Wow, it sure was a busy 2016.  I hope you all had a great holiday season!  Now that we're getting into 2017, I know many of you are looking to take better care of yourselves.  Whether thats through better eating habits or creating self-care routines, it's important to stick with those new routines (which of course is way easier said than done).

You should also examine your old self-care routines.  Are they working for you?  I know many who consistently get massage, acupuncture, chiropractic with mixed results.  Friends of mine will get chiropractic adjustments 1-2x a week and do not feel any better than they were a year ago.  I've had clients that never improved their health with other massage therapists.  So why keep paying for the therapy if you're not seeing results from it?  Remember what the definition of insanity is?  That's right, doing the same thing over & over expecting a different result.

I will be straight with you.  When coming to my office for pain relief massage, I'll tell you to give me 3 sessions to work on your muscle pain problem.  If I cant figure out whats going on or provide any relief within those 3 sessions, I'll let you know.  I'll either refer you to another healthcare professional who may be a better fit or refer you back to your primary care doctor for further examination.  That doesn't mean I'll kick you out of care if we don't get any results in 3 sessions, but sometimes massage/bodywork isn't the answer to your pain problems.  Just remember, if your self-care routine isn't helping you, why keep doing it?

For those going back to the gym:  Remember to stretch after your workout!  I see many injured clients near the end of January into February because they pushed themselves too hard and didn't consistently stretch after workouts.  These sports injuries deter many from going back to working out, so remember to stretch, and often!

Another piece of advise for 2017?  Research your healthcare providers.  I say this because it's already been 3 days into the new year and someone has already called asking if I do facials.  A little light reading on my website shows I do no such thing.  If you're reading this and never had a massage before, just know that every massage & therapist are different.  If you're looking for pain relief, I'm your guy.  Looking for a great relaxation massage?  Find someone who specializes in it.  Not all massage is equal.  Many of us spend hundreds of hours of education to provide the best results in each massage session.

In any case, I wish for all reading this a happy new year!  I enjoy educating the public about the health benefits of regular massage.  Have any questions on how massage can help you?  Shoot me an e-mail at shawnblmt@gmail.com or comment below and I'll try to get back to you as soon as possible.  Be safe in any new self-care routine you decide to pursue in 2017.  Take care!