Miri Nakamura PhD, CST-T
“The health is our beginning, our origin, our original nature.” —James S. Jealous, D.O.
My Story
My journey in the healing arts is a fairly unique story. I was a university professor of Japanese literature who spent nearly two decades in academia. I did everything I was told would bring me happiness: publish my book, get tenured, climb the never-ending social ladder. But over the years, my body started to have problems from not following my heart.
While trying various methods to heal myself, I had a serendipidous encounter with Craniosacral Therapy. With one small adjustment in my throat, I experienced an emotional release and a sense of wholeness. For about ten days after, I felt like a different person—free from lifelong anxiety, full of joy and self-compassion. It was a real testament to how our bodies are always trying to return us to our original state of being, filled with health and aliveness. Craniosacral helped me to return to my true self.
Since that magical day, I have simply been following the path. I became certified through the Upledger Institute, the science-based school of craniosacral therapy, and I am also becoming certified in biodynamic craniosacral therapy, the energy-based school. I opened my private practice in 2016 in Oakland to work with the diverse population that the city attracts, and these clients continue to be my best teachers. Their stories of diaspora and injustice led me to study various modes of trauma healing, especially Somatic Experiencing, which I incorporate into my sessions. I am a first-generation Japanese and an immigrant, and I offer sessions in both Japanese and English.
As a craniosacral therapist, I want people to experience the same kind of healing that the modality has brought to my own life. Over my years as a therapist, I have seen repeatedly how the body is truly a wise vessel that is always trying to return my clients to their birthright—their health. I would be honored to help you on your healing journey and show you the light and wisdom that reside within you.
Qualifications
Soul Portrait by Thais Aquino
Craniosacral Therapy Certification with the Upledger Institute (CST-T)
Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy with Leonid Soboleff and Gary Peterson
Somatic Experiencing (Intermediate)
Integral Psychedelic Therapy Certification Program (Sage Integrative Health)
Long Distance Healing, Healing from the Core, Suzanne Scurlock
CAMTC Certification: Over 700hrs training as Certified Massage Therapist at the Mckinnon Institute & Esalen Institute
Healing Arts Practitioner at Wilbur Hot Springs
Dharma Yoga Teacher, 200YTT
Ph.D. in East Asian Studies, Stanford University
Fulbright Scholar
Author of Monstrous Bodies: The Rise of the Uncanny in Modern Japan