Click on the link below for verified patient reviews-
"Can't say enough about my experience"Amazing! Kristine has managed to resolve an ongoing issue in just 2 reasonably priced appointments. I'm in awe on her knowledge and ability to pinpoint areas that need work and the caring touch she uses. I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone looking to seek treatment. Thank you for bringing acupuncture into my world in a way that wasn't scary- as I have a huge needle phobia. "
Mar 21, 2018
Jeffrey K
"She’s the best!!"Absolutely terrific therapeutic massage. Her intuition is supported by an unbelievable breadth of knowledge of pertinent physiology. Additionally, she can instill the session with methods such as acupuncture. By far the best massage therapist I’ve experienced (and without question the best in this area)."
Feb 14, 2018
J.T.
Kristine is a healer!"Kristine is intuitive, knowledgeable, warm and caring. She chooses from several healing practices and tailors her treatments to the individual and their needs of the moment. She strikes a rich balance of both professionalism and personal attentiveness. I am thrilled that she is in Ithaca and sharing her expertise!"
Feb 7, 2018
Katrina Townsend
Splendid place of Healing."I was fortunate enough begin engaging Kristine Shaw's services fall/winter of 2017 & have been impressed ever since. She utilizes a multitude of healing practices within one appointment at times & the results are always more rounded and have a deeper, longer lasting effect on my chronic pain. I make sure to let others know how she has helped. The place itself is neatly tucked above an art studio, each practitioner is respectful of one another as well as noise levels. I love it!"
Feb 2, 2018
J.M.
Pain Free After 9 years. Great Acupuncture!"I had suffered from debilitating sciatica for 9 years before I was treated by Kristine. I couldn't put my socks on in the morning without experiencing acute pain. My left leg varied between pins and needles and near total numbness throughout my workday and at night I had to sleep on my right side or be awoken by a painful twinge. After five visits with Kristine my symptoms had resolved by 75%. A year later and I am virtually symptom free. As an acupuncturist she is a miracle worker! "
Jan 4, 2018
G.S.
A great massage experience for back pain"Kristine is very knowledgeable about back pain, and is able to reach deep muscles. I believe her massage really helps me. I recommend her without any hesitations."
Dec 4, 2017
C.H.
Very skilled"Kristine is highly skilled. She has a special gift in her profession. She is excellent at diagnostics and picks the right treatment. I highly recommend her. "
Nov 19, 2017
D.L.
Really great"Kristine is a gifted healer. She knows what she's doing and she does it well. I feel fortunate to have found her, and expect to continue feeling better as I keep working with her. Can't recommend her more!"
Nov 19, 2017
Valerie
Wonderful experience"I was very pleased with the massage and acupuncture. The combination was soothing to my aches and bruises"
Nov 17, 2017
ben guthrie
Thanks"Evan after a day has passed, when I pause to look inward into my body I still feels this wonderful sensation of peace and calm."
Sep 24, 2017
Katrina Townsend
My First Visit"Upon walking in I noticed the room had an aesthetic flow to it's organization, it felt calm and Kristine had a comforting energy about her that filled the room. I was able to finally relax for the week and was pleasantly surprised by the array of healing practices she managed to fit into one little session. I feel considerably better and two chronic and previously near-unmanageable conditions were alleviated significantly. I cannot wait for my next appointment at the House of Wellness!"
Aug 14, 2017
Gail Birnbaum
Wonderful practitioner"Kristine is a talented, knowledgeable practitioner. I give her my sincere recommendation. She works with various modalities appropriate for one's condition, deep tissue massage, trigger point release, acupuncture, cupping, oils, etc. "
Aug 9, 2017
A.M.
Acupuncture/Massage/Wellness"What an unbelievable combination - 80 minutes of mind and body theraputic treatment! Two rounds and what a difference already! Kristine evaluates, listens intently and together we resolve issues. Her approach is professional and very approachable which makes the entire treatment thorough and effective with immediate results. Thank you!"
July 27, 2017
L.S.
Great massage"I had a massage to help with back pain. It was a positive experience, and helped with the muscle tightness."
June 29, 2017
D.G.
First Time Athlete"This was my first experience with acupuncture and I was pleasantly surprised. My introduction was gentle but effective. Kristine eased me into the process, which I appreciated. I recommend House of Wellness to athletes of all ages for pain management and continued care. "
May 21, 2017
Victor DeSouza
House of Wellness - well named!"I have been going for medical massages to the House of Wellness for around 18 months now. Kristine has been wonderful. The arthritic pain in my hands which had troubled me for a long while has virtually disappeared now. I have started going for weekly sessions since the beginning of this year. Kristine uses acupuncture, suction cups and/or deep tissue massage on different areas of the body as required, and the sessions are invariably helpful, and one of the highlights of my week."
Mar 15, 2017
David Ost
Wonderful massage and body relaxer/healer"My fourth time seeing Kristie, and she's great. Very attentive to your body, deep massage of the whole body, with focus - and acupuncture - directed to particular problem spots. Very relaxing hour, good for healing and body-strengthening."
Feb 9, 2017
Richard Clark
Absolutely wonderful"A wonderful experience and person. She was attentive, and focused on my muscles for what I was coming in to have her help me with. Definitely will recommend, and will return in the future. Thank you Kristine."
Jan 30, 2017
Linda H
Highly Recommend"After struggling with unknown nagging pain and swelling with little help from western medicine I decided to try acupunture. Kristine gave me guidelines to follow and some dietary changes to make and then did her majic. All I can say is Amazing. I have a ways to go but the relief I feel after one session is priceless. Many thanks Kristine. See you soon. "
Jan 21, 2017
Anonymous
Always healing"Every time I receive acupuncture from Kristine, she is so in tune with what I need that day. I see her for women's health issues, and for pain relief. I leave the office with a new sense of awareness, in less pain, and very relaxed. I'm so grateful! If you have considered acupuncture, go to Kristine! "
Dec 23, 2016
ben guthrie
satisfied customer"Several people asked me why I looked so relaxed and I said " Christine did it!" :) :) :) :) :) :) :)"
Nov 23, 2016
FA
The best care you can get"I have had acupuncture in various states and countries and Kristine is just the best. She will find the problem spots before you even know they are painful. Cannot recommend her highly enough. "
Nov 1, 2016
Michael C
Simply the best"First and foremost, I treasure my time with Kristine because of the health benefit it brings me, and she's just a great person! I regularly had numbness and tingling in the arms and hands, my Doctor informed me it was Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. After one visit to Kristine, that problem was alleviated via massage. Not surgery, not a brace, "just" a monthly massage! So thankful for her!! "
Oct 26, 2016
Julie S
I wish I could go everyday."Kristine is so knowledgeable about trigger points and muscular tissue. She has helped (and continues to help) me work through my upper back/ shoulder adhesions that I have from hard work at the gym. I first went to her with a very painful trigger point that had worsened over 6 weeks. Massage, chiropractic work, stretching, and rest couldn't fix it. My first visit with Kristine made it 99% better! Since then, I love my maintence visits to combat the constant stress I put myself in at the gym :)"
Oct 11, 2016
Brittany Carlisle
A Better Me"Kristine has helped and continues to help me drastically. Between my neck and shoulders being off from the job I do to just needing general work on my body from female issues I know when I go see she's going to ease the problems. It's also my time to relax which she does a great job at. The room and eviroment are calm and peaceful. She's extremley intelligent and offers so much advice for her clients. I refer everyone to her and it's rare I do that with people I go to. "
Sep 16, 2016
J.J.
Best Massage In Ithaca"My monthly acupuncture and massage sessions with Kristine have helped reduce my neck and lower back pains.Her hands are magic. She is absolutely the best!"
Sep 14, 2016
Linda L
Remarkable Relief"I've been seeing Kristine while awaiting total hip replacement surgery. She's amazing and is succeeding where cortisone injections are no longer effective in alleviating my pain. Kristine's vast knowledge of inflammation and her ability to reduce it has been most beneficial to me. I'm beyond grateful to be able to function with less pain. I wholeheartedly recommend Kristine for acupuncture and massage. "
Sep 1, 2016
SG
Couldn't Ask For More"Every appointment with Kristine brings pain relief, relaxation, and peace of mind. I leave her treatment room feeling refreshed, restored, and balanced. My experience at the House of Wellness is excellent self-care at a reasonable price. It's my favorite thing!"
Aug 24, 2016
F.M.
optimal experience"I have had acupuncture in 3 continents and Kristine is the best acupuncturistI have had so far. Her profound knowledge of the body, her precision and her caring manner contribute to make one's experience optimal. I cannot recommend her highly enough."
Aug 6, 2016
Ben Guthrie
Wow"The evening after I visited Kristine I went for a walk and I noticed I have not felt so strong, balanced, and blissful in months. Thank you Kristine!"
July 24, 2016
Carmen Hockett
Kristine - the angel I met."When I first met Kristine I was very sick. I needed relief from injuries sustained in a fall. She was able, through her acupuncture cups and massage, to alleviate much of the pain. As time went on, we became close, and I felt able to confide in her about the things causing me stress. Last year, I had a total shoulder replacement, and Kristine offered to come and do the massage at my home. This kind offer helped me to recover quickly from the surgery. I'm grateful - she is kind and affordable."
June 16, 2016
Stella Lee
Amazing Massage"The massage was amazing and I felt so great after!! I would definitely recommend House of Wellness and am coming back for more =)"
June 6, 2016
J.J.
Excellent service"I enjoy my Acu-Massage sessions with Kristine. She is gentle and very knowledgeable. She works to address my concerns and I always leave extremely satisfied."
May 19, 2016
Wendy W
Kristine is the best"I have been seeing Kristine for almost a year now (off and on) and love every visit - she is so knowledgeable and can assess any concerns you have from multiple directions (nutrition, stretching, massage, acupuncture, etc). She's also just a lovely person - professional and sympathetic."
May 10, 2016
S.A.
Best Massage"Kristine uses trigger point massage and cupping to provide my back with the best massages. I go to her monthly to set me up for the month. I cannot recommend her highly enough."
May 5, 2016
R.P.
Amazing and healing"For years, I've asked massage therapists to check my low back. Most have said they really couldn't feel anything. Kristine put me on my side, went right to the problem and we've been working out old, old issues ever since. The combination of trigger point massage and acupuncture is extraordinarily powerful and Kristine is incredibly good at what she does. I can't recommend her highly enough."
Apr 22, 2016
J.W.
Excellent skills"I'm happy to say that everything about my sessions are spot on. Ive seen her 5 times now. Kristine listens and treats all my issues every time. Intuitive, soft spoken, and skilled hands. Such a great rest and rejuvenating experience. My tension is noticeably less, and the recommendations are excellent too! Yoga, more sleep. Yes and yes please! Go see Kristine, you will not be disappointed."
Apr 17, 2016
S.G.
Relief!"I'm completely happy and satisfied with every service I've had from Kristine at House of Wellness. From massage to acupuncture to nutritional counseling, Kristine has helped me turn my health around in the last year! She's an excellent listener, asks responsive questions, and approaches every issue with an individualized plan based on her deep and varied skill sets. Appointments with Kristine are the best time & money I've ever spent on my health. Highest recommendation!"
Mar 31, 2016
Renee Cook
The best!"I have tried many other places over the years for deep tissue massage, but Kristine is the best! I have been seeing Kristine at least once a month for over a year, to help manage shoulder, neck and arm pain that I have from my job. Since I've started seeing her, my pain has decreased greatly! I highly recommend her!!"
Amazing !!!"Kristine is knowledgable about what she does ! She's amazing and does whatever It takes to get to the root of any problems you have and understand each individual is different with different needs. She really understands the body when she does the massage and has helped me with not only my carpal tunnel (which doctors said I needed surgery for) but many other upper body issues due to my job. I will never go to anyone else as long as she is around for sure. "
Brittany, Mar 21, 2016
Highly Recommend"Kristine is so helpful in keeping me and my family healthy. The sessions are relaxing and so beneficial to help with any healing issues. It's great to have someone listen to how you are feeling and tailor the treatment to your specific needs. Always look forward to a session with Kristine and know I will feel better when finished. "
Peggy, Mar 1, 2016
Love It!"My first massage + acupuncture session with Kristine was one year ago. She is amazing! She is very knowledgeable and uses different techniques depending on individual preferences and needs. I recommended her to several friends. I would have appointments every day if I could! "
Carla F, Feb 27, 2016
Amazing"Really outstanding, student of the art and very attentive to my wellness needs. Best massage I've ever had, and very tailored."
E.B. Feb 20, 2016
My Experience"Kristine is a gifted professional. The way she applies her many years of academics to the art and science of healing is an immense benefit to all who are in her care. It is clear her intention is for the total wellness of her clients even to the point of recommending when her services may not be the best solution to an issue. In my judgment that is a true professional."
Ben Guthrie, Jan 15, 2016
January, 2015 Jason G. Santa Cruz, CA
'It has been my pleasure and good fortune have been one of Kristine's clients in Santa Cruz for the past 10 years and I recommend her most highly.
Due to injuries I sustained to my neck and I have unfortunately had to seek physical therapy for pain and stiffness on a number of occasions. And it was during one of these rounds of physical therapy, that I was referred to Kristine. Up until then, with a few rare exceptions, I had not been very impressed by massage treatments. Though they sometimes felt good they didn't really address the underlying muscular-skeletal issues I was dealing with and their effects were extremely short lived. Simply put, I had reached a point where I really didn't expect too much from a massage. However, the massage treatments I have received from Kristine changed that assumption. Simply put, Kristine's massages have been a great & lasting help in my healing. This is why I have seen her on a regular basis for the last decade. Specifically:
- Kristine always asks about how I am feeling, really listens to what I have to say and makes sure to address those issues. So too, she both welcomes & acts upon any feedback I might give her during the massage.
- She never rushes the massage or leaves it "unfinished." Something which is quite important, for in a good massage there is often a point where parts of the body are more relaxed or flexible than others resulting in an "unbalanced" state. And Kristine has always made sure that a proper balance has been restored before allowing me to leave the table.
- She uses her whole body rather than just pure strength while giving a massage, which I believe allows for a much finer degree of control. She can go quite deep, but can also have the lightest of touches, a skill I found very important when my injuries are causing a lot of pain.
- So too, through extensive training Kristine has developed a very solid understanding of her profession. Indeed, during the whole time I have known her she has always been studying, deepening her knowledge & learning new techniques.
- Her acupuncture skill and sound nutritional advice have also been of a great benefit to me.
- Kristine is always focused during the massage. From early on we developed a wonderful rapport as she constantly refined her understanding of what was going on in my body from one session to the next.
- Finally, she has a wonderful "table side" manner being both attentive & pleasant. We'll chat if that is my desire, but should I wish to be quiet, she does not intrude.
I truly believe that Kristine Shaw Southern, L.Ac. is a outstanding medical massage practitioner.'
1-12-15 - Judy H. Mt. Hermon, CA
'Sore muscles in Ithaca alert!
Your gain is the loss of many devoted clients in Santa Cruz CA
Due to Kristine’s husband doing graduate work at Cornell she has moved away from us to you.
I wish I could explain how gifted she is. I’ve gone 2 times a month for many years for deep tissue massage and acupuncture and am sick that she’s gone so far away. Kristine went to Five Branches where she received a Masters Degree in Acupuncture but truly she learned and then taught us so much more, such as nutrition, body movement, exercises. She always lets the client take the lead in what they want, be it gentle conversation or quiet or (for me) both.
I can promise you will be delighted if you choose to have Kristine make your body fell so much better.'
12-22-14 - Jo Ann M. Santa Cruz, CA
'I have gone to Kristine for many years...like 9!!
She is the best massage therapist I have ever had.
I have probably gone to 10- or so in different places and
NOONE even comes close to Kristine. She is very intuitive and can be gentle or firm but I got amazing results from telling her my problesm. I miss her terribly as it 's like having a good Dr. and losing them.
After she finished acupuncture school, I then received acupuncture every time I went for a massage.
Massage is not a good term as her work was most often painful to receive but eliminated my problem after a few visits or with one visit depending. I strongly recommend a once a month appointment to keep you in shape and your problems more quickly resolved, especially if you are over 50! :
You are very blessed to find her and I envy your treatment care with her.'
12/01/14 - John T. Santa Cruz, CA
'I was Kristine's client for over eight years. During that time she was always attentive and listened to where I had pain so she could address those problem areas. She was constantly taking classes to increase her knowledge an improve her technique. She was very aware that many of her clients were older and on fixed incomes, and did all she could to keep her rates affordable. I actually raised my own rates twice during the eight years I was her client because I felt what she was charging me was not keeping up with her costs. I believe that you will not be sorry if you become Kristine's client.'
Mar 21, 2018
Jeffrey K
"She’s the best!!"Absolutely terrific therapeutic massage. Her intuition is supported by an unbelievable breadth of knowledge of pertinent physiology. Additionally, she can instill the session with methods such as acupuncture. By far the best massage therapist I’ve experienced (and without question the best in this area)."
Feb 14, 2018
J.T.
Kristine is a healer!"Kristine is intuitive, knowledgeable, warm and caring. She chooses from several healing practices and tailors her treatments to the individual and their needs of the moment. She strikes a rich balance of both professionalism and personal attentiveness. I am thrilled that she is in Ithaca and sharing her expertise!"
Feb 7, 2018
Katrina Townsend
Splendid place of Healing."I was fortunate enough begin engaging Kristine Shaw's services fall/winter of 2017 & have been impressed ever since. She utilizes a multitude of healing practices within one appointment at times & the results are always more rounded and have a deeper, longer lasting effect on my chronic pain. I make sure to let others know how she has helped. The place itself is neatly tucked above an art studio, each practitioner is respectful of one another as well as noise levels. I love it!"
Feb 2, 2018
J.M.
Pain Free After 9 years. Great Acupuncture!"I had suffered from debilitating sciatica for 9 years before I was treated by Kristine. I couldn't put my socks on in the morning without experiencing acute pain. My left leg varied between pins and needles and near total numbness throughout my workday and at night I had to sleep on my right side or be awoken by a painful twinge. After five visits with Kristine my symptoms had resolved by 75%. A year later and I am virtually symptom free. As an acupuncturist she is a miracle worker! "
Jan 4, 2018
G.S.
A great massage experience for back pain"Kristine is very knowledgeable about back pain, and is able to reach deep muscles. I believe her massage really helps me. I recommend her without any hesitations."
Dec 4, 2017
C.H.
Very skilled"Kristine is highly skilled. She has a special gift in her profession. She is excellent at diagnostics and picks the right treatment. I highly recommend her. "
Nov 19, 2017
D.L.
Really great"Kristine is a gifted healer. She knows what she's doing and she does it well. I feel fortunate to have found her, and expect to continue feeling better as I keep working with her. Can't recommend her more!"
Nov 19, 2017
Valerie
Wonderful experience"I was very pleased with the massage and acupuncture. The combination was soothing to my aches and bruises"
Nov 17, 2017
ben guthrie
Thanks"Evan after a day has passed, when I pause to look inward into my body I still feels this wonderful sensation of peace and calm."
Sep 24, 2017
Katrina Townsend
My First Visit"Upon walking in I noticed the room had an aesthetic flow to it's organization, it felt calm and Kristine had a comforting energy about her that filled the room. I was able to finally relax for the week and was pleasantly surprised by the array of healing practices she managed to fit into one little session. I feel considerably better and two chronic and previously near-unmanageable conditions were alleviated significantly. I cannot wait for my next appointment at the House of Wellness!"
Aug 14, 2017
Gail Birnbaum
Wonderful practitioner"Kristine is a talented, knowledgeable practitioner. I give her my sincere recommendation. She works with various modalities appropriate for one's condition, deep tissue massage, trigger point release, acupuncture, cupping, oils, etc. "
Aug 9, 2017
A.M.
Acupuncture/Massage/Wellness"What an unbelievable combination - 80 minutes of mind and body theraputic treatment! Two rounds and what a difference already! Kristine evaluates, listens intently and together we resolve issues. Her approach is professional and very approachable which makes the entire treatment thorough and effective with immediate results. Thank you!"
July 27, 2017
L.S.
Great massage"I had a massage to help with back pain. It was a positive experience, and helped with the muscle tightness."
June 29, 2017
D.G.
First Time Athlete"This was my first experience with acupuncture and I was pleasantly surprised. My introduction was gentle but effective. Kristine eased me into the process, which I appreciated. I recommend House of Wellness to athletes of all ages for pain management and continued care. "
May 21, 2017
Victor DeSouza
House of Wellness - well named!"I have been going for medical massages to the House of Wellness for around 18 months now. Kristine has been wonderful. The arthritic pain in my hands which had troubled me for a long while has virtually disappeared now. I have started going for weekly sessions since the beginning of this year. Kristine uses acupuncture, suction cups and/or deep tissue massage on different areas of the body as required, and the sessions are invariably helpful, and one of the highlights of my week."
Mar 15, 2017
David Ost
Wonderful massage and body relaxer/healer"My fourth time seeing Kristie, and she's great. Very attentive to your body, deep massage of the whole body, with focus - and acupuncture - directed to particular problem spots. Very relaxing hour, good for healing and body-strengthening."
Feb 9, 2017
Richard Clark
Absolutely wonderful"A wonderful experience and person. She was attentive, and focused on my muscles for what I was coming in to have her help me with. Definitely will recommend, and will return in the future. Thank you Kristine."
Jan 30, 2017
Linda H
Highly Recommend"After struggling with unknown nagging pain and swelling with little help from western medicine I decided to try acupunture. Kristine gave me guidelines to follow and some dietary changes to make and then did her majic. All I can say is Amazing. I have a ways to go but the relief I feel after one session is priceless. Many thanks Kristine. See you soon. "
Jan 21, 2017
Anonymous
Always healing"Every time I receive acupuncture from Kristine, she is so in tune with what I need that day. I see her for women's health issues, and for pain relief. I leave the office with a new sense of awareness, in less pain, and very relaxed. I'm so grateful! If you have considered acupuncture, go to Kristine! "
Dec 23, 2016
ben guthrie
satisfied customer"Several people asked me why I looked so relaxed and I said " Christine did it!" :) :) :) :) :) :) :)"
Nov 23, 2016
FA
The best care you can get"I have had acupuncture in various states and countries and Kristine is just the best. She will find the problem spots before you even know they are painful. Cannot recommend her highly enough. "
Nov 1, 2016
Michael C
Simply the best"First and foremost, I treasure my time with Kristine because of the health benefit it brings me, and she's just a great person! I regularly had numbness and tingling in the arms and hands, my Doctor informed me it was Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. After one visit to Kristine, that problem was alleviated via massage. Not surgery, not a brace, "just" a monthly massage! So thankful for her!! "
Oct 26, 2016
Julie S
I wish I could go everyday."Kristine is so knowledgeable about trigger points and muscular tissue. She has helped (and continues to help) me work through my upper back/ shoulder adhesions that I have from hard work at the gym. I first went to her with a very painful trigger point that had worsened over 6 weeks. Massage, chiropractic work, stretching, and rest couldn't fix it. My first visit with Kristine made it 99% better! Since then, I love my maintence visits to combat the constant stress I put myself in at the gym :)"
Oct 11, 2016
Brittany Carlisle
A Better Me"Kristine has helped and continues to help me drastically. Between my neck and shoulders being off from the job I do to just needing general work on my body from female issues I know when I go see she's going to ease the problems. It's also my time to relax which she does a great job at. The room and eviroment are calm and peaceful. She's extremley intelligent and offers so much advice for her clients. I refer everyone to her and it's rare I do that with people I go to. "
Sep 16, 2016
J.J.
Best Massage In Ithaca"My monthly acupuncture and massage sessions with Kristine have helped reduce my neck and lower back pains.Her hands are magic. She is absolutely the best!"
Sep 14, 2016
Linda L
Remarkable Relief"I've been seeing Kristine while awaiting total hip replacement surgery. She's amazing and is succeeding where cortisone injections are no longer effective in alleviating my pain. Kristine's vast knowledge of inflammation and her ability to reduce it has been most beneficial to me. I'm beyond grateful to be able to function with less pain. I wholeheartedly recommend Kristine for acupuncture and massage. "
Sep 1, 2016
SG
Couldn't Ask For More"Every appointment with Kristine brings pain relief, relaxation, and peace of mind. I leave her treatment room feeling refreshed, restored, and balanced. My experience at the House of Wellness is excellent self-care at a reasonable price. It's my favorite thing!"
Aug 24, 2016
F.M.
optimal experience"I have had acupuncture in 3 continents and Kristine is the best acupuncturistI have had so far. Her profound knowledge of the body, her precision and her caring manner contribute to make one's experience optimal. I cannot recommend her highly enough."
Aug 6, 2016
Ben Guthrie
Wow"The evening after I visited Kristine I went for a walk and I noticed I have not felt so strong, balanced, and blissful in months. Thank you Kristine!"
July 24, 2016
Carmen Hockett
Kristine - the angel I met."When I first met Kristine I was very sick. I needed relief from injuries sustained in a fall. She was able, through her acupuncture cups and massage, to alleviate much of the pain. As time went on, we became close, and I felt able to confide in her about the things causing me stress. Last year, I had a total shoulder replacement, and Kristine offered to come and do the massage at my home. This kind offer helped me to recover quickly from the surgery. I'm grateful - she is kind and affordable."
June 16, 2016
Stella Lee
Amazing Massage"The massage was amazing and I felt so great after!! I would definitely recommend House of Wellness and am coming back for more =)"
June 6, 2016
J.J.
Excellent service"I enjoy my Acu-Massage sessions with Kristine. She is gentle and very knowledgeable. She works to address my concerns and I always leave extremely satisfied."
May 19, 2016
Wendy W
Kristine is the best"I have been seeing Kristine for almost a year now (off and on) and love every visit - she is so knowledgeable and can assess any concerns you have from multiple directions (nutrition, stretching, massage, acupuncture, etc). She's also just a lovely person - professional and sympathetic."
May 10, 2016
S.A.
Best Massage"Kristine uses trigger point massage and cupping to provide my back with the best massages. I go to her monthly to set me up for the month. I cannot recommend her highly enough."
May 5, 2016
R.P.
Amazing and healing"For years, I've asked massage therapists to check my low back. Most have said they really couldn't feel anything. Kristine put me on my side, went right to the problem and we've been working out old, old issues ever since. The combination of trigger point massage and acupuncture is extraordinarily powerful and Kristine is incredibly good at what she does. I can't recommend her highly enough."
Apr 22, 2016
J.W.
Excellent skills"I'm happy to say that everything about my sessions are spot on. Ive seen her 5 times now. Kristine listens and treats all my issues every time. Intuitive, soft spoken, and skilled hands. Such a great rest and rejuvenating experience. My tension is noticeably less, and the recommendations are excellent too! Yoga, more sleep. Yes and yes please! Go see Kristine, you will not be disappointed."
Apr 17, 2016
S.G.
Relief!"I'm completely happy and satisfied with every service I've had from Kristine at House of Wellness. From massage to acupuncture to nutritional counseling, Kristine has helped me turn my health around in the last year! She's an excellent listener, asks responsive questions, and approaches every issue with an individualized plan based on her deep and varied skill sets. Appointments with Kristine are the best time & money I've ever spent on my health. Highest recommendation!"
Mar 31, 2016
Renee Cook
The best!"I have tried many other places over the years for deep tissue massage, but Kristine is the best! I have been seeing Kristine at least once a month for over a year, to help manage shoulder, neck and arm pain that I have from my job. Since I've started seeing her, my pain has decreased greatly! I highly recommend her!!"
Amazing !!!"Kristine is knowledgable about what she does ! She's amazing and does whatever It takes to get to the root of any problems you have and understand each individual is different with different needs. She really understands the body when she does the massage and has helped me with not only my carpal tunnel (which doctors said I needed surgery for) but many other upper body issues due to my job. I will never go to anyone else as long as she is around for sure. "
Brittany, Mar 21, 2016
Highly Recommend"Kristine is so helpful in keeping me and my family healthy. The sessions are relaxing and so beneficial to help with any healing issues. It's great to have someone listen to how you are feeling and tailor the treatment to your specific needs. Always look forward to a session with Kristine and know I will feel better when finished. "
Peggy, Mar 1, 2016
Love It!"My first massage + acupuncture session with Kristine was one year ago. She is amazing! She is very knowledgeable and uses different techniques depending on individual preferences and needs. I recommended her to several friends. I would have appointments every day if I could! "
Carla F, Feb 27, 2016
Amazing"Really outstanding, student of the art and very attentive to my wellness needs. Best massage I've ever had, and very tailored."
E.B. Feb 20, 2016
My Experience"Kristine is a gifted professional. The way she applies her many years of academics to the art and science of healing is an immense benefit to all who are in her care. It is clear her intention is for the total wellness of her clients even to the point of recommending when her services may not be the best solution to an issue. In my judgment that is a true professional."
Ben Guthrie, Jan 15, 2016
January, 2015 Jason G. Santa Cruz, CA
'It has been my pleasure and good fortune have been one of Kristine's clients in Santa Cruz for the past 10 years and I recommend her most highly.
Due to injuries I sustained to my neck and I have unfortunately had to seek physical therapy for pain and stiffness on a number of occasions. And it was during one of these rounds of physical therapy, that I was referred to Kristine. Up until then, with a few rare exceptions, I had not been very impressed by massage treatments. Though they sometimes felt good they didn't really address the underlying muscular-skeletal issues I was dealing with and their effects were extremely short lived. Simply put, I had reached a point where I really didn't expect too much from a massage. However, the massage treatments I have received from Kristine changed that assumption. Simply put, Kristine's massages have been a great & lasting help in my healing. This is why I have seen her on a regular basis for the last decade. Specifically:
- Kristine always asks about how I am feeling, really listens to what I have to say and makes sure to address those issues. So too, she both welcomes & acts upon any feedback I might give her during the massage.
- She never rushes the massage or leaves it "unfinished." Something which is quite important, for in a good massage there is often a point where parts of the body are more relaxed or flexible than others resulting in an "unbalanced" state. And Kristine has always made sure that a proper balance has been restored before allowing me to leave the table.
- She uses her whole body rather than just pure strength while giving a massage, which I believe allows for a much finer degree of control. She can go quite deep, but can also have the lightest of touches, a skill I found very important when my injuries are causing a lot of pain.
- So too, through extensive training Kristine has developed a very solid understanding of her profession. Indeed, during the whole time I have known her she has always been studying, deepening her knowledge & learning new techniques.
- Her acupuncture skill and sound nutritional advice have also been of a great benefit to me.
- Kristine is always focused during the massage. From early on we developed a wonderful rapport as she constantly refined her understanding of what was going on in my body from one session to the next.
- Finally, she has a wonderful "table side" manner being both attentive & pleasant. We'll chat if that is my desire, but should I wish to be quiet, she does not intrude.
I truly believe that Kristine Shaw Southern, L.Ac. is a outstanding medical massage practitioner.'
1-12-15 - Judy H. Mt. Hermon, CA
'Sore muscles in Ithaca alert!
Your gain is the loss of many devoted clients in Santa Cruz CA
Due to Kristine’s husband doing graduate work at Cornell she has moved away from us to you.
I wish I could explain how gifted she is. I’ve gone 2 times a month for many years for deep tissue massage and acupuncture and am sick that she’s gone so far away. Kristine went to Five Branches where she received a Masters Degree in Acupuncture but truly she learned and then taught us so much more, such as nutrition, body movement, exercises. She always lets the client take the lead in what they want, be it gentle conversation or quiet or (for me) both.
I can promise you will be delighted if you choose to have Kristine make your body fell so much better.'
12-22-14 - Jo Ann M. Santa Cruz, CA
'I have gone to Kristine for many years...like 9!!
She is the best massage therapist I have ever had.
I have probably gone to 10- or so in different places and
NOONE even comes close to Kristine. She is very intuitive and can be gentle or firm but I got amazing results from telling her my problesm. I miss her terribly as it 's like having a good Dr. and losing them.
After she finished acupuncture school, I then received acupuncture every time I went for a massage.
Massage is not a good term as her work was most often painful to receive but eliminated my problem after a few visits or with one visit depending. I strongly recommend a once a month appointment to keep you in shape and your problems more quickly resolved, especially if you are over 50! :
You are very blessed to find her and I envy your treatment care with her.'
12/01/14 - John T. Santa Cruz, CA
'I was Kristine's client for over eight years. During that time she was always attentive and listened to where I had pain so she could address those problem areas. She was constantly taking classes to increase her knowledge an improve her technique. She was very aware that many of her clients were older and on fixed incomes, and did all she could to keep her rates affordable. I actually raised my own rates twice during the eight years I was her client because I felt what she was charging me was not keeping up with her costs. I believe that you will not be sorry if you become Kristine's client.'
