My general approach regarding massage is to start with the client lying face down on the table and turn them onto their back during the session so that they finish lying face up. Occasionally this may change (eg for athletes with lower limb issues I may begin by working on their quadriceps/hip flexors) but for most of the normal issues that clients present then I start with them face down. For me there are a number of advantages and reasons…
There has been a lot of chatter amongst massage therapists over the past week regarding the appearance of cupping marks on Michael Phelps during the Olympics. Cupping, for those who are not familiar with the technique is a form of alternative therapy where suction is locally applied on the skin using a vacuum generated within a cup. Check out the wiki page on cupping here The supporters of cupping have been quick to jump up and down at the potential…
A common topic discussed in social media massage groups is that of the body-shaming of clients. Whilst, in theory, it should be an absolute no-no for a therapist to make comments that could be perceived as body-shaming, the reality is that it happens far too often. Body-shaming comments made by therapists may refer to a client’s weight, physical appearance, skin condition, body hair, grooming, age, tattoos, etc. Usually these comments are genuinely innocent or well-intentioned but the reality is that…
A recent poster in a massage Facebook group started a discussion about excuses clients use not to rebook after an appointment. A few people gave their ‘best’ examples before the discussion turned a little on the original poster and asked him the questions Why should people need to have an excuse? Why should they be prodded into booking an appointment that may or may not be appropriate for their needs, their time schedule or their budget? As one responder put…
Advertising using Google Adwords can be effective but many massage therapists are nervous as Adwords can become a money pit for the unwary. Because adwords can eat through any advertising budget in no time at all so in my view, it is better to show your ads to too few clients than too many. These are a few tips based on my experience with Adwords. I’m sure other therapists would have different points of view. Make sure that you use…
This blog post uses www.truemovement.net/manual-therapies-make-space/ as a starting reference point. It is an excellent article and well worth reading. ====== There are frequent posts by massage therapists in social media groups that go along the lines off I was shocked today. I had a client come in and tell me about a horror story where their last therapist used too much pressure and they were sore the next day after the massage. Why do therapists constantly think that it is…