About Donna Waks

An Integrated Approach to Healing

Our bodies are naturally inclined towards health. This enables us to stay balanced and to cope with the physical, emotional, and environmental stresses we encounter in everyday life. But sometimes these stresses can be overwhelming, resulting in imbalances, restrictive patterns, and chronic health conditions.

I believe that by taking the time to connect with and listen to our bodies, we can uncover our innate intelligence and health and gain a renewed sense of wellbeing.

I fully “live in my body.” I began dancing and expressing myself through movement at age seven and have been an athlete all my life. While choreographing and performing in New York City, I delved into a variety of movement and body-therapy approaches that I have continued to explore. I’ve incorporated this developed kinesthetic experience and fine-tuned sensitivity into my work as a somatic practitioner. In my practice, I address a wide range of issues with athletes, acute or chronic illness, pre- and post-natal, the elderly, and individuals dealing with day-to-day stress and imbalances.

I work with my clients on several levels. On one level, I focus on a presenting symptom, such as releasing a tight muscle. On another, I explore and address the functional issue behind the tight muscle—such as a postural imbalance. On yet a deeper level, I tune in to subtle patterns of motion within the craniosacral system that have the potential to rebalance the body and replenish the nervous system.

Drawing on massage, movement, yamuna body rolling and craniosacral therapy, I will create a comprehensive treatment plan to meet your needs.

With this approach, my clients have experienced:

• Relief from chronic backaches, stiffness, joint pain and headaches
• Resolution of physical and emotional traumas
• Relaxation, easing of stress, and reconnection with body awareness
• Restoration of health and vitality

Certifications and Affiliations

• Certified Yamuna Body Rolling Teacher (2009)
• Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals, Member (2001)
• Registered Craniosacral Therapist, Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Association of North America (2000)
• North American Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Association, Member (1999)
• Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (1995)
• Certified Massage Therapist, Potomac Massage Training Institute (1995)
• Certified Laban/Bartenieff Movement Analyst (1983)