The iliopsoas complex is one of the most influential deep muscle groups in the body, and in this episode of Science Behind Massage we explore how it shapes posture, movement, and contributes to lower-back pain.

For online massage courses : https://jointheflow.weebly.com/our-courses.htmlAmazon book series: https://amzn.to/4lalOGkLet's connect: https://www.instagram.com/flowathensJoin this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKwF_n9Vs-YtxEj5TRx7dwQ/joinI cover the psoas major, psoas minor, and iliacus, explain why iliopsoas muscle pain occurs so often, and show how the iliopsoas bursa and surrounding fascia can create tension that affects the lower back, hips, and pelvis. As the primary hip flexors, these muscles are essential for lifting the thigh, stabilizing the pelvis, and maintaining everyday movement.We also go over the difference between an effective iliopsoas stretch and situations where the muscle is already overstretched and needs strengthening instead. I address the popular “muscle of the soul” idea, explaining what’s myth and what anatomy actually supports.What you’ll get from this video:- A science-based understanding of the iliopsoas complex and its role in lower-back pain- Clear explanation of psoas major and psoas minor function in hip flexion- Insight into how the iliopsoas bursa and fascia contribute to discomfort in the lower back, hips, and pelvis- Practical guidance on iliopsoas muscle stretch techniques and when strengthening is better- Clarity on the “muscle of the soul” myth versus anatomical reality- Tips you can apply in massage, bodywork, or personal mobility routinesIf this episode helped you, please subscribe, hit the like button, and share with colleagues. CHAPTERS00:00 Meet the Iliopsoas complex01:11 Anatomy of the iliopsoas complex03:27 Function of the iliopsoas complex06:10 Comparison with scalene muscles07:12 Psoas and sitting09:04 Pathologies10:08 Psoas and Thai Massage10:53 Is psoas the muscle of the soul?12:59 More of me!

In this episode of the "Science Behind Massage" podcast, we look at hot stone massage and what actually makes hot stone therapy feel so calming and effective.Book an affordable massage class (includes certification): https://jointheflow.weebly.com/our-courses.htmlAmazon book on clinical Hot Stone Massage Therapy: https://amzn.to/4oUbUL1Let's connect: https://www.instagram.com/flowathensJoin this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKwF_n9Vs-YtxEj5TRx7dwQ/joinI explain how warm basalt stones influence muscle circulation, loosen protective tension, ease pain signals, and prepare the body for deeper hot stone massage techniques.

You’ll hear the practical, science-based reasons why heat makes the tissues more responsive and why so many people describe a sense of “melting” during a session.

This video is ideal for massage therapists, spa students, and anyone searching for clear information on hot stone massage benefits, heat therapy for muscles, and the science behind massage.

Perfect if you want straightforward, evidence-grounded education without fluff.

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CHAPTERS00:00 My own hot stone massage experience00:44 What is hot stone therapy?01:09 Which stones are used and what are they?03:12 History of hot stone massage04:08 A special personal memory from my hot stone massage courses04:30 How hot stone massage affects the muscles, fascia and the nervous system11:35 More of me

Can massage therapy really activate your vagus nerve and reset your nervous system? In this episode of The Science Behind Massage, I take you deep into the fascinating link between massage, Thai Bodywork, vagal tone, stress relief, and the body’s natural healing response.Book an affordable massage class (includes certification): https://jointheflow.weebly.com/our-courses.htmlAmazon book on clinical Thai Massage: https://amzn.to/47CkJTrLet's connect: https://www.instagram.com/flowathensJoin this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKwF_n9Vs-YtxEj5TRx7dwQ/joinThe vagus nerve, also known as the tenth cranial nerve (CN X), connects the brain, heart, lungs, and digestive organs. It’s the main pathway of the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for the “rest and digest” response. When this nerve is stimulated, it can lower heart rate, reduce inflammation, ease anxiety, and improve digestion—making it a key player in restoring balance to the body and mind.In this episode, you’ll learn:🧠 What the vagus nerve is and where it travels through the body💓 How it connects the brainstem to major organs like the heart, lungs, stomach, and intestines🌿 Why vagal tone is a marker of overall health and emotional regulation😮‍💨 How the vagus nerve affects stress, anxiety, asthma, digestion, and chronic pain💆‍♀️ How Thai massage techniques can help stimulate vagal activity and improve relaxation🫀 The science behind heart rate variability (HRV) and what it reveals about vagus nerve function🩺 How you can help your clients reset their nervous system through safe, intentional touchYou’ll also discover practical, evidence-based techniques for vagus nerve stimulation through massage:– Gentle neck and SCM work (where the vagus nerve runs close to the surface)– Circular massage behind the ears and along the jaw– Abdominal massage to support digestion and parasympathetic activation– Breathing methods, humming, cold-water exposure, and mindful movement to support vagal tone at homeUnderstanding how to work with the vagus nerve in massage therapy can transform your sessions. It’s not just about easing tight muscles — it’s about helping the body remember how to relax, recover, and heal. When you approach your clients with this knowledge, you’re influencing one of the body’s most powerful self-regulating systems.🎧 Listen now to learn how touch interacts with neuroscience and physiology, and why massage therapy for the vagus nerve is one of the most effective natural tools for restoring balance to the autonomic nervous system.If you’re a massage therapist, bodyworker, or wellness practitioner, this episode will expand your understanding of how the body’s electrical and emotional systems are intertwined — and how to support them through skillful touch.