Posted by: Rhett Hatfield | April 9, 2024

Unwind Online: The Rise of Virtual Massage for Workplace Stress Management

In today’s digital age, where the lines between work and personal life blur more than ever, it’s essential to prioritize employee well-being, even in a remote environment. Traditional workplace wellness programs are evolving to meet the needs of the modern workforce, with virtual solutions becoming increasingly prevalent. One such innovation gaining traction is virtual guided massage, a convenient and effective way to manage workplace stress.

Virtual Wellness Programs: Bridging the Gap With remote work becoming the new norm for many, the need for virtual wellness programs has never been more apparent. These programs provide employees access to various health and wellness services, ensuring they receive the same support and care as they did in physical office settings. Virtual guided massage is a notable component of these programs, offering a holistic approach to stress management.

Benefits Beyond the Office Guided workplace massage programs operate on the principle that self-care is essential, even during the busiest workdays. Companies foster a culture of support and appreciation by encouraging employees to take regular breaks and prioritize their well-being. This not only improves employee morale but also contributes to higher levels of productivity and job satisfaction.

The Energizing Effects of Virtual Massage Contrary to common misconceptions, virtual massage doesn’t leave employees feeling lethargic or sleepy. Instead, short guided massage sessions can revitalize staff by reducing stress and tension. Virtual massage increases energy levels by improving circulation and releasing muscle tightness, helping employees feel more focused and engaged throughout the day.

How It Works Virtual massage sessions are led by certified practitioners who tailor each session to meet the individual needs of participants. Employees can connect with practitioners through live video streaming platforms and receive personalized relaxation techniques and muscle relief guidance. Whether Swedish massage is for overall relaxation or targeted pressure point massage for specific pain points, practitioners adapt their approach to address diverse needs.

Customization and Flexibility Employees can choose between one-on-one or group sessions based on their preferences. Group sessions can foster team bonding, particularly for remote teams, while one-on-one sessions allow for personalized attention. Additionally, employees can opt to have their video on or off during sessions, depending on their comfort level, ensuring a private and comfortable experience.

Managing Workplace Stress: The Science Behind Guided Massage Virtual Massage offers a multitude of physical and mental benefits that contribute to stress reduction and overall well-being. By lowering heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels while simultaneously increasing serotonin and dopamine levels, guided massage helps counteract stress and prevent burnout. The result is a more focused, productive, and resilient workforce.

As workplaces evolve in the digital age, companies must prioritize employee wellness, regardless of location. Virtual guided massage presents a practical and effective solution for managing workplace stress, allowing employees to unwind and recharge, even during a hectic workday. By investing in virtual wellness programs, companies demonstrate their commitment to employee health and happiness, ultimately fostering a more positive and productive work environment.

Discover more about our commitment to excellence in education: Schedule an in-person or phone consultation with our admission counselor: ‘G’ @ 515-727-4890

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Posted by: Rhett Hatfield | March 29, 2024

Graduate Spotlight: Sammi Garner

BWS: What initially drew you to massage therapy and led you to enroll at the Body Wisdom Massage School?

Sammi: I initially went to Iowa State for Psychology because I’ve always been passionate about helping people. During school, I quickly realized that I was ready to get into the real world, and I didn’t want to spend several years getting a degree in talk therapy. I stumbled across a class exercise for classwork and thought that it sounded more like my speed. I became a Kinesiology major and finished a minor in Psychology. My degree fostered an interest in the function of the body. It just made sense to me. My passion for long-distance running evolved into a passion for weight lifting, and I decided to go to the heart of weight lifting. I started my first personal training job, soon to be my first management position, at Gold’s Gym, The Mecca of BodyBuilding. This was well before I graduated from Iowa State. I met one of my best friends who did massage as a side profession, and she had attended Body Wisdom. Years later, after finishing my degree and becoming less satisfied with personal training, she urged me to check out the school. One meeting with G and I was sold

BWS: How would you describe your unique approach to massage therapy that sets you apart from others?

Sammi: My method of bodywork is functionally based. I use various techniques to mold tissue into better symmetry and try to understand holding patterns and movement function. I believe that dysfunction stems from under and overuse and that a combination of hands-on bodywork, strength training, and lifestyle management can free people from their restrictions. My background in Kinesiology provides logic and problem-solving to the physical being, and my background in psychology provides energy and empathy toward the emotional and spiritual being. 

My approach is unique because I encourage people to look at bodywork as something they should do regularly, not something they must earn or treat themselves to. I view the body with a strength-based background to try to help people find and work on areas that aren’t participating in a pain-free and easy-to-move away. Finally, even though I’m very logical in my approach, I round my practice out with other points of well-being and make it a proper full-body treatment.

BWS: What was the most impactful aspect of your training at the Body Wisdom?

Sammi: My favorite part about Body Wisdom was the chance to connect so deeply with others. The students that I went to school with are now forever friends. They helped shape my experience through school and continue to provide new perspectives and passion for the profession. 

One thing that makes Body Wisdom unique is that the curriculum is set up so that you can pave your own path through school. One of the reasons I picked this school was that I could choose to learn different modalities than most schools offer in a basic program. The biggest influences on my work are sports massage and Thai massage. I use these modalities every week, and they influence all of my work.

BWS: What are your aspirations for the future in your massage therapy career?

Sammi: Shortly, I hope to open my own location to foster a collective environment for sports massage and help connect clients with other essential pieces of well-being. I want my location to be a one-stop shop for getting healthy and recovering the body. I aim to create a fun environment for clients and employees to help them feel better, move better, and be a part of a community.

BWS: How do you see the field of massage therapy evolving, and what role do you hope to play in it?

Sammi: Massage is growing exponentially, with no end in sight. There is a massive movement toward mentally, physically, and emotionally caring for yourself. The market is abundant, and each person has something unique to offer it. I would say that my role in the evolution of massage is to help educate people on how beneficial massage can be and to continue to build networks in the health and wellness profession. The more we work together as massage therapists and other health professionals, the more people trust us and get the care they deserve.

BWS: What advice would you give someone just starting their journey in massage therapy?

Sammi: The advice I would give to new therapists is to never lose the spark. I feel it’s vital to stay excited about bodywork by trading with others, cross-promoting with other therapists/ professionals, getting involved in events and the community, seeking new information, and never getting complacent in my work. I approach the body with new ideas and new energy every session so that I can continue to learn and grow.

Quotes that I live by:

“The only thing that I know for sure is that I know nothing at all.” -Socrates

“The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.”- Picasso

“When you stop learning, you start dying”- Einstein 

Wishing all the best to everyone in the fantastic field of massage therapy!

Sammi

Discover more about our commitment to excellence in education: Schedule an in-person or phone consultation with our admission counselor: ‘G’ @ 515-727-4890

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Posted by: Rhett Hatfield | March 28, 2024

The AI-Powered Massage Therapist: How MT’s Can Leverage AI Going Forward.

A busy massage therapist can leverage AI to enhance efficiency, client experience, and business management. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Appointment Scheduling and Management: AI-powered scheduling tools can manage appointments, send reminders, and even reschedule appointments based on client preferences and availability.
  2. Client Relationship Management (CRM): AI can help analyze client data to provide personalized service recommendations and follow-up plans. It can also automate communication for check-ins or feedback requests.
  3. Financial Management: AI tools can assist in budgeting, tracking expenses, and managing invoices and payments, reducing the time spent on administrative tasks.
  4. Marketing and Client Acquisition: AI can analyze market trends and client data to create targeted marketing campaigns and manage social media interactions to attract new clients.
  5. Education and Skill Enhancement: AI-driven platforms offer personalized learning experiences, helping therapists to stay updated with the latest techniques and industry trends.
  6. Treatment Planning: AI can help create customized treatment plans based on client history and preferences, improving client satisfaction.
  7. Inventory Management: AI systems can track inventory levels of oils, lotions, linens, etc., and automate ordering when supplies are low.
  8. Feedback Analysis: AI tools can analyze client feedback to identify areas for improvement or highlight popular services.
  9. Website Chatbots: Implementing AI chatbots on the business website can instantly respond to client inquiries, enhancing customer service.
  10. Health Data Analysis: With consent, AI can analyze health and wellness data from clients’ wearable devices to tailor massage sessions to their health status.
  11. Stress and Relaxation Analysis: Some AI tools can analyze physiological indicators of tension or relaxation, allowing therapists to adjust their techniques in real-time.
  12. Virtual Assistance: AI virtual assistants can handle various administrative tasks, such as answering calls, managing emails, and ordering supplies.

Important Reminder: As massage therapists, it’s crucial to adhere to our scope of practice when utilizing AI technology. Remember, we are not licensed to diagnose or prescribe treatments. While AI can be a valuable tool in simplifying numerous tasks for a busy massage therapist, it’s essential to be cautious. AI suggestions should always be cross-referenced with professional resources to ensure they align with our professional boundaries and ethical standards. Stay informed and practice responsibly.

Integrating these AI tools allows a massage therapist to streamline their operations, personalize client experiences, and focus more on providing quality care.

Discover more about our commitment to excellence in education: Schedule an in-person or phone consultation with our admission counselor: ‘G’ @ 515-727-4890

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Posted by: Rhett Hatfield | March 28, 2024

Incorporating Cryotherapy into Massage Therapy: “A New Frontier for Face Massage”

Cryotherapy, once an exclusive domain of whole-body treatments for athletes and rheumatoid arthritis patients, has evolved into a remarkable skin wellness therapy. This technique, which exposes the body to sub-zero temperatures, is not just a fleeting trend but a mainstay in the wellness industry. With cryotherapy facial treatments emerging in the market, it’s an opportune time for massage therapists to explore this innovative approach.

The Science Behind Cryotherapy Facials and Cryo Face Massage:
Initially from Japan, cryotherapy gained popularity in the West for its benefits in muscle recovery and inflammation reduction. Now, its application has extended to facial treatments, promising a luminous and youthful glow. The concept is straightforward: applying cold temperatures to the face constricts blood vessels, reduces inflammation, and decreases swelling, leading to a firm, tightened, and de-puffed appearance.

Benefits for Skin Health
Cryotherapy is more than just a temporary fix for a tired complexion. It has been suggested to have collagen-modulating activities, potentially improving scarring and skin health. The cold shock tightens the skin, and as the blood vessels dilate post-treatment, fresh, nutrient-rich blood revitalizes the skin. This makes cryotherapy an excellent add-on to traditional massage practices, offering clients a refreshing face massage at the end of a session or after a Face Massage treatment like Body Wisdom’s “Dreamy Face Massage.”

Integrating Cryotherapy Tools in Massage Practice
Cryotherapy tools like ice globes are ideal for massage therapists eager to adopt this technique. These tools, often filled with a gel-like substance, maintain low temperatures without damaging the skin. Unlike direct ice application, which can cause frostbite or fat atrophy, ice globes offer a safe and effective way to apply cryotherapy.  Before using, store these tools in the freezer and warm them at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. 

Cryo-Sticks Review:

Cryo-Gua Sha Shape:
When it comes to a cryo-sticks face massage, the Gua Sha Shape is an outstanding choice. Its design makes it incredibly user-friendly and versatile. The broad surface is perfect for massaging larger areas like cheeks and forehead, while its unique shape allows for gentle treatment around delicate areas like the eyes. Plus, it’s great for targeting specific, smaller areas with precision.

Rolling Ice Globes Shape:
These are fantastic for massaging the under-the-neck area and along the back of the neck. Their design is perfect for smooth rolling, ensuring no skin drag, and they’re simply enjoyable to use! If you want these, get the ones with the black handles that roll.

Cryo-Sticks Shape:
Commonly chosen for cryo-stick face massages, Cryo-Sticks indeed boast an elegant design. However, in practical use, they can be challenging to grip, especially with slippery hands, and offer a smaller, broad surface area for working on the forehead and cheeks. By comparison, the Gua Sha shape offers various unique surfaces for detailed facial work.

Safety and Efficacy
While the ‘skin icing’ trend is popular on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels, massage professionals must use proper tools to avoid unintentional skin damage. Properly designed cryotherapy tools are safe and provide controlled, adequate cold exposure, enhancing the massage experience.

NOTE: During application, continuously move the tools over the skin for five to ten minutes, avoiding prolonged exposure to a single area. This method ensures a safe, even distribution of the cold treatment, making it a perfect addition to facial massages.

Discover more about our commitment to excellence in education: Schedule an in-person or phone consultation with our admission counselor: ‘G’ @ 515-727-4890

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Posted by: Rhett Hatfield | February 24, 2024

Body Wisdom Massage Therapy School: A Self-Portrait of Excellence in Massage Education

At Body Wisdom Massage Therapy School, we pride ourselves on offering a unique and unparalleled educational experience in massage therapy. Our program, based in Urbandale, Iowa, is not just a course but a journey into the depths of massage therapy, tailored to each student’s aspirations and needs.

Tailored Educational Experience:

Our flagship 900-Hour Massage Therapy Certification Program is a testimony to our commitment to personalized education. Understanding that each student’s goals differ, we’ve designed a program combining a comprehensive 540-hour Core Curriculum with 360 hours of customizable Career Electives. This structure allows our students to build a strong foundation while specializing in areas that align with their career ambitions.

Innovative Modular Learning:

At Body Wisdom, learning is a journey, not a race. We’ve broken down the traditional educational model and introduced a modular learning system. Students can take courses ranging from 8 to 96 hours, focusing on one subject at a time for deeper understanding and retention. This approach, combined with our flexible scheduling options, accommodates the diverse needs of our students, whether they prefer full-time, part-time, weekday, or weekend classes.

Diverse and Expert-Led Electives:

The breadth and depth of our Career Electives are unmatched. We offer over 1,000 hours of elective options, covering various specialties from Orthopedic/Clinical Sports Massage to Craniosacral Therapy. These are not just introductory courses; they are comprehensive and detailed, led by experts in their respective fields. Our students graduate with the knowledge and practical, hands-on skills that set them apart in massage therapy.

In our over 20 years of dedication to massage therapy education, we have continually evolved to meet and exceed the field’s highest standards. Our students are not just learners but future leaders in massage therapy. At Body Wisdom Massage Therapy School, we don’t just teach massage; we cultivate a passion for lifelong learning and excellence in this healing art.

Discover more about our commitment to excellence in education: Schedule an in-person or phone consultation with our admission counselor: ‘G’ @ 515-727-4890

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Posted by: Rhett Hatfield | February 24, 2024

Mindfulness in Everyday Life


Definition: Mindfulness is intentionally focusing on the present moment, acknowledging and accepting your feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations in a non-judgmental way. It’s about being aware of your experiences as they happen.

Origins: Mindfulness has been adapted in the West as a psychological tool to help with various mental health issues and overall well-being.

Benefits of Mindfulness
Reduces Stress: Regular mindfulness practice can help lower stress levels by promoting relaxation and emotional regulation.

Improves Mental Health: It’s effective in treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

Enhances Focus and Concentration: Mindfulness increases your ability to concentrate and reduces mind-wandering.

Improves Physical Health: It can positively affect physical health, lowering blood pressure and strengthening the immune system.

Increases Self-Awareness: Regular practice enhances self-awareness and understanding of your thought patterns.

Practicing Mindfulness
Mindful Breathing: Focus on your breath. Notice the sensation of air entering and leaving your body. When your mind wanders, gently bring your attention back to your breath.

Body Scan Meditation: Pay attention to different parts of your body in sequence, noticing any sensations, tensions, or discomfort.

Mindful Observation: Choose an object within your immediate environment and focus on watching it for a minute or two. This could be anything from a flower to the clouds moving across the sky.

Mindful Listening: Listen to the sounds around you – whether it’s birds chirping, the hum of a refrigerator, or distant traffic. Observe these sounds without labeling or judging them.

Mindful Eating: Pay attention to your food’s taste, texture, and aroma. Eat slowly and savor each bite.
Incorporating Mindfulness into Daily Life

Mindful Eating: Pay attention to your food’s taste, texture, and aroma. Eat slowly and savor each bite.

Incorporating Mindfulness into Daily Life
Start Small: Begin with a few minutes each day and gradually increase the duration. Routine Practice: Make mindfulness a part of your daily routine, perhaps in the morning or before bedtime.Mindful

Activities: Engage mindfully in activities like yoga or walking, where you are fully present.

Use Apps and Guides: Many mindfulness apps and guided meditations are available online to help beginners.

Mindful Moments: Try to find opportunities for mindfulness throughout your day, such as when you’re waiting in line or taking a break at work.

Conclusion:
Mindfulness is not about changing who you are but learning to understand and accept yourself better. As a self-care practice, it encourages a healthier relationship with yourself and the world around you. Remember, like any skill, mindfulness takes time and practice to develop. Be patient and consistent, and you will likely notice positive changes in your mental and physical well-being.

Discover more about our commitment to excellence in education: Schedule an in-person or phone consultation with our admission counselor: ‘G’ @ 515-727-4890

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Posted by: Rhett Hatfield | February 8, 2024

Sadie shares her journey and her “Secret Sauce for Success” at her Divine Current Wellness Center in small-town Iowa.

Sadie Hefel is one of Body Wisdom School’s most successful graduates and one of our most beloved teachers. She started her business, Divine Current Massage, as a solo Practitioner in June 2013, and after moving around to 3 other locations, she finally expanded into her current space at Divine Current Wellness, where she teaches yoga and has two other therapy rooms for additional therapists. Sadie shares her journey and her “Secret Sauce for Success.”

My “Secret Sauce” is my presence and flow. I’m fully attentive to each client, observing their movements and how they carry themselves and actively listening to their bodily cues. This helps me tailor my approach, utilizing various massage techniques I’ve mastered through Body Wisdom’s diverse classes. This variety has equipped me with a comprehensive skill set, enabling me to confidently address my clients’ varied ailments, ranging from student-athletes to older folks.

Expanding into Divine Current Wellness Center: After 8 years of solo practice, I craved a team vibe. I maxed out my client capacity and added yoga to my skillset. I finished my training in early 2021 and searched for the perfect studio space. Started small, with just three classes, especially with COVID still around. In our small town, finding the right space was tough, but the Community Vitality Director was a huge help!

Building a Team: Another massage therapist joined me in the new space, and soon, two other practitioners (specializing in sound healing and facials) reached out. I focused on creating a certain feel for the space and choosing services that complement each other.

Client Support and Education: We’ve introduced punch cards for discounts. It’s been so rewarding to support clients, especially those with loss. Teaching people to connect with their bodies and understand the muscles they’re working on has been a big part of our mission.

Team Meetings and Morale: We hold regular meetings to maintain morale. It’s a chance to connect, support each other, and discuss any feedback or changes.

Facility Updates: We added an Infrared Sauna after the first year, partially funded by a local grant. I wanted something that could run without needing a practitioner’s direct involvement. It’s great for couples or singles who want to relax in a more spacious setup.

Team Management: Managing a team was new to me, but raising two teenagers sure taught me a thing or two! Each practitioner runs their own business under our roof, and I’ve loved mentoring the younger members of our team.

Self-Care Focus: Self-care is my mantra! Whether it’s yoga, the sauna, or enjoying a session with another practitioner, it’s all about practicing what I preach. Sometimes I joke that I built this wellness center just so I didn’t have to travel far for these services!

Community Adaptation and Future Plans: Advice? Listen to your community’s needs. When I started, I offered only longer sessions, but soon realized the need for shorter, more accessible options like Chair Yoga. We plan to add more walk-in services for tourists, like Detox Foot Baths. And we’re really focusing on nurturing our team’s chemistry and community involvement.

Staying Inspired and Adaptable: Keep your mind open to the magic of this field. Find mentors, not just in massage but in other areas, like digital marketing. Being open to change is key – sometimes, you must tweak your services or schedule to keep your life balanced.

Hope this gives you some insights and inspiration for your own practice!

Take care, Sadie

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Posted by: Rhett Hatfield | February 8, 2024

The Reluctant Marketer: A “Wellness Practitioner’s Series” to Loving (or at least tolerating) Marketing by Rhett Hatfield:


Introduction: The Marketing Conundrum
Ah, marketing! That pesky task that makes wellness practitioners roll their eyes is more complicated than a yoga ball. Why? Because when you signed up to be a healer, ‘the marketer’ wasn’t in the job description. But here’s a nugget of truth: if your schedule is a bit empty, it’s time to embrace marketing.

The Marketing Allergy: Why Us Wellness Folks Dread It
There’s a common allergy among wellness practitioners, and it’s not pollen – it’s marketing. The mere mention of it conjures images of sleazy sales tactics and inauthentic spiels. But what if I told you marketing could be as soothing as a lavender-scented massage room?  Read on to find out.

Allow a Mindset Shift To: “Marketing as an Extension of Healing”
Imagine this: Marketing as a form of healing. Crazy, right? But it’s true. It’s about sharing your story, connecting with those in need, and offering a helping hand (or healing.)  What we call marketing is really about sharing your passion for your work so that folks can get happily involved with what you’re doing.  

Social Media: It’s Not Just Cat Videos and Food Pics
Social media isn’t just for scrolling through cat videos or envying someone’s brunch. It’s a goldmine for connecting with your tribe. Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn – they’re like a 24/7 networking event, minus the awkward handshakes, AND other than your time, they’re FREE.  Try Canva Pro for creating social media posts.  It’s awesome! After a short learning curve, you’re good to go!

Content is King, Queen, AND the Royal Court
In the realm of marketing, content wears the crown. It’s not about selling but sharing knowledge, insights, and a piece of your heart. Mix your favorite wellness ingredients with blogs, videos, and podcasts like a smoothie. Make it fun and create fun posts for ‘you too’, not just your audience.

Email Marketing: Your Digital Love Letter
Think of email marketing as sending a love letter, not a bill. It’s about building a relationship, not just pushing for a sale. Personalize, empathize, and watch your community grow.  Every wellness practitioner should have an email newsletter to stay in touch with their tribe.  You should find a way to collect email addresses for every event you do.  The sooner you start, the better. 

SEO: Your Online Wellness Map
SEO is like a treasure map guiding clients to your digital doorstep. It’s about speaking your client’s language, using keywords that resonate with their needs and healing journey.  SEO is a very deep and important topic that I will happily cover in future newsletters. 

Overcoming Resistance: Tips to Embrace Marketing
Feeling resistance to marketing? Take small steps. Celebrate the little wins. Remember, even a tiny step forward is progress in the right direction.  Like many of us, you may have picked up negative impressions of sales and marketing along the way, but remember, “you are NOT that type of marketer. You’re a new breed “that places people over profit.”

Conclusion: Embracing the Marketing Journey
Marketing, like wellness, is a journey, not a destination. Embrace it, and watch your practice flourish like a well-nurtured garden. And remember, a full schedule and a thriving practice are just around the marketing corner.

Much more on this topic in the future. If, in the meantime, you have any marketing-related questions, feel free to contact me directly at rhetthatfield@earthlink.net

Wishing you every success in your business …
Rhett

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Posted by: Rhett Hatfield | February 3, 2024

“Innovative Trends Transforming the Massage Industry”


Massage therapy is undergoing a remarkable transformation, embracing advanced equipment and the convenience of modern technology through mobile applications. The fusion of these technologies is reshaping the landscape of massage therapy, heralding a new era of wellness and relaxation.

VR
Virtual reality is an innovation, with therapists increasingly using VR to create immersive relaxation experiences. This innovative approach pairs virtual environments, such as serene beaches or tranquil gardens, with traditional massage techniques to enhance the overall experience. The VR environments are designed to engage the senses, promoting relaxation and stress reduction. By immersing clients in these calming virtual worlds, therapists can provide a more profound and relaxing experience beyond the physical aspect of massage, helping clients shed the stresses of daily life and achieve a deeper state of relaxation. This new method is recognized for its unique and effective way of combining technology with wellness practices​​.

Vibroacoutic Massage Tables:
In terms of equipment, introducing sophisticated tools like Biosonic Massage Tables is revolutionizing therapy delivery. For example, the inHarmony Massage Table (launched in 2023) was designed to augment bodywork and hands-on modalities with vibration therapy for the low price of …. Drum roll … $4321. 

Mobile Apps:
Simultaneously, the massage therapy profession embraces the convenience of ‘mobile apps.’ With the Squeeze app, clients can effortlessly book, pay, and tip their massage therapist, streamlining the entire experience. The app allows clients to set personalized preferences and control the music, lighting, and signal readiness for their session, all from their smartphones.

Soothe, founded in 2013, is another example of technology reshaping our field. This app connects clients with professionals for on-demand massage and beauty services delivered directly to the client’s location. Soothe offers various massage types and makes appointments available daily, bringing the massage therapy experience directly to clients.

Massage Robots:
And add to all that, Aescape, a New York City-based company, is revolutionizing the massage therapy industry by developing an automated, AI-powered massage table. The table utilizes two robotic arms to mimic human touch, offering a unique and data-driven massage experience. Aescape’s innovation aims to redefine massage and wellness by integrating intelligent touchless technology. The company has raised significant funding to enhance this technology and has already secured partnerships to launch the Aescape Experience​​.

As technology continues to evolve, it is clear that it will introduce even more innovative and beneficial tools to massage therapy. The embrace of these technological advancements is enhancing therapists’ practices and ensuring top-tier care for their clients.

It’s a new world evolving rapidly, and Body Wisdom is leading the way with cutting-edge new courses and techniques.

Discover more about our commitment to innovation in education: Schedule an in-person or phone consultation with our admission counselor: ‘G’ @ 515-727-4890

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Posted by: Rhett Hatfield | January 23, 2024

“Massage Without the Meltdown: Beating Burnout with Self-Care”


Hey there, massage therapists! Let’s chat about something we all face at some point – that crazy busy schedule that can leave us feeling like a squeezed-out tube of lotion. Who would’ve thought having too many clients could be such a wild ride, right?

Too Much of a Good Thing? The Massage Therapist’s Dilemma So here we are, our hands working magic day in and day out, but sometimes it feels like we’re running on empty. We’re giving so much to our clients that, at the end of the day, we’re left with barely any juice for ourselves or our business growth. Sound familiar?

When Overwhelm Sneaks Up on Us, We’ve all been there. You’re juggling clients, and suddenly, you hit a wall. You know all the things you should be doing for your business, but your energy tank is just blinking ‘E’ for empty. And it’s totally normal to feel a bit guilty for not being able to do it all. But hey, we’re human, and it’s okay to feel this way.

The Triple Threat of Overworking Let’s dive into how being super busy is actually a bit of a sneaky enemy, blocking our path to a thriving massage practice:

  1. The Financial Fumble: When you’re too busy, it’s easy to miss the chance to tweak your prices to match your demand. Plus, non-stop work can lead to exhaustion and even injury, meaning unexpected time off and a roller-coaster income. Not fun.
  2. Client Experience Downslide: When we’re swamped, our clients can tell. Little things start slipping, and before we know it, our service quality isn’t what it used to be. That’s a surefire way to see clients looking elsewhere for their next massage.
  3. Policy Puzzles: Have you ever been so tired that even sticking to your rules feels like climbing a mountain? Or maybe you start creating more policies out of frustration. It’s a tricky cycle that can leave you and your clients feeling frazzled.

Spotting the Warning Signs Here are some red flags that you might be overdoing it:

  • If you’ve got a waitlist longer than a grocery line, it’s time to rethink.
  • Feeling the need to stretch your working hours? Remember, it’s okay to stick to the hours that work for you.
  • When your body’s screaming louder than your clients’ tight muscles, that’s a sign.
  • If you’re too wiped out to enjoy your own life, it’s time to hit the pause button.

Five Fab Steps to Ditching Overwork: Ready to get back on track? Here are five steps to keep your practice buzzing without burning out:

  1. Set Your Schedule in Stone: Work out the best days and hours for you and stick to them like superglue.
  2. Break Time is Sacred: Schedule those breaks and vacations ahead of time, and treat them like appointments you can’t miss.
  3. Choose Your Clients Wisely: Not every client is your ideal client. Be picky! It saves you from potential burnout.
  4. Policies are Your Friends: Make sure your policies are clear and fair, and help protect the heart of your business – you!
  5. Price Check: If your schedule’s overflowing, it might be time for a price hike.

Creating Your Ideal Work-Life Balance We’re in this amazing field to spread relaxation and healing, but let’s not forget to apply some of that TLC to ourselves. By taking these steps, you’re not just safeguarding your business – you’re making sure you have the energy and space to enjoy life and bask in the glow of your successful practice. Here’s to finding that perfect balance and keeping our passion for massage alive!

Rhett Hatfield, Director of Education, Body Wisdom Massage School

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