Massage therapists have the tools clients need, and human touch is the outlet for our anxiety, loneliness, and depression. Erik takes us through valuable research, then guides us on how to down-regulate the stress response. From what to look for when clients enter your practice; to making them feel comfortable; to your communication, eye contact, and first strokes, Erik lets us in to his insights garnered over many years of bodywork practice. Learn about the Ida Rolf blanket tuck and the 50/70 rule.   Sponsor:   This episode sponsored by Anatomy Trains   Guest:   Erik is the executive director of the Freedom from Pain Institute. Educated in massage, osteopathy, and Rolfing, he has maintained a practice in Oklahoma City for more than three decades. Erik is also a columnist for Massage & Bodywork magazine. You can find his work each issue in the Myoskeletal Alignment Techniques column. For more information, visit erikdalton.com     For more information:   “Rethinking the Body’s Stress Response,” Erik Dalton, PhD, Massage & Bodywork magazine, September/October 2020, page 88.