Mind Body Institute of Michigan

10/06/2025

The leaves are changing. So that means fall clean up is just around the corner. This always leads to many clients coming in with new aches and discomforts.
One of the most common is Low Back issues from raking and bending and lifting.

Massage for Lower Back Pain
Massage therapy can be an effective treatment for lower back pain. It helps to:
Reduce muscle tension and spasms:
Massage techniques like kneading, stroking, and deep tissue massage can help to release tight muscles and alleviate pain.
Improve blood circulation:
Massage stimulates blood flow to the lower back, which can bring oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and reduce inflammation.
Promote relaxation:
Massage can induce a state of calm and relaxation, which can help to reduce pain perception.
Release trigger points: Trigger points are tight knots of muscle tissue that can cause pain. Massage therapists can identify and release trigger points to relieve pain.
Types of Massage for Lower Back Pain:
Swedish massage: A gentle massage that uses long, stroking movements to relax muscles.
Deep tissue massage: A more intense massage that targets deeper layers of muscle tissue.
Trigger point massage: A massage that focuses on releasing trigger points.
Other Considerations:
Duration: Each massage session should last for about 30-60 minutes.
Posture: It is important to maintain good posture after massage to prevent pain from returning.
Home care: In addition to massage, home care measures such as stretching, strengthening exercises, and heat therapy can also help to relieve lower back pain.
Disclaimer:
This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Jim Baker at ManisteeMassageTherapy.com

10/02/2025

About MBI and the owner.
With over 30 years of experience in massage therapy education, spa operations, and business development, I specialize in helping professionals and organizations establish licensed massage
schools and open new spa and wellness locations as well as elevate established business through strategic consulting.
As the former owner and operator of Mind Body Institute (MBI) in Traverse City, Michigan, I trained over 300 students and developed a comprehensive curriculum grounded in clinical excellence, holistic care, and real-world business skills. Today, I work with new and existing schools to guide them through licensing, curriculum development, instructor training, and marketing strategy. My consulting includes access to MBI’s proven curriculum and teaching tools, as well as Train-the-Trainer programs to ensure instructional quality and consistency.

In addition to education, I consult with existing spas, wellness centers, and hospitality-based facilities looking to expand or rebrand.
My work includes:
- Developing unique, signature services tailored to client demographics
- Brand positioning and refreshes to stay competitive in evolving markets
- Staff training with a focus on concierge-style servicing and elevated customer experiences
- Creating operational strategies that align with business goals and market demands.

I bring decades of experience as a spa director, therapist, and consultant across premium resorts and casino properties, where I’ve led openings, service innovation, and team development.
🔹 Core Expertise:
• Launching Licensed Massage Schools
• Spa & Wellness Business Consulting
• Curriculum Development & Licensing Support
• Concierge Service Training & Staff Development
• Unique Service & Treatment Design
• Branding & Marketing Strategy
• Online Asset Creation & Digital Presence
• B2B & Community Relationship Building
If you're building a new massage therapy program or want to establish or expand your wellness
business with expert support and practical strategy—I’d love to connect and collaborate.
📩 Let’s talk about how I can help bring your vision to life

10/02/2025

Sinus Pressure Relief

This can be a shorter session of either 15 or 30 minutes. There by not taking up too much of your day and also reduce your cost.

Massage for more targeted purpose. (Focused Functionl Change)
These can be a shorter session of either 15 or 30 minutes. There by not taking up too much of your day and also reduce your cost. I can also incorporate them into a full body 60 minute session

Massage is much more than a good back rub. At its basic level massage helps people relax and moves fluids and softens dense tissues. This can help with overall circulation and range of motion, and of course relive discomfort.

However there is a more targeted approach, you can apply massage in smaller areas, rather than the whole body. We will look at Focusing our efforts for a more targeted effect. I will post a series of conditions that Focused Functional Change can address and the relief and benefits they can provide.

This time of year I see a lot of allergy and sinus infection situations that can exhibit as sinus pressure and or headaches.

Focusing my work on the compounding factors of congestion, muscle tension and soft tissue density, in the Shoulders, Neck, Cranium and Face, I can help move fluids, relax and soften restrictions, thereby providing relief of discomfort and freedom of movement providing extended relief.

Many of my clients over the years remarked upon the finish of their massage that their headache was gone or greatly lessened. Some have said their sinus’s had drained and they felt so relaxed they are going to take a nap. Most reported back at their next visit they slept longer and more soundly.

You can find many sources online about massage and sinus relief and headache relief. Do some investigation and if you think it’s right for you, set up an appointment for a massage with your favorite Massage Therapist.

Having said all this, it time for the disclaimer:
Sinus massage may provide relief for individuals, but it is not a cure for sinus infections or allergies. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Jim Baker
I work in the Briney Bulding downtown Manistee offering
Focused Functional Change.

06/16/2025

A Great opportunity Scotlynn is a top graduate of mine. I highly recommend this

👐 LOOKING TO HIRING: MASSAGE THERAPIST 👐
Join a Therapeutic Massage Practice in Petoskey, Michigan

⸻

🌿 Are you a licensed massage therapist with a healing touch and a firm hand? Or interested in finding that different yet perfect technique?
We’re looking for a passionate, skilled therapist to join our established, client-focused team in beautiful Petoskey, MI!

📌 Positions Available:
✅ Part-Time
✅ Full-Time
(Flexible scheduling!)

⸻

🧘‍♂️ About Our Practice:
We specialize in therapeutic massage—helping clients manage pain, reduce stress, and restore movement. Our team is supportive, professional, and dedicated to wellness.

⸻

🔎 We’re Looking For Someone Who Is:
✔ Licensed in the State of Michigan
✔ Skilled in deep tissue & therapeutic techniques
✔ Reliable, professional, and team-oriented
✔ Passionate about improving others’ well-being

⸻

✨ What We Offer:
• Competitive pay (based on experience)
• Steady flow of loyal clients
• Advanced Technique Implementing
• Positive, peaceful work environment
• Growth & continuing education support

⸻

📍 Location: Petoskey, MI – a scenic, welcoming town perfect for work-life balance.

📧 To Apply:
Send your resume and a short introduction to:
[[email protected]]

⸻

Come grow your practice with us. Let’s help people heal—together.
We look forward to meeting you!

05/01/2025

This is worth checking into for your practice.

02/03/2025

Another MBI graduate doing great!

Hello! My name is Therese, owner of Sleepy Bear Massage LLC. I am a traveling, licensed massage therapist in Leelanau County, Michigan. Don’t feel like heading back into traffic after a relaxing massage? No problem! I can pack up my massage table and leave you completely ready to take a nap in the comfort of your own home. No need to brave cold winter roads or the crowded summer traffic.

I have a passion for helping people. I am schooled in energy healing, so even if you prefer a hands-off approach, I can help bring a sense of peace to your spirit as well. I also appreciate helping people with end-of-life comfort care and have an extensive background with the elderly and hospice patients. Feel free to contact me with any questions or to book an appointment, and I would be happy to help you. New clients can enjoy a first-time customer discount of $20 off any service. Just mention this in your conversation with me. A new permanent location and website are coming soon.

https://sleepybearmassagellc.amtamembers.com/