Embracing Wholeness: My Path to Embodied Living

We live in a society that prioritizes productivity and living in the mind over being present and connected to ourselves, others and nature. 

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The heart of somatic wellness is embodiment.

My education and lived experience are the foundation of what led to me offering somatic wellness coaching, a modality that facilitates returning to the body and embracing presence. I resonate with Karden Rabin’s definition: 

“Embodiment: verb // The act of expanding one’s self awareness to include the felt experience of the body, such as sensory, sensational, emotional and physical experiences, and incorporating that information into one’s overall conception and conduct of themselves, their identity, beliefs, behaviors, and ways of being.//”  (Source: Trauma Research Foundation)

Although coaching is typically future focused, setting a goal and taking steps towards it, this can be done experientially while connecting to the present moment. I align with the view we are bio-individual, one size does not fit all, which is why I choose to work with clients 1:1 rather than in groups, giving personalized attention to their individual needs and goals. Bringing a deep understanding of the body from my experience in massage therapy, yoga and meditation; I guide my clients toward reconnection with themselves. With an emphasis on presence, alignment, authenticity and capacity - somatic wellness coaching can provide the framework for transformation.

When working with clients, we begin by slowing down, bringing in curiosity, exploring and noticing. I invite clients during our sessions and between sessions, to experiment with various types of inquiry: body oriented (somatic) practices, movement, rest, nourishment and play. As we begin to grow our capacity, we in turn create more space to respond to what life brings our way.  

Simply put, this work is about remembering and returning to our wholeness. As we step into presence and living an embodied life, our connection with ourselves transforms and ripples out into the world with everyone we connect with (including nature).

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In 2011, I first learned what it was like to slow down when I took a trip to Hawaii.

It was my first real vacation from corporate life. I experienced island time and how very different it was from the hustle and bustle of the hamster wheel I was living in. I spent time at the beach, took my first surfing lesson, visited the local farmers market, went sky diving, got my second tattoo and enjoyed a yoga class. That trip is what began a big shift in how I wanted to live my life…

I took that trip after seven years of trying to force my body to change. After countless doctor appointments, tests, procedures and medications, I finally surrendered to living in my body instead of trying to control it. It was a challenging journey that taught me about the connection between the body, mind and spirit. During that journey, I began receiving massage therapy and acupuncture, started a gentle and restorative yoga practice, and began working with a Marriage and Family Therapist.

I had been working in Human Resources for ten years, when I finally decided to leave the field because the work no longer aligned with what I wanted to do in this lifetime. I relocated to Asheville (NC) to attend massage therapy school and simultaneously did my first (200 hour) yoga teacher training. I was beginning to explore meditation and various forms of asana while learning the amazing science and art of massage and bodywork. I dove into energy work and completed two levels of reiki training. I spent more time in nature, hiking and finding waterfalls in the beautiful blue ridge mountains. 

When I graduated massage school, I immersed myself in continuing education to learn myofascial release, esalen massage and trigger point therapy. I attended workshops and immersions in restorative and yin yoga. I traveled to Big Sur, California to attend week long massage and yoga workshops at the amazing Esalen Institute. I participated in my first ten day silent meditation (vipassana) retreat in Georgia. 

Then I traveled to Thailand and Bali for a cultural immersion and to learn the art of Thai massage. After this adventure of a lifetime, where I steeped myself in the practice of yoga and Thai massage, completed my second ten day silent meditation retreat at a Buddhist monastery and spent more time in nature than I had in many decades; I emerged as a different person (physically, mentally and spiritually).

After all of the hands on education and traveling, I decided to relocate from North Carolina to the Bay Area in California. While working as a massage therapist in Silicon Valley, I serendipitously landed in a holistic psychology masters degree program with the aim of becoming a psychotherapist. That journey was also life changing in so many ways, including giving birth to my two children.

Today, I have a ton of respect for the therapy profession. As a graduate student I fell in love with somatic (body based) psychotherapy and it had a lasting impact on me. As a result, I personally worked with a somatic therapist (Hakomi) and somatic practitioner (Somatic Experiencing). I was inspired to continue my yoga teacher training (300 hour program) and did a deep dive into yoga for trauma recovery. I also explored and experienced TRE (tension & trauma releasing exercises), feldenkrais movement practices, 5 rhythms dance and sound healing along my embodiment journey.

Mental health is vitally important, as is physical health and spiritual health. These are intricately linked and form the basis of holistic wellness. I understand we are more than the labels placed upon us and also acknowledge the labels have their place in today’s society. However, I deeply believe we are not broken, we are whole and I am on a mission to help people remember this. 

Towards the end of my graduate program, I was introduced to coaching and experienced transformation in my own life by working with a coach. I was inspired to learn more about the field, so I immersed myself into various coaching certification programs; from life and health coaching, to parent coaching to sex, intimacy and relationship coaching.

In every step of this journey, I've discovered that the truest path to wellness is not just to be healed, but to feel whole. Let's embrace our wholeness, together.

Jodi Bippus, MA, LMT, Embodiment Coach
Blissful Connection, LLC

Please note, while our coaching is transformative, it is not therapy. We do not assess, diagnose, or treat mental health disorders. Our services are designed to complement your journey towards holistic wellness, not replace therapeutic interventions.

Unlocking the Benefits of Regular Massage

In the tranquil ambiance of Bodhi Work Massage Therapy Studio, a realm dedicated to holistic healing, lies a practice that holds the potential to transform your life: regular massage therapy. Picture this: a haven where stress melts away, tension dissipates, and your body finds a renewed sense of vitality. It's not just about relaxation; it's about unlocking a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond the massage table.

Consider the story of a gentleman in his late 60s, much like yourself, perhaps an avid runner or someone leading an active lifestyle. Introduced to the wonders of Thai massage by a loved one, he embraced it as part of his routine. The result? Last October, he exceeded his own expectations, completing a full marathon despite initially aiming for just a half. That's the power of regular massage—enhanced performance, improved mobility, and a newfound sense of accomplishment.

But it's not just about extraordinary achievements. Many individuals like you have experienced profound improvements in sleep quality, overall well-being, and daily comfort through regular massage sessions. Beyond the tangible benefits, massage therapists often serve as silent observers, noting subtle changes in your body that may warrant further attention—a service that could potentially save you from future health concerns.

Indeed, as a licensed massage therapist, I frequently notice these subtle bodily changes—freckles, moles, bruises, or cysts—that may escape your notice amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. It's in these moments that our role transcends mere physical manipulation; we become stewards of your health, offering insights that could prompt further medical attention if needed. This proactive approach to well-being is yet another reason to make regular massage a cornerstone of your self-care routine.

Massage therapy isn't a luxury reserved for the privileged few; it's a vital component of self-care accessible to all. By prioritizing regular massages, you're not just pampering yourself; you're investing in your health, both physically and mentally. Think of it as a proactive measure—a way to address potential issues before they escalate into something more serious.

In essence, regular massage is an invitation to a healthier, happier life—one where stress becomes manageable, pain becomes bearable, and vitality becomes your new norm. So, why wait? Take the first step towards enhanced well-being and discover the transformative power of regular massage therapy. Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you for it

Welcome to Bodhi Work - Ann Arbor Massage Studio

Welcome to the sanctum of wellness that is Bodhi Work Massage Therapy Studio, your go-to haven for body and soul rejuvenation. Situated in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor, we are but a stone’s throw away from the intellectual hub of the #UniversityofMichigan.

📍 Location, Location, Location!

Nestled in the bustling streets of #DowntownAnnArbor, we are strategically placed for the convenience of both local residents and visitors alike. For the academic community, consider us your refuge from the rigors of intellectual pursuits. #UMich #GoBlue #AnnArborLife

💆‍♀️ Our Services:

We offer a plethora of massage services tailored to your specific needs and desires.

• #ThaiMassage: Traverse the landscapes of Thailand through the art of muscle manipulation and spiritual wellness.

• #RelaxationMassage: Also known as the Swedish massage, a technique so soothing it’s as though your stress is melting away. #SwedishMassage

• #DeepSportMassage: Ideal for athletes or anyone burdened by the weight of relentless physical exertion. #SportMassage

• #LymphaticDrainage: A unique offering to stimulate your body’s lymphatic system, facilitating detoxification. #LymphaticMassage

• Special Luxury 180-Minute Session: For those who demand nothing but the pinnacle of relaxation and therapeutic indulgence. #LuxuryMassage #ThreeHourBliss

🌐 Visit us for an unparalleled experience in bodily bliss. Schedule your appointment today and transcend the mundane. #MassageAnnArbor #MassagenearMe #MassageYpsilanti #MassageDetroit #MassageMichigan

Return of the Bodhi

Dear Reader,

Your pursuit of physical and spiritual well-being does not go unnoticed, and I find myself pleased to continue serving as your guide. Recently, my thirst for knowledge led me to Thailand, a land rich in tradition and mastery of the human body. My immersion in Thai culture has been nothing short of enlightening, leading to a deeper appreciation of my craft.

"Bodhi Work" is not just a clever twist of phrase. It encapsulates a philosophy that transcends the mere manipulation of flesh and bone. Derived from the Sanskrit and Pāli term for “awakening” or “enlightenment,” Bodhi speaks to an understanding that is more profound. It symbolizes a spiritual liberation that complements the tactile pleasures of massage.

This is no exaggeration; the physical body is intrinsically tied to the emotional and spiritual self. To move one is to stir the others. Such is the essence of Bodhi Work, a practice that seeks to connect these realms, where a simple touch can lead to a cascade of releases, both physical and emotional.

In the heart of downtown Ann Arbor, I've crafted a space dedicated to this art - Bodhi Work Massage Therapy Studio. This sanctuary welcomes not just those seeking physical relaxation but also those yearning for a spiritual connection. It's where the vibrant academic minds of the Washtenaw community can retreat and rejuvenate.

If you find yourself intrigued by the luxury of bathhouses, enticed by the rejuvenation of a spa, or simply curious about the healing powers of body treatments, you'll find insights and recommendations here. This blog is a curated collection of my experiences, research, and reflections, designed for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Thank you for joining me on this exploration of the body, soul, and all the pleasures they can provide. Let's continue to navigate these nuanced landscapes together, guided by the wisdom of centuries and the subtleties of human touch.

Yours in the pursuit of Bodhi Work, 

SNO

Thermëa Spa Village - Whitby

In the charming embrace of Whitby, Ontario, less than an hour east of Toronto, lies a sanctuary like no other: Thermëa Spa Village. My recent birthday celebration with my boyfriend at this unparalleled haven marked a weekend filled with relaxation, exquisite luxury, and memorable experiences.

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A Homage to Tranquility and Tradition

Unveiled in October 2022, Thermëa Spa Village emerged from Whitby's former replica miniature village, a transformation paying homage to its past and yet embracing a new, fresh purpose. The harmony of nature's symphony with lavish design made this not just a visit but an unforgettable wellness odyssey.

The Elegance of Arrival

From the very moment of our seamless check-in, tranquility seemed to embrace us. The personalized electronic bracelet—a subtle yet ingenious feature—ensured the security of our belongings, allowing us to move effortlessly through the spa.

Venturing to the lower level into the meticulously designed open-floor locker room, sophistication met convenience. Along the perimeter of the locker room were individual-private dry changing rooms and gendered bathrooms, that lead to additional locker room space, a dozen private shower stalls, and areas to groom. Inside your assigned locker reveals a plush Thermëa signature grey robe and soft towels, setting the tone for an elegant sojourn.

The Iconic Three-Step Thermëa Thermal Cycle

Step 1: Enveloped in soothing heat for 10-15 minutes, we experienced any of the eight distinct saunas, ranging from warm and humid chambers to invigorating dry saunas.

Stepping further into North America's largest event sauna, Loggä, the mesmerizing Aufguss Sauna Ritual: a fifteen minute event guided by a skilled ritual master.

Carefully timed, the ritual master places three large snowballs, infused with 100% pure essential oils. As they melt on the sauna stove, the vapor releases. With a towel or fan, the master sends the aromatic therapy wafting over the participants. Various Aufguss rituals are available, each marked by its own blend of essential oils, sound, lights, and purpose.

Note: As someone who greatly enjoys sauna heat, I couldn’t last the full fifteen minutes of the Aufguss ritual. Being in a large space with 30-60 people that day, made the Auguss a fun-shared experience, but also very HOT.

Step 2: The variety of water experiences provided pure invigoration. From pools with different temperatures to invigorating cold plunges and refreshing ice-cold bucket showers, each moment was a unique embrace, lasting 10-15 seconds.

Step 3: The Thermëa cycle indicated 20 minutes of rest in one of their many designated rest areas. These spaces invited us to unwind fully, enveloped in serenity and calm. Whether reclining in comfortable lounge chairs by the tranquil pond, swaying gently in a hammock in their seasonal Hammock Forrest, or basking in Adirondack chairs around Cowboy Caldron fire pits, we were enwrapped in the warmth and embrace of nature.

Bespoke Amenities and Culinary Excellence 

The saltwater floatation pool, Källa, reminiscent of Hogwarts' Prefect Bathroom, was an oasis unlike any other, with gold vaulted ceilings and underwater music. This was by far our favorite amenity - imagine a float tank but bigger, warmer, and more luxurious.

Our culinary adventures at Le Resto and the Lounge were equally captivating, allowing us to savor global flavors that resonated with Thermëa's embrace of rejuvenation.

Note: Thermëa has three on-site restaurants to choose from: Le Resto, Lounge, and Biergarten.

You can also elevate your escape with massage and body treatments. We did not book one on this trip, but we will upon our return.

Shortcomings

Though entranced by Thermëa's luxurious offerings, the addition of cushioned napping areas and more covered outdoor spaces could further refine this oasis, especially for those sun-soaked days when sunscreen may have been left at home.

Conclusion: A Luxurious Sanctuary Awaits

From opulent pools to invigorating saunas, delectable cuisine, and captivating rituals, Thermëa Spa Village extended an invitation to transcend the ordinary and embrace pure relaxation.

With a rating of 4.8/5 Stars, Thermëa stands as a testimony to excellence in wellness. It’s a place my boyfriend and I will not only remember fondly but to which we could eagerly return in the future. Your oasis of serenity awaits – come rejuvenate in luxury.

My Love-Hate Relationship with Yoga.

My love-hate relationship with yoga started 15 years ago. But here we are, still practicing. My practice has been a journey, and I have yet to commit to a particular “style.” Over the years, I’ve dabbled in Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa (Life-Power and Baptiste), Hot Yoga (FKA Bikram), and Aerial. I love yoga so much that I became a yoga teacher (currently an E-RYT 500).

Through the journey I have taken hiatuses from teaching and being on my own mat too. 

Upon returning to my yoga mat, after my recent yoga intermission, I decided to start with Hot Yoga. I like the style because there’s not a single chaturanga in the sequence and the heat. 

Recently, at the end of the 90-minute class, as we are prepared to do the second side of janushirasana, the militant Hot Yoga Teacher walks from the center of class to me, singling me out to ask why I’m not bending my knee to bring my forehead closer to it.

Not known to the teacher, I have an old hamstring injury — at this point in class, my hamstrings are open and I could feel the old injury signaling my body to modify. As a knowledgeable-licensed massage therapist and yoga teacher, I adapt to gently massage my hamstring as I remain in the modified posture - my left knee is slightly bent. I’m partially folded over my left leg.

I am annoyed. [Internal Dialog] “What? Are we having a straight-up conversation in the middle of class about what I’m not doing perfectly per the Bikram Yoga Rx?”

I calmly respond that I have an old injury and will explain it to her after class. I am not a newbie, and no one has perfect practice. Nor did this teacher do this to anyone else; why me? Who knows?!

After class, as I was leaving, I explained that I had an old injury and needed to modify it. She militantly responded, “Well, I was trying to help you do the practice correctly.” At this point, I’m still annoyed - but calm. I explain to the militant teacher my professional experience as a yoga practitioner, teacher, and bodyworker, respectively, indicating that I will modify as I see fit and appreciate where she comes from (out of respect).

As I drove home, this interaction brought up emotions and questions (my backbends were pretty deep this day - I was already in a vulnerable-emotional place when our exchange occurred in the yoga room). Why do I love yoga? And Why do I hate it? 

Why I love yoga:

• Yoga teaches me about myself - not just the physical practice. Meditation and Breathwork have become important for me too. 

• The Yamas and Niyams resonate as great moral guides.

• Yoga brings me peace.

• Yoga has connected me to some of my closest friends.

• Yoga has been a catalyst for my growth.

• Yoga set me on the path to becoming a bodyworker, which is why I’m also trained in advanced Thai massage.

• Every time I return to my mat, I discover something new and feel more enriched.

• Yoga will forever be a part of my life and will continue to morph into whatever it needs to be/look like. 

However, due to some of the reasons why I hate yoga, I have stepped away from my mat, but the love brings me back.

Reasons Why I Hate Yoga:

• Racism 

• Cultural Appropriation

• Yoga teachers/“gurus” that have sexual relationships with their staff/students (primarily male, but not all).

• All sexual misconduct by prominent yoga figures (primarily male, but not all).

• Yoga Bullies - Teachers who single out students for no reason other than to micromanage their posture/practice.

• The massive egos of some teachers that have caused injury and create a lack of safety in the classroom

• Teachers that blindly follow a script without questioning whether their words are accurate.

• Spiritual Bypassing

• YTTs not teaching adequate anatomy. 

• YTTs churning and burning students and teachers to make a profit.

• YTTs that emphasize more on ethereal philosophy and focus less on the actual practice of yoga (the 8 limbs).

• The pressure to perform on Social Media

• The pettiness of business and business drama leaking into the community. 

• Putting teachers on pedestals when they are equally human as everyone else. 

The Bathhouse - Brooklyn

If you know, you know (or, as the kids say, "IYKYK").

We emerged onto the street from the subway, departing from Midtown Manhattan to Brooklyn, New York.

At the intersection of N. 10th and Berry Street, you immediately notice the BathHouse's black-enclosed awning. Upon entry, you come to the check-in desk and merch shop. If you left home without your swimsuit, don't sweat it (pun intended), you can buy one upon arrival.

Snaps to their concierge services. We were visiting NYC that weekend for a continuing education seminar. We had our luggage in tow, and the Bathhouse was willing to store our luggage in a secure area.

We made our reservations on a Monday, thinking it would be less busy. Coincidentally, the NYC Marathon occurred the day prior; naturally, the athletes gravitated to the Bathhouse for their post-run recovery.

Other friends of ours have enjoyed the Bathhouse on a weekend adventure. They reported that it was crowded and hard to find space in one of the pools.

You receive a wristband connected to your credit/debit card at check-in. When you go to the cafe or add-on service, your wristband is scanned and charged at the end of your stay. The nice thing about Bathhouse's wristband is that it's sleek, and you keep it as a souvenir after.

From there, you head to the locker room; lockers are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The lockers have USB outlets, which seemed handy, but some needed to be fixed - without the power to charge your phone. P.S. No Phones are allowed in the hydrotherapy space.

The locker room had half-dozen water closets and three showers. In the locker room, you'll find a basket of (sanitized) flip-flops to wear throughout the Bathhouse.

Each locker room directly leads to the hydrotherapy room - which features:

• One Steam Sauna, HOT HOT HOT - but I loved I.T.! Great placement; the sauna room has a cold shower to cool off. The Steam Sauna is a dark room with celestial lights. Through the purple haze (steam), you notice the room is marble; be careful, as it can be slippery— and there is ample space to lie down.

• One Tropical (Humid) Cedar Sauna - 2 large heaters - brick overlays - lots of space to lay down (largest sauna room)

• One Dry Cedar Sauna - 1 large heater - less seating space (smallest room)

• One Hot pool 105+ degrees

• One Neutral Pool 97 degrees

• One Cold plunge - 55 degrees - felt like 35 degrees

• 3-5 treatment rooms - massage and body scrubs (I didn't receive one this trip - would like to on a return)

Due to many visitors, the pool room got deafening - an attendant addressed the patrons in the pool area to quiet down - we were in the tropical sauna, so we couldn't hear what the attendant said. But there was a noticeable volume change - which quickly crept back up.

Cafe and Lounge: I loved my food. The menu is simple, and plenty of healthy food options. I recreate the meal I had here frequently. The Lounge area attached to the restaurant was my favorite - maybe because I’m a Midwest girl living her best NYC life for that day.

Pros:

• Cool Location

• Great Food

• Easy to schedule

• The entry price is fair. 

• The heat in the saunas was on point.

• The cold plunge was frigid. 

• Clean - attendants were always around tidying up.

Cons:

• Noisy Pool Room 

• The locker room is somewhat small 

• Some USB outlets in the lockers didn't work.

4.5/5 = would go back on a Wednesday, and get a treatment.

HotHouse Spa & Sauna - Capital Hill, Seattle, WA

Nestled into Seattle’s, Capital Hill neighborhood, at the intersection of Pike and 11th Ave.

HotHouse offers a gender inclusive private spa experience for individuals and small groups (Max. 8 people). The Spa and Sauna can be rented for 2, up to, 3 hours at a time.

As you descend to the lower level entrance, you are welcomed into a waiting area by a spa attendant - on the evening of my visit the attendant was Brandee. Brandee gave me a run down of the spa etiquette and tour of the sauna.

Brandee, an employee of 10+ years, shared that HotHouse originally started as a women’s only spa, cultivated out of necessity, as a safe spa space for women. Pre-Pandemic, for a low entry fee women could stay all day. The pandemic forced HotHouse to change their structure to small group private rental, and expanded their customer base to welcome all genders.

HotHouse Features:

• 1 Tiled Steam Sauna

• 1 Cedar Dry Sauna

• 1 Hot Tub

• 1 Cold Shower

• Bathroom with attached shower room to wash before entering the spa area

• Small lounge area with two twin-sized floor pads and pillows to rest on.

• Sink with filtered tap water - the Spa provided 4 cups.

• Small locker area, with bench to store belongings.

• Ability to play your music, via aux cord connection (no bluetooth).

• Texture-Heated floors throughout the space, extra texture added to floor in spa area - to prevent slip and falls.

• Pros:

  • Privacy

  • Simple

  • Easy to schedule

  • Easy to find/good location

  • The heat in both the steam and dry sauna were great

  • The cold shower was defiantly cold

• Cons:

  • (Subjective )No cold plunge

  • (Subjective) Although appreciated, the lounge area was bare bones - wish there was something larger and higher off the ground to lay on.

  • No Treatments Available

  • No cafe/Food offerings onsite

4.25/5 = would go back with friends

Bath & Bodhi Works

Welcome, if you’re reading this, thank you.

I’ve started this blog with the purpose of sharing my experiences, research, and commentary regarding Massage, Spa, Health & Wellness. This blog is for the aficionados’ like me. If you love bathhouse culture; receiving massage/bodywork, acupuncture, or body treatments here is your blog.

In varying degrees, all people partake in some sort of hygiene practice; and you also sleep. One would hope, that most people value their own health and wellness. So even if you’re new to this lifestyle, this blog is for you too.

A bit about your blog author - I am SNO, an entrepreneurial-licensed massage therapist from Ann Arbor, Michigan. I love my work - providing service in the form of highly skilled bodywork. I am certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Thai Massage, and other techniques. Bodhi Work is the name of my practice.

Bodhi isn’t just a pun for Body, it has a deeper meaning. Bodhi: (Sanskrit and Pāli: “awakening,” “enlightenment”), in Buddhism, the final Enlightenment, which puts an end to the cycle of transmigration and leads to Nirvāṇa, or spiritual release (Britannica). Viewing bodywork/massage like this makes sense to me. When we manipulate muscle tissue or manually move lymphatic fluid, there is also spiritual or emotional process being manipulated to help the person receiving the work. It is not uncommon for a client to experience an emotional release when physical tissues are released; why not consider the thought that a spiritual release could be occurring too?

This blog, I hope, directs you to an enjoyable bathhouse, spa, or treatment experience.