A favorite phrase of massage therapists is “it depends.” That phrase definitely applies to this question. Yes, in some cases, massage with a customized treatment plan can improve posture. In other cases, such as congenital scoliosis, an individual treatment plan may not improve posture, but can assist in decreasing the pain often associated with that condition.

Let's add on to the back stretches from last month. You can begin with the cat-cow and psoas stretches from last month's blog post for a full spinal stretch or complete the stretch below by itself. This is a quick and easy stretch can help relieve back pain and improve posture.

Let’s change it up this month! We have been focusing on long and gentle stretches, so let’s add some movement to our stretch. Below are a couple of stretches that aim to warm the spine and release the lower back.

I’d like to share a self-massage technique that focuses on reducing muscular stress in the pectorals and breaking up adhesions in the chest. This can help to decrease tension and pain in the arms, neck, and upper back. It is ideal for those with desk jobs or people who participate in activities where the shoulders are constantly pulled forward. Truly, most people can benefit from this massage technique.

Life experiences and circumstances led to me to this career. As a young child, my amazing stepmother taught me massage techniques that helped relieve her scoliosis pain. My college education in dance gave me a strong knowledge of anatomy and movement, as well as artistry. I have continued learning about bodies and motion in a more tangible way through my marathon participation and years as a professional modern dancer.

Long walks in this beautiful weather have provided me the opportunity to decompress, a good dose of vitamin D, and lots of fresh air! But my legs... they are tired and need some attention. Here’s one of the stretches that I’ve been doing. It helps release the hamstrings and can also relieve low back pain.

This stretch simultaneously addresses so many parts of your body. Many people have shortened psoases due to long periods of sitting at a desk or driving. And the side body is often neglected is daily stretching. Seriously, this stretch rocks!

If you're like me, you might try to do everything at 100% all the time. Over the years, I have pushed myself in unproductive and harmful ways. I have tried to run 5 miles after a year long running hiatus, I have tried to take an ashtanga yoga class after years of no yoga, and I have tried to take an advanced ballet class after a decade of not dancing. Needless to say, none of that went well. It's taken me a while to learn that going full force isn't always the best. This philosophy can apply to stretching as well.

With the recent stresses of the coronavirus, working from home, and managing virtual school, many clients have come to me because of tension in their upper backs and necks. This simple 2-minute stretch helps to open the chest and front of the neck, which allows the upper back muscles to release.

I schedule massages for myself for a dual purpose - to reduce stress and to relieve pain. My clients schedule massages for a variety of reasons. Some people receive a massage to decrease their stress while others add a massage therapist to their therapeutic care team to address chronic concerns. Learn some of the most popular reasons that clients receive massages.