PRACTITIONERS
YAMEL TORRES
Yamel Torres is the founder and Sifu of the Chinese Martial Arts and Seven Star Wellness Center which opened its doors to the Chicago community in 1998. Prior to opening his school, Yamel was an Electrical Engineer and Software developer, earning a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a Master of Science in Computer Science from DePaul University. He later transitioned to a career in the healing arts and earned a Master of Science in Oriental Medicine from the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, where he also served as a faculty member. Yamel deepened his knowledge and skills by earning a Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine in August of 2017. Dr. Torres runs his private practice in Lakeview, providing Acupuncture and herbal medicine for the past ten years. Dr. Torres is also part of the Intergrative Medicine practice at Edward-Elmurst medical group. Additionally, Dr. Torres has studied Traditional Martial Arts since the age of 12 and has been teaching for over 22 years. When he is not seeing patients, Dr. Torres teaches traditional martial arts at his school.
Clinical Interests:
Digestive Problems; Pain Management; Psycho-emotional; Headaches; Women's Health; Palliative Care ( Oncology Acupunctutre); Sports Medicine, Integrative Medicine; Colds and congestion.
VALERIE GARRISON
Valerie first began mat pilates to work on strength and alignment after a long distance running injury. She instantly loved it and saw the benefit it brought to keeping her running injury free.
She became certified through Balance Body's comprehensive training program and loves to teach a mix of classical and modern pilates with a focus on strength training.
She enjoys one on one sessions and tailoring the client's plan to best meet their needs and goals, striving to bring holistic healing and a healthy connection to their bodies.
Valerie has worked with people diagnosed with autoimmune disorders, Parkinsons, MS, scoliosis, osteoporosis and running related issues.
Throughout her 9 years of teaching she has continued her learning and has become certified in pelvic floor health, pre and post natal, earned her 200 hour yoga certification and has added breathwork and nervous system mindfulness to her sessions.
Valerie believes that pilates can meet anyone where they are at and that they will be able to carry over its benefits into their everyday lives, improving their overall well being.
