Amy Galper of Buddha Nose

Profile

Known for her Buddha Nose aromatic oils and plant remedies (you’ve probably seen the little blue jars and bottles featured in your favorite health or beauty magazine), Amy Galper’s foray into the wellness world began with her private Shiatsu practice. A form of Asian bodywork, Shiatsu uses supported stretching and pressure on specific points along the body to relieve stress, balance energy, and promote well-being. During a typical session with Galper, a client—fully dressed in loose, comfy clothes—reclines faceup on a tatami mat with a soft, aromatic cloth gently covering the eyes. Meditative music plays in the background while Galper carefully places her hands on the client’s stomach—a way of interpreting a person’s energy before she begins. Working quietly on all fours, she might start with the right arm—gently applying pressure, lifting and stretching—and then move slowly in a circle around the body, working each area separately. Galper is particularly interested in Shiatsu as a way of helping people reconnect with their bodies and take control of their own well-being. During the session, she uses Buddha Nose Five Element Balms on targeted pressure points to deepen the experience. — Amanda Theunissen

Amy’s rising-star Buddha Nose products are available at buddhanose.com and at boutiques and yoga studios around the city, including ABC Carpet & Home, Integral Yoga, Kula Yoga Project, Woodley & Bunny, and Whole Body at Whole Foods.