She.E.O | Episode 4 - Sweet Serendipity with Sierra [Dankenbring]

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She.E.O Series

2024 is the year of the Dragon which is supposed to bring Opportunities, Changes & Challenges. In honor of all three of these themes I want to network with as many Motherhood local businesses to collaborate and thrive with! Each episode I am going to interview a local small business owner in the Metro-Detroit area, and photograph them. I am so excited to meet every business that has volunteered to be interviewed, so we can all learn more about why you (and I) should utilize their services to learn, heal & empower your journey into and through motherhood! I am a new mom as of last year and I feel like I am always learning something new about my own body, so I really just want to help get this information out into new eyes & ears :). Let’s get started!

About My Guest

Sierra Dankenbring is the owner of Sweet Serendipity with Sierra. She is a dynamic individual whose presence is both engaging and insightful. She exudes confidence and a deep understanding of holistic health, offering thoughtful perspectives and valuable contributions. Sierra's passion for her work is evident, as she speaks with enthusiasm and authenticity, drawing me in with her genuine demeanor. Her articulate expression and ability to convey complex ideas in a clear and relatable manner make her a standout participant in the conversation. I really enjoyed interviewing Sierra and I can’t wait to share with you!

Q&A

Q: Can you tell me about your experience in yoga and massage therapy, particularly with moms, maternity, and postpartum clients?

A mom. My experience working with women in both pre and postnatal world. From the moment of conception to delivery and beyond into motherhood, whether raising toddlers or teenagers, the body evolves. It's common to idealize returning to a previous state, but the reality is that our bodies are forever altered by the journey of motherhood. Trying to revert to how things were before isn't feasible because our bodies have transformed, adapting to the demands and joys of nurturing life.

Q: What specialized training or certifications do you have related to maternity and postpartum care in yoga and massage therapy?

I am certified for prenatal massage from AMTA, and my massage therapy degree was from Lakewood in Port Huron. Additionally, my yoga teacher training took place in Rochester at Explore Yoga Studio, and I must say, it was a truly wonderful experience.

Q: What ethos do you approach your yoga classes with?

In my understanding, my approach revolves around staying grounded on the mat. By cultivating this practice of presence and self-awareness on the mat, it becomes easier to carry that mindset into our daily lives, free from the trap of comparison. The diversity of approaches and movement modalities available today can be overwhelming, but I believe that as long as we tune into what feels right for us and honor our individual paths, we're doing the best thing we can for ourselves.

Q: What is the most important benefit of practicing yoga?

For me, my Christian faith plays a significant role in how I approach yoga and spirituality. I believe in the power of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and I see yoga as a way to activate the presence of Jesus within us all. It's about acknowledging that divine aspect within ourselves, which can bring healing, relaxation, and self-care into our daily lives. Especially amidst the chaos of caring for toddlers and children, incorporating movement-based meditation feels more accessible and practical than traditional stillness-focused practices. It's about finding moments of connection and communion with the divine in the midst of our active lives.

Q: How does yoga affect your spirituality?

To me, the essence of spirituality is encapsulated in the simple act of breathing. It's a gentle reminder from God to ground ourselves, to reconnect with the present moment and our place in it. Spirituality, yoga, and movement all intertwine in this beautiful dance of breath and motion. It's about embracing the connection between our breath and our movements, allowing us to center ourselves and find clarity amidst the busyness of life.

Q: What massage therapy techniques do you most commonly employ?

Working as a massage therapist, each day brings a unique array of clients and situations. While I primarily work with women, especially moms and those in prenatal stages, the atmosphere can vary greatly. Some clients come in feeling anxious, so I adjust the setup to provide a sense of security. Other times, I position the table strategically to utilize their body's leverage for the massage. One of my preferred techniques is using hot stones, as they reveal areas of inflammation and aid in relaxation. Additionally, I incorporate various tools like cupping, hot packs, and Gua Sha, tailoring each session to the individual's needs. It's a dynamic experience, with each client presenting a unique case requiring personalized care.

Q: How do you tailor prenatal massage to relieve muscle tension, reduce swelling, and promote relaxation during pregnancy?

It's truly fascinating how every client brings their own unique energy and needs to the table. Reflecting on it now, I realize how much I adapt my approach based on their demeanor and physical condition. As they enter the office, I observe their body language, their expressions, and their level of discomfort. It's about meeting them where they are, whether it's providing gentle stretches to alleviate tension or guiding them to find stillness and deepen their breath. Sometimes it involves using techniques like table Thai to stretch and release tightness, while other times it's simply about fostering a sense of calm and relaxation. Each session presents a multitude of possibilities, and it's my job to tailor the experience to best serve each individual's unique needs.

Q: Between cupping and hot stones, do you typically do hot stones over cupping?

In my practice, the choice between hot stones and cupping therapy depends on the client's preferences and needs. For someone new to massage, I might opt for hot stones on their feet and hands to provide a comforting and soothing experience. On the other hand, if time is limited or the client prefers deeper pressure without the lingering soreness, I would turn to cupping therapy. Cups allow me to apply targeted pressure to specific areas, providing relief without discomfort afterward. Both techniques offer unique benefits, and I tailor my approach to ensure each client receives the most effective and enjoyable treatment possible.

Q: Could you explain any specialized massage techniques I can show my husband?

One of my favorite techniques, especially for my husband, is a simple maneuver to relieve pressure from the pelvis while lying on the bed. It's crucial to remain relaxed throughout this process. As he gently lifts the lower back, it helps release tension and pressure, allowing the body to relax. It's surprising how much relief can be achieved with such a straightforward approach, and it's a technique I often recommend for easing discomfort and promoting relaxation.

Q: How do you educate moms about the benefits of yoga and massage therapy?

A big part of my work is simply helping clients get into a space where they can connect with their bodies. Sometimes that involves continuing conversations after a massage, but other times it's about sensing where they're at and what they need in the moment. Some clients are overwhelmed and just need to unwind without additional input, while others crave more information and guidance. It's about creating a safe environment for them to explore their bodies and learn about their own sensations and tensions. This process can take just one session or several visits of gradual discovery. I often prompt them to notice things like areas of tension or the effects of specific movements, fostering a dialogue about their physical experiences. I always encourage questions because when it comes to our bodies, there are no silly inquiries. We're the experts on our own bodies, and nobody deserves to live in discomfort.

Q: What resources and support do you provide to help moms integrate yoga and massage into their self-care routines?

My top resources, especially for prenatal and postnatal clients, are Yoga with Lori for her newborn yoga class (clients frequent both of our practices in the prenatal/postnatal stages), and Dr. Rachael for birth preparation and pelvic floor physical therapy. Dr. Rachael's expertise in pelvic floor therapy is invaluable, as it's closely linked to the work I do. I firmly believe in the power of collaboration and recognize that no single practitioner can address all aspects of healing alone. It takes a cohesive team effort, with each member offering their unique skills and insights. Communication between providers is crucial for ensuring the best possible outcomes for clients. Unfortunately, in my experience, doctors often don't communicate effectively, which can be frustrating. That's why I'm grateful for your acknowledgment of the importance of collaboration in providing comprehensive care.

Q: How do you empower moms to continue practicing yoga and self-massage techniques at home for ongoing wellness?

I always emphasize to my clients that if they're not interested in continuing with certain practices, it's completely okay. Life gets hectic, and priorities shift. However, I do encourage them to incorporate practical self-care techniques into their daily routines, whether it's while sitting, lying down, or even driving. My focus is often on teaching them myofascial release techniques during our sessions, with the hope that they'll continue these practices at home. If they return for another session, I introduce new techniques to keep their self-care regimen fresh. Ultimately, it's about empowering them to take charge of their well-being without overwhelming them. I believe that the more they can do at home, the better, especially when it comes to setting an example for their children. It's essential for women, and men in the family too, to model self-care practices for their kids, teaching them the importance of adaptation and finding a new normal during transformative phases of life.

Q: Do you give your clients a pamphlet of what you’ve gone over or anything?

I make sure to maintain open communication with my clients even outside of our sessions. Whether it's sending them instructional videos or demonstrating how-to techniques during our appointments, I strive to keep the conversation going. All my patients have access to my cell phone number, and they're encouraged to call or text if they're experiencing any discomfort or have questions. This ongoing dialogue helps us build a strong relationship over time. Ultimately, my goal is to empower my clients to take charge of their own well-being so that they don't have to rely on frequent appointments. However, I always welcome seeing them whenever they need support or guidance.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience or approach to working with moms, maternity, and postpartum clients?

Here at my practice, our motto is all about embracing the knots in our hair while detangling them from our minds, bodies, and spirits. It's about recognizing the interconnectedness of it all. Whether it's acknowledging the physiological response of our nervous system to stress or noticing how tension manifests throughout our entire being when we're feeling overwhelmed. Importantly, we're all human, and creating a safe space where everyone feels comfortable to speak up is paramount. I want this to be a sanctuary where women, especially, feel empowered to voice their concerns and ask questions. It's astonishing that despite our advancements, there's still so much we don't understand about women's health, particularly regarding hormones. By fostering open dialogue and sisterhood, we can contribute to furthering scientific understanding and technological advancements to better support women's health in the future.

Q: I was told you are involved in Infertility, tell me about that?

I have the privilege of coaching a group of women once a week, focusing on mindset and personal growth, which I find immensely fulfilling. Currently, I'm also in the midst of writing a book centered around navigating the transition into motherhood, particularly for those who have experienced infertility. It's about recognizing the depth of our journey and whether we've truly been kind to ourselves throughout it. Often, we overlook the emotional and psychological aspects of fertility struggles, which are integral to preparing for motherhood. Meanwhile, the women in my group work with Dr. Morris, who specializes in fertility, and has a program “Fertility Formula”. Together, they're preparing their bodies for pregnancy through various means such as dietary changes and supplementation. While Dr. Morris focuses on the physical aspect, my role is more about supporting mental and emotional healing on their journey towards motherhood.

Get In Contact with Sierra’s Practice

You can always send Sierra a message on her Instagram Page or inquire on her website Sweet Serendipity with Sierra LLC. I highly recommend Sierra and her approach to maternal care; tell her I say hi :)!

Jasmine Robertson

Owner - Two Wild Souls Photography