About Dede
Dede Dancing, AA, LMT
Associate of the Arts -- Human Services
Licensed Massage Therapist
American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA)
Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
Licensed and practicing since 10/1/01 The first ten years of practice led me to an understanding of massage and bodywork as health-care. I began with an internship at Cancer Care of Iowa City, where I was honored to participate in care and treatment for many patients and their support people. From there I focused my practice on helping a diverse set of clients establish and enhance their health and comfort.
From the Fall of 2011 until Fall 2022 Taught entry level classes of massage students, first at East-West School of Integrative Healing Arts, then at my own school--Dancing Prairie Massage Therapy College. We focused on communication, Western massage techniques, and anatomy.
Since 2014 Adjunct Lecturer, Dept. of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa
Continuing Education provider Each year I offer a couple of courses:
- Massage for Pain Relief; Integrative strategies and techniques to help clients out of painful conditions, facilitating comfort, increased range-of-motion and return to activities they enjoy.
- Touch the Earth; In this course students learn to integrate hot and cold stones into their massage practice.
My desire to promote health and comfort for ourselves and future generations leads me not to use pesticides or harsh chemicals of any kind around my home or business.
1992-2008: Owned a trucking co. in NY
1988-1999 Truck driver--USPS contractor
1976-1987 Human services--youth and family counseling
1972-1976 College and fun
1972 Graduate-Iowa City High School
Now living in the second half of my life with my partner of 25 yrs, my mother, our cat and an adorable dog friend.
In gratitude
As I was preparing this website I spent a weekend attending my AMTA fall convention, with James Waslaski -- world-renowned orthopedic massage therapist -- providing our continuing education. At the end of his 2 day presentation, he shared a musical and photo dedication he had made in tribute to those who have lifted him up. I was moved and inspired.
The next day I came across a note I wrote to my mom a couple years before, after returning home from a week-long seminar with James in the Carribean. I'll share some of that note here in her honor.
"Mom...it's pretty clear--you instilled and supported qualities in me that have allowed me to imagine, then try to become my own person. It is often easier for me to see the things I still struggle to overcome. Today I can see how far I've walked down this 'road less traveled' toward the woman I want to be. Thank you!"
To her and to all -- here and gone -- who support my journey through thick and thin: Bree, Robin, Ron, Kim, Sheri, Harmony, Alicia, Terry, Geno, Seth, Diana, Marcy, Roy, Jean, Brian, Kevin, Yvonne, Lauren, Auntie Faye, Mary, Carol... I'm grateful everyday.
My teachers at Carlson College -- especially Mario Castro, Wayne Pakulis, and Susie Blank -- gave me the tools I needed in ways that made sense to me. They also walked with me through a difficult time of my life.
To those bodyworkers past and present who honor our profession with their work -- including, but certainly not limited to: Dr. Ida Rolf, Dr. Janet Travell, Aaron Mattes, James Waslaski, Whitney Lowe, Kate Potter. My work rests on yours. Thank you.
My students at East-West push me to do and be my best. I am honored and humbled by the task. They are amazing.
Finally, to my massage therapist Cathy. Namaste.
Links:
Healthy Fellow on Massage Benefits
Mayo Clinic on the Benefits of Massage
Kate Potter Yoga
