greatly. What one calls deep tissue another will call light. When receiving deep tissue work it is important to communicate what you are feeling.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial release is a form of soft tissue therapy used to treat somatic dysfunction and accompanying pain and restriction of motion. This is accomplished by relaxing contracted muscles, increasing circulation, increasing venous and lymphatic drainage, and stimulating the stretch reflex of muscles and overlying fascia.