Massage therapy for every body
My name is Kristen Gassner, and I am a licensed massage therapist based in Portland, Oregon. I graduated from the Oregon School of Massage with training in multiple techniques and modalities including Swedish, Cupping, Trigger Point Therapy, Myofascial massage, Reiki, and Shiatsu.
I wish to provide calm, focused massage therapy to help restore balance and energy to my client's body and mind. Together we can address pain, restrictions, and stress, so that you may reach your wellness goals. I am committed to promoting healing, providing connection through quality touch, and guiding my clients toward greater contentment in their body. I believe everyone deserves massage, and to feel more whole again, at any age and stage of their lives. Everyone is welcome.
My services
Holistic Massage
I provide a custom massage based on your needs and goals. Sessions can incorporate elements of Swedish Massage, Deep Pressure, Trigger Point Therapy, Myofascial Massage, Neuromuscular Techniques, Stretching, Deep Breathing, Warm Bamboo Stick Massage, and Foot Reflexology.
$100 for 60 minutes
$140 for 90 minutes
Cupping
Cupping therapy has been used around the world for centuries. It is a healing technique that uses suction cups to create negative pressure on the skin. The vacuum effect lifts the skin and underlying tissues, drawing blood and fluids to the surface to promote circulation. This also reduces congestion and tension in the underlying muscle and fascia.
Following a cupping session, the suction will leave circular marks on the skin that can range from light pink to dark purple. These are not bruises in the traditional sense, but rather a result of broken capillaries under the skin. The marks are typically not painful and fade within a week or two.
$30 for 30 minutes, as an add on to any massage session.
Foot Massage/ Reflexology
Reflexology is a technique that focuses on specific pressure points within your feet to help correct energy flows throughout your body. I combine this along with soothing Swedish strokes to relax both your feet and mind.
$40 for 30 minutes
About Me
From a fairly young age, massage has been part of my life. My first massage was for pure relaxation in a bungalow just outside Joshua Tree National Park in southern California when I was 17. Soon after I experienced Shiatsu and hydrotherapy at Los Angeles’ Korean hot springs. I received massage from Thai and Chinese practitioners in my neighborhood, and Swedish at spas in Pasadena. Massage became a regular part of my self-care and recovery from work, stress, and injuries.
After a busy career in set decorating for feature films and television, I decided to investigate a more harmonious line of work. I have had an instinct towards healing for a long time and finally decided to pursue that instinct. Massage therapy was naturally the place to start.
In addition to my education at Oregon School of Massage, I have a BA from the University of California Santa Cruz, where I majored in Theater and Modern Dance. I spend most of my free time hiking, gardening, cooking (and eating!), checking out art, and just generally exploring. I have had the opportunity to travel and live in great multicultural cities, and I find working with a diverse variety of people rewarding. I am excited to continue broadening my experience with every client.