Anne Marie Baggenstoss

Licensed Massage Therapist

Tell us about your massage school and other trainings: 

My journey with the body began through Yoga - I did my teacher training at Kripalu Center in 2010 and then studied in India where I received a lot of passion for the human experience. While teaching yoga classes I became fascinated with holding people's heads during "savasana" and somebody gave me a book about craniosacral therapy. I took a training in 2013 with Hugh Milne's Visionary Craniosacral program. I continued studying the "art" of craniosacral work for 5 years with Hugh Milne before going to massage school at the Santa Fe School of Massage in New Mexico. They taught with a technical, nurturing, and compassionate component that I feel seeps into my practice. Since then I have done some Advanced Myofacial Trainings with Til Lucau, learned the beautiful art of Mayan Abdominal Massage with Laura Clemmons, and did Levels 1 & 2 Reiki training with a dear mentor, Leela.

What bodywork are you currently studying?

I recently completed the Craniosacral training I had been involved with for the last 9 years. On the last day we did a 3 hour mandible hold on each other! So, naturally, I am currently really interested in intraoral work. Both through a cranio (more gentle) lens and also through myofascial work, I am fascinated by the intricacies of the jaw. I also feel that something profound happens simply when we are touched inside the mouth with love, with gentleness, with awareness.

 

What do you want people to know about their body?

It knows how to heal itself! It knows what it needs. It knows how to find balance. It is constantly working to maintain balance. Trust in your body's innate wisdom. Let it dance!

 

What do you want people to know about health and wellness?

Health is a big word. It is a relative word. Only you can know if you are feeling healthy and well or not. Trust yourself, and do your best to be honest with yourself about what is supporting your health and wellness and what is not. And remember, kindness is health. Acceptance is health. Being open is health. Don't become mentally rigid on your quest to be "healthy." I think that judgment is a big hurdle towards health. There is not one right way. Do your own way!

Self-Care Advice

Nature is always there for you. And, dance!!

What is your favorite system in the body?

The respiratory system. I love the breath. For me, it is incredible to witness how SO MUCH changes when I change my breath. When I give more space for my breath. When I notice my breath. I feel like the breath is my gatekeeper into all the other systems of my body. I like being good friends with the gatekeepers.

Favorite thing to do in Sandpoint?

Bike around town, walk in the snow amongst the cedar trees, be near or in the lake as much as possible, and spend quality time with all of the amazing people that live here!