Artichoke Hearts Healing
"Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!"

Artichoke Updates - Blog - 2026

Tuesday, September 22nd, 2026

Happy fall and school is back in session!

This summer was amazing and so many new things are happening! I can’t even believe I haven’t posted a newsletter in 3 months! School is back in session, and it’s taken me this long to decompress from summer.

I’ve officially accepted not one, but TWO new positions. Both of them offer very different and exciting opportunities, so I couldn’t choose. This means I have posted new hours for my private practice in this issue, and on my various websites and social media profiles.

Keep reading for a special offer!

Upcoming Availability

  • Tues, Sept 6th, 12PM - 2PM and 6:00PM-7:30pm
  • Friday, Sept 25th, 9am-11:30am
  • Wed, sept 30th, 10am-2:00pm and 6-7:30pm
  • Mon, sept 28th 11:30AM-2:00pm and 4-7pm
  • Mon, Sept 5th 11:30am-2:00pm
  • Friday, Oct 9th 11:00AM-2:00PM

TMJ-D Massage Therapy

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ-D) is more common than you think. It can cause headaches, toothaches, popping, jaw lock, and lots of other symptoms. I’m very excited to have completed specialized training to address the primary muscles of mastication - including the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoids - alongside the interconnected tissues of the head, neck, and upper back!

This treatment helps improve jaw mobility, reduce teeth grinding (bruxism), and restore balance to the jaw joint. Perfect for those seeking functional relief from clenching and stress.

And your jaw doesn't work in isolation. Stress in the jaw rarely stays in the jaw. Tightness in your temporomandibular joint can pull on the delicate muscles of your neck and upper back, subtly shifting your posture and locking your body into a cycle of tension. Chronic jaw tension can create a ripple effect throughout your entire kinetic chain, altering your head posture, straining your neck, and even impacting the alignment of your shoulders and spine.

Chronic jaw tension can also trigger a frustrating cycle of pain: stress leads to subconscious clenching, which strains the jaw muscles, alters your head posture, and misaligns the neck and shoulders. This structural strain then creates more pain, locking your body into a self-perpetuating loop.

This specialized modality is designed to interrupt that cycle - by combining precise external compression, myofascial release, and intra-oral techniques - to release these bound pathways and their physical triggers, restoring balanced alignment, and helping your nervous system to finally break free from chronic pain, and restore balanced structural alignment from the skull down.

Special offer: I want to practice this a few times before I officially add it to my menu. I’m offering a FREE 60 Minute TMJ-D massage session to the first 3 people who reply and are available during my new business hours.

2 New Gigs!

As I mentioned, I’ve started 2 new jobs! I will be working at Lake Austin Spa Resort on Fridays and Saturdays from 3-9. If you’re feeling like getting some luxury pampering, including a lavender, prickly pear, citrus or ginger body scrub and massage, a magnesium massage, or a couples massage, feel free to call Lake House Spa, and request me!

On Sundays, from 9-3 I will be working at Myo in the triangle. This location focuses more on functional/structural massage modalities, including deep tissue, sports, Ashiatsu, and Thai. I’m super excited to grow and expand my skills in these areas!

So if you want to see me and you can’t make time during my private business hours, you’re also welcome to call Lake House Spa or Myo and request me there, during my regular business hours:

  • Lake House Spa: (800)847-5637
    • Fridays & Saturdays from 3-9
  • Myo: 512-458-4696
    • Sundays from 9-3

Myo also allows me to rent a room on an hourly basis, so this is now another location I have to offer during my private business hours.

Artichokes Update

This summer has been long, hot, and brutal. The abundant spring rain caused my beloved artichoke plant to grow big and lustrous, but she never put out new artichokes, and I’m sad to report that she succumbed to the heat and drought. Additionally, the seeds I harvested last fall, also did not come to fruition.

However! I’m not giving up! I bought new artichoke seeds. I will be starting them indoors, and if they grow, I will keep them indoors through the fall and winter.

Available by appointment only

Call or Text NOW to Schedule:  512-461-4574

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to reach out with questions, comments, and incites.

 

Sunday, June 14th, 2026

In this issue

  • Father’s day specials
  • Flash Deal
  • Art Bra 2026 Reflections
  • Locations

Upcoming Availability

  • Mon, June 22nd, 10AM - 11am and 4:30PM-7pm
  • Monday, June 15th, 3:30PM - 7pm
  • Wed, June 17th, 9am-10:30AM and 4-5:30pm
  • Tues, June 16th, 9AM-2:30pm and 4-7pm
  • Friday June 19th, 9am-1:30pm
  • Tues, June 23rd, 1pm - 7pm

*See special offer on page 3

 

Why not buy a gift card for the special father in your life?

Father’s day is fast approaching and, while I plan to spend the day with my own family, I do offer gift cards, which can make a very nice gift, to be scheduled at a later time. I can make them available as physical or digital cards, to cover any service on my menu.

How about a 60-minute tension-relief custom Integrated table Massage paired with Hot Stones and a 15 Minute Foot Scrub. Try the 90 or 120 minutes to “Total Renewal” package!

Maybe even throw in the Farmhouse Fresh hemp oil add-on to aid in easing pain and inflammation.

Choose a "Skip the Spa" In-Home Setup: And book a professional in-home massage to let him unwind completely in his own living room. Or maybe it’s not so relaxing with the kids around, in which case he can choose the most convenient of my 3 studio locations.

Recent Event: Art Bra! Austin 2026

I was so honored to be able to participate in this year’s event.

Art Bra and the BCRC are near and dear to my heart. I got to be a model and walk the runway at a time in my life when I wasn’t feeling very beautiful, back in 2018 and 2019, having recently come through my cancer journey.

2018                                                                               2019

This year I got to volunteer back stage as a model assistant, and it was just as much fun! I met some very lovely cancer survivors and thrivers, and even got to give out a few oncology informed neck, shoulder, and hand massages!

It’s because of my cancer journey that I decided to go into massage therapy, with a focus in oncology massage and manual lymphatic drainage massage, and give back to my people. It’s because of the care that I received when I was a patient, and the BCRC was a part of that care team.

Art Bra® Austin 2026 raised over $1.2 million for Breast Cancer Resource Center. That is a record. That is history. And every dollar goes directly to free breast cancer support services for people across Central Texas. This is what community looks like.

Perhaps with fundraising like this, they can bring on another patient care navigator and with my history as a social worker and a breast cancer survivor, I can apply for that job! In the meantime, I love wonderous variety in my practice, but I truly look forward to delving more into medical massage. I’ve already signed up for a TMJ class this September! I’m also looking into taking some online courses on hospice massage and scar tissue management.

Call or Text NOW to Schedule: 512-461-4574

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to reach out with questions, comments, and incites.

 

Thursday, May 21st, 2026

Road Trips or Beach Days? We Have You Covered

Big changes coming. I am no longer going to be working at the Spa on Fridays and Saturdays. Instead, I’m taking my practice full time and will open those days up for massages!

So, got summer plans? Refresh, Renew, Revive Your Summer Spirit with a massage!

Road trips and Plane travel can be taxing on the body. Get a Thai massage to help work and stretch out those stiff muscles.

Got kids home for the summer? Take a time out and come get a relaxing Swedish massage.

Upcoming Availability

  • Sunday, May 24th 9am to 1pm All locations
  • Tues, May 26th 9am-1pm & 5pm-7pm All locations
  • *Mon, May 25th 11am-5pm All locations
  • Wed, May 27th 12pm-7pm All Locations
  • Fri&Sat, May 29 & 30th 9am-7pm All locations

UPCOMING SPECIAL HOURS:

  • Memorial Day: Monday, May 25th OPEN 11-5

CLOSED:

  • Art Bra® Austin 2026: Radiance Reclaimed https://artbraaustin.bcrc.org/: Saturday, June 6th
  • Summer Camp Driving Days: Sunday, June 14th and Saturday June 20th
  • My birthday: Wednesday, June 17th
  • Summer Camp Driving Days: Sunday, June 14th and Saturday June 20th
  • Father's Day:  Sunday June, 21st (But gift cards are available for purchase NOW!)
  • My son’s birthday: July 1st
  • Independence Day: July 4th

Thai Massage:

Want to receive/learn Thai massage?  Come to a Thai Massage Jam at Myo (4616 Triangle Ave #407, Austin, TX 78751) on Saturday, May 30th from 2-5. Donations accepted.

April’s Mat and Chair Massage at 18th Annual Cpl. Chad O Foundation PTSD Awareness Fundraiser 2026 UPDATE:

This turned out to be an interesting day. The weather was a little chilly, there were occasional rain showers, and lots and lots of wind. Hence, turnout was lower than last year. Even so, the event raised $27,498 to help victims of PTSD through education, awareness, events, and a variety of resources! These funds will help to spread awareness to the public about PTSD through events, as well as sponsors treatment for the veterans that are suffering so we can bring them “All The Way Home”.

To Donate go to https://www.cplchado.org/donate/

Try Myofascial Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage!

Available by appointment only at any of these convenient locations:

Amber Moon Studio - Far Northwest Austin

Your Home - I can bring my mat or table to you at no extra charge if you are within 9 miles of 78729. *Additional fee of $45 for in-home/mobile massage only applies to locations over 9 miles from 78729.

Club Pilates, North Burnet - Domain Area

8106 Exmoor Dr. (Ashi available only at this location)

Call or Text NOW to Schedule: 512-461-4574

Or book online at 

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to reach out with questions, comments, and incites.

 

Wednesday, April 8th, 2026

Spring cleaning

In my last issue I mentioned spring cleaning, and boy did that come to pass in earnest in my house. I’ve spent 2 weeks completely in the zone and I’ve cleaned, reorganized and redecorated my entire house and car, including buying and assembling a wardrobe to organize all my massage stuff, rather than just leaving it in a heap all over my front room. The energy in my house feels entirely different, and I hope it’s just the beginning of changes in my energy.

My next goal is to start building more mindfulness practices in my life. I’m doing this in many little ways, including being more mindful of my body mechanics during my massages, and listening with my fingers more.

Upcoming Availability

  • Thursday, April 9th, 4:30 to 7:00, most locations
  • Sun, April 12th, 10am-5pm,, most locations
  • Mon, April 13th, 1pm-2pm, most locations
  • Tues, April 14th, 12pm-2pm and 4:30-7pm, all Locations
  • Wed, April 15th, 4:30PM-7pm, most locations
  • Sun, April 19th, 10am to 2pm, all locations

Aromatherapy

Along my spring cleaning journey, I discovered that it turns out that my aromatherapy infused massage oils were getting a little old. So I tossed them all, ordered a new bottle of nut-free massage oil, and mixed up a brand new batch. Scents include lavender, sweet orange, lemongrass, eucalyptus, peppermint, grapefruit, and rosemary, and I’m now adding Frankincense! They smell amazing and definitely enhance the massage experience. You’re also welcome to mix and match, and I offer them at no extra charge.

 

Upcoming special event: 

Mat and Chair Massage at18th Annual Cpl. Chad O Foundation PTSD Awareness Fundraiser 2026

I am honored to be participating for the third year in this event, offering mat and chair massages. I am also donating a free 30-minute massage or 30 minute add-on to any service to the raffle. Please come support our veterans at this event.

 

Ashi is Back Baby!

Coming out of COVID-19, I had lost all of my massage spaces and was on the hunt for new partnerships. I landed on Amber Moon Studio, and the wellness room at Club Pilates, both of which I’ve been very happy with. I’m also mobile, and work at Spa Reveil in the Domain on Fridays and Saturdays.

None of these locations, however, have the set up for Ashiatsu.

However, one of the other spaces I’d met with just reached back out to me and said that they have now installed Ashi bars in one of their rooms! I have signed the contract, and I’m so excited to be adding them to my list of locations and adding Myofascial Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage back on my menu! I'll be offering these sessions for 60, 90, or no 120 minutes, starting Tuesday, April 14th.

Myofacial Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage is a combination of Deep Tissue, Myofascial Sports & Stretch Therapy + Structural Integration Bodywork known to help treat and prevent injuries through massage and mobility. But with feet instead of hands to do it all. SUSTAINED, DEEP COMPRESSIONS PROVIDE FAST ACTING AND LONG LASTING RESULTS.

Book yours today!

Locations

  • Amber Moon Studio - Far Northwest Austin
  • Your Home - I can bring my mat or table to you at no extra charge if you are within 9 miles of 78729. *Additional fee of $45 for in-home/mobile massage only applies to locations over 9 miles from 78729.
  • Club Pilates, North Burnet - Domain Area
  • *NEW* 8106 Exmoor Dr. (Ashi available only at this location)

Call or Text NOW to Schedule: 512-461-4574

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to reach out with questions, comments, and incites.


Tuesday, March 10th, 2026

Happy Spring and Spring Fever!

I’m going to be off next week for Spring Break, but I’ve got availability the week after. Book your massage now before it fills up and try a Spring Cleaning Combo ($200): We’ll begin with 15 minute Dry Brushing to exfoliate dead skin and increase circulation. Next well do 60 Minute Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage to reduce inflammation, filter out pollen and other allergens, as well as cellular debris. Finally we’ll do a 15 minute coconut lemon exfoliating foot scrub. Lemon is an uplifting, and antibacterial agent, which can improve mood, increase alertness, and boost immunity.

Upcoming Availability

  • Sun,March 29th, 4:30PM-5:30pm, Most Locations
  • Sunday March 22nd, 9am to 5pm, Most Locations
  • Tues, March 24th, 9AM-2pm, Most Locations
  • Mon, March 23rd, 10am-11am, Most locations
  • Wed, March 25th, 12:30pm to 2pm, Most Locations
  • Mon, March 30th 10am to 2pm, All Locations

Keryn’s Favorite Recipe Corner: Spring Cleaning juice blends

Here are a few Detox Recipes

  • Green Detox: Juice 1 cucumber, 2 cups spinach, 1 green apple, 1/2 lemon (peeled), and 1 inch ginger.
  • Liver Cleanse: Juice 1 beet, 2 carrots, 1/2 lemon, and 1 inch ginger.
  • Anti-Inflammatory: Juice 1 cup pineapple, 1/2 cucumber, 1 inch ginger, and 1/2 tsp turmeric.

Tips for Success

  • Prep: Wash all ingredients thoroughly.
  • Blending: If using a blender instead of a juicer, add a splash of water, coconut water, or ice to help blending, then strain with a nut milk bag for a smoother texture.

Available by appointment only at any of these convenient locations:

  • Amber Moon Studio - Far Northwest Austin
  • Your Home - I can bring my mat or table to you at no extra charge if you are within 9 miles of 78729. *Additional fee of $45 for in-home/mobile massage only applies to locations over 9 miles from 78729.
  • Club Pilates, North Burnet - Domain Area

Call or Text NOW to Schedule: 512-461-4574

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to reach out with questions, comments, and incites.

 

Sunday, January 18, 2026

Love is in the air

Hello friends! Can you believe it’s been 2 months since my last newsletter? I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving, Winter Holiday Season, and Happy New Year!

My new years resolution is to continue finding ways to bring Zen to my life, and the lives of those around me.

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching! I'll throw in a free 15 minute face and scalp massage or foot scrub onto any service booked or gift certificate purchased in February.

I’ll be working at the spa all day on Valentine’s Day, but I’ll be open for business from 9-5 on Sunday February 19th!

Upcoming Availability

  • Tuesday, January 20, 11am-1:00pm, All Locations
  • Tues, Jan 27th, 10am-2pm and 4:30-7;00pm, All locations
  • Wed, Jan 28th, 12:30pm-2pm, Most Locations
  • Sun, Feb 1st, 9am-2pm, All Locations
  • Mon, Feb 2nd,10AM-2pm, Most Locations
  • Tues, Feb 3rd, 4:30pm-7:00pm, All Locations

Keryn’s Favorite Recipe Corner: Kentucky Bourbon Balls

Here’s a great one from my childhood. My parents used to get these on very special occasions from a candy maker in Santa Fe, NM called Senior Murphy’s. They are delicious and decadent. Of course, they had alcohol, so our parents would only let us have one.

This recipe comes from Call Me PMc

https://www.callmepmc.com/bourbon-balls/#recipe

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup chopped pecans
  • 3 Tablespoons Kentucky bourbon (lets get real, I used 6!)_
  • ¼ cup butter softened (I like Earth Balance)
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 16 ounces semi-sweet dark chocolate chips
  • Optional toppings – pecan halves chopped pecans, walnuts or almonds, cocoa powder, confectioners’ sugar, sea salt

Instructions

  • Mix pecans and bourbon in a bowl and allow to soak for an hour.
  • Cream (or mix) butter and sugar together in an electric mixer until smooth
  • Then add pecans and bourbon to the butter and sugar mixer.
  • Chill for 1 hour in the refrigerator.
  • Roll into 1 inch balls and place on a cookie sheet covered with waxed paper (or a silicone mat). Refrigerate 2 hours.
  • Melt chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals until melted, stirring after each interval. Using a fork to hold the bourbon ball, dip each ball in chocolate covering completely. Hold ball over chocolate a few seconds to allow excess to drip off. Place back on waxed paper to cool completely. *If you choose to top with a pecan half, nuts, or salt immediately press on top of the ball before chocolate cools and hardens.

*This makes a great gift for Valentine’s day. I also bring it to pretty much every gathering I go to. And really, Kentucky Bourbon is my favorite, but why stop there? You could easily substitute Rum, Grand Marnier, Creme de Menthe, Kahlua... whatever you like!

Try Mat Based Massage!

Available by appointment only at any of these convenient locations:

  • Amber Moon Studio - Far Northwest Austin
  • Your Home - I can bring my mat or table to you at no extra charge if you are within 9 miles of 78729. *Additional fee of $45 for in-home/mobile massage only applies to locations over 9 miles from 78729.
  • Club Pilates, North Burnet - Domain Area

Call or Text NOW to Schedule: 512-461-4574

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to reach out with questions, comments, and incites.