Nelson Ashram Virginia

Ann Bartlett, CMT

Owner/Partner Body in Balance Center, Certified Massage Therapist, Infant Massage Instructor, blogger

Ann Bartlett started her career as a massage therapist in 1987. In 1986, Ann found herself in the office of a massage therapist and discovered that massage served more than just physical relief for an back injury. Her initial training started at Kripalu Yoga Ashram, Lenox Massachusetts. During her time at Kripalu, Ann learned that massage and holistic approaches to her own health afforded her more control over her juvenile diabetes. “By taking a hard look at my own body’s response, I realized I could help other people with similar issues.”

In addition to working with clients who had cancer, MS, ALS, and fibromyalgia, Ann pursued equine massage. Having spent many years riding, Ann opened up a relationship with several local equestrians and worked with three day event, hunters and four-in-hand driving teams. In 1988, Ann attended the Pennsylvania School of Massage Therapy for AMTA Swedish and Therapeutic certification and training in Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy. Her strong belief in continuing education in massage and integrative approaches to wellness has been a unique part of her practice.

Ann’s enthusiasm and drive have afforded her global opportunities to practice, such as working at the 1991 World Cross Country Championships, Boston Ma: 1992 Olympics, Barcelona, Spain; 1993 World Track and Field Championships, Stuttgart, Germany; 1995 Track and Field World Track and Field Championships, Gottemburg Sweden; Boston Marathon, Hawaii Ironman Triathlon, 1993 Triathlon World Championships; 1990 Equestrian Olympic Trials.

Because of Ann’s personal experience with Type 1 diabetes, she divides her time between world class athletes and working with clients, adults and children, who have been diagnosed with chronic illness. “I like to think I’m helping address everyone’s potential, whether it be for speed, endurance or to feel better than when they walked in the door!”

In addition to her business, Ann writes for healthcentral.com, a website dedicated to giving people who live with chronic illness personal stories and information about their health choices. Ann also writes on the blog section of this site as way to offer guidance through the maze of healthcare choices, to help people understand the benefits of integrating holistic approaches with traditional healthcare. A happy life is one that is balanced!

Ann is a past chapter board member and Research Information Volunteer for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, helping local families learn more about diabetes research. Check out About.com, women in business profile.

Dr. Joseph Henderson, DC

Partner in Body in Balance Center, Chiropractor

Dr. Henderson, a Long Island NY native, graduated cum laude from Molloy College in Rockville Centre, NY with a Bachelors Degree in Biology and Chemistry. His first career as a Respiratory Therapist offered him a well rounded experience in a variety of medical and hospital settings, including cardio-pulmonary, neonatology, pediatrics, elderly, trauma, life support and helicopter transport. From 1991-1994 Dr. Henderson worked at Inova Fairfax Hospital, a premier trauma center and pioneer in heart and lung transplants.

A desire for a career change brought him to Los Angeles College of Chiropractic (now Southern California University of Health Sciences) from which he graduated with honors in 1998 and practiced in West Hollywood until his return to the east coast. In 2000, Dr. Henderson purchased the 10 year practice of Dr. Jo Anne Nelson in historic Old Town Alexandria, VA.

Having been in practice for over a decade now, Dr. Henderson is well-versed in natural, conservative methods of healing, employing a balanced approach to musculoskeletal health that includes chiropractic adjustments, soft-tissue techniques, exercise and nutrition. His medical experience in his prior career adds to his strong emphasis on wellness and pro-active prevention of of illness and disease.

His core belief is that if the body is supplied with the tools it needs for proper function, it can achieve any goal you set.

Dr. Henderson has spent years as a rower with the DC Strokes Rowing Club and as an avid cyclist. Dr. Henderson has completed a 7-day San Francisco to LA bike ride in 1999 raising money for HIV/AIDS services in California, and two 4-day NY to DC rides in 2009 and 2010 to raise money for HIV research. And his adventures will continue!

Njemile Carol Jones, L.Ac, FABORM

Acupuncturist, Chinese Medical Herbology

Njemile Carol Jones (pronounced n-jeh-MEE-lay) graduated with honors in 1999 from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego, where she studied with renowned TCM reproductive specialist, the late Dr. Yitian Ni. After graduation, she moved back to her hometown, Washington, DC to launch her acupuncture practice.

In 2003, she attended a practitioner training with Dr. Randine Lewis, founder of The Fertile Soul, and author of The Infertility Cure and The Way of the Fertile Soul. As a Charter Member of its Clinical Excellence in Fertility Program, Njemile is certified in The Fertile Soul Method and provides those services to patients.

Njemile is also a Fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine, an organization that has set rigorous standards for admission and certification of its members. She is also a member of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine.