by ASHLEY MILLER
for the Sequim Gazette

On Friday, Nov. 12, Courtney Freitas celebrated the grand opening of her therapeutic massage business Peaceful Kneads in its new location at 22 Mill Road, next to Paisley Boutique.

More than 80 friends, family and community members helped the 23-year-old entrepreneur celebrate.
Freitas graduated from the Port Townsend School of Massage in December 2009.

The following February, she opened Peaceful Kneads out of her home.

“It was always the plan to move (the business) out of my home,” Freitas said.

“When I saw the sign for this place I was sold — it’s like the space was made for me.”

Though it was scary to sign a lease, Freitas said, she relied on her “can do” attitude and took the leap.
“In today’s economy there are a lot of failed businesses; I know that,” she said.

“But I’m out there pounding the pavement, I’m not afraid of hard work and I’m having a lot of fun.”

Next month, Freitas starts a six-month program for advanced certification in orthopedic therapy.

Freitas also has training in prenatal and infant massage
More than anything, Freitas said, her goal is to create a custom and unique experience that helps ease life’s many stresses.

Freitas completed more than 545 hours of schooling for her massage degree, specializing in massage theory and practice, kinesiology, pathology, contraindications for massage, Eastern elements, Swedish massage, deep tissue and sports massage, hydrotherapy, clinical treatment and professional practice.
Using hot stones, aromatherapy oil and Chinese glass cups, Freitas offers more than just a standard neck rub.

Every massage ends with complimentary tea or water.

Freitas graduated from Sequim High School in 2005. Her family — the Bekkevars — has been in Sequim for more than 100 years. Though she moved away for a few years, Sequim always will be home, she said.