Making Self-Care

Chelsea DeSouza-Nenno

This podcast is for massage therapists — and for those serious about understanding stress and wellness. Hosted by Chelsea DeSouza, Licensed Massage Therapist, certified holistic health coach, and naturopathy-trained practitioner, the show offers real conversations about burnout, business, ethics, regulation, stress physiology, and sustainable self-care — elevating both the profession and the people it serves.

  1. EP 42: Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage for Menopause

    30 juni

    EP 42: Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage for Menopause

    In this episode, Chelsea DeSouza hosts Billy Bossa of BossaMassages and Wellness to discuss the benefits of lymphatic drainage, especially for women experiencing menopause. They explore different modalities, the importance of education in alternative health, and the evolving role of massage therapy in healthcare. Main Topics: How lymphatic massage can support hormone health and menopause symptomsThe significance of light touch and correct terminology in lymphatic therapyNavigating the commercial landscape: weight loss claims and industry regulationThe basics and misconceptions of lymphatic massageHow lymphatic therapy aids in detoxification and fluid balance during menopauseDifferences between various lymphatic techniques including Brazilian and tools like fascia blastChallenges faced by massage therapists in medical integration and regulationStrategies to differentiate and niche in the competitive wellness industryBilly Bossa - Bossa Massages and WellnessInstagramFacebookIn this episode:00:00 - Introduction to lymphatic health and massage in menopause00:20 - Challenges in accessing traditional care due to politics and insurance01:00 - Why clients seek lymphatic therapy and how it supports hormonal health02:05 - Billy's perspective on client-centered treatment and industry misconceptions03:19 - The relationship between massage therapy and conventional medicine04:15 - The scope of practice and collaboration with medical professionals05:20 - Impact of hormone changes on fluid retention and inflammation06:25 - Educating clients on menopause symptoms and treatments07:47 - Differences between manual lymphatic massage and other tools09:12 - The importance of light, slow, and precise lymphatic techniques11:33 - Addressing the misconceptions about detoxification and fluid movement12:52 - The rise of weight loss and aesthetics claims in lymphatic therapy15:06 - The role of red light therapy and other advanced modalities16:53 - Benefits of lymphatic massage for general health, not just menopause17:50 - The societal perception of massage and the importance of branding20:06 - The revenue potential and front-line technology in wellness clinics21:54 - The significance of core strengthening and body composition tools23:23 - Modern tools like endosphere for lymphatic and fascia work24:39 - The importance of client education and informed consent26:33 - The power of niche marketing and personal branding in massage therapy27:47 - Overcoming industry competitiveness and building professional camaraderie29:36 - The impact of regulation and the future of massage therapy as healthcare31:10 - The importance of community, continuous learning, and professional growth34:16 - Expanding treatment offerings with multiple modalities and specialties36:53 - The importance of in-tune client care versus generic treatments39:31 - The need for results-driven therapy versus superficial treatments43:55 - Challenges with insurance and regulation in the US and beyond47:21 - The vital role of massage in reducing reliance on medication50:54 - Ancient therapies and the roots of holistic healing practices54:05 - Navigating licensing, testing, and professional standards across states56:37 - The cultural evolution of massage from "massuse" to healthcare provider58:36 - The call to keep accessible, effective therapies available to clients60:09 - Final thoughts and encouragement for therapists to niche down and unite Resources & Links: Connect with Billy: www.bossamassages.com Free Massage Oil with Hafen Beauty - https://www.instagram.com/p/DZF1G19mjws/?img_index=1

    52 min
  2. 20 maj

    EP39: Who the heck is regulating Massage…. A theory.

    Episode Summary In this episode of Making Self-Care, host Chelsea Nenno explores the growing tension between massage therapists, local government regulations, and the rise of alternative healthcare. She shares concerns about city ordinances — particularly those affecting solo massage practitioners — that may unintentionally limit public access to massage therapy and make it harder for independent therapists to operate safely and sustainably. Chelsea discusses ordinances such as restrictions on accepting cash payments and requirements to keep clinic doors unlocked during business hours, arguing that while they may be presented as “public safety” measures, they can create safety and financial concerns for solo practitioners. She also reflects on the increasing visibility of illicit businesses posing as massage establishments and questions whether deeper financial or political motivations may be influencing regulation within the profession. The conversation expands into broader themes surrounding the healthcare industry, including: ​The rise of alternative and cash-pay healthcare services​Growing public dissatisfaction with conventional medical systems​Increased interest in functional medicine and holistic wellness​The financial pressures massage therapists face when dealing with insurance companies​Concerns about overregulation and who truly shapes massage legislationChelsea also predicts that massage therapy will continue to increase in value as public demand for personalized, preventive, and stress-relieving care grows. She emphasizes the importance of protecting massage therapists from burnout while ensuring the public continues to have access to high-quality care outside of traditional medical systems. The episode closes with a call for massage therapists to become more aware of local politics, ordinances, and advocacy efforts that directly affect their profession. Key Talking Points: ​Why some massage ordinances may negatively impact solo practitioners​The debate around cashless payment systems in wellness businesses​Safety concerns around unlocked clinics​The rise of alternative healthcare since 2020​Why many experienced massage therapists avoid insurance billing​Functional medicine’s growing popularity​Concerns about government overreach and overregulation​The future value of massage therapy in preventative healthcare​Why therapists may need to become more politically involvedSponsor - Hafen Beauty Todays Episode Sponsor: Hafen Beauty Hafen Beauty is a natural skincare line created specifically with massage therapists and wellness-minded clients in mind. The products are handcrafted using organic, nutrient-dense ingredients sourced with intention — including rendered tallow from ranches in Washington. Designed to support both practitioner and client wellness, Hafen Beauty products are free from unnecessary preservatives, chemicals, and filler ingredients. These oils and skincare products are used daily inside Chelsea’s massage practice and shipped nationwide. Special Offer: ​Subscribe and receive 20% off​Follow Hafen Beauty on Instagram​DM the word “TRIAL” on Instagram to receive a week’s worth of skincare samples to try in your massage practice ​Hafen Beauty Website​Hafen Beauty Instagram​The Hafen Way on Substack​“Making Self-Care” LMT Support Group on Facebook​Upcoming conversations on massage therapy regulations, advocacy, and continuing education opportunities

    25 min
  3. 24 mars

    EP38: Setting boundaries as Massage Therapist and facing conflict head on.

    What does it actually mean to be well as a massage therapist, and why does it matter more than anything else in your practice? In this episode of Making Self-Care, Chelsea DeSouza dives into the reality that when you’re well, you excel. She shares a powerful perspective shift from her own practice, how prioritizing therapist wellness transformed her business, and why avoiding confrontation may be the very thing holding you back from sustainable success. This conversation walks through the first and most important step in protecting your wellness: learning how to set boundaries and face conflict head-on. From schedule changes to client conversations, Chelsea breaks down what it really looks like to prioritize your needs without burning out or trying to please everyone. If you’ve been feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed, or disconnected from your work, this episode will challenge you to ask one simple question: what do I need, and am I willing to protect it? Sponsor Spotlight: Hafen Beauty Skincare This episode is sponsored by Hafen Beauty, a non-toxic skincare line made with minimal, purposeful ingredients. Featuring grass-fed, grass-finished tallow and organic oils, Hafen Beauty products are designed to support healthy, resilient skin. Everything is small batch, refill-friendly, and created for those who value simplicity and sustainability. Chelsea uses these products in her home, on her son, and in her massage practice. Shop nationwide at www.hafenbeauty.com and subscribe via email for 20% off your first order. LMT looking for organic oils for your practice? Get a free trial here: https://hafenbeauty.com/pages/hafen-for-lmts Join the conversation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1KyyPD48t4/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chelseacdesouza

    16 min
  4. 17 mars

    EP37: The Therapist Must Be Well First: A Message for Massage Therapists

    In this episode of Making Self-Care, Chelsea DeSouza-Nenno speaks directly to massage therapists about something that often gets overlooked in a profession built around caring for others: the health of the therapist. Drawing from her experience running a thriving clinic with multiple therapists, Chelsea reflects on what she learned about protecting the well-being of the practitioners themselves. When therapists are supported, respected, and healthy, the quality of care given to clients naturally improves. Chelsea also explores the different seasons of a massage therapist’s career. She speaks to seasoned therapists who have carried the profession forward for decades, intermediate therapists who may be questioning the next chapter of their career, and new therapists who are just entering the profession full of excitement and possibility. Throughout the episode she returns to a simple principle that has guided her work for years: when you are well, you excel. Massage therapists carry the emotional and physical needs of many people every week. This episode is a reminder that caring for yourself is not selfish. It is essential for sustaining a meaningful and impactful career. Chelsea also shares encouragement for therapists who feel burnt out, uncertain, or overwhelmed, reminding them that their presence, their hands, and their bedside manner still matter deeply in today’s world. If you are a massage therapist, or someone who cares deeply about the profession, this conversation is for you. LINKS: Today’s Sponsor: Hafen Beauty This episode is sponsored by Hafen Beauty, my intentional skincare company designed for people who care about what they put on their bodies. Hafen Beauty uses natural ingredients like cold-pressed grapeseed oil and locally sourced Washington tallow to support hydrated, balanced skin in every season. These are the same products I use daily and in my massage practice. In a world where hormones are imbalanced and ingredient lists are getting longer and harder to understand, simple and nourishing skincare matters. Visit www.hafenbeauty.com and subscribe to the email list to receive 20% off your first order. Massage therapists can also find a special link in the episode notes for Hafen massage oils made specifically for bodywork practices. Want the juicy details of Mistakes made by a Massage Therapist? You can do that at 52 Mistakes of a Massage Therapist on Substack. This is my 10th year being a licensed massage therapists and I’m giving it all away.

    32 min
  5. 10 mars

    EP36: Massage Therapy in the News and the Fascial System: Why Fascia Changes Everything

    Massage therapy has been in the headlines again, and unfortunately not always for the right reasons. In this episode of Making Self Care, I start by unpacking some of the latest news stories involving massage, from Prince Andrew’s alleged taxpayer-funded massage appointments to the Deshaun Watson lawsuits that brought national attention to misconduct within massage settings. These situations continue to reinforce harmful stereotypes about our profession, and as a licensed massage therapist and advocate for the field, I share my perspective on why these narratives matter and what they mean for therapists who work hard to uphold professionalism and ethical care. I also highlight some positive policy news, including efforts to establish statewide massage licensure in Minnesota, which is an important step toward strengthening massage therapy’s role in healthcare. After the news, we shift into one of my favorite topics in bodywork: fascia. I explain why I believe massage therapists are often working with the fascial system more than muscles themselves, and why this connective tissue network plays such a powerful role in movement, tension, and healing. I break down what fascia is, how it functions as a living communication system throughout the body, and why fascial-focused work can produce such profound changes for clients. I also share a recent treatment experience in my practice that reminded me just how incredible fascial work can be and why it continues to fascinate me after years of practicing massage. Today’s Sponsor: Hafen Beauty This episode is sponsored by Hafen Beauty, my intentional skincare company designed for people who care about what they put on their bodies. Hafen Beauty uses natural ingredients like cold-pressed grapeseed oil and locally sourced Washington tallow to support hydrated, balanced skin in every season. These are the same products I use daily and in my massage practice. In a world where hormones are imbalanced and ingredient lists are getting longer and harder to understand, simple and nourishing skincare matters. Visit www.hafenbeauty.com and subscribe to the email list to receive 20% off your first order. Massage therapists can also find a special link in the episode notes for Hafen massage oils made specifically for bodywork practices. Want the juicy details of Mistakes made by a Massage Therapist? You can do that at 52 Mistakes of a Massage Therapist on Substack. This is my 10th year being a licensed massage therapists and I’m giving it all away.

    38 min

Om

This podcast is for massage therapists — and for those serious about understanding stress and wellness. Hosted by Chelsea DeSouza, Licensed Massage Therapist, certified holistic health coach, and naturopathy-trained practitioner, the show offers real conversations about burnout, business, ethics, regulation, stress physiology, and sustainable self-care — elevating both the profession and the people it serves.