The therapists at Sanctus bring advanced clinical training in specialized bodywork and connective tissue therapy. Our work focuses on restoring mobility, reducing pain, and helping clients return to the activities that matter most to them.
Every session is tailored to your needs, with the goal of delivering meaningful, lasting results.
Bodywork is often confused with massage, but the two approaches are different. Traditional massage works primarily through the muscles using oils or lotions. Bodywork focuses on the connective tissue system that surrounds and supports the muscles and joints.
The goal is to restore mobility by releasing scar tissue and restrictions that limit natural movement. Because this work engages the connective tissue directly, treatments are performed without oils or lotions, allowing precise access to the tissue.
Repetitive strain, injury, or surgery can create restrictions in connective tissue that lead to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Bodywork helps restore normal movement so the body can function more comfortably and efficiently.
Biography
Carol Syvret Austin
Carol Syvret Austin graduated from the Potomac Massage Therapy Institute in 1998 and has been in private practice in Virginia since that time. Her work focuses primarily on clients dealing with chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, and injury rehabilitation. Carol’s postgraduate training has been dedicated to deepening her understanding of the body and refining advanced therapeutic techniques.
Carol also works with expectant mothers, supporting the body through the physical changes of pregnancy. In more complex or high-stress pregnancies, therapeutic bodywork can help the soft tissue adapt to structural changes and improve comfort. She frequently works alongside chiropractors and osteopaths to support optimal outcomes for both mother and child.
Carol holds an Advanced Diploma in Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (300 hours of training) and has completed Upledger Cranial I and Cranial II. This training provides a deeper understanding of the nervous system and the subtle structural rhythms of the body. She integrates this gentle modality with her connective tissue and structural bodywork to support both physical mobility and nervous system balance.
Over the years Carol has worked with a wide range of clients, including infants, athletes, and professionals experiencing chronic physical strain. Her integrated approach combines connective tissue therapy, structural bodywork, and craniosacral techniques to address the underlying causes of pain and restriction rather than simply treating symptoms.
Clients often seek out Carol’s work after other approaches have failed to resolve persistent pain, limited mobility, or long-standing structural imbalances. Her goal is always to help the body regain natural movement, comfort, and resilience.
Your first visit to Sanctus begins with a brief intake form followed by a thorough consultation and physical evaluation. This allows us to understand your history, identify areas of restriction, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific concerns or injuries.
Our goal is to meet you where you are physically and provide treatment that supports both comfort and recovery. Sessions can be adapted to your needs, whether that means hands-off bodywork, modified positioning, or additional support with pillows so you can remain comfortable throughout the treatment.
Bodywork sessions are available as a gift for family members, friends, or colleagues.
Gift cards are transferable and do not expire, though they are non-refundable.*


