Prior to training to become a licensed massage therapist, Liz Black, who practices at Organic Skincare and Bodyworx, in North Naples, suffered the results of spending long hours on her feet working in a retail business. Chronic back pain and chronic fatigue syndrome proved to be the nudge she needed to move in the direction of a teenage dream. 

“Throughout the years, my interest in natural health and massage therapy never waned. A health food nut since I was a teenager, I’ve been interested in healthy lifestyles and talking about the importance of eating organic and the evils of Teflon long before either became the subjects of mainstream media headlines, documentaries, Instagram posts and blogs. More introverted than extroverted, I’m not the activist type, preferring that my lifestyle speaks for itself and perhaps inspires activism in others. When the Florida Academy in Fort Myers opened in 1993, I was enthusiastic enrollee,” she says.  

“In my 27 years of practice, I’ve strategically pursued my continuing education by studying cranial sacral, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and many of the other modalities, including deep tissue massage and lymphatic drainage, in which there now seems to be a growing interest. At Organic Skincare & Bodyworx, I offer a two-hour lymphatic drainage session which I combine with other techniques when needed. It’s really depends on what the client’s body needs,” says Black, whose personal gratification comes from helping people feel better. “Sometimes with headache issues, it may take a series of several consecutive treatments as we make a little more progress each time.” 

Several days a week, Black’s appointments scheduled at Organic Skincare & Bodyworx also provide gratification. Offering her independent services to support Jayne Koedding’s passion for natural and organic cosmetics is a no-brainer. “I’ve been using natural cosmetics and shampoos for years, and I know what a difference it can make to eliminate toxic personal care products,” she says.

After a long and successful career, she has built a loyal following. “Most of being good massage therapist is experience,” says Black, who also offers her services privately in clients’ homes and community clubhouses that include a massage room.

Organic Skincare & Bodyworx is located at 3240 Tamiami Tr. N., Ste. 207, in Naples. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 239-514-4494 or visit OrganicSkincareAndBodyworx.com.