Folding Towels - A Podcast for Massage Therapists with Jackie and David Episode 111: David Lobenstine - Falling in Love with Massage (Again and Again)
Oct 7, 2025
David Lobenstine, a massage therapist, educator, and writer, shares his journey from publishing to massage while emphasizing sustainable techniques. He discusses how Tai Chi principles have transformed his practice, advocating a 'pour, don’t push' approach for longevity. David dives into the importance of the body–brain–breath connection, highlighting practical tools to regain presence and joy in massage. He also reflects on the ongoing journey of falling in love with massage and the mutual nourishment that comes from a balanced therapist-client relationship.
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Tai Chi Rewired His Technique
- Tai Chi practice reshaped David's entire massage approach by teaching weight, breath, and body mechanics.
- He uses whole-body movement so the hands become an expression of coordinated body weight, avoiding muscular overwork.
Crippling First-Day Back Pain
- David Lobenstine described his first day at a fancy wellness center where he developed sudden mid-back pain during a massage.
- That moment taught him to cultivate detachment and focus on being present in the session instead of over-anticipating.
Vermont Move And Biweekly NYC Commute
- During the pandemic David moved to Vermont and created a household pod while his New York practice closed for 15 months.
- He later commuted every other week to NYC for three clinic days, packing many clients into long workdays.
