Welcome to The Gentle Peach — Empowering Women Through Healing and Education

Hi, I’m Ruth McDonald, and I’m so glad you’re here. At The Gentle Peach, I specialize in helping women feel better — whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing the effects of cancer treatment, dealing with an autoimmune issue, or simply looking for relief from stress and anxiety. As the sole owner and operator, you’ll work directly with me in a private, calming space where you can feel supported and understood.

I know how important it is for women, especially as we navigate different stages of life, to feel comfortable and confident in our bodies. That’s why I take a thoughtful, trauma-informed approach to every session, creating a space where you feel safe, respected, and empowered.

I’m a licensed massage therapist (LMT, MLD-C, CDT) with advanced training in the Vodder Technique from the Academy of Lymphatic Studies and certification in Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). I’m also trained in Microcurrent Point Stimulation (MPS) and hold a Certification in Somatic Embodiment and Regulation Strategies — which means I understand the deep connection between your body and nervous system and how to help you find balance. Healing is not just physical; it’s about regulating your nervous system, reducing stress, and helping your body and mind work together for lasting relief.

At The Gentle Peach, your comfort, privacy, and autonomy come first. Each session is guided by your body’s needs and personal goals. I’ll walk you through each step of the process, explaining the "why" behind the techniques and helping you recognize the changes in your body. When you understand your body’s needs, you become better equipped to manage your health and well-being long after your session ends.

Services Designed for Women’s Health

Phase II Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) Support
I specialize in supporting women through Phase II of Complete Decongestive Therapy — the maintenance phase. This includes personalized care plans to help you maintain long-term results, manage swelling, and improve lymphatic flow through ongoing Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), compression therapy guidance, skincare, and exercise recommendations. I’ll teach you how to care for your lymphatic health at home so you can sustain your results and feel your best.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Gentle and precise techniques to support the lymphatic system, reduce swelling, and promote healing. MLD encourages the removal of toxins and excess fluid, improves circulation, and supports your immune system. Perfect for both general wellness and post-surgical recovery.
Pre-Operative and Post-Operative Care
Tailored treatments to prepare your body for surgery and promote efficient recovery. These treatments help reduce swelling, ease discomfort, and support the removal of anesthesia and toxins from body tissues. I’ll guide you on how to care for your body before and after surgery to improve healing outcomes and long-term results.
Oncology MLD and Massage
Gentle, specialized care for women undergoing or recovering from cancer treatments. This approach helps reduce swelling, ease pain, and provide emotional comfort during a challenging time. I’ll teach you simple self-care techniques to feel more comfortable and supported at home.
Therapeutic Massage
Targeted techniques to relieve pain, tension, and stress while calming your nervous system. Ideal for managing the effects of daily stress, muscle tightness, and emotional overwhelm — helping you feel lighter, more balanced, and at ease.
Scar Therapy
Softens and reduces the appearance of scars by breaking down scar tissue and improving skin texture. I use Microcurrent Point Stimulation (MPS) — an advanced therapy that stimulates acupressure points, reduces pain, calms the nervous system, and improves mobility. I’ll explain how your nervous system responds to stress and how this therapy can promote deeper, long-term healing.
Dolphin Neurostim Therapy (for Brain Healing, Concussion & TBI Recovery)
A revolutionary therapy combining the precision of acupuncture, the science of neurology, and the healing power of microcurrent stimulation to address pain and stress at its source. Dolphin Neurostim therapy offers deep and lasting relief for a wide range of conditions and is available as a treatment series for maximum benefit.
Learn more about Dolphin Neurostim Therapy: https://www.dolphinmps.com/about-mps-therapy/

Empowering You Through Education and Care

At The Gentle Peach, my goal isn’t just to help you feel better — it’s to help you understand how your body works so you can feel confident in managing your health. When you know how to support your body, you’re no longer just coping — you’re thriving.

If you’re looking for a place where you’ll feel seen, heard, and truly cared for, I’d love to work with you. You deserve to feel good — and I’m here to help you get there.

The Gentle Peach LLC

Gentle Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)- Vodder Technique