Laura Ghantous

Founder and Therapist ✦ LMBT #1558

After graduating from N.C. State in 1993 with a BS in Zoology, Laura worked in a lab for a few years. During this time, she developed neck pain and migraines. Eventually, she sought out massage therapy for pain and stress relief but found much more. Through deep relaxation of her body and mind, Laura reconnected to her spirit and found the peace and perspective needed to make a big change.

She enrolled at the Carolina School of Massage Therapy in 1996. While there, she interned with physical therapists to learn trigger point therapy. This time was invaluable for understanding and assisting with chronic and acute pain.

After graduation, she went to work at the YWCA and with Samantha Pridgen at Body Elemental as a Licensed Massage Therapist. The second they met, they knew they would be a great match. After working together for more than 25 years. “I’m grateful not only for her guidance but for our friendship as well,” Laura says.

Laura’s work combines Swedish and deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and various energy techniques. Fairly recent additions include Raindrop Technique and Fascial Conduction. Raindrop Technique can reduce inflammation, and Fascial Conduction provides deeper and more connected healing throughout the entire body.

“I tailor to the client’s needs at the time of the appointment—allowing the sensitivity and compassion in my hands to guide me,” Laura shares. “At times, I can be clinical in my approach, but I’ve found the most effective session, for true restoration, should always provide a deep sense of peace.”

She started practicing The Nia Technique in 2006 as part of a holistic healing and rejuvenation path. She’s now taught it for more than a decade. Nia, as a blend of dance, martial, and healing arts, has endless possibilities for movement—and awareness. The combination of massage therapy and Nia has been a fantastic solution for moving through life with dynamic ease.

Another highlight of Laura’s wellness path includes teaching Ageless Grace: A brain and body fitness program. It focuses on neuroplasticity by stimulating five areas of the brain that condition the body to stay active and sharp for life.

The exercises help participants better respond, react, and recover when thrown off balance. Ageless Grace is practiced seated in a chair, which engages the core, challenges the brain, and makes it accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

During the pandemic, Laura began offering Nia and Ageless Grace classes online to keep her massage clients and students happy, healthy, and connected. Learn more about her classes at her personal website: LauraGhantous.com.