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Welcome!

I am Christina Baptista, RMT. I have been practicing as a Registered Massage Therapist in Victoria, British Columbia since 2003. I enjoy providing massage therapy treatments to a variety of patients, as well as educating patients about their bodies and the importance of self-care. I greatly value the rapport and trust that I build with each of my patients, as it is an integral part of establishing an effective therapeutic relationship. I look forward to connecting with you!

Therapeutic Massage Modalities

My treatments are based on each patient's individual needs and vary from treatment to treatment. I follow a biopsychosocial approach to patient-care. My primary focus is to provide a positive stimulus to the nervous system through effleurage (circular stroking) and petrissage (kneading, wringing, lifting & rolling), which together constitute " Swedish Massage". When the nerves (in our skin and muscles) deliver positive feedback to the brain in response to the massage technique being applied, it triggers a parasympathetic (relaxation) response to occur.  This includes muscle relaxation, decreased respiratory rate, improved circulation, improved digestive function and decreased perceived negative sensations, such as pain. This is what is commonly referred to as the " Rest & Digest" state of the body; it is the opposite of the " Fight, Flight or Freeze" state, which is a sympathetic nervous system response, also called the " Stress Response".


My main focus of treatment, whether someone is seeking massage therapy care for an injury, medical condition or just for relaxation, is to work with their nervous system to decrease sympathetic/increase parasympathetic response. 

The best way to achieve this desired response is by performing techniques that feel good to the patient.


 Other techniques that I incorporate into treatments to create this response within the body are:

•active/passive movement

•stretching (passive, contract-relax)

•joint mobilizations

•joint distraction/traction

•neuromuscular techniques

•myofascial techniques

•trigger point techniques


Home care often includes some form of movement, be it stretching, strengthening, therapeutic exercise (for rehabilitation) and/or hydrotherapy (use of heat or cold). This type of " homework" ensures that patients play an active role in improving/maintaining their function, mobility, strength and comfort between treatment sessions. 


I like to take patient health one step further by recommending self-care that nurtures a patient's mental well-being as well. This includes anything that feels good to you!  Yoga, breathing/visualization exercises, walks in nature, swimming, cycling, meditation, dancing, singing, cooking, gardening, hiking, painting, sewing, knitting, reading, taking a hot bath, doing a puzzle, etc.; anything that allows you feel calm, happy and at-ease in your body is considered ideal self-care for YOU. You know your own body better than anyone, so I encourage patients to actively participate in deciding what self-care regime is right for them, 

as self-care is an essential part of every healthy lifestyle.

Prenatal & Postpartum Care

I have a special interest surrounding maternity and post-partum care. I have completed postgraduate courses and obtained certification in prenatal and postpartum massage, as well as post Cesarean (C-section) massage. Given my past experience offering childbirth support as a " DONA-certified" birth doula from 2008-2014, I am very knowledgeable and have a comprehensive understanding of the changes that occur within a woman's body during pregnancy and postpartum.

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What my patients are saying...

Christina has an incredible ability to tune into your body quickly and provide a treatment that is in perfect harmony with your specific needs each visit. She has a way of making you feel at home with her genuine nature and lovely and relaxing treatment room. I have had several massage therapists, and no other comes close to providing the same quality of care, ever-evolving skill and warm personality as Christina.

~ J.M.

Amazing RMT. I have been seeing her for 7 years and so far none compare!

~ N.B.

I've been seeing Christina for massage therapy treatment for over 7 years now. She is an incredibly skilled RMT and has successfully treated several injuries, chronic pain and headaches and muscle tension. She also manages to make even a clinical treatment very relaxing and enjoyable. I feel very safe and comfortable with her. I'll definitely continue to see her for ongoing maintenance treatment, as well as any issues that arise.

~ S.G.

I had my first massage with Christina this morning and it was a delicious way to start out Valentine's Day. She is very personable, and her knowledge and technique show in her demeanor and work style! I would highly recommend adding her services to your regular self care regime. Thank you, Christina!!

~ E.J.

Christina is an amazing massage therapist and a really wonderful person. I highly recommend her!

~ J.M.

Christina has gotten me through facet joint syndrome, a car accident, neck pain, two pregnancies, and bursitis. She not only treats the symptoms, but can give you stretches and advice so the problem doesn't reappear.

~ K.D.

I started getting treatments from Christina while I was pregnant over a year ago and am still seeing her for regular massage. She is also a birthing doula and has good knowledge of maternity issues. I would definitely recommend Christina to pregnant women and new mothers.

~ M.L.

My husband and I have been clients of Christina for years. She is personable, professional and has very strong hands which helps me with my back pain.

~ L.S.

Christina is a great massage therapist - I always feel better after having a session with her. She is willing to try different massage technique to cure your problem areas and has great interpersonal skills.

~ L.M.

I have been going to Christina for about 5 years and she works her magic on my back that I have put out again, or because by body hurts from my R.A. being active and her massage always makes such a difference to how I feel. Thank-you Christina.

~ V.R.

I highly recommend Christina for massage therapy. I have been receiving treatment from her for several years and I have always had excellent results.

~ J.H.

I highly recommend Christina for massage therapy. She is extremely professional, and has a magic touch to rid your body of all those unwanted aches and pains from tired or stressed muscles.

~ D.T.

Christina has been my massage therapist for several years. I have been plagued by migraine headaches for years and have found that Christina's firm but gentle treatments have really helped me out. So much so that although I don't get headaches anywhere near as often, I still go to see her for a "fix" and a relief from the pain.

~ K.B.

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