Hello.  My name is Janet Long and I am a Massage Therapist and founder of In Balance Center for Living.

The world of massage and healing is exceptionally vast and it has opened a world for me that is a life long journey.  I am so thrilled to be able to offer our special services to the community.  Meeting new people, hearing their stories and supporting each person in a unique way is such a treat.

I began studying massage in 1998 and became a full time therapist in 2001.   I currently have 2,000 hours in massage training and 5,000 hours in practice (as of Nov 2006). 

Although my work in 1998 focused on Deep Tissue therapy,  my year long course at Health Choices in 2000 was much more comprehensive.   They taught us dozens of massage styles and techniques.  But, most importantly, we learned how to listen and respond intuitively and integrate all our skills to meet the client's needs.  It was a profound experience and I am grateful.

Starting in 1999, it was my dream to provide a place where people from all walks of life could find refuge from their daily stresses.  We have proudly created a Wellness Center where people can come to surrender their daily burden, feel the warmth of caring and learn how to take better care of themselves once they leave.

We have yoga classes, massage therapy, workshops and many other healing services and special events! OR, just stop by anytime to hang out with a cup of tea and enjoy the cozy and relaxed atmosphere both indoors and outdoors in our healing gardens.  Opening our Wellness Center in 2007 was a dream come true.  We welcome you.. nurturing YOU is all WE do!

The beginning........

It was not that long ago that I had no idea what "mind/body" meant.  This center was born 7 years ago out of my own need to heal and change the direction of my life.

Health and fitness had always been a passion of mine.  For 6 years I had taught aerobic classes, been a personal trainer, and helped run Johnson & Johnson's Wellness Programs.  But, with a Bachelor degree in Business I felt I should be "moving upward", so I entered the financial field.   As a Client Relations Manager I  learned to be comfortable and relate to all types of people.  But, over time I found myself growing farther and farther away from my "true self".   The things that were important to me were no longer being honored.   Because of this discrepancy, I began having recurring panic attacks and was frequently sick (lesson number one!).   This was a turning point in my life.  It was scary, lonely, and challenging.   But, it was the best thing that ever happened to me. 

For those of you who suffer from panic attacks, you are not alone.  Please listen to what your heart is trying to tell you.   It was during this time I started dreaming of a place where people would be cared for and nourished to live the healthiest and happiest lives they could.  

I also received one of my first massages.  My heart had been in a strong clasp, like a fist, for months and I had no idea how to release it.   As I lay there the therapist gently rocked me.  After endless months of tightness, it just released.    I looked up and said "What did you just do?".  I don't think she said anything.  Massage can heal, I felt it that day and have so many times since (lesson number two!). 

And now......

Out of everything difficult, I truly believe seeds of something good are born if we have the spirit to nourish them.  Deciding to become a massage therapist was a risk but I gave my all to it and it felt right.  In the end, the risk was well worth it and my life has been blessed with the rewards ever since. 

Learning new techniques and healing modalities, traveling to see what other therapists are doing in the world, and broadening my skills are passions of mine.  So is writing, being outdoors as much as possible, hiking, dancing, smiling, and listening to all types of music. 

I would love to meet or hear from you if you would like to learn more about our Center. We are comprehensive in our approach and no matter what your needs, we are here to provide a place where you will get them met!

Thank you again for reading and I wish you a day full of special moments.

Namaste ("I honor the light within you" - Buddhist saying)