Archive for April, 2008
Is Science Intuitive?
30 April 2008Ok so I just got done reading a student blog from Cortiva. I must say this student has her work cut out for her, so does her teacher I guess any teacher for that matter. Lets see what is at the very core of scientific foundation… Hummm Should we say Energy??? Nah…
What is kinetic or Atomic Alex? Do we see the force that pulls us downward, was that theory laughed at and scorned as well, how was it proven and how long did it take? (The Scientific Method) Does Chinese Medicine play an intricate part in Americas Health System? Yes it sure does. Why do Physicians recommend Acupuncture for pain management or as an alternative to some contradictive medications? Let me think, is it because we have Scientists doing their jobs in trying to figure out how this Hokus Pokus actually works? Does NY have a hospital where Acupuncture students intern?
Well I am off my soapbox for now, but come on really do some reading. Western Medicine has contributed much and definitely has earned its place in Medicine as a whole but we must remember it is a New Science with many kinks to work out, its not all knowing.
Client Privacy
29 April 2008I am big, on client privacy and Id just have to point out that sometimes you can be violating it without really realizing it.
We have an “L” shaped desk in our office and the computer screen is in the corner of it. I was booking one of my regulars after their massage and we were trying to figure out the best time and they looked at the screen to see what times I had available, so I pointed out this time and this time. We booked her appointment and away they went.
La, de, da.. do, do, do I went about my business of printing paper work and filling out the SOAP chart, when the Acupuncturist I rent the room from very kindly pointed out that I had breached our clients privacy and that it was a big no, no.
I was horrified, of course he was right. I have been working for over a year and a half and never let anyone see the screen before, but it wasn’t forefront in my mind as to why I didn’t. I am sure my client wasn’t looking for any other purpose other then to find there spot, but I will mention this and I know they will be fine with not looking at the screen for open times again.
So in conclusion may I remind you all, keep your schedule and paperwork privet for practitioners eyes only. Here is my blunder that I give to you for your knowledge and growth. Enjoy benefiting from others mistakes, this is a gift use it wisely, for I will never do this again.
Massage Therapist Title
28 April 2008Yes it is very important to educate the masses, the longer I am an LMP the more I see how imperative it is to make sure everyone old and young knows the difference between a Professional Massage Therapist and a Masseur.
So spread the word and keep up the great work, we will over come the bad stigma that is being unfairly placed upon us as a profession.
The Power of Peppermint Oil
24 April 2008I found this little article to be very informative, check it out.
Massage Envy Affects
23 April 2008So we have had a Massage Envy franchise for a year now in Vancouver. I have asked many people to clue me in on their experiences. Many say they have had great massages their but that the MT is not their for more then a month so they have to settle for a Relaxation Massages most of the time.
When I mentioned that the MT’s are employees and only get $15 for each Massage they can understand why the good therapists don’t stay. I have also come to the conclusion that many spas in my area really only do relaxation massage. People have told me they asked for Deep Tissue and are given a Relaxation Massage instead.
So I was asked lately why I didn’t work in a spa, I say to this question. I would love to work in a spa, but I would rather own the whole thing so I have a say about what type of Massage is done or rent a room from a spa so I am in charge of the flow, but to rent a room is just unheard of from a spa. Until that day comes I might as well check into Seaweed wraps, footbaths and facials for my clients in my rented space.
Pilot NCETMB In Spanish
22 April 2008If you live in Texas and will be attending the AMTA Texas Chapter meeting on South Padra Island. You could register to take the National Exam in Spanish for Free. Check it out.
Massage Equipment Tip
21 April 2008If you have an electrical heating pad for your table and you struggle with keeping it on, you might want to read this quick tip. Mat placements at the dollar store, that’s right those little do-da’s that help keep your rugs in place. My fellow MT at work came up with this ingenious idea. Her fitted top sheet she did have over the heating pad kept stretching out so she toyed with this idea and ran two long strips of grips and it works awesome.
You got any other tips you have come up with, don’t hesitate to share them.
Federal Rebate Later This Year
15 April 2008If you haven’t done your taxes, I think you might want to get them done before today. The rebate for this year will not come if you don’t have your taxes done today. Just something I learned and wanted to pass on.
I am sure you can’t tell what’s on my mind.
When To Save For Paying Taxes
14 April 2008I know I have mentioned Taxes a ton lately, but I am learning as I go along and want others to be better prepared from what I have gone through. I really thought that I wouldn’t have to pay taxes because I always get a big rebate for being the head of house and a mother. Last year I think was the last of me getting rebates. I only had three months of Massage business. This year it was a full year of being a sole proprietor that made a difference, now I must pay.
I have learned two things. 1) It is very beneficial to have a savings account with 20% of your income to pay for taxes. 2) Buying equipment or having business expenses to off set the business taxes is very necessary.
Yes, I would recommend having a business account separate from personal. Always put your purchases on your credit card so you have clear statements and keep your receipts to attach to them. Pay off your business credit card every month, if you can’t afford it wait until you can.
I have never checked into a business loan, but that might be a great way to go as well, I don’t know. What’s some other important input I am missing? Let Me Know.
Massage Business Write-Offs
12 April 2008So I started checking into what else can be a business write-off and this is the list I found. Just keep your receipts.
Rent
Utilities
Home Office expenses
Mileage (If you travel to client)
Professional Association Fees (even tax prep)
Health Insurance
Continuing Ed
Laundry or Purchase of New Sheets and Supplies
Advertising
Magazine subscriptions and Business Books
Business Travel
Let me know of any others to add to the list.