Christina Lower-Morgan, Lead Aesthetician, LMT

LMT & Lead Aesthetician

Where are you from, and how did you end up in Ithaca?

I am a native Ithacan, born and bred. I love this area; it’s a great place to live and grow.

What degrees do you hold, or what training programs and schools have you attended?

I graduated from the Finger Lakes School of Massage with my License in Massage Therapy in 2001, and became a Licensed Aesthetician in 2003 after graduating from the Continental School of Beauty
Culture in Rochester. In 2006 when my son was born I completed an at-home study course for Certification of Infant Massage and Instruction. As a LMT, I have spent the last 7 years in medical massage working with some of the most caring physicians, chiropractors and acupuncturists this area has to offer. As an Aesthetician, I’ve had numerous trainings on a wide array of products, gaining knowledge on ingredients such as herbs, flowers, oils and such, and what the benefits of each are to skin’s health. I’ve attended various seminars focusing on specific skin types and acute concerns. At the moment I am involved in the most rewarding yet challenging training I have ever been a part of: that of being a parent!

Why did you become a LMT and what do you like most about the work?

My mother suggested massage therapy to me. She thought it fit my personality well. (Sometimes, I think she just wanted free massages!) Truthfully, she was right: I enjoy everything about Massage Therapy and Aesthetics, from helping clients find their center, (or as we say here their rasa, or ‘essence’), to helping those healing from injury, to giving someone their first facial and exceeding their expectations about how all of it can positively impact their health. It really is very rewarding for me in every way.

Do you have an area that you especially excel at or work that you prefer to do? What is your favorite part of the job?

I feel connected and present in all the services I provide. However, if I had to pick, I would say that in massage, I usually gravitate toward very specific Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT), with a focus on allowing clients the room and confidence to 'let go' of the physical and mental restrictions we place on ourselves in this so very hectic life. I also derive great satisfaction from teaching an injured body how to heal and relax. In skin care and aesthetics, my intention and drive is always on specific education and results. These are just some of my 'favorites' for very different reasons. The beauty of being an Aesthetician as well as a LMT is that I can help people across a really broad range of care.

What tips do you pass on to clients who are considering massage but who aren't yet sure of the benefits?

I will ask specific questions about the client, and once I get the idea of what its like to live in their body, so to speak, I can give them specific advice on what would work best for them and why. I would offer an educational viewpoint - how massage works, how regular massage is a great way to relieve stress, to manage pain, to heal, and is very helpful with circulation, organ detoxification and reviving skin tone as well. I would also mention how it helps us tremendously in becoming more sensitive to our body-mind connections and how our thinking can alleviate, or add to, pain and stress.

What do you do to keep healthy and energetic?

I try to maintain a healthy, whole-foods diet, which I change according to the seasons and according to what's available. I stay active – being a parent to a young boy helps with that! I also LOVE receiving Massage and Acupuncture.

When can we find you at Rasa?

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.