“In La K’ech (in-lah-kesh) Ala K’in” roughly translates to: “I am another you.” This saying encourages us to embody our interconnectedness — as a chance to recognize ourselves in others, and respond with empathy and care. It also reminds us that healing and political resistance are not solitary endeavors but collective acts that thrive in community. By honoring both our uniqueness and our shared humanity, we open space for new perspectives and expanded ways of experiencing ourselves and the world.
In La K'ech Healing Arts is a holistic bodywork practice where healing is offered through evidence-based techniques grounded in a mindful approach, meeting each person where they are—physically, emotionally, and energetically. The intelligence of the body is honored, supporting each person in cultivating awareness, release, and resilience. This work is guided by trauma-informed care, recognizing the profound ways experiences shape the body and fostering a safe, empowering environment for transformation and restoration. Commitment to social and economic justice shapes the practice, ensuring care is accessible for all.
For more details on modalities, what to expect from a session and the sliding scale program, visit the Services page.
Baltimore, MD.
Hey! I am Mel the founder and practitioner of In La Kech Healing Arts. Welcome to this work, which I am deeply passionate about! In 2019, I had the honor of graduating from Crestone Healing Arts Center of Colorado, under the guidance of Aikido-Master and Integrative Bodywork expert, Danilo Retuta. I have gathered over 850 hours of knowledge in massage, energy work, breath-work, anatomy, yoga, physiology, and kinesiology and thousands more hours in hands-on experience.
My passion for social justice, and how the intersections of creating intentional spaces can play a critical role in self and community preservation and healing, informs how I show up in the world. This practice was created to be inclusive to all, especially those of us within the BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, disabled and/or neurodiverse communties.
My story into holistic healing has many origins. My own experiences with c-ptsd, chronic pain, athletics, and car injuries have revealed to me how necessary integrative bodywork as a supportive tool is in experiencing a fuller quality of life. I am constantly learning new ways to support not only my survival, but my comfort and joy. It is my hope to share these gifts with you to add to your toolkit for ease and perseverance.
I was proudly born in Central America and grew up in Washington, DC. I'd say I am just as much a city person, as I have loved living rurally. Before making Baltimore my home in 2020, I spent time learning herbalism, farming and hiking through Washington State, Colorado, and New Mexico. Some of my hobbies include landscape photography, gardening, fiber arts, jewelry making, cooking, and watching sci-fi, horror, and psych thrillers! Hablo español.