Nicole Dai

Avenue Physio

OUR TEAM

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Nicole Dai

RMT
nicoledai@avenuephysio.ca

Patient treating hours:
Monday: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Tuesday: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Education:
2200 Hours Massage Therapy Diploma (Mount Royal University) (2025)
280 hours Thai Traditional Massage Course and Practice (TTCSPA School, Chiang Mai Thailand) (2023)

CERTIFICATIONS

  • Dynamic Cupping Therapy (2025)
  • Hot Stone Therapy (2025)
  • Contrast Therapy (2025)
  • Focused Neck Tension Release (2025)
  • RAPID Neurofascial Reset (2024)
  • Tok Sen Massage (2023)
  • Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Level C (BL) CSA Std. Z1210-17 – Intermediate (Dec.
    2023- Dec. 2026)

ABOUT NICOLE
Nicole has many years of hands-on experience in Traditional Chinese Massage (Tuina) and spent more than six years in Thailand deeply engaged in Thai massage practices,bringing a holistic and culturally diverse approach to her treatments. Experiencing the benefits of massage for herself, her family, and her community inspired Nicole to pursue the 2200-hour Massage Therapy Diploma at Mount Royal University, from which she graduated with top honors. Nicole has a passion for anatomy and evidence-based massage, frequently reviewing research from sources like PubMed and integrating scientifically supported techniques into her practice. She is dedicated to helping clients enhance their overall well-being and maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

Why did you become a Massage Therapist?
Traditional Chinese therapies such as Tuina, Gua Sha, cupping, and moxibustion have been a part of my life since childhood. My family often practiced these techniques on one another, and I have been performing pediatric Tuina on my two children several times a week from birth through their adolescence. Later, after moving to Thailand, we maintained a habit of regular massage, and I had the opportunity to study Thai massage systematically while working with athletes at a swimming club. These experiences collectively inspired me to pursue a career as a professional massage therapist.

Do you have an area of special interest?
I am particularly interested in how massage can help manage chronic pain. During my studies, I conducted a systematic review on the question: Which massage techniques are most effective for fibromyalgia? I applied the findings to four patients with fibromyalgia and received very positive feedback. While the sample size was too small to provide scientific evidence, the experience motivated me to seek out research-based massage techniques and integrate them into my practice. Chronic pain encompasses a wide variety of conditions; I have identified over 50 conditions I have studied so far and am systematically exploring effective techniques for each.

How does movement impact your life?
My entire family are sports enthusiasts. Outside of work, I enjoy strength training and watching sports. I am also a Swim Alberta certified Turns and Stroke Judge and actively volunteer at various swimming competitions. Maintaining an active lifestyle allows me to stay physically capable and engaged in my work as a massage therapist.

What does a great Massage Therapist look like to you?
In my view, an excellent massage therapist combines genuine client-centered care, a solid theoretical foundation, and skilled hands-on technique. Being client-centered means prioritizing the client’s health, actively communicating to understand their needs, and tailoring treatments accordingly. A solid theoretical foundation includes comprehensive knowledge of conditions, medications, massage techniques, and especially contraindications, which is essential for safe and effective practice. Skilled hands mean knowing the anatomy and tissue condition intimately and applying techniques effectively to achieve deep release and relief without discomfort. These three qualities—client focus, theoretical knowledge, and hands-on skill—are the principles I strive to embody in my
practice.