Meet Rita Schurman

A Massage Therapist in Minnesota Who Listens, Adapts, and Cares

A calm, judgment-free space where your body is heard, your boundaries are respected, and your nervous system can finally exhale.

How I Got Here

For years, I worked in spas, salons, and wellness centers—always “for” someone else. I saw prices go up while the level of care stayed the same, and it never sat right with me. Massage, to me, isn’t about rushing clients through a service or charging more without giving more. It’s about listening, adapting, and helping people actually feel better.

I knew I could do better on my own. So when my non-compete ended and my acupuncturist opened a new space with extra rooms, I finally had the chance. I took a breath, trusted my gut, and opened Breathe Deep Bodywork.

What I Believe

Bodywork is a sacred experience for both giver and receiver. Trust is everything. In my room, we slow the world down, listen to what your body is saying, and choose an approach that makes sense for you—that day.
  • Consent, always. We talk before anything happens. You can change your mind at any time.

  • Adaptive by design. Positioning modifications and creative problem-solving are part of my toolkit.

  • Whole-person care. I consider the body and the nervous system—and the life you’re carrying outside the room.

  • Plain talk. I’m honest, I explain what I’m doing, and I welcome questions.

Life is busy. You have permission to relax—let me help you.

I’m a classic introvert who thrives in one on one conversations. I combine training, practical knowledge, intuition, and intention to create sessions that actually help. We check in, make a plan together, and adjust as we go. 

People come to me for deep relaxation, pain relief, prenatal support, lymphatic work, and sessions tailored to bodies that don’t fit the “standard.” Many first arrive skeptical “It’s just a back rub, right?”. Years later, they’re still on my table.

How I Work

Massage Services

Continuing Education

 American Heart Association

Basic Life Support CPR and AED

University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire

BA, Broadcast Journalism

Northwestern Health Sciences University (2003)

Certificate in Massage Therapy

Training & Credentials

  • Bodywork for the Childbearing Year - Kate Jordan Seminars (NWHSU)
  • Hospital-Based Massage Therapy - NWHSU / Woodwinds Hospital
  • Hand Therapy Techniques - Get a Grip (NWHSU)
  • Foot & Ankle Therapies - Feet First (NWHSU)
  • Lomi Lomi Therapy - CenterPoint Massage & Shiatsu Therapy School & Clinic
  • Herbal Eye Poultice & Herbal Poultice Massage - Beauty Secrets
  • Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) - Klose Training

A touch of humor, zero judgment, and absolutely no oversharing from me

Real-time adjustments based on how your body responds

Clear draping, pressure, and technique explanations—no surprises

A quiet, respectful space that centers on your goal

What You Can Expect With Me

Who I Love Working With

Primarily women who want to feel heard, safe, and cared for. Also: prenatal clients, folks navigating big life stressors, and anyone who needs adaptive positioning or a therapist who will truly listen. I see a lot of clients who struggle with migraines and TMJ disorders. I also have great success with lessening chronic pain in the upper body.

I don’t chase trends; I focus on what works.

04.

I rescued a hawk who was hit by a car and was able to help release him to the wild after he was rehabbed.

03.

I adore animals (I brake for turtles).

02.

I’m curious by nature—into trivia, weird facts, reading, gardening, hiking, and travel

01.

Outside the Treatment Room

Ready To Feel More At Ease?

If you’re not sure what to book, start with your main goal. We’ll tailor the session from there.

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