My interest in Geriatric and Palliative massage started back in my teens. Growing up, I had close relationships with many of the elders in my family and was raised largely by my Grandmother. I often found myself bothered by the physical and psychological challenges that so often accompany aging and chronic illnesses. An enthusiast of massage, yoga and meditation, I knew how effective these practices could be in the reduction of both pain and anxiety. In my effort to bring every Senior and client dealing with Chronic Illness to a more balanced sense of self, I have created Tulena Wellness. The name Tulena comes from a combination of my Grandmother’s name, and my culture's name for flower, to symbolize my hope for the blooming of a future that involves a new, gentler approach to aging and illness.

An Honors graduate of Oberlin College, I spent my first few years in NYC pursuing an acting career. After settling down to start a family, I decided to finally pursue my longtime interest in massage therapy, studying at the Swedish Institute.

I am a NYS Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), with certifications in Geriatric Massage, Oncology Massage, Reiki, and Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD). My experience includes providing relief to clients with chronic pain conditions at a Chiropractic office, as well as offering the ultimate in relaxation massage at the luxury Auriga Spa at The Setai Fifth Avenue/Langham Place Hotel. I served for two years as credentialed voluntary clinical staff at the Geriatric and Palliative Care Center at Mount Sinai, providing stress reduction and pain relief to clients with complicated medical conditions. For the last several years, I have served on staff at NYU Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center. Additionally, I have worked regularly at several senior centers across the city.

I bring my experience working with aging and chronically ill populations, my experience bringing relief to those with chronic pain and injuries, and my compassion for the unique obstacles that the Senior population faces, to create for you a relaxing, nurturing, cooperative atmosphere. My intent is to have you leave your session feeling better, and more empowered, than when you came in.