CORAL GABLES, Fla. (Jan. 17, 2018) – A relaxing massage not only reduces stress, but improves body posture and blood circulation and can even lower blood pressure. In an effort to provide University of Miami faculty and staff with a positive and high-quality work environment, the Patti and Allan Herbert Wellness Center extends a 10-percent discount on 50-minute massages to all full- and part-time UM employees, regardless of membership status.

This spring, the Herbert Wellness Center is excited to announce the addition of two licensed massage therapists, Jose Pizarro and Yazmin Valdes.

Pizarro is a veteran of massage therapy with 12 years of experience in the field. He is an instructor at the Educating Hands School of Massage and has tailored his work to not only bring forth relaxation, but to help realign the body’s posture through a holistic approach.

Valdez has been practicing massage therapy since 2009. In 2015, she became a master of oriental medicine and teacher of eastern bodywork. Specializing on the body’s energy system, she uses a nurturing touch to promote balance, healing, and a general sense of well-being. She is constantly seeking to improve her practice through education, and is committed to providing natural therapy and wellness solutions.

“Often the first step towards being happy and healthy is living stress-free,” said Christina WooChing, assistant director of wellness programs. “Starting this semester, the Herbert Wellness Center is now offering appointments on Saturday, which will help members of the UM community to incorporate relaxation time into their regular schedules. Eliminating stress as a barrier to other healthy lifestyle choices, like getting fit and eating healthy, is a great start towards healthy living.”

Appointments are available Tuesday through Saturday for 25-minute or 50-minute sessions. The center also offers 8-hour packages, for regular appointments, at a discounted rate. Chair massage events also can be coordinated through the Herbert Wellness Center and are available to Coral Gables departments for staff events and workshops.

For more information about all of the Herbert Wellness Center’s massage services or to make an appointment for table or chair massages, call the sales office at 305-284-5433 or via our Wellness Center Membership Portal.