AIM In Practice

On this episode of AIM In Practice, we get to hear from Pamela, a massage therapist and business owner. Pamela shares her insights on what makes a practitioner successful, including the importance of lived life experience and genuine care for clients. She also discusses the impacts of overworking and finding a management style that works for both the practitioner and their clients. Pamela talks about her personal experience of overcoming a severe brain injury and how it inspired her to slow down and delegate responsibilities. She emphasizes the importance of small business owners working both in and on their business and shares her thoughts on the lack of business knowledge in the wellness industry. Join us as we engage with Pamela in discussions on the challenges of managing a massage therapy business and how Pamela's experiences will help guide listeners in their own wellness ventures.

Laurann is a voice and dialect coach with a passion for empowering individuals with the skills to communicate effectively. She began her journey studying massage therapy, fascinated by the ability to release tension and help others find calm. After a serious car accident, Laruann added yoga to her recovery journey and discovered the connection between breath, movement, and calmness. This led her to the Canadian National Voice Intensive, where she discovered her calling and went on to complete a bachelor's degree in theater studies and a master's in voice studies. Laruann worked in London for over a decade, teaching voice to actors, dancers, business executives, and individuals looking to improve their English pronunciation. Today, she continues to use her expertise to help people communicate with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

In this episode of AIM In Practice, host Jess welcomes massage therapist Todd Strong as they delve into the world of massage therapy and hypnotherapy. Todd shares their expertise in paying attention to clients' micro reactions during massages and checking in with them about pressure. They discuss the importance of being present and tuned into clients' cues through breathing and body language. Todd also shares their journey from nursing to welding before finding their passion in massage therapy and exploring hypnotherapy. With remarkable results in combining the two, they contemplate the possibility of a simultaneous approach. Join them as they share their experiences and insights in creating a unique and personalized experience for clients.

Learn more about Todd:https://www.linkedin.com/in/calgaryhypnotherapyandmassage/

https://www.facebook.com/CalgaryHypnotherapyandMassage

https://www.instagram.com/calgaryhypnotherapyandmassage/

CalgaryHypnotherapyandMassage.com

In today's episode, I'm switching things up a bit with a solo discussion about my insights on the wellness industry, with a particular emphasis on the massage therapy segment. It's my belief that a fundamental shift has occurred in the massage therapy industry—moving away from promoting relaxation to a more problem-solving approach, a transition I find quite unfortunate. I'm eager to know if this topic resonates with you. Please, share your thoughts in the comments.

Mike Stone is a former athlete who pursued a degree in kinesiology. He found his passion for research while writing his undergraduate thesis, which initially started as an attempt to explore an interesting topic while studying. Mike was not content with mere biographical research on athletes such as Bobby Orr and Wayne Gretzky, so he decided to take things further. He wanted to explore and gain in-depth knowledge on a particular subject. Despite the initial difficulties in the research process, Mike persevered and ended up falling in love with the whole process. Today, Mike leads a fulfilling career in research and is well-respected in his field.

On this episode of AIM In Practice, host Jess chats with Debbie Shearer about topics ranging from subscription-based wellness programs to transitioning from massage therapy to the insurance industry. Join in as they discuss the importance of value in their business, and the pillars that make up a great massage experience. They also share insight on self-development and the challenges of building relationships in the wellness industry. Plus, they dive into some must-read books that have helped shape their success, like "The Alchemist" and "The Go-Giver." Don't miss out on these key takeaways that can help elevate your personal or professional life.

On this episode of AIM In Practice, host Jess interviews Michelle Mattern, a massage therapist and yoga instructor. Michelle shares her insights on everything from preparing for a massage to expanding her knowledge of the body. She emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable space for clients and being centered and in tune with their bodies during the massage. Michelle also discusses her journey towards spirituality through yoga and Buddhism, and the challenge of finding the right language and teacher. Listeners can take away key tips for creating a peaceful environment during a massage, and expanding their knowledge of alternative health practices. Tune in to this episode to hear Michelle's inspiring story of finding spirituality through healing practices.

https://www.instagram.com/kungfuyoginiom/

linkedin.com/in/michelle-mattern-ab74013b

https://www.youtube.com/@michellemattern2151

Brian Cook is a massage therapist and educator who was raised in a family of musicians but rebelled against following in their footsteps. He pursued a degree in special education and started a program combining art and music for students with disabilities. However, at age 27, he had something of a midlife crisis and decided to explore a new career. After receiving a massage gift certificate and experiencing the power of touch, he enrolled in massage school and began studying various modalities, including polarity, Feldenkrais Method, and acupressure meridian massage. Through massage, Brian not only found a new career but also a way to satisfy his hunger for physical touch. Though he was once painfully shy, massage school brought him out of his shell and taught him the power of connecting with people.

On this episode of AIM In Practice, we learn about the challenges of running a massage clinic that specializes in lymphatic drainage therapy. The clinic owner shares their passion for creating a positive environment for both employees and customers that emphasizes hope over financial success. They discuss the importance of educating the public about the benefits of lymphatic drainage therapy and the challenges of balancing multiple responsibilities while maintaining costs. Additionally, the episode explores the importance of personalizing therapy sessions to suit clients' needs and the value of continuing education for massage therapists. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on the business of massage therapy and the impact it can have on patients' lives.

On this episode of AIM In Practice, our host sits down with a movement coach and wellness entrepreneur to explore a new approach to fitness and physical activity. The guest suggests that rather than focusing on traditional exercise routines, trainers and coaches should help clients find ways to incorporate movement into their everyday lives. They discuss the importance of listening to clients, finding movement that is enjoyable, and changing the association of exercise from intimidating to enjoyable. They also delve into related topics like mental health, community, and the importance of small steps and progress. Our guest shares her personal journey to founding Boundless, a mobile and virtual wellness coaching program, and offers insights into what it means to be a coach and entrepreneur. The episode is filled with practical tips and inspiring stories about how movement and mindfulness can lead to improved mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

IG: @movewithyourlife

Website: www.movewithyourlife.com

On this episode of AIM In Practice, we take a trip to a dome lined with aluminum to learn about disconnection from external stimuli and reconnecting with ourselves. We also talk about the importance of taking care of one's body, authentically connecting with oneself and nature, and the benefits of being self-sufficient. Our guest, a reiki master and massage therapist, shares their passion for healing and believes that true wellness involves rewilding and eating healthy food. We also learn about the challenges and power dynamics of massage therapy, and our guest emphasizes the need for open-mindedness and continual education in the field. Finally, we get a glimpse into farm life and what it means to be self-sufficient, scare oneself sometimes, and experience the peace and power that comes from being connected with nature.

On this episode of AIM In Practice, our focus is on Mindful Meditation Massage, a unique combination of mindfulness, meditation, and massage. We explore the concept of treating the whole person, both physically and mentally, to provide effective therapy. Geri, a massage therapist, shares her journey from considering massage therapy as a means of making money to finding her passion in creating a safe and nurturing environment for clients. The importance of soft skills like intuition and bedside manner, along with technical knowledge, is discussed. Mindful meditation and massages are explored as effective tools for treating not just localized problems but the whole person. We learn how our mental state can impact our physical tension, and sometimes mindfulness can help ease deep tissue work with less resistance. Our guest speaker shares her technique of playing meditations for clients before they get on the table to help them relax and let go. Finally, we delve into how interconnected we are, both in the body and in humanity as a whole.

Geri is a Registered Massage Therapist with a Bachelors in Physical Education from U of C along with experience as a University athlete. She studied Nursing for 2 years before deciding to move into more preventative, instead of reactive, health care (Massage Therapy). Over the past 28 years as an RMT, she has discovered a number of modalities that have supported her career longevity. These include yoga teacher training in Critical Alignment, Cupping (this began this with flame cupping around 26 years ago before progressing to the immensely more effective silicone cups that she uses today) and Yoga Nidra Meditation. After becoming efficient at these techniques, she created courses to help share this knowledge with other therapist as a sort of legacy to the occupation. She has taught Dynamic cupping, Self-Care and Mindful Meditation Massage to many eager therapists over the years.

In this episode of AIM In Practice, I speak with Erin Tayle. She shares her unique approach to healing through the use of sound and Chinese medicine. We discuss her personal journey towards understanding the importance of authentic connection with the self and the transformative power of accessing the subconscious mind. The episode covers topics such as planetary tuning forks, the eight extraordinary vessels in Chinese medicine, and the importance of listening with pure presence. Erin emphasizes the importance of inner transformation before creating outer change, and shares her approach to helping clients achieve inner coherence and unlock aspects of their soul. Finally, Erin recounts their unusual journey to becoming a holistic practitioner, including a lifelong quest for meaning and purpose.

Erin began her journey into health and healing 28 years ago at the University of Calgary. It was during her degree that she had the great fortune to receive an in depth study of human anatomy and physiology and received a BSC in Kinesiology. In her studies, she was mesmerized by the intelligence of the human body and mind, and how the entire system was coordinated together like a giant symphony. Her curiosity about this intelligence led her to study Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture in Calgary, Canada. It was here that she learned the name of this intelligence that was coordinating all the biological rhythms- Qi or Life Force energy. In her years working with the meridian system and Qi, she was able to understand that she was working with vibration. This is where she found her way to the Acutonics program. Erin became a certified Acutonics teacher in 2013. Her curiosity did not stop there. She had devoted her life's work into understanding a more esoteric meridian system, the 8 Extraordinary Vessels. Erin could see and feel that these 8 vessels behave very differently from the 12 main meridians. To get a better understanding of her experience with the 8 Extraordinary Vessels, she enrolled at the Quantum University PhD program in Integrative Medicine. It was here that she was able to better understand the strange behavior of these vessels and develop a quantum lens to deepen her experience with the 8 Extraordinary Vessels. Presently Erin resides in Calgary, Canada. She has a part-time clinical practice and teaches part-time at the Calgary College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture. Beginning with her studies of the physical body to the quantum field of the 8 Extraordinary Vessels, Erin has deepened her understanding of the multidimensionality of the human bio-spiritual-ecological system. She has made it her life's work to point people in the direction of their Soul and the remembrance of their multidimensional nature.

Rachel graduated from MaKami College in Calgary, AB in 2018. She has worked in a multidisciplinary clinic and a yoga studio, and is currently operating a blended clinic and mobile massage service. She has completed her Rapid-NFR Specialist training and uses Myofascial meridians, Rapid, Acupressure, and Swedish massage techniques in unique combinations to treat chronic and acute pain conditions. Her passion for weightlifting and yoga has informed a functional approach to assessment and treatment.

Kay is a practicing TCM acupuncturist on the South Shore of Nova Scotia. Having graduated in the spring of 2019, building a new business over the past few years hasn't been without it's challenges. Yet, through it all, with a lot of learning and adjustments, she has landed in a place where her practice is focused on that which thrills her. The combination of TCM, shamanic practices and energy healing work makes each session uniquely transformative and something to learn from. Kay's goal is to make a space for each patient where they are relaxed, feel nurtured, and to ultimately reclaim trust in their own body's innate power to heal.

Dryden is a Saskatoon-based massage therapist who believes in real client-therapist communication using assessment-based massage therapy to find the root cause of dysfunctional pain.  

Dryden is the owner La Pae massage, and in this conversation, we discuss how to successfully incorporate assessment into a massage therapy practice, what to do if you suspect a serious injury, and how to make yourself on social media.  

Social Media Links: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@drydenbenoitrmt 

https://www.instagram.com/dryden.benoit.rmt/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dryden-a-benoit-90bb421a7/ 

https://www.facebook.com/LaPaeMassage 

https://www.youtube.com/@UCZGCigqckXYzItdP4N3bx3A 

https://twitter.com/BenoitDryden

Teaching numerous subjects of massage therapy at various locations in Calgary, Jason specializes in orthopaedic massage and assessment. He has a Diploma in Osteopathic Manual Practice, as well as Massage Therapy, and is most passionate about natural foot health pertaining to minimalist footwear.

In this episode, we discuss foot and ankle Health, the 4S's, the pillars of Health, the Elements of Health, and the importance of teaching the general public about Foot and Ankle Health.

You can follow along with Jason on Instagram and YouTube.

https://instagram.com/jasonag123?utm_medium=copy_link

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTZgeqeifn7abTulwGaXn9g

Here are the links to some of the books we discussed:

Born to Run - https://amzn.to/3m4Coy9
Natural Born Heros -  https://amzn.to/3kmtVWt
You are the Placebo -  https://amzn.to/3XY8f0o

Here is a list of Jason's recommended footwear companies:

Vivobarefoot

https://www.vivobarefoot.com/ca/

Freet

https://freetbarefoot.com/ 

Vibram

https://ca.vibram.com/

Wildings

https://www.wildling.shoes/en 

Xero Shoes

https://xeroshoes.com

Softstar shoes

https://www.softstarshoes.com 

Belanka

https://www.belenka.com/barefoot/

Leguano

https://leguanoshoes.com

Groundies 

https://www.groundies.com/start/ 

Lems (thicker sole, more transition to minimalist shoe)

https://www.lemsshoes.com

Altra (thicker sole, more transition to minimalist shoe)

https://www.altrarunning.com

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Kait Veilleux.    

Dr. Kait is a Registered Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture with an undergrad in Health Science who is passionate about gut health, stress management and female health! This medicine is near and dear to her heart, as it has helped her tremendously with her own gut health over the years. In fact, it’s truly the reason she is so passionate about the combination of herbal medicine and acupuncture as an alternative method of treatment!  Part of her goal is to empower and support her clients to embrace their healing journey with guidance and tools that will help them to flourish.   To follow along with Dr. Kait, check out her Instagram. 

https://www.instagram.com/your.yyc.acupuncturist/

Former TCMD Eric Stretch has an interesting story.  Unlike most of the other practitioners I talk with, he is no longer practicing because he recently left the world of integrative medicine to pursue his passion in a totally unrelated industry - tech.  

Eric worked as a TCMD and acupuncturist for over 8 years, until he sat down and had a hard conversation with himself.  he realized that his heart was not in it.  This was not ideal for his patients, his family, and certainly not for himself. 

Eric did something that take tremendous courage and pursued his passion. 

The reason I wanted to speak with Eric is that I think it is important for all of us to remember, that as we go through our lives, things change and one of those things might be our love for what we do.  Maybe you don't have to leave integrative medicine completely, but maybe you do.  But perhaps you, or someone you know, need to hear that it is okay if this is not your thing!