11/03/2026
Welcome to 😀 Today, I'm talking toolboxes.
Wait, what?? 🤔
Let's take a slightly different approach and think about the different types of massage as being like toolboxes.
Each toolbox contains a whole bunch of different tools. Some of the tools are the same in both toolboxes, and some are different. One toolbox might contain more tools than the other.
The tools can be literal tools (like hot stones or myofascial cups), or they can be techniques (like myofascial release, Muscle Energy Technique, or deep tissue massage) or even modalities (such as remedial hot stones, Indian Head Massage, or pregnancy massage).
Basically, the "tools" in the "toolbox" can refer to anything a therapist might use during the course of a treatment to help you achieve your treatment goals 🙂
Some of the things in the relaxation massage toolbox might include hot stone massage, facials and body scrubs, crystal massage, or gentler, more flowing styles.
Some of the things in a remedial massage toolbox might include orthopedic testing, deep tissue massage, passive or assisted stretching, and a range of pressures with targeted spot-work.
I have both relaxation and remedial massage toolboxes to draw from during a treatment (plus a few standalone toolboxes that are they own specific modalities!), and it's not unusual to find me reaching into multiple toolboxes during a treatment. So long as a tool, technique, or modality is appropriate for the client and any relevant discussions have taken place, then there's no real reason why the toolboxes need to remain separate. This is what I like to refer to as "fusion bodywork" 😀
I won't be going for a job at Mitre10 anytime soon 😂 so it's best to come see me in clinic - less talking about toolboxes, and more doing massage! 😃
