Massage Publications

12/03/2025

The delicate balance between the psoas and the piriformis

Recently, one of my students asked me to write about working with the piriformis. She had several clients experiencing piriformis syndrome and was getting frustrated with inconsistent results.

Piriformis syndrome—sometimes called piriformis dysfunction—goes by many names and is often misunderstood. This article brings more clarity to this topic and a broader, more effective way of looking at it.

If you've ever experienced it yourself, or if you treat clients with piriformis syndrome or sciatica, you know how intense it can be. It's deeply painful and often creates wide-ranging referred pain. That's why understanding this muscle in isolation isn't enough—we need to see the full ecosystem.

Let's start with the role of the piriformis then we'll go around the corner to the psoas.

Read more here:
https://www.theabundantbodyworker.com/blog/the-delicate-balance-between-the-psoas-and-the-piriformis

11/14/2025

Awkward Money Moments: Let’s Talk Late Clients
I’ve had clients show up late, and suddenly it’s that awkward “uhhh… now what?” moment. Figuring out how to handle it (without turning into a puddle or a drill sergeant) is one of those boundary muscles we all have to flex.

The real question is: is this a one-off, or is this part of their pattern?

Because if it is a pattern—and you’ve already laid out your agreement—it’s absolutely okay to call them on it with calm, professional clarity.
The key is to stay neutral. Don’t take it personally. Just remind them of the boundaries you’ve already established. Something like:

Hi Peggy,
I was expecting you earlier—our session was booked for 2pm. Is everything okay?
I’m happy to continue with the remainder of your session time today, but going forward, please give me notice if you’re going to be late or if something urgent comes up.
I’ll always do my best to shift things when I can, but remember we have a 24-hour cancellation policy in place.
We’ve got about 40 minutes left for today. What would you like to focus on?

Read more here:

I’ve had clients show up late, and suddenly it’s that awkward “uhhh… now what?” moment. Figuring out how to handle it (without turning into a puddle or a drill sergeant) is one of those boundary muscles we all have to flex.

10/21/2025

Awkward Money Conversations: When a Client Doesn’t Show 😘
Let’s be honest—it’s the worst when a client doesn’t show up. Your time matters, and when someone ghosts your table, it feels downright disrespectful.

Do you smile and let it go? Do you charge them for the missed session?

Here’s the truth: enforcing your cancellation policy isn’t mean—it’s boundaries with love. When we don’t enforce it, we’re teaching clients that our time (and energy) is optional.

When we do, we’re modeling what healthy professional respect looks like.

So, what’s the real move here?

>>>>>>

Let’s be honest—it’s the worst when a client  doesn’t show up. Your time matters, and when someone ghosts your table, it feels downright disrespectful.

08/20/2025

07/21/2025

I'll be doing a webinar on the shoulder complex/ rotator cuff soon Looking for feedback on these webinar titles. Vote for your favorite! Many Thanks!

1. Elevate Your Practice: A Targeted Exploration of the Shoulder and Rotator Cuff

2.The Functional Shoulder: What Every Bodyworker Should Know

3. From Confusion to Confidence: Demystifying the Shoulder Complex for Bodyworkers

05/31/2025

📀 Found a stash of my training DVDs in storage... and yes, we know it’s 2025.
Only $15 – Grab them while there’s some left. Perfect for students or anyone wanting to level up without spending a ton
✅ Stretch Your Clients
✅ Releasing the Iliopsoas and Quadratus Lumborum
✅ Stabilizing the Core and SI Joint

https://www.theabundantbodyworker.com/DVD-sales-page

05/20/2025

Sweet reminder that every time you work with a client you not only bless that client but also bless the world 💙💚

05/06/2025

Welcome to the Day One: The Shoulder Complex Simplified: Understanding the Rotator Cuff in The Amazing Rotator Cuff Mini-Course.
If you would like access to this FREE course on the Amazing Rotator Cuff go to:
https://www.theabundantbodyworker.com/the-amazing-rotator-cuff
In this lesson, you'll learn foundational knowledge about the shoulder and the rotator cuff so you can better understand your client's issue and improve outcomes:

Review of the anatomy
A lesson in shoulder mechanics
A Case study to enhance your retention
The rotator cuff plays a crucial role in shoulder function, as it helps to keep the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) centered in the socket of the shoulder blade. This allows for smooth and coordinated movement of the arm. Additionally, the rotator cuff helps to stabilize the shoulder joint during activities such as lifting, reaching, and throwing.

04/24/2025

The wonderful Monica Garza and I at the Texas chapter convention in Corpus Christi

04/21/2025

Tired of cranky shoulders? Let’s make ‘em happy 💃

Tiny price, huge upgrade for your bodywork game.

I packed years of shoulder-saving wisdom into a bite-sized, 5-day course—and made it just $17.
https://www.theabundantbodyworker.com/5-days-happy-shoulders

5 Days to Happy Healthy Shoulders is designed just for massage therapists who are tired of:
🙄 Feeling sore after a long day at the table
🤷♀️ Not knowing what to do with sticky, tricky shoulder issues
😫 Giving it their all—but still feeling like something’s missing
For just 17 bucks (less than your fav lunch), you’ll get:
✔️ 5 short, powerful lessons (one per day)
✔️ Techniques you can use immediately—on yourself and your clients
✔️ A healthier, happier approach to shoulder work that actually sticks

04/07/2025

Come one, come all to this FREE mini course: The Amazing Rotator Cuff and grow your competence in working with these multi-tasking muscles.
You’ll get immediate access as soon as you register

https://www.theabundantbodyworker.com/the-amazing-rotator-cuff
Here’s what you’ll find inside the course

4 videos that highlight:
The Shoulder Complex Simplified: Understanding the Rotator Cuff
Working with the Powerful Subscapularis
Working with the Industrious Infraspinatus/Teres Minor
Working with the Steadfast Supraspinatus
Knowing how to work with shoulder issues means fewer complaints, fewer repeat visits, and a much happier client (and therapist!)