Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/72312
'ROUND THE TABLE 'Round the Table is a chance for you to offer insights and reflections on a particular topic relating to the field. We'll provide the topic, then we'd like you to give us your expert opinions. Below, you'll also notice topics for upcoming issues in 2008, as well as the deadlines for submission and the corresponding publication dates. You may respond to any of the topics below at any time. Know, however, that we will not publish these responses until the allotted publication date. Please e-mail your submissions (250 words or less) to darren@abmp.com with the subject line 'Round the Table. Submission does not guarantee inclusion. Also, due to space constraints, we may edit your material to a suitable length. My biggest concern is the lack of leadership in the massage profession in helping to define the profession. Since massage is defined so differently by each state, educating the public as to what we do and the value of massage is a struggle. Your recent member survey that says that 62 percent of respondents have never received a massage because they didn't perceive a value to massage or feel it is necessary is alarming and also a good motivation for us to work to clearly define ourselves and the value of massage. Our lack of a clear definition for ourselves is now showing up clearly in the medical massage debate, with insurance companies in Washington now defining it for us. JULIE ONOFRIO REDMOND/SEATTLE, WASHINGTON UPCOMING TOPICS DEADLINE What has been your most challenging moment as a bodyworker? How has partnering with other professionals paid off (or not)? What is your best marketing tool? What makes your practice unique? What is the best professional advice you've received? My current concern for this industry is the big business coming in—i.e., Massage Envy franchises. While I agree that business is the "American way," I am feeling like the LMTs/CMTs who go to work there are traitors to the industry. $39 massages! Ridiculous. How can a small business owner compete with that. I don't know much about the health/ disability benefits available; however, undercutting the "competition," as we were told in school, is bad business. In my community, it's not unheard of for LMTs to discuss fee schedules. Most of us will increase our rates to match the others or offer discount packages or specials. This allows us to have cohesiveness and fair trade. This is exactly the reason that I try and shop locally owned businesses in my town. I'd truly rather pay a bit more than allow these places to be gobbled up and lost forever. WILLOW MUHR NEWBERG, OREGON Feb 15 PUBLICATION DATE May/June 2008 April 15 July/Aug 2008 June 15 Aug 15 Oct 15 Sept/Oct 2008 Nov/Dec 2008 Jan/Feb 2009 With the high cost of health insurance and the number of individuals without it, I see more people turning to massage and bodywork for their health needs. Both massage and bodywork can be fairly inexpensive ways to help individuals manage and alleviate their health concerns. The one main concern I have is the high number of massage schools out there, turning out subpar therapists. Potential clients may have a difficult time finding qualified practitioners, especially in states where massage is not regulated, like here in Colorado. SUSAN CLINGMAN AURORA, COLORADO 26 massage & bodywork january/february 2008