Healing Starts in the Core

Mobile abdominal massage to facilitate emotional release in Sedona, Arizona.

In Taoist tradition, the navel center is recognized as the body’s most powerful energy center. It is considered the seat of health, vitality, internal power, creativity, and intuition. By connecting directly with your core, we will work to release long-held emotional blockages and address core imbalances, guiding you to a more harmonious state of wellness.

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MORE BENEFITS

Balance the digestive system
Improve mental clarity and creativity
Increase energy and vitality
Boost the immune system
Improve circulation
Detoxify blood, glands, and organs
Unblock stagnant energy

What do emotions have to do with my health?

Emotions which have not been “felt through,” can become toxic and inhibit organ function, creating tension and stress throughout the body. Emotions must be processed similarly to digestion—felt and released, rather than thought out.

Through gentle, listening touch, we bring awareness to areas in the abdomen where chi (energy) has become contracted or restricted.

Releasing these pent-up emotions restores a sense of lightness, gives mental clarity, heals aches and pains, and enhances vitality and dynamic flow throughout the body.

Meet your Guide

Dena Bahar, Licensed Massage Therapist

After spending 20 years as a graphic designer, I found myself longing for work that brought me closer to my heart. I wanted to create a life that supported not just me, but others, in finding their own healing. Even while I worked in offices, I would always light up when there was an opening to talk about wellness.

I received my education from the Sedona School of Massage and the White Cloud Institute. While I may incorporate techniques like Swedish, craniosacral, or reflexology as needed, the core of my work is always centered on the abdomen.

I chose to specialize in abdominal massage because I believe it’s where I can make the greatest impact. The abdomen is a center of deep emotional and energetic holding, and massage has the power to facilitate emotional release and restore balance in a way that few other modalities can. My approach is intuitive and compassionate—working gently, yet deeply.

I focus on creating a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients. I don’t assume to know where my clients are at; instead, I hold space for whatever needs to arise. There is so much wisdom in each person, and I learn a great deal from my clients as they discover insights about themselves.

What I love most about my work is witnessing transformation. I love seeing someone rise from the table with a new face. People who have never experienced this work are always amazed at how much better they feel.

The most significant influence on my work was my mother’s passing in 2018 after her battle with breast cancer. As she faced her own mortality, I witnessed her come to terms with the emotional burdens she had carried. Even as her body deteriorated, her spirit became the brightest I had ever seen.

Her transformation in the last few months of her life profoundly inspired me. I witnessed my mother come to life as she was dying, and through that experience, the seed was planted to help others find that same lightness—to live with freedom in their bodies and hearts, to forgive, to experience joy, and to embrace the gift of life and everything it has to offer.

What should I expect?

I will arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled session with a massage table, music, and everything I need. I will just need a clear, quiet space of about 9×10 feet. During the session, you will remain clothed and lie comfortably on the table with your abdomen exposed. The treatment includes abdominal massage and guided breathing. I may also massage your feet, head, neck, and hands to help move stagnant energy and conclude the session.

Will it hurt?

The treatment should not be painful. The touch is gentle yet deep, and I work with your body’s natural responses. Some areas may feel tender as we release tension or emotions, but I’ll always check in with you make sure you are comfortable.

What should I wear?

You should wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your abdomen. I recommend avoiding tight or restrictive garments, as it may interfere with the treatment’s flow. You’ll remain fully clothed, with just your abdominal area exposed.

Can I eat before my treatment?

It’s best to avoid heavy meals at least 2 hours before your session. A light snack is fine, but having an empty stomach helps your body be more receptive to the treatment. You’ll feel more comfortable during the session without the pressure of digestion.

How often should I get a treatment?

The frequency depends on your needs and goals. For deep emotional or physical blockages, more frequent sessions—every 1-2 weeks—may be beneficial initially. Once you feel more balanced, monthly maintenance sessions can help you stay in tune with your body and emotions. We can discuss this further after your first treatment to determine what feels best for you.

Should I leave gratuity?

While it’s never required, gratuity is a meaningful way to show appreciation for the care provided during your treatment. Typically, clients leave a gratuity of 18-25%, depending on their experience. Your generosity helps support my practice and the work I love doing!

What is this technique called?

I use a modality called Chi Nei Tsang. Chi Nei Tsang (CNT) literally means “working the energy of the internal organs” or “internal organs chi transformation.” It is an ancient Chinese abdominal massage technique that unifies aspects of anatomy and energy work, focusing on the emotional, mental, and spiritual bodies.

My teacher is Caryn Diel at the White Cloud Institute.

Are you a certified massage therapist?

Yes, I am a certified massage therapist. I graduated from the the Sedona School of Massage. My license number is #MT-30134, and I am a member of the AMTA (American Massage Therapy Association).

We Bring the Healing to You

Whether you’re at home, on vacation or on a retreat, our mobile services are available in Sedona, the Village of Oak Creek and Cornville.

Let's Start at the Center

You are invited to reconnect with the core of your being and experience the freedom that comes from releasing what no longer serves you.