Wholistic Health Studio

One year after a work related injury to the lower back, when all other therapies had failed and physicians were accusing me of making up the pain, Stewart came like a godsend. Calm, patient, but nevertheless with great perseverance he found the real reason for my discomfort. Applying Tautband Therapy, a modality he developed and teaches, he eased my pain and dramatically improved my quality of life. His studio, offering a view on old trees, a vast garden and a big lawn, is not only a place to help the body but the soul as well. Here you don't feel like a patient receiving treatment, you are an individual finding compassion and knowledge that heal your whole self.

RE: MASSAGE THERAPY. When I'm injured, or whenever a chronic pain flares, I hie me to Stewart for treatment. He is unique for his manner of diagnosis/analysis; his knowledge of cellular as well as large-muscle anatomy and physiology and pain control; his peaceful and caring personality; the slow, gradual, pain-free method of his style of massage; and the comfort and beauty of his treatment studio--with large windows looking out across his farmland.

Stewart has been treating me off and on since the 90's for muscle and joint injuries after falls, for a chronic calcification in a toe joint, and for good old-fashioned cricks in the back.

After shoulder surgery, I went to Stewart to supplement the prescribed physical therapy, and my "official" therapist found his treatments to be beneficial and complementary to hers.

I have recommended him to dozens of friends, and I wholeheartedly recommend him to you.

RE: SENIOR FITNESS CLASSES. After a nasty fall in 2013, when the treatments prescribed by my orthopedist failed to fully restore the strength in my arm and shoulder, I joined the Senior Fitness classes taught at Wholistic Health by Melanie Dean.

I love these classes. Though (small) group classes, they have the feel and effect of personal training, because Melanie keeps careful track of our individual injuries, weaknesses, and progress, and she modifies each and every exercise to fit each of us--every single time. She is demanding, but keeps things light so you're never discouraged. She's as careful and as analytical as Stewart. She listens and watches us with total attention. And she is funny. Everything is kept light, but training far beyond my expectations is happening.

BTW, the studio is clean, pleasant, well-equipped (various exercise balls, mats, weights, exercise bands) and offers more beautiful views of Stewart's fields. Registered trainees can also use the machine room (bikes and joggers) and the kitchenette.

RE: CPR CERTIFICATION. I also took a full CPR certification course that Melanie Dean offers from time to time. Just like her training classes, there's serious learning with a light touch.

I have been in Stewart's capable hands for the last 20 years! He has kept me able to play my viola because of his expertise and dedication. He has cured me of tendinitis of both elbows. I have ongoing treatments because I have thoracic outlet syndrome. Stewart is the best massage therapist I know. He heals.

I had a deep tissue massage by Stewart last week. He's been in business for several decades and has a great reputation in the area. In fact, Duke Sports Medicine therapists recommended me to him. Which, I think, says a great deal about their trust in him and his skills. As we were going through the session, Stewart literally pulled out his medical books and showed me what he was doing. He also made sure to tell me where he was touching, his next movements and made sure that I was comfortable with each step. Even though the massage was serious business, his nature is gentle.

Their space is absolutely beautiful. An oasis just 10 minutes from downtown Durham, very peaceful and quiet. I'm looking forward to taking one of their yoga, pilates or dance classes soon.