03/09/2026
Stingray Massage – March Newsletter
Hello Stingray Family!
March is here and that means sports seasons are ramping up, the weather is warming up, and many of us are starting to move a little more after winter. Whether you’re lifting, running, golfing, playing spring sports, or just trying to keep up with everyday life, this is the time of year where hips and lower backs start talking back to us.
Thank you all so much for continuing to support my small business and trusting me with your care. I truly appreciate every single one of you.
Muscle of the Month: Iliopsoas
This month we’re focusing on a muscle group that causes more issues than people realize: the iliopsoas.
The iliopsoas is actually made up of two muscles:
• Psoas Major
• Iliacus
Together they connect your lower spine and pelvis to your femur and act as your primary hip flexor.
This muscle group helps you:
• lift your knees
• walk and run
• stabilize your spine
• move from sitting to standing
• brace during lifting movements
Because so many of us sit for long periods (work, driving, school, etc.), the iliopsoas often becomes tight and overworked.
Signs Your Iliopsoas May Be Tight
• Front hip tightness
• Lower back discomfort
• Hip pinching during squats or deadlifts
• Difficulty fully extending your hips
• Pain lifting the knee
• Feeling like your hips never “open up”
Athletes, runners, lifters, and anyone who sits a lot are especially prone to these issues.
Stretches to Help Your Hip Flexors
Here are a few simple stretches you can try at home.
Half Kneeling Hip Flexor Stretch
Kneel on one knee
Other foot in front like a lunge
Slightly tuck your pelvis
Gently shift hips forward
You should feel the stretch in the front of the hip of the kneeling leg.
Hold 30 seconds each side.
Couch Stretch
This one is intense but very effective.
Place one knee near a wall or couch
Rest your shin and foot up the wall/couch
Step your other foot forward
Keep torso upright
Hold 20–30 seconds.
Active Hip Flexor Mobility
Strength through range is just as important as stretching.
Try slow controlled knee raises:
• Lift knee to hip height
• Lower slowly
• Repeat 8–10 reps per side
This helps the muscle move better instead of staying tight.
Studio Updates
I’m excited to share a few things that are coming soon at Stingray Massage!
• Massage Memberships / Subscriptions will be rolling out soon for clients who like to stay on a regular maintenance schedule. This will make it easier and more affordable to stay consistent with your care.
• I’ll also be introducing Normatec Compression Therapy memberships for 30-minute recovery sessions. These are amazing for athletes, runners, lifters, and anyone dealing with leg fatigue or soreness.
• As the business continues to grow, I’ll also be hiring a second part-time front desk team member ( in addition to the lovely Kyra ) to help keep everything running smoothly during busy hours.
I’m really excited about these additions because they will help improve the overall experience and allow me to continue providing the best care possible.
More details on these updates will be coming soon!
Limited Availability Reminder
My schedule has been filling up quickly, especially in the evenings and around sports seasons. If you’ve been thinking about booking a session, I encourage you to schedule ahead so you can get the time that works best for you.
You can book online anytime, and if you ever need help finding a spot in the schedule, feel free to reach out!
A Little Personal Note
Spring sports are keeping our household busy, and I’m loving seeing so many young athletes pushing themselves and improving. Watching my clients (and kids!) grow stronger each season is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
Thank you all again for supporting Stingray Massage and allowing me to do what I love.
Looking forward to seeing you soon!
Aly
Stingray Massage
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