With over 20 years of physically demanding work behind him, Donovan Barsalou brings a unique blend of lived experience and advanced training to his massage and integrative bodywork practice. His journey from the oilfield to holistic health coaching to becoming an RMT—and now a Manual Osteopathic Therapy student—gives him a deep understanding of pain, resilience, movement, and long-term wellness. Donovan combines structural precision, myofascial work, and breath-led techniques to help clients reduce stress, restore balance, and reconnect to their bodies.

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Professional Background & Approach

• Graduate of a 2200-hour Registered Massage Therapy program

• Currently completing his Manual Osteopathic Therapy diploma

• Trained in Craniosacral Therapy and Myofascial Release (Level 1)

• Advanced education through the CHEK Institute, including:

• Holistic Health Coaching Levels 1 & 2

• Integrative Movement Sciences Levels 1 & 2

• Scientific Core & Back Training

• Advanced Program Design

• Walking Tall Program

• Background in oilfield work, providing firsthand insight into chronic strain, fatigue, and burnout

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Client Benefits:

• Reduced pain and tension from long-term strain or burnout

• Improved movement, posture, and overall physical resilience

• Nervous system regulation that supports better sleep and reduced stress

• A greater sense of balance, grounding, and connection to their body

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Motivation & Inspiration:

• Driven by a lifelong passion for human performance and holistic health

• Inspired by helping clients reclaim energy, mobility, and confidence

• Finds fulfillment in seeing clients stand taller, breathe easier, and move without pain

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Holistic Practices & Wellness Philosophy:

• Unique empathy for physically demanding careers due to his oilfield background

• Advanced integrative education combining manual therapy, biomechanics, and holistic coaching

• Commitment to continued learning with a long-term goal of teaching and mentoring other therapists

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Client Experience:

• Thorough assessment and reassessment throughout each session

• Open, honest communication to ensure collaborative, effective treatment

• Creates a grounded, supportive environment where clients feel heard and cared for

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Personal Interests:

• Enjoys hunting, lifting weights, skiing, skating, biking, and spending time outdoors

• Values movement as a form of meditation and stress relief

• Follows a clean, organic, regenerative-focused diet to support long-term health

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Future Goals:

• Complete his Manual Osteopathic Therapy diploma

• Continue advancing through the CHEK Institute curriculum

• Study visceral manipulation and PDTR

• Mentor and teach the next generation of therapists