Meet Julia Suh | Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Julia Suh and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Julia, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (BCST) is so much more than its name! “Cranio” implies that it deals with the cranium (the bones of the skull), and it does. “Sacral” implies it deals with the sacrum (the flat triangular bone at the base of the spine, where your tailbone attaches), which it does. But, Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy works with much more than bones. “Biodynamic” means we’re working with the dynamic life forces always present in the body, meaning Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy creates the conditions for healing transformation in the whole person: body, mind, heart, and spirit.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I want people to know that healing is possible. It’s possible and it’s not necessarily that far off. I love this quote attributed to Kahlil Gibran: “Many of us spend our whole lives running from feelings with the mistaken belief you cannot bear the pain. But you have already born the pain. What you have not done is feel all you are, beyond that pain.” And that’s what this work is. It’s helping us to be present to what’s happening in our bodies so that our history can finally integrate and we can move forward more alive and whole and vibrant and well. At the center of any pain is perfect wellbeing.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I feel blessed to make my home in Pasadena, where the diversionary offerings are plentiful. One of my favorite places to visit is the Norton Simon Museum. Small enough to see in an hour or two but filled with world-famous art. My heart just feels peaceful there. The same with the Huntington Gardens–astounding beauty that changes depending on the time of year you visit, so it’s always worthwhile. I recommend going in the morning before the crowds and the heat. Find a secluded bench, sit back, and take everything in.

Another worthy morning adventure is to go up the hill to Altadena for breakfast at Amara Kitchen, where the vegan breakfast sandwich is perfection and the chocolate chip cookies are to-die-for, as is the Pearl & Rose tea. My mouth is watering at the thought! From there I’d go to the farmer’s market in La Canada Flintridge for a stroll around the booths. It’s one of the finest farmer’s markets in all of LA but not many people know about it. (Shhhh!)

For a special night out in Pasadena, nothing beats Bistro 45. Everything on the menu is wonderful and the service is exceptional. They make you feel so well taken care of–you feel totally at ease and quite special at the same time. It’s a truly lovely experience.

Another great place to wander and eat near Pasadena is in Highland Park along Figueroa. Fun and funky shops like the Cookbook Market (that incredibly unique wine you’re looking for?–they have it) and Wild Terra (loose spices, herbs, and teas galore and such knowledgeable staff). Sunbeam Vintage Furniture is also a real treat, like walking into another world with each room they’ve set up from a different era–it’s totally fun. For lunch I love Homestate Tacos (also in Pas!) and Kitchen Mouse Cafe and Bakery. They have a gluten-free walnut flour brownie that I could eat every single day…**sigh**…and everything else is delish, too!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve had the blessing of masterful mentorship and insightful teaching on my path. John and Anna Chitty were my teachers at the Colorado School of Energy Studies and I continue deepening my skills through mentorship with Anna on a regular basis all these years later. Jennifer Absey, whom I receive sessions and who helped start me on this journey, also regularly gifts me with the wisdom of her experience and her tremendous skills. Most of all, I am grateful for my clients, each of whom honor me with their presence and intentions for healing and wholeness. Each day they teach me.

Website: www.nourishedbyhand.com

Image Credits
Franz Steiner, Julia Suh, Mike Elias