Mel Sylvester

Breathe, feel, relax.

My name is Mel Sylvester and I have been a practicing Licensed Massage Therapist for 2+ years. I became a therapist to help people cope with the challenging effects of stress, anxiety, and depression. Compassionate informed touch is a very effective way to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which supports efficient functioning of the body’s own healing systems and brings about an overall good feeling of ease and relief.

Beyond massage, I enjoy: deepening my understanding of the hum...

My name is Mel Sylvester and I have been a practicing Licensed Massage Therapist for 2+ years. I became a therapist to help people cope with the challenging effects of stress, anxiety, and depression. Compassionate informed touch is a very effective way to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which supports efficient functioning of the body’s own healing systems and brings about an overall good feeling of ease and relief.

Beyond massage, I enjoy: deepening my understanding of the human body, increasing my body awareness, and supporting my wellbeing through regular yoga practice; being outside hiking or riding my bike; exploring topics like mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and meditation; philosophising about the nature of existence; singing and playing guitar for my own enjoyment; writing creative non-fiction and poetry; and otherwise exploring how to live well while helping others do the same. Looking forward professionally, I would like to explore yoga and meditation teacher training, certification in personal training and/or leading group exercise classes, as well as other massage modalities to broaden and deepen my ability to help.

I am very excited for the opportunity to help you reach and maintain a lack of pain and discomfort while supporting you in your overall health and wellness goals!


Book a massage with me today

My Services
Licenses
Massage

VA # 1133887

Education
2016

Florida School of Massage

Massage and Hydrotherapy

Experience
Bodywork

Modalities

Through the excellent program at the Florida School of Massage, I received education primarily in the following bodywork modalities: Swedish Massage Polarity Therapy Connective Tissue Therapy Neuromuscular Therapy Sports Massage Through workshops, I have also learned basic principles and practices of: Reflexology Hydrotherapy Thai Massage Chair Massage

REVIEWS for my massage services

by Donald on Jun 01
Mel was very personable and attentive to my areas of concern. She used slow, strong strokes to work the muscles to make them feel comfortable. Enjoyed my session with her.
by Andrew on May 13
Mel is the best! Just the right pressure and so professional. Also knowledgeable on breathing technique and meditation, and had good advice on general stress reduction. I’ll be back!
by Anonymous on Jul 29
Great session
by Anonymous on Jul 22
Mel talked to me before hand to understand what I wanted. Massage was very relaxing in a calm atmosphere. I plan to return again.
by Anonymous on Jul 16
Mel has an amazing technique, unlike anything I've ever felt--and I've had dozens of massages with at least fifteen different therapists! Her skills are enhanced by her desire to identify her client's wants and needs up front, as well; she showed a lot of care and attention in listening to me and asking clarifying questions to ensure I would have a relaxing and therapeutic experience (and I most certainly did!). I was so bummed to learn that she will be moving away from Richmond, but hope she continues to share her craft throughout her travels!
by Alice on Jun 22
Mel has a technique unlike any I've experienced before and it worked miracles on my chronic back and shoulder pain. She is thoughtful, attentive and massively skilled. Thank you again!
by Lisette on May 27
Mel was really great! She took the time to get know me and the issues I was having with my back. She asked important questions that helped her understand where we should focus on during my massage. The massage was incredible! I had a deep tissue massage and she really helped loosen up some of the tension I had prior to going in. I definitely recommend her to anyone who wants to try Holistic Therapies. Thanks for everything, Mel!
by Julie on May 18
LOVED the massage -- one of the best i have had.
by Sam on May 08
I really appreciated Mel sitting down with me beforehand to see where on my body that I wanted her to focus the session on. I left the session with a sense of inner peace that I haven't experienced for a long time. Thanks, Mel!
by Leslee on May 08
Mel was great. Listened to me, asked great questions, was very encouraging about my current progress and the actions I am taking to get well. She made me feel comfortable, explained what she was doing, asked how I felt as she went through the massage, and gave me space to breath and rest while she worked on my muscles.