ABOUT GAIA: Bio and Philosophy

This is my golden opportunity to introduce myself to you. Briefly, I strive to help people reduce stress and tension in their bodies and minds so that they can lead vital, healthy, and productive lives. I do this mainly through the natural, manual modalities of Therapeutic Massage, Reflexology on the feet and hands, ReflexEssential^TM Aromatherapy, and Vita Flex. I enjoy working with clients of all ages from children to the elderly. I also feel especially fortunate to have the opportunity to work with people who have special needs. I am not an interpreter, but I am sign language friendly.

Regarding my credentials, the Tennessee Dept. of Health Related Boards has granted me the title of Licensed Massage Therapist and Certified Reflexologist. What this means for you is that I have met their stringent requirements as a professional in the health field and adhere to a high code of ethics. I have been qualified and certified by the International Institute of Reflexology, having completed a 200 hour course of study, 100 case studies, and a comprehensive exam. In addition, I have taken Basic and Advanced Reflexology Training in the Booth Method of Vertical Reflex Therapy. My experience of 27 years in bodywork has led me to conclude that Reflexology is one of the most effective techniques for balancing and triggering the body's natural ablility to heal. In June 2005, I completed my certification as an instructor for the Center for Aromatherapy Research and Education. I currently teach Aromatherapy Curriculum courses for Natural Health Institute in Nashville and present Continuing Education C.A.R.E. Aromatherapy Intensives nationwide.

Originally from the Chicago area, I owned a successful business called Caring Hands Massage Therapy Center in Winnetka from 1982 to 1992, where I trained therapists in a special synthesized form of bodywork that incorporated Swedish, Trigger Point, Polarity, and Energy Work. More recently, I served as the Director of Massage Therapy at North Glen Physical Medicine in Glenview, IL.  My expanded scope of studies has also included yoga, meditation, vegetarian diet, music, singing, toning, and Pranic Healing. I keep abreast of advancements in the field of wellness by maintaining a professional membership in the International Institute of Reflexology (IIR), the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), and the Integral Yoga Teachers Association.

I believe wholeheartedly that nature provides a pathway to better health and I consider it a privilege to be part of each client's progress toward their goals of well-being and balance.

RECOMMENDATIONS

"This letter is in recommendation of my friend and professional colleague Gaia Tossing. I have known her over eighteen years and can attest to her caring, reliable, responsible and trustworthy character. I also find her diligent and professional in her reflexology practice.

"My credentials include being a registered nurse since 1970, a registered reflexologist since 1985, and licensed massage therapist with the American Massage Therapy Association since 1988."
Patricia Lykins, RN
Winnetka, IL
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" It is my pleasure to write a letter of recommendation for Gaia Tossing. Gaia was the Massage Therapy Director in our multi-disciplinary clinic and has proven to be professional, competent, and responsible.

"In addition, her enthusiastic and positive character has made her well liked among our staff and her patients. She is a wonderful asset to our practice and it has been a privilege to work with her."
Dr. Deadra Wagner
Clinic Director North Glen Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Glenview, IL

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