Hi, I'm Connie Staley.
I grew up in a quiet, rural part of Western New York State, where I was fortunate to be raised on a farm. That early experience introduced me to a healthy lifestyle from a young age. After earning my BFA from the San Francisco Art Institute, I moved to New York City, where I met the world-renowned yoga master Sri Swami Satchidananda. His teachings profoundly influenced me, and I realigned my life to reflect his emphasis on natural health and alternative healing practices—including Ayurveda, homeopathy, yoga postures, breathwork, meditation, nutrition, and cleansing techniques.
Eventually, my primary focus became CranioSacral Therapy. I began my studies with Dr. Tom Shaver and continued with Dr. John Upledger at the Upledger Institute. What truly inspired me to pursue this work was a clinical study led by Dr. Upledger on the benefits of CranioSacral Therapy. The study involved Vietnam War veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, and the results were compelling—participants experienced fewer symptoms and a notable reduction in severity.
Living in the Charlottesville area has connected me with some phenomenal teachers. I have training and experience in classic massage therapy, Zero Balancing, CranioSacral Therapy, and Reflexology. I've also practiced yoga since the 1960s, and it continues to be a deep influence on my work. I am also a Virginia State Certified Massage Therapist and a graduate of the Virginia School of Massage.
What I love about bodywork is that while you can study it endlessly, the true learning comes from the people who show up on your table. Each session is a completely new experience—both an art and a collaboration. I love what I do.