15: Screen Time Did a Number on Your Neck — Here's the Fix You Didn't Know You Needed

Welcome to The Held Space! In today's episode, your host Anna Rudel introduces the newest addition to the Lokahi team: Karina Garcia, CMT. Karina joins the team at Lokahi Wellness Space in San Jose, bringing a specialized background from StretchLab in Willow Glen.

This episode dives into Karina’s unique approach to bodywork, a "beautiful blend" of therapeutic massage and assisted stretching designed to unlock physical tension.

• From Kinesiology to CMT: Karina shares her journey from San Diego to San Jose State, where she studied Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science. Her transition from physical therapy interests to massage therapy was fueled by a passion for hands-on healing and her own history as a lifelong athlete.
• The "Tech Neck" Antidote: Living in the Bay Area, Karina discusses the prevalence of "tech neck" and rounded shoulders. She explains why working on the chest and underarms is often the secret to relieving neck and back pain.
• Massage + Integrated Stretching: Unlike a typical "deep tissue" session that can feel like "muscle mashing," Karina’s signature style is "super slow and super gentle." The massage prepares the tissue, while the assisted stretching "locks everything in" to increase mobility and decrease pain.
• The Power of Letting Go: Anna and Karina discuss the "emotional releases" that often happen on the table. By taking the "thinking part" out of stretching for the patient, Karina creates a safe space for true relaxation and nervous system regulation.

At Lokahi, we offer personalized acupuncture and massage treatments to support your well-being, with a focus on reproductive health, pain management, and stress relief. 

📍 Located in San Jose, California. 

🌿 Book a Session: Click here to book with Karina Garcia.

👉🏼 Discover more at lokahiacupuncture.com