Who we are

Hi, I’m Dr. Emily Quast

I am a Minnesotan born and raised. My passion for understanding the human body began while attending the University of Minnesota where I receive my B.A. in Human Physiology and a Spanish minor. After working at a chiropractic clinic for 3 years I saw how much this profession could help people at many different levels. I went on to attend Northwestern Health Sciences University where I graduated magna cum laude and received my Doctor of Chiropractic degree. A few months after graduating, I took over the clinic I had worked at prior to attending school.

Outside of the clinic I have a passion for traveling. The world is so beautiful and I love exploring new places and cultures. One of my favorite ways to experience a new place is through the food. I am a foodie and am always looking for restaurant suggestions and or recipes. Another must in my life is movement. I love living an active lifestyle and enjoy going to the gym, yoga, running and trying new activities.

Simple & Effective treatments 

We are all about simplicity when it comes to our treatment plans.


My Approach

Proper structure is necessary for proper function. Our nervous system is our communication highway. If the structures surrounding our nerves are dysfunctional that can affect the way our nervous system communicates. Think of our nervous system is like a bucket of water. There are three components of our lives that can fill our buckets. These include Physical factors (falls/car accidents/physical trauma), chemical factors (food/drugs), and psychological factors (stress/ anxiety). When our bucket overfills, this is when we feel pain. It is important to not only look at the physical cause but also the chemical and psychological. At Pura Vida we will look at how your joints move, the muscles and ligaments surrounding the joints to ensure that we are finding the cause of your pain.

Our vision

Our Vision is to eliminate as much pain, stress and suffering to everyone that walks through our door. It is our goal to teach as our patients that health is not only determined by one’s physical activity and lifestyle. Their mental and nutritional aspects of their life also contribute to your overall health and wellness.


Our Values

  • Health equity

  • Empowerment

  • Education

  • Health

  • Open mindedness

  • Responsibility

Our Mission

It is our mission to educate people about their health conditions and empower them to live their healthiest life that aligns with their goals.

Meet the Team

It takes a dedicated and passionate team to create a great environment for our patients. Each team member brings something special to our clinic. Our team is essential in allowing us to help as many people as possible.

  • Hi, I’m Cindy

    I work the afternoon shift at Pura Vida Chiropractic & Wellness.

  • Hi there, I'm Paulette!

    At work, I'm your morning assistant and the friendly face at the front desk, here to welcome you with a smile and ensure you feel comfortable. I handle scheduling and even provide therapies when our clients need a little extra care.

    When not in the office, I'm all about family. I'm a proud wife, a devoted mother, and a Grandmom to six. You'll often find me in the kitchen baking up something sweet, wanting to explore new places, and when I have the time getting lost in a good book, or simply cozying up at home. I love enjoying the little things and cherish my family and all my beautiful grandkids. My life is never short of entertainment with them.

  • Hello!

    I am so grateful to have this opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Mary Van Leeuwen, I am a Licensed Massage Therapist. It has been a great privilege to do this work for the last 23 years. My experience includes working in the Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) department at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester and at massage therapy centers in Minnesota and Texas. I specialize in offering an integrative approach to the bodywork I offer. I customize each bodywork session, drawing on my knowledge of a variety of techniques and modalities that will best meet the needs of my clients. Massage modalities that I use most in my sessions include: Neuromuscular Therapy, Acupressure,Trigger Point Therapy, Reflexology, Swedish Massage and deep breath coaching. Over the years what I have learned is that what people are most looking for when seeking bodywork is someone who listens, someone who cares and someone who is skilled in their technique. The service I provide is rooted in listening to what my customers ask for every time I see them. Each of my sessions start out with this singular most important question, “How can I help you feel better in your body today?” I look forward to working with you.


  • I'm passionate about systems! I'm certified in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Trigger Point, Myofascial Release, Sport, Reflexology and Lymphatic Drainage at Saint Paul college's massage therapy program. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resources Development at U of M, Twin Cities and worked for over 15 years in financial systems. In 2021, I sought a career change due to a shift of interest to human systems, and the need to have flexibility in my work schedule. I'm FASCINATED with our muscular system and love giving as well as receiving massages on a regular basis. I have given over 800 hours of hands on massage and I absolutely love what I do for each client at each session. I sincerely invite you to relax & give your body some self care with me!

    Call or text to schedule: 952-297-7654