The human body has been a source of fascination and wonderment for as long as people have traversed Earth. Generations of pioneers have committed themselves to the study of optimum health, and new avenues for those practices are being continuously discovered.
Tara Breniser is more than happy to enlighten folks. She’s doing exactly that, and so much more, at her Middlebury establishment, known as Crystal Valley Wellness Center. Breniser is an Indiana native who spent more than two decades living in Arizona before moving back to the area in 2023 to be closer to family.
For nearly 20 years, Breniser has been a champion of what she describes as “modern wellness.” Since becoming a massage therapist, Breniser has made it an ongoing mission to discover alternative ways to help the body harness its own healing capabilities, and at Crystal Valley Wellness Center, she is well-equipped and equally well-versed on the various ways to achieve that harmony.
Among the many revolutionary methods that Breniser offers at her business is the Magnasphere, a Class I medical device that surrounds the body in a steady flow of magnetic energy. The machine consists of a reclining seat between two circular vertical platforms, and once the equipment is activated, the vagus nerve is stimulated. The body then responds by balancing itself out from a state of anxiety, as in the fight-or-flight mode, into a more balanced mindset. Breniser said clients have reported better quality of sleep, heightened mental acuity and clarity, and improved healing. She has even noted success from those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, as they have described a calming effect.
Another new feature that Breniser has made available at Crystal Valley Wellness is the therapeutic infrared sauna. This is also classified as a Class I medical device, and works by penetrating warmth into the body’s tissues. The sauna is equipped to hold one or two people, where they rest in a seated position and are given a back rest and a pillow. Users have experienced detoxification and pore cleansing, weight loss, improved muscle recovery, enhanced cardiac health, and a boost in skin texture. Breniser noted that it’s not uncommon for folks to actually fall asleep while using these machines.
There are many forms of massage available, Breniser explained. There is the hot stone technique, cupping, deep tissue, and pressure-point treatments. She takes her cues from conversations with the customer as to what techniques she recommends. ”I don’t go by protocol; I go by what the customer needs,” she said. Sessions can be scheduled in increments from 30 minutes all the way up to two hours.
At Crystal Valley Wellness, Breniser also offers foot detoxification, body scrubs, body wraps, and therapies involving the use of light and color. The latter can be used toward helping to regulate moods, provide pain relief, and alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder.
Breniser is always thinking ahead, brainstorming ways to enhance the experiences of health and wellness for not only her guests, but for herself as well. ”I pride myself on being educated to help the body create longevity,” she said. She is hoping to add a series of classes and a possible open house in the near future, to introduce people to the varied services. She is also hoping to add more therapists, further diversifying the options for customers.
With the holidays rapidly approaching, Breniser is excited to announce that there are package deals available, which can be designed through a selection of preferable treatments and experiences. Gift cards can also be purchased, and memberships are available in a monthly format. Family members can also be added to the memberships, allowing them to take advantage of discounted rates. Crystal Valley Wellness is actively working with insurance companies, and accepts HSA cards, credit cards, cash, checks, Venmo, and Zelle as forms of payment.
Crystal Valley Wellness Center is located at 801 Wayne Street, Suite 6 in Middlebury. Call 574-358-0275 to schedule an appointment or inquire about services.
