Integrative & Alternative Medicine




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Hypnotherapists In Fort Wayne, IN

Photo of Jessica Smith, Counselor in Fort Wayne, IN Jessica Smith

Counselor, MA, LMHC, MAC

Verified Verified

Fort Wayne, IN 46805  (Online Only)

I offer multiple strategies to alleviate the symptoms associated with trauma and PTSD: Seeking Safety, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Solution-focused interventions, and others.

My passions lie with individuals that suffer from PTSD and the effects of trauma. Once you identify the root cause of your symptoms, which can range from depression, panic and anxiety, nightmares or insomnia, even chronic health problems, you can truly begin to heal and grow. I tend to utilize a lot of CBT and DBT interventions and I do like to assign tasks for you to practice between sessions. Although these are serious issues, I believe in my heart that a sense of humor is absolutely vital to survival!

I offer multiple strategies to alleviate the symptoms associated with trauma and PTSD: Seeking Safety, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Solution-focused interventions, and others.

My passions lie with individuals that suffer from PTSD and the effects of trauma. Once you identify the root cause of your symptoms, which can range from depression, panic and anxiety, nightmares or insomnia, even chronic health problems, you can truly begin to heal and grow. I tend to utilize a lot of CBT and DBT interventions and I do like to assign tasks for you to practice between sessions. Although these are serious issues, I believe in my heart that a sense of humor is absolutely vital to survival!

Photo of Jessica Witmer, Counselor in Fort Wayne, IN Jessica Witmer

Counselor, MSEd, MA, CHT, LMHC-A

Verified Verified

1 Endorsed

Fort Wayne, IN 46804

With Master's Degrees in both Counseling and Pastoral Ministry, a certification in hypnotherapy, training in psychophysiological disorders and integrative mental health, I help my clients heal in mind, body, and spirit.

NOTE: Limited availability for daytime hours. Waitlist for evenings. Do you sometimes feel like your nervous system is failing you? Do you have emotional (or physical) symptoms that you suspect are rooted in some kind of shock, ongoing conflict, or trauma? Do you feel like you are constantly in "fight or flight" mode and wonder if you will ever be able to truly rest? Many of my clients have sought help from MDs, and even alternative health practitioners, only to discover the source of their pain and exhaustion was untreated trauma. But I would love to tell you, there is hope: there is treatment for shock and trauma.

With Master's Degrees in both Counseling and Pastoral Ministry, a certification in hypnotherapy, training in psychophysiological disorders and integrative mental health, I help my clients heal in mind, body, and spirit.

NOTE: Limited availability for daytime hours. Waitlist for evenings. Do you sometimes feel like your nervous system is failing you? Do you have emotional (or physical) symptoms that you suspect are rooted in some kind of shock, ongoing conflict, or trauma? Do you feel like you are constantly in "fight or flight" mode and wonder if you will ever be able to truly rest? Many of my clients have sought help from MDs, and even alternative health practitioners, only to discover the source of their pain and exhaustion was untreated trauma. But I would love to tell you, there is hope: there is treatment for shock and trauma.

Photo of Bethany Kellogg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Wayne, IN Bethany Kellogg

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT

Verified Verified

2 Endorsed

Fort Wayne, IN 46825

Waitlist for new clients

I love working with kids and seeing how play transforms lives! I am a clinical social worker and a registered play therapist (RPT). I have worked with kids with a variety of concerns including behaviors, trauma, and regulation. I'm very playful in my approach, using a lot of sensory tools and activities specific to each child. I am client-centered, strengths based, trauma-informed and use an eclectic approach.

I love working with kids and seeing how play transforms lives! I am a clinical social worker and a registered play therapist (RPT). I have worked with kids with a variety of concerns including behaviors, trauma, and regulation. I'm very playful in my approach, using a lot of sensory tools and activities specific to each child. I am client-centered, strengths based, trauma-informed and use an eclectic approach.

Photo of Alex Kellogg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Wayne, IN Alex Kellogg

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW

Verified Verified

1 Endorsed

Fort Wayne, IN 46825

I love working with young adults who are just discovering the independent life that is ahead of them. I also enjoy working with teenagers as they are learning to navigate their identity with other peers. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with a variety of concerns with adults including depression, anxiety, drug and alcohol problems, pornography addiction, and anger management.

I love working with young adults who are just discovering the independent life that is ahead of them. I also enjoy working with teenagers as they are learning to navigate their identity with other peers. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with a variety of concerns with adults including depression, anxiety, drug and alcohol problems, pornography addiction, and anger management.

Photo of Misty Arellano, Counselor in Fort Wayne, IN Misty Arellano

Counselor, MSEd, LMHC

Verified Verified

Fort Wayne, IN 46805

Many of us feel disconnected, overwhelmed, and struggle to complete everyday tasks. When we begin to feel overwhelmed we sometimes find it hard to cope, begin to question ourselves, and start to find these feelings impact how we function in our relationships, at work, or even begin to struggle with taking care of ourselves. Perhaps we even find ourselves in patterns that are harmful despite all efforts to stop, leaving yourself feeling stuck, broken, stressed, or out of control. My goal is to help you rebalance and support you through these feelings, thoughts, and moments.

Many of us feel disconnected, overwhelmed, and struggle to complete everyday tasks. When we begin to feel overwhelmed we sometimes find it hard to cope, begin to question ourselves, and start to find these feelings impact how we function in our relationships, at work, or even begin to struggle with taking care of ourselves. Perhaps we even find ourselves in patterns that are harmful despite all efforts to stop, leaving yourself feeling stuck, broken, stressed, or out of control. My goal is to help you rebalance and support you through these feelings, thoughts, and moments.

Photo of Catanna Roberson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fort Wayne, IN Catanna Roberson

Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSEd

Verified Verified

Fort Wayne, IN 46804

I am passionate about mental health and am grateful I have worked in this field over the last 14 years. As a Marriage and Family therapist for 5 years, I have found my calling working with professional helpers such as first responders, veterans, and military service members. I have a specific interest and expertise in working with professional helpers who have a hard time accepting or asking for help themselves. I have gotten to know the struggles of the professional helpers and their loved ones that I have had the honor to work with.

I am passionate about mental health and am grateful I have worked in this field over the last 14 years. As a Marriage and Family therapist for 5 years, I have found my calling working with professional helpers such as first responders, veterans, and military service members. I have a specific interest and expertise in working with professional helpers who have a hard time accepting or asking for help themselves. I have gotten to know the struggles of the professional helpers and their loved ones that I have had the honor to work with.

Photo of Kristen Spiegel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Wayne, IN Kristen Spiegel

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC

Verified Verified

Fort Wayne, IN 46825

We all need each other. Through my work as a therapist I have come to believe this even more. Whether you are going through a difficult time or are struggling with past hurts, therapy is a place where you can process without judgment.

We all need each other. Through my work as a therapist I have come to believe this even more. Whether you are going through a difficult time or are struggling with past hurts, therapy is a place where you can process without judgment.

Photo of Lynne R Kelly, Counselor in Fort Wayne, IN Lynne R Kelly

Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, NCC

Verified Verified

Fort Wayne, IN 46806  (Online Only)

Lynne Kelly (MHC), Founder and Principal of THJ, takes pride in serving clients from a diverse range of backgrounds, encouraging them to authentically express themselves without fear, judgement, or shame. With over 10 years of experience in the field, her caring, dynamic, and therapeutic approaches thoughtfully connect the mind, body, and spirit for a rewarding, life-changing experience.

Lynne Kelly (MHC), Founder and Principal of THJ, takes pride in serving clients from a diverse range of backgrounds, encouraging them to authentically express themselves without fear, judgement, or shame. With over 10 years of experience in the field, her caring, dynamic, and therapeutic approaches thoughtfully connect the mind, body, and spirit for a rewarding, life-changing experience.

Photo of Katie Schloemer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fort Wayne, IN Katie Schloemer

Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C

Verified Verified

1 Endorsed

Kokomo, IN 46902

Waitlist for new clients

I am also trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Gottman, and SYMBIS.

I believe times of frustration, stress, and pain can lead to positive growth and that we can flourish in a compassionate, nonjudgemental environment, with gentle challenging from a trusted individual. In the context of the therapeutic environment, one can safely work through vulnerable emotions, fears, and dreams, and it is an honor to be able to facilitate this process. No one is an island; if our relationships aren't going well, it is likely we are not feeling our best. I would like to help you improve how you relate to and view yourself, others, and the world around you, identifying strengths and natural supports.

I am also trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Gottman, and SYMBIS.

I believe times of frustration, stress, and pain can lead to positive growth and that we can flourish in a compassionate, nonjudgemental environment, with gentle challenging from a trusted individual. In the context of the therapeutic environment, one can safely work through vulnerable emotions, fears, and dreams, and it is an honor to be able to facilitate this process. No one is an island; if our relationships aren't going well, it is likely we are not feeling our best. I would like to help you improve how you relate to and view yourself, others, and the world around you, identifying strengths and natural supports.

Photo of Dianna StallingsHeart Space, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Wayne, IN Dianna StallingsHeart Space

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW

Verified Verified

South Bend, IN 46617  (Online Only)

This may include belief work, art, writing, somatic work, psychodrama, and hypnotherapy.

My clients are aware that something in their current lives is no longer serving them, want to understand how that came to be, and align themselves with the vision they have for their future. This often starts by noticing repeating patterns of behavior in themselves, or those they attract, and becoming curious about the reason why. They may also find that they experience certain physical and emotional responses (anger, anxiety, people pleasing etc.) and know that their body is trying to tell them something needs to shift.

This may include belief work, art, writing, somatic work, psychodrama, and hypnotherapy.

My clients are aware that something in their current lives is no longer serving them, want to understand how that came to be, and align themselves with the vision they have for their future. This often starts by noticing repeating patterns of behavior in themselves, or those they attract, and becoming curious about the reason why. They may also find that they experience certain physical and emotional responses (anger, anxiety, people pleasing etc.) and know that their body is trying to tell them something needs to shift.

Photo of Philip Ellison-Hines, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Fort Wayne, IN Philip Ellison-Hines

Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA

Verified Verified

Pendleton, IN 46064

Have you ever wondered, "Who am I? Whose life is this?" Have you asked yourself, "What is my purpose?" These are questions I love exploring with clients, whether individually, within a relationship, or with entire families. These questions can leave you feeling lost or hopeless, and miserable. But change is possible. Perhaps counseling hasn't worked in the past. Hypnotherapy or holistic wellness may be another option in your search for yourself.

Have you ever wondered, "Who am I? Whose life is this?" Have you asked yourself, "What is my purpose?" These are questions I love exploring with clients, whether individually, within a relationship, or with entire families. These questions can leave you feeling lost or hopeless, and miserable. But change is possible. Perhaps counseling hasn't worked in the past. Hypnotherapy or holistic wellness may be another option in your search for yourself.

Photo of Sheldon Shalley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Wayne, IN Sheldon Shalley

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW

Verified Verified

Indianapolis, IN 46240

I like to use this combination of hypnotherapy, dream work, shamanic healing methods, energy psychology, and mind-body interventions because it provides a way for clients to discover and heal the root causes or those sensitizing events that are contributing to or fueling their current problems.

I am Sheldon Shalley, MSW, LCSW. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, hypnosis, dream work, shamanic healing practices, energy psychology, and mind-body medicine approaches to help people identify, face, and alter beliefs, thoughts, feelings, behaviors, judgments, and painful memories that stand in the way of living one's life. This work allows wounds to heal, helps a person break free from destructive and unhealthy patterns and moves the person toward a greater sense of emotional and spiritual well-being.

I like to use this combination of hypnotherapy, dream work, shamanic healing methods, energy psychology, and mind-body interventions because it provides a way for clients to discover and heal the root causes or those sensitizing events that are contributing to or fueling their current problems.

I am Sheldon Shalley, MSW, LCSW. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, hypnosis, dream work, shamanic healing practices, energy psychology, and mind-body medicine approaches to help people identify, face, and alter beliefs, thoughts, feelings, behaviors, judgments, and painful memories that stand in the way of living one's life. This work allows wounds to heal, helps a person break free from destructive and unhealthy patterns and moves the person toward a greater sense of emotional and spiritual well-being.

Photo of Lacey J Rentschler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Wayne, IN Lacey J Rentschler

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW

Verified Verified

Indianapolis, IN 46250

We offer a variety of alternative methods, including hypnotherapy, wellness coaching, and the inclusion of expressive arts, all of which can be used as stand alone treatments or in combination with traditional counseling.

The decision to begin counseling can be intimidating, exhilarating; and, ultimately, a life changer. Counseling at Sunstone Health & Wellness is done in a very relaxed, conversational way to make you feel as comfortable as possible. Most of the time, we know the solutions to our own problems. But there are those rare occasions when we all need a little extra support, education, and resources to help us continue on the path to living the best life possible. Counseling can be a powerful tool to create change and take action in the life you've always wanted to live.

We offer a variety of alternative methods, including hypnotherapy, wellness coaching, and the inclusion of expressive arts, all of which can be used as stand alone treatments or in combination with traditional counseling.

The decision to begin counseling can be intimidating, exhilarating; and, ultimately, a life changer. Counseling at Sunstone Health & Wellness is done in a very relaxed, conversational way to make you feel as comfortable as possible. Most of the time, we know the solutions to our own problems. But there are those rare occasions when we all need a little extra support, education, and resources to help us continue on the path to living the best life possible. Counseling can be a powerful tool to create change and take action in the life you've always wanted to live.

Photo of Shelley Spencer-Hellmich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fort Wayne, IN Shelley Spencer-Hellmich

Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCAC, CADACIV, CDVC

Verified Verified

Indianapolis, IN 46240

"I work with adults, children and adolescents. I often work with relationship, marital and family issues. I help couples with communication issues and provide ideas to work on outside of the session. Children often see me for stress management techniques to utilize at school and home; and I teach them techniques to help increase focus and concentration."

"I work with adults, children and adolescents. I often work with relationship, marital and family issues. I help couples with communication issues and provide ideas to work on outside of the session. Children often see me for stress management techniques to utilize at school and home; and I teach them techniques to help increase focus and concentration."

Photo of The Transformation Specialists LLC, Counselor in Fort Wayne, IN The Transformation Specialists LLC

Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH

Verified Verified

Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)

My partner and I struggle with connecting, trusting, sharing and even caring. We cannot seem to talk without getting into an argument. Things always seem to get blown out of proportion. The relationship often has me walking on eggshells. We have tried to work things out on our own. But nothing last too long. We offer solutions and strategies to help with your relational challenges. Do not wait. Call today for your free consultation with The Transformation Specialists.

My partner and I struggle with connecting, trusting, sharing and even caring. We cannot seem to talk without getting into an argument. Things always seem to get blown out of proportion. The relationship often has me walking on eggshells. We have tried to work things out on our own. But nothing last too long. We offer solutions and strategies to help with your relational challenges. Do not wait. Call today for your free consultation with The Transformation Specialists.

Photo of Sandra J. Conner, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Fort Wayne, IN Sandra J. Conner

Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCAC, CCTP

Verified Verified

1 Endorsed

Fishers, IN 46038

Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, EMDR trained. I am a highly skilled, compassionate addiction and trauma therapist with over 20 years experience. I am dedicated to helping people heal and recover from psychological trauma and addiction. I use evidence based techniques to process traumatic experiences, manage distressing symptoms and foster resilience. I create a safe environment where we can openly discuss addiction, triggers and underlying issues. I have had the privilege of seeing the lives of countless individuals transformed.

Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, EMDR trained. I am a highly skilled, compassionate addiction and trauma therapist with over 20 years experience. I am dedicated to helping people heal and recover from psychological trauma and addiction. I use evidence based techniques to process traumatic experiences, manage distressing symptoms and foster resilience. I create a safe environment where we can openly discuss addiction, triggers and underlying issues. I have had the privilege of seeing the lives of countless individuals transformed.

Photo of Myh Library / Begin To Wake Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Wayne, IN Myh Library / Begin To Wake Therapy

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, CAS, CECP

Verified Verified

South Bend, IN 46614

You are the expert on you, & I have the know-how, so as a team, you & I will get you to achieve your goals & more life satisfaction. Do you have trauma from childhood, the military, racism/discrimination, natural disaster, DV, sexual assault, etc. To overcome? Do you struggle with alcohol, meth, pills, cocaine, etc. Or maybe video games, love/relationships, porn, etc.? Identity problems? Are you a yes-person that's sick of being walked on? Do you need to learn to control depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, or personality stuff? How about self-esteem problems? Whatever it is, we got this! Please visit www.Myhlibrary.Com for more info.

You are the expert on you, & I have the know-how, so as a team, you & I will get you to achieve your goals & more life satisfaction. Do you have trauma from childhood, the military, racism/discrimination, natural disaster, DV, sexual assault, etc. To overcome? Do you struggle with alcohol, meth, pills, cocaine, etc. Or maybe video games, love/relationships, porn, etc.? Identity problems? Are you a yes-person that's sick of being walked on? Do you need to learn to control depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, or personality stuff? How about self-esteem problems? Whatever it is, we got this! Please visit www.Myhlibrary.Com for more info.

Photo of Jeannette Murphy's Marriage & Family Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Wayne, IN Jeannette Murphy's Marriage & Family Counseling

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, SAP, LAC, CCTP

Verified Verified

Kokomo, IN 46902  (Online Only)

Waitlist for new clients

Let me introduce myself. I am Jeannette Murphy. I bring to you more than thirty years of counseling experience with the treatment of Individuals, Couples,Children and Families, both individually and in groups. My counseling is designed to help you with a wide variety of personal, marital and family issues. I specialize using Brief Solution-Based Treatment. This treatment method is effective whether you come alone or with other family members.

Let me introduce myself. I am Jeannette Murphy. I bring to you more than thirty years of counseling experience with the treatment of Individuals, Couples,Children and Families, both individually and in groups. My counseling is designed to help you with a wide variety of personal, marital and family issues. I specialize using Brief Solution-Based Treatment. This treatment method is effective whether you come alone or with other family members.

Photo of Amdaway Ibrahim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Wayne, IN Amdaway Ibrahim

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW

Verified Verified

Noblesville, IN 46060

With years of training and practice, I specialized in healing my client's emotional trauma, stress, and depression. I provide well-being coaching as well. Most people come to me when everything they have tried is not yielding them the results they need and deserve. Your mental health affects every part of your life. It is crucial that your mental health is the first thing to get in order to have the fulfilling life that you deserve. You do not have to wait and go through years of pain, wasted time, wasted opportunity to have a fulfilling life. Help is possible. Give yourself the opportunity to new explore possibilities.

With years of training and practice, I specialized in healing my client's emotional trauma, stress, and depression. I provide well-being coaching as well. Most people come to me when everything they have tried is not yielding them the results they need and deserve. Your mental health affects every part of your life. It is crucial that your mental health is the first thing to get in order to have the fulfilling life that you deserve. You do not have to wait and go through years of pain, wasted time, wasted opportunity to have a fulfilling life. Help is possible. Give yourself the opportunity to new explore possibilities.

Photo of Mark R Roth, Psychologist in Fort Wayne, IN Mark R Roth

Psychologist, PhD, HSPP

Verified Verified

Indianapolis, IN 46240

I work with a variety of individuals, couples, and families dealing with such problems as anxiety, depression, stress management, and relationship difficulties. One of my special interests is assisting clients with improving their decision-making in important life areas. Recently I published a book on judgment and ways to enhance it. I am also experienced in providing psychological evaluations for assessment of attention deficit disorders, fitness for bariatric surgery, and court-related issues. I look forward to helping others explore strategies to enhance well-being and lead more fulfilling lives.

I work with a variety of individuals, couples, and families dealing with such problems as anxiety, depression, stress management, and relationship difficulties. One of my special interests is assisting clients with improving their decision-making in important life areas. Recently I published a book on judgment and ways to enhance it. I am also experienced in providing psychological evaluations for assessment of attention deficit disorders, fitness for bariatric surgery, and court-related issues. I look forward to helping others explore strategies to enhance well-being and lead more fulfilling lives.


Black-led Nature Retreat Develops Near Two Harbors

SILVER CREEK TOWNSHIP — Rebeka Ndosi's plan for a BIPOC-led, nature-based retreat on the North Shore is one step closer to fruition.

On April 15, the Lake County Board of Commissioners approved Ndosi and her husband Matthew Myrold's bid for a conditional use permit, advancing the development of Maji ya Chai Land Sanctuary.

Two people pose for a photo with blue skies behind them.Rebeka Ndosi and Matthew Myrold are behind Maji ya Chai Land Sanctuary in Silver Creek Township outside Two Harbors.

Contributed / Matthew Myrold

The retreat center will offer nature-immersive programming to support healing from trauma and stress with offerings such as sound baths, yoga, movement, herbalism and more, said Ndosi, who has been a holistic health practitioner for 20 years.

On the couple's 40 acres near the Encampment River, with a farmhouse, garage and pasture, Ndosi envisions a healing and practice center, a larger space for movement, yoga, a mobile barrel sauna and a hot tub.

An adult and a child stand next to a stream in a wooded area.Natalie Chin and Paul Gan explore the Encampment River near what will become the Maji ya Chai Land Sanctuary outside Two Harbors.

Contributed / Jennifer Lien

With the conditional use permit approval, Ndosi and her team can focus on designing and building the retreat's main lodging quarters, tree-clearing, yurt-raising and well-drilling.

In Minnesota, there's a tradition of the family lake cabin. "We're hoping Maji ya Chai can be that for families of color," she said.

Born and raised a Tanzanian-American in Minnesota, Ndosi recalled having her "feet in two worlds" with her East African culture at home and feeling "not Black enough" among her peers.

People walk on open land.Maji ya Chai Land Sanctuary in Silver Creek Township outside Two Harbors.

Contributed / Rebeka Ndosi

She said her experience informs her plan for a welcoming, safe BIPOC-focused, yet not exclusionary space.

Guests can come and know, "I can be with people who want me here, and I can relax enough to benefit from the beauty of this place," she said.

It's a much-needed space, especially for BIPOC people, said Maria Isley. The Duluth resident grew up in Two Harbors, where she learned firsthand the "profound" physical and emotional benefits of the natural surroundings.

A woman and two dogs poses for a photo with autumn leaves strewn around them.Maria Isley.

Contributed / Maria Isley

Isley recently submitted a letter supporting Maji ya Chai (pronounced "MAH-gee yah Chai") to the Lake County Board of Commissioners: "Growing up, I would often joke that my brothers and I made up half the minority population in the area. Thus, I am acutely aware of the importance of spaces like Maji ya Land Sanctuary."

Isley told the News Tribune there are "very few spaces that are specific and dedicated for people of color to have on their own."

Debbie Cooter, of Silver Creek Township, said listening to personal experience shared in support of the land sanctuary has stuck with her.

"Someone said, 'You don't quite know what it's like to not feel safe, to be in the country and not feel safe,'" Cooter said.

Lake County needs more diversity, said resident Kirsten Cruikshank. "Most entities are trying to embrace diversity and they're wondering how to do it, so why wouldn't we be embracing this," she said.

Raising her kids on 56 acres, resident Lisa Knight said she understands what Ndosi is trying to build.

"All the things they're talking about — wanting to have quiet space, dark skies, time in the woods — are the things we all want and that's why we live here," said Knight.

While there's more support than opposition, Ndosi said, their efforts to build the retreat have unearthed resistance that spans from passive and unspoken to "threatening."

Signs opposing Maji ya Chai were posted nearby, along County Highway 3 and Clark Road, and the couple has had folks trespass on their property, among other things.

Four people pose for a photo in front of a home.Sandy Agustin, Cristine Davidson, Rebeka Ndosi and Camille Cyprian pose for a photo. The four will work Maji ya Chai Land Sanctuary outside Two Harbors in Silver Creek Township.

Contributed / Rebeka Ndosi

Those who fear noise, density or light pollution from Maji ya Chai guests don't understand they're not coming for a party, "They're coming for birdsong," said Cooter.

The name "Maji ya Chai" comes from the Ndosi family's Tanzanian village of origin, and she said she aims to honor her ancestors through efforts and to build connections from the land up north and the village way down south.

Also, the relationship-building and BIPOC education she hopes to cultivate is well in motion.

"We're already in our mission," Ndosi said, and she's excited for the "lore that is to come, for the stories of future generations."

More info is available at majiyachai.Org.

This story was updated at 10:21 a.M. May 1, to correctly identify that Rebeka Ndosi's family has Tanzanian roots. The News Tribune regrets the error.


Hip Flexor Pain? It Might Actually Be Your Psoas Muscle—Here's How To Release It

Last summer, I hiked the equivalent vertical gain of Mt. Everest. I had done lots of training for what was my first endurance event, and was mildly confident in my physical fitness, but I had zero idea how my body would respond to this challenge—it turns out, it responded by locking up my hips. And the only way to fix it was by learning how to release my psoas muscle.

Experts In This Article

  • Jill Miller, C-IAYT, ERYT, YACEP, founder of Tune Up Fitness and author of Body by Breath and The Roll Model
  • Lawrence Van Lingen, structural integration specialist and founder of InneRunner
  • Sarah Crawford, PT, DPT, COMT, CMTPT, physical therapist and founder of Anchor Wellness Center and WAVE Physical Therapy
  • 29029 Everesting is an endurance event where you climb 29,029 feet—the equivalent height of Mt. Everest—in three days. It takes place in six different cities from June to September. My husband and I picked Snowbasin, Utah. To reach that magic 29,029 number and finish the event, we needed to hike 2.3 miles up, take the gondola down, and repeat 13 times for an elevation gain of 2,310 feet per ascent. That's approximately 30 miles in 36 hours, and it's you versus you.

    On ascent three, my right hip flexor started to tighten like a twisted rope, making it difficult to flex my hip and pick up my leg on the steepest parts of the trail. Luckily, the event had an onsite recovery room with licensed therapists and massage tables, compression boots, foam rollers, and massage guns with various attachments.

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    Given my nagging discomfort, I took a quick break to try and release my hip flexor tension with a massage gun and a layer of Tiger Balm. Feeling slight relief, I hiked up two more times. But after ascent five, I felt like I was dragging a bag of rocks tied to my right ankle while stabbing my tendon with a screwdriver.

    It was nearly impossible to bend my leg—limiting my hiking power and slowing me down. My early 90-minute ascents stretched to 2-plus hours, and I still had 8 more climbs to go.

    Disheartened (and worried that I might DNF), I returned to the recovery room and met with one of the therapists to seek relief. When I couldn't lift my leg into flex without using my hands as support or extend it without pain, the therapist paused.

    "I think it's your psoas," he said.

    "My what?" I asked.

    The muscle he introduced me to—a muscle most people haven't heard of—turned out to be the source of my problem.

    What is the psoas?

    Often overlooked, the psoas (so-as) is a centrally located hidden workhorse of the body. It's a long, tenderloin-shaped stabilizer muscle that lies deep in your core. You have two of them, one on each side of the vertebral column in the lumbar region of your back. It connects the middle (thoracic) and lower (lumbar) parts of your spine and travels down through your pelvis. There, it blends with another muscle (the iliacus) across your hip joint and attaches to the top of your thigh bone.

    Psoas major muscle, computer illustration.Photo: Getty/SEBASTIAN KAULITZKI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

    Because of its orientation and connection to the upper and lower spine, the psoas works in conjunction with the 36 muscles of your pelvis, your other core muscles, and diaphragm—playing a starring role in the movement and functionality of your lower back, pelvis, and hips.

    The main job of the psoas is to flex and rotate the hips when bringing your legs forward or toward your chest (how your legs move when walking or running), assist in side-bending and rotating the lumbar spine, and stabilize the pelvis and spine when you walk or stand.

    The psoas is also threaded to your diaphragm, making it an essential partner to how you breathe.

    "A breathing spine is a healthy spine. As we breathe in, the psoas should act as giant bellows to assist air movement," explains structural integration specialist and founder of InneRunner, Lawrence Van Lingen. "The back arches and the chest and belly expand, the diaphragm flattens and drops down, lengthening the psoas (the upper fibers may contract to assist the diaphragm). As we breathe out, it helps flex or round the spine, and the diaphragm relaxes upwards into a dome."

    Holistic health practitioners refer to the psoas as the "muscle of the soul." It's believed that the psoas is the keeper of our trauma and stress, reflecting our emotional and physical states.

    You may hear holistic health practitioners refer to the psoas as the "muscle of the soul." It's believed that the psoas is also the keeper of our trauma and stress, reflecting our emotional and physical states.

    "Our breathing patterns are often out of sync from too much sitting, emotional or physical trauma, poor movement, and excessive bracing of the core. This creates tension in the psoas and the body," Van Lingen explains.

    Symptoms of a tight psoas

    Sarah Crawford, PT, DPT, COMT, CMTPT, founder of Anchor Wellness Center and WAVE Physical Therapy explains some common indicators of psoas dysfunction. They include:

  • low back pain
  • tightness or pain in the front of the hip or groin
  • limited range of motion in hip extension
  • pain radiating down the leg
  • However, none of these symptoms are exclusive to a tight psoas, so she recommends an evaluation by a musculoskeletal specialist.

    Other signs of a tense and unhappy psoas can include changes in your posture and pelvic tilt, creating movement compensations elsewhere in your body.

    How to release the psoas

    Directly accessing the psoas can be difficult (and possibly painful) if you're not careful. Depending on the severity of your discomfort, you may want to work with a trained and licensed massage or physical therapist to find relief—especially if it's chronic.

    When the therapist worked on me, it was like kneading tough dough. He pressed, dug, massaged, stretched, and flexed my psoas, hip flexor, and supporting muscles until the tension and pain eased—a technique I couldn't have done on my own.

    But movement practitioners and physical therapists have different and preferred approaches to restoring balance in the body and easing psoas tension. Many of these you can incorporate into your own mobility routine.

    Supported bridge

    Crawford teaches her clients the benefits of performing a supported bridge using a yoga block placed under your sacrum, the flat part between your lower back and tailbone. This allows the psoas to be in a slack position. "Combined with diaphragmatic breathing, this exercise re-educates the nervous system that this muscle doesn't need to be on guard," she says.

    female physical therapist demonstrates how to do a supported bridge pose for psoas release

  • Lie on your back on the floor or on a mat, and place your hands behind your head.
  • Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart, ensuring they are close enough for your fingertips to touch your heels lightly when you extend your arms fully.
  • Press firmly into your feet and arms to create a stable base.
  • Engage your core muscles and lift your hips toward the ceiling, forming a straight line with your body from shoulders to knees. Keep your thighs and feet parallel to prevent any inward or outward movement.
  • Slide a yoga block under your sacrum, the flat part between your lower back and tailbone.
  • Relax your neck engage in deep breathing to help release the psoas.
  • Stay here for 5 minutes.
  • TIP

    Depending on your activity level and circumstances, Crawford recommends doing the supported bridge once or twice a day, five days a week, for five minutes.

    Using tools

    If you're performing self-treatment psoas release exercises, it's important to know that the psoas lies behind major abdominal organs, including the uterus and ovaries. Understanding what you're pressing on is vital to not irritating or damaging nerves, organs, arteries, or fascia layers.

    Jill Miller, C-IAYT, ERYT, YACEP, founder of Tune Up Fitness and author of the bestselling books Body by Breath and The Roll Model prefers softer accessories over hard tools (like the hip hook), which can cause damage to these fascial layers of the abdomen when not used properly.

    One of her tools is the Coregeous therapy ball, sometimes called a belly ball. Slightly larger than a grapefruit, it inflates to a moderately firm yet soft and squishy round ball for gently targeting and massaging the psoas and other deep abdominal muscles with an open palm feel.

    Front abdominal psoas release

    Specifically targeting the psoas, the front abdominal release is a popular rolling technique—best performed on an empty stomach.

    woman in matching teal leggings and sports bra lays stomach-down on a belly ball in order to achieve psoas release

  • Lie face down with the ball (or rolled-up mat or towel) under your abdomen.
  • Start with the prop on the side of your abdomen to the left or right of your navel. This allows you to adjust to any tender areas. As you acclimate to the pressure, you can start to move the ball directly to the front of your belly, paying attention to anything that feels uncomfortable or pulsing. If you feel pulsing, move off that spot.
  • Inhale and hold your breath while contracting the muscles on the prop. Hold for 3 to 5 seconds, then exhale. Repeat the contraction and relax your breath. Repeat 10 times.
  •  Slowly move the ball or towel from side to side across your belly while breathing and without tension for 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Pivot your body around the prop to create a winding motion on both sides and breathe deeply. Do this for 2 to 4 minutes.
  • Breathwork

    Working on your breath and diaphragm expansion may not seem like the most exciting practice, but if your psoas and hips are tight, you may want to incorporate breathwork into your daily routine. (This video from Tune Up Fitness demonstrates a technique called the diaphragm vacuum for releasing tension.)

    How to prevent psoas pain

    Incorporating proper stretching, breath, massage, and rolling practices into your mobility and fitness routines are just some of the ways to maintain a happy and healthy psoas. Strengthening exercises that involve extension and flexion, such as leg lifts and knee-to-chest movements, are also important to balance, stability, and fluidity in the psoas, pelvis, hip flexors, and surrounding muscles.

    Another great prevention technique? Checking in with yourself and evaluating your movement and sitting patterns.

    "Our environment and the ways we move in it is antagonistic to a healthy psoas," Van Lingen says. We encourage guarding, bracing, and engagement, often with a stiff and rigid spine—activating and training to isolate our muscles, when "we should be moving in a curved, organic manner that is fluid and rhythmic."

    Before labeling our hip flexor or lower back pain as the source of the problem, we might consider taking inventory of our whole body to determine the root. With 30 minutes of sleep and hiking in the middle of the night, I finished the event with 13 minutes to spare.

    "As does the psoas, so does the rest of the body."—Jill Miller

    Given what I've learned about the "muscle of my soul," I plan to incorporate these practices into my mobility routine in hopes that my psoas will stay happy when I take on 29029 in Whistler this summer.

    Miller emphasizes the vital role of this mus

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