12/21/2025
Time
This past Friday, I received notice that John F. Barnes—the founder of John F. Barnes Myofascial Release —had passed away.
In 2024, I had the honor of taking two classes with him. This was after his own rehabilitation from injury, when he was just beginning to return to teaching. I am deeply grateful that I was able to be there when I was.
In a class of nearly 200 people, there was a brief exchange of a look. When John looked at you, it wasn’t a glance—it felt as if he could see into your soul.
This weekend, I’ve been thinking a lot about John and his life. How his own injuries led him to this work. How he listened to his intuition. How he was doubted, dismissed, and even mocked by many over the years—and yet, he persevered.
Because he didn’t quit, he taught thousands of students, myself included, a way of truly listening to and treating clients and patients.
What also stands out to me is how intentionally he curated the MFR community. He created a space that felt safe, supportive, and deeply respectful—where curiosity was encouraged, vulnerability was honored, and each person was met where they were. That atmosphere didn’t happen by accident; it was an extension of who he was and what he believed healing could be.
I think about his time here on Earth—and how he didn’t waste it. The way he spoke. The books he referenced. The endless trips across the country. Teaching, sharing, talking to anyone who would listen, especially in the early days.
I am eternally grateful he didn’t give up. Grateful he stayed true to himself, his convictions, and this work.
The lessons I take from his life:
Listen to my intuition. Continue to develop it. Don’t waste time.
And, of course, all of the John-isms:
Go to the barrier and wait.
The purpose of life is to enjoy it.
Healing is feeling.
Healing is not linear, nor logical.
And so much more.
Rest in peace, John.
A colleague of mine shared one of the songs John loved to play at the end of his seminars. It feels fitting to share it here as well.
https://youtu.be/89g9yMGFGlM?si=nzDLMSAsSrXu5Bhv
