A new massage client had a history of vertigo and migraines. After about $20,000 worth of tests, she had been diagnosed with post-viral balance disorder and sent to a balance clinic. Her therapy was consistent: Flashing lights, juggling balls and teeter-totter devices. She kept mentioning how the migraines and vertigo got much worse during … Continue reading Bright Lights, Big Spin
Massage therapists undergoing postural correction or structural integration often take pictures to show themselves their “befores” and “afters.” I have been tempted to try this with clients, but on the occasions it has seemed right, the clients seemed apprehensive. “You want to take my picture?” Sounding pretty doubtful, especially early in the therapeutic relationship, about … Continue reading Picture This
When we speak of “core strength” do we all mean the same thing? I recently experienced a very different version with a client. Core strength is a current buzzword, with therapists and trainers giving tips on how to develop core, keep core, activate core, etc. as a panacea for injuries and prevention. I recently read … Continue reading Core Strength and Armor
Other than a rare bad check, my massage practice and business has never been ripped off – until last month. Armed with a pizza, the dog, my phone and laundry, I neglected to make sure all the doors were securely closed on my car that Sunday night. Monday, after doing about 10 errands, … Continue reading Reward: Used Maroon Astra-Lite Table with Wheeled Black Carry Case….
Gift certificates for a massage are always welcome, and if the massage therapist who wrote them is lucky, the certificates are used and result in a new client; if the massage therapist is lucky in another way the certificate is never used. Heck, in California, and possibly a few other states, gift certificates … Continue reading Forever Gifts
Folks who travel for vacations complain the most about the plane ride home – they are tired, often sunburned and a bit depressed that the dream vacation is over. Many clients book massages during their vacations, but forget about dealing with the stress and fatigue of the trip home. That’s why I have recommended people … Continue reading Frequent Fliers and Massage Therapy
Dogs love me, and I love dogs. Cats love me, and I love them too. When this massage therapist does house calls, I suddenly find myself surrounded by four-legged fans. I didn’t mean to, but I have managed to train all of my house clients’ domesticated beasties to expect a mini-massage when I get … Continue reading Massage Me, Massage My Dog
One of my massage therapist friends had a good bit of extra time on her hands when she first started her practice, so she picked up a Spanish book and taught herself to speak it.My therapist friend has not used her knowledge of Spanish much in her day spa, but it has come in handy … Continue reading Adding New Skills
Massage therapists take a big risk every time they do a house call – it is the time they are most likely to be injured on the job. Not by doing a massage but from lifting and carrying massage tables. Anyone who has negotiated the front steps and the doorway only to find … Continue reading Scooter-nomics
Have you caught yourself talking too much during a session? We massage therapists can all lead with our chins on this one, can we not? One of my therapist friends believes every session should be hushed – no talk of any kind, music only, and if the client tries to talk only answer with … Continue reading Table Talk