Melissa Marek

After a severe back injury in my early 20s, and failure to find relief through standard medical practices, I went on a quest to heal my body and restore my quality of life. It was a winding journey but eventually I found yoga and meditation which guided me back to my former, vital self. Inspired to share the power of mind-body practices with others, I became a certified yoga teacher in 2005 (RYT), focusing on chronic pain and trauma-sensitive practices which led me to a certification in Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE) in 2010. As I worked with more clients, I began to desire more knowledge, specifically science-based, medical knowledge of the human body so that I could assess pain and other conditions as completely and safely as possible. This led me to complete a Doctorate of Physical Therapy and become a licensed Physical therapist (PT, DPT) in 2016. The following year, I completed the rigorous McKenzie certification in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (Cert. MDT), affording me to specialize in spinal care, including all varieties of back and neck pain, sciatica/radiculopathies. In 2023, I became a certified Breath Coach in order to further share one of our most profound, and easily accessible, resources for regulating our nervous system and overall wellness.

Professionally, I love empowering my clients by teaching wellness tools from both ancient and modern practices, and explaining the science that supports them. I deeply believe that YOU are your wisest teacher and source of meaningful change. And, yet, we all need guidance and support. I will continue to be a constant learner so that I continue to offer a fully integrative practice, and I will always be interested in hearing your story and customizing these methods for you.

Languages: English and Spanish. I love to travel, experience new cultures, and get out of my comfort zone. I find joy and healing in nature, especially when I can move with a landscape via kayaking, scuba/snorkeling, or cross country skiing. My husband and I are foster parents and care deeply about offering a home to those who need refuge. And, I love to laugh -- what great medicine!