Shadow & Trees Massage Therapy

When we do chair massage gigs, we often find ourselves stationed in some of the interesting of quarters. Enter the music room at Catalyst Academy in NB for a little teacher appreciation. Thankful for these opportunities. Give the teachers in your lives a little extra love this week.

Didn’t get what you really wanted for Valentine’s Day? 💔

No worries — be your own best Valentine.

Treat yourself to the relaxation you’ve been craving at Shadow & Trees Massage Therapy. You deserve the rest, the reset, and the R&R.
➡️Visit our site: www.shadowandtrees.com
✨ Take 15% off one gift certificate over $145
✨ Use code: SELFLOVE15
✨ Today only

Because self-care isn’t selfish — it’s necessary.

Saddened to learn of the passing of one of my greatest teachers, John Barnes.

John began as a physical therapist, but he became so much more than that, leaving an indelible mark on the world of myofascial release (MFR). Many consider him the grandfather of MFR, and it’s easy to see why.

In 2011, I took a ten-day training with him and was introduced to this style of bodywork and to John’s unique approach, including myofascial unwinding. To this day, no single training (and no single practitioner) has influenced my hands-on work as a massage therapist more than John.

He was deeply passionate about the work and had an incredibly wry sense of humor. I used to joke he was a hybrid of the knowledge and wisdom of physician Andrew Weil with the rebellious streak of Sons of Anarchy. This photo was taken at the end of that 2011 training, and while I can’t say John is the reason I started growing a beard, he was definitely rocking a pretty impressive one himself.

What I’ll always remember most is how he could marry the mechanical and scientific side of bodywork with genuine sensitivity and intuition. I can still hear him whenever I catch myself drifting into “channel 5” (thinking) and remember to drop into “channel 3” (intuition).

John had a deep connection to the American southwest, and I regret that I never took advantage of visiting and training independently with him in Sedona, though I wager that his energy will be felt in the red rocks and the winds will whisper about hand placement and when to "ease up" or "hold."

John was a teacher of teachers. I’m grateful his work will continue to be carried forward by the many practitioners and instructors he impacted. Godspeed, John.

Still searching for a meaningful holiday gift?

A massage isn’t just a luxury—it’s relief, restoration, and genuine care wrapped into one thoughtful experience.

🎄 Holiday gift cards from Shadow & Trees Massage Therapy are available now

Easy online purchase

No expiration

Always appreciated

This is a gift that supports stress relief, pain management, and true relaxation—long after the holidays are over.

👉 Purchase gift cards here: https://shadowtreesmassagetherapy.clinicsense.com/gift/

Happy Black Friday, everyone! 🍂

As promised, here’s your one-day-only Black Friday special from Shadow & Trees Massage Therapy.

Today only, you can take 20% off any gift certificate $100 or more using the promo code BF2025. This special can be used for massage therapy or Active Isolated Stretching, and it’s the perfect gift for anyone who needs relief, rest, or a little recovery after a long year.

This offer is limited to one or two gift cards per person and ends tonight.

How to redeem:

Click the link below to purchase your gift certificate

Enter BF2025 at checkout where it says "add promo code."

Email the gift certificate to someone you love or print it at home for gifting

Thank you so much for supporting a small, local business — it means more than you know.
Wishing you all a warm, restful holiday weekend. 🍁✨

Grateful for the work, grateful for the people. May your day be filled with those who love and appreciate you.
Happy Thanksgiving from Shadow & Trees Massage Therapy 🧡🍂

As we head into Thanksgiving week, I’ve been reflecting on how grateful I am for every person who walks through my door — whether for deep tissue work, Active Isolated Stretching, Mind Clearing, or simply a quiet hour to reset and reconnect with themselves.

And with the holidays approaching, I wanted to share something special with you a little early.

This Black Friday — for one day only — I’ll be offering
✨ 20% off any gift certificate of $100 or more ✨
(valid for massage therapy or Active Isolated Stretching, limited to 1–2 gift cards per person).

If you’ve been wanting to give someone the gift of pain relief, restoration, or simply a moment of peace… or if you’d like to treat yourself to some well-deserved care… this will be the perfect opportunity.

I also want to mention — warmly and transparently — that my rates will be changing in 2026 to better reflect the years of experience, training, and modalities I’ve added to my practice.

That means this Black Friday is a rare chance to lock in sessions at the current (“old”) rate, plus enjoy a significant holiday discount on top.

I’ll be sending out the special Black Friday code on Friday morning, so be sure to keep an eye on your inbox or this page.

Thank you, truly, for supporting a small local practice and for trusting me with your care. I can’t wait to share this offer with you.
🖤🍂
— Matt
Shadow & Trees Massage Therapy

Yours truly at my first lymphatic drainage workshop. Can’t wait to bring it back to the office.

Looks like I’m doing a dance in one of these pics. Maybe I am, and maybe I’m helping clear out inflammation. Stay tuned! :) 💆‍♂️🙆‍♂️🤲

Hey, Hartford! 🌇
Big shoutout to everyone running tomorrow, especially my clients here at Shadow & Trees Massage Therapy. Whether you’re tackling the 5K, the half, or the full 26.2, congrats to each and every one of you. You’ve put in the work — now it’s time to enjoy the day. 👟

The weather’s looking ideal for running, so get a good night’s rest, lace up, and keep it steady out there.

As always, I’m here for any body — before the race and especially after — to help you recover and feel your best.

Best of luck, and I’ll see you at the finish line! 🏁🌿 And, don’t forget to smile when you pass under the 📸.

Stuck on what to get Dad? 🎁
Give him the gift of real relaxation this Father’s Day with a massage gift card from Shadow & Trees Massage Therapy.

Now through Sunday, get 10% off all single-session gift cards with code DADLOVE10 🧔💆‍♂️

Instant email delivery = zero stress, all appreciation.

Whether he’s a weekend warrior, a gym regular, or just deserves a break—this one’s for him.

📅 Offer ends Monday morning (June 17)
🔗 Link in bio to grab your gift card!