September/October 2018

Practitioners often say the idea of marketing their practice feels overwhelming and panic-inducing. But know that it doesn't have to be!

There are so many moving parts to an independent massage business. It's easy to lose track of details, so here are some organizational tips to help keep you focused and on track!

Take a moment to consider all the places you receive money from, and make a list (you don't have to show it to anyone). Then read through your list and notice how you feel about each source of income.

Our profession requires strength, endurance, flexibility, and knowledge of the body for success. But it also requires self-care.

There's an old rule of etiquette about not discussing politics, sex, or religion in social settings. Though, you certainly ought to avoid these topics during a massage session, which is not a social setting.

Let's uncover some treatment options for obesity, with a focus on bariatric surgery. We speak with a veteran of bariatric surgery and a certified massage therapist and lymphatic specialist.

The rectus abdominis is the most superficial and anterior of the abdominal muscles...but that doesn't mean it's not important in many ways.

I believe the hospital bedside is one of the most important and meaningful places for massage therapy integration—whether as palliative, rehabilitative, or injury/surgical recovery.

As massage research literature continues to grow and improve, this work reflects on us as a profession. But remember, embracing the research and science does not mean abandoning the art.

It is my belief that the fundamental basis for all orthopedically oriented hands-on manual and movement therapy is a firm understanding of anatomy. That learning can come from many places, including cadaver experience.

Massage therapy research might not be where it is today if not for the landmark work of Tiffany Field, PhD.

Many massage therapists assume the paths open to them are limited: start a private practice; work in a chiropractic/physical therapy office; or work in a franchise. But there's another option—opening a clinic built on a team-based approach to massage.

Feeling stuck, like you're trying the same marketing tactics as every other massage therapist out there? The key to standing out is specialization.

Jeff Bartels felt the healing power of massage with his own hands before he ever had formal massage training. In the 1970s, he was working as a psychiatric aide when a new method of treatment emerged on scene—massage.