Welcome to Tranquil Assuage. I am Donna Sandridge-Walker, a native to Albemarle County, and am a retired Master Firefighter-Paramedic, now licensed massage therapist. The question I get asked a lot is, why did you become a massage therapist? Or receive comments similar to, I would never thought of you as a massage therapist. When most people think of massage, they think of pampering themselves with a fancy back rub. Massage is so much more. Over the years of repetitive movement and sustaining a few injuries, I had developed a limited range of motion, experienced pain every day and at times was in severe crippling pain. I sought medical care from orthopedics, surgery and physical therapy, but without much success. I wanted solutions not temporary fixes. I researched alternative medicine for help. I actually laughed at myself for even considering massage therapy. After the first session I could tell a difference and had some relief. With each session, I regained more range of motion, had more relief and the results of the session lasted longer. I suddenly was intrigued with the different modalities and the rehabilitative results of massage. I attended and graduated from the Cedar Stone School of Massage and became a member of American Massage Therapy Association. I found massage with adding joint mobilization and injury rehabilitation helped me more than traditional physical therapy and orthopedics. I have been involved in healthcare and emergency services in some capacity for more than 25 years. This allows me to bring a holistic perspective to your massage therapy. Some of the specialized modalities I have found that helps folks: • Swedish massage • Joint mobilization - stretching • Sports massage • Deep tissue massage • Myofascial release • Cranial sacral • Injury rehabilitation • Hot Stones Whether you need assistance with a long-term injury, relief from the medical effects of tension or are simply looking for a session of relaxation, I will work with you to meet.

I was born in Charlottesville and after moving all around finally settled back. I graduated from the Miller School of Albemarle and the Virginia School of Massage. I am a member of Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals and have been licensed by the V.A. Board of Nursing to practice massage for over 18 years. I started my bodywork career at the UVA Aquatic and Fitness Center and have worked in various spas and chiropractic offices. This wealth of experience has refined and developed my skills and knowledge. I specialize in lymphatic drainage, deep tissue, myofascial release, passive neuromuscular facilitation, shiatsu, and lomi lomi, hot stones, and prenatal. In customizing each session to clients needs and goals the hope of facilitating a return to homeostasis is better achieved. When I am not working I am enjoying life to the fullest. I love being spending quality time with my Family. I like the arts!! I enjoy nature and time with Friends. Love plants but have a hard time keeping them alive!!! Laughter is my jam!

Hi, I'm Christina Dinsmore I was born and raised in Charlottesville and currently reside in Albemarle County. I am a dedicated massage therapist passionate about helping others unwind and heal. I am a member of Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. I have been practicing massage for over 12 years. I have worked in spas and Chiropractors' offices which have refined and developed my massage techniques; with expertise in deep tissue, relaxation, trigger point therapy, cupping, and hot stone therapies. I tailor each session to meet my clients' individual needs. I believe that everyone deserves a moment of tranquility. I strive to create a soothing atmosphere where my clients can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. When I'm not working, I love spending quality time with my kids, exploring the great outdoors through hiking and paddle boarding, or unwinding with a good movie. Balancing my professional and personal life is important to me, and I find joy in both nurturing my clients and creating lasting memories with my family.

I recently graduated from Mountain Gateway University, specializing in Swedish Massage while also developing a strong interest in hot stones, deep tissue techniques, and gliding methods. I have always been passionate about hands-on learning and enjoy solving problems through practical experience. Being a good listener allows me to understand each individual's unique concerns, which not only aids my personal growth but also enables me to provide clients with the most beneficial and relaxing experience possible.

My love for the outdoors and gardening serves as a constant source of inspiration. Additionally, music has played a significant role in my life; I found joy in composing and playing various instruments from a young age, which helped strengthen my hands early on. I intuitively knew that I wanted to use my hands to help others. Massage therapy is a wonderful avenue through which I can learn, foster positive connections, and experience the immense rewards of making a difference in someone's life. I am committed to lifelong learning and aspire to become the best version of myself for both my clients and my personal journey.