IPSB School of Integrative Psycho-Structural Bodywork

We had a fantastic Prenatal Massage class this past weekend!

Did you know that IPSB is owned by a Birthworker? Sabrina has been a birth doula for nearly 30 years and teaches all of our prenatal classes.

Massage therapy is an excellent supplementary career path for birthworkers. Not only does massage therapy help you better support your clients during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, it also provides an excellent way to support yourself financially and let you create your own schedule around client births.

If you’re a birthworker wanting to add massage therapy to your work, email Anne at [email protected] for more info!

Another fantastic weekend of Communications: Resonance and Relations! A fan favorite here at IPSB, this transformative course emphasizes integrating verbal work with bodywork and exploring the energetic meaning of physical postures, movements, and responses. This course teaches practitioners to pace their clients, follow their journey where it needs to go, and integrate body-based healing with life healing. This is a profound addition to any bodywork practice, so we welcome licensed practitioners who need Continuing Education credits too!

Pictured above, students create plaster masks to help tell their own stories with the class.

DM us to learn more about our BodyMind-focused programs!

Our wonderful student Diana just received her Certificate of Completion from the IMBP program! Diana is a Doula who enrolled at IPSB so she can be the best support possible to her clients as they transition into parenthood. We’re so proud of you, Diana! We can’t wait to see all the wonderful things you do.

In an industry with a staggeringly high rate of burnout, IPSB’s body mechanics approach produces massage therapists who have decades-long careers without injury. Find out what makes us special - book a meeting with our admissions counselor today. Email [email protected] to get started.

🚨 New blog post 🚨

Meet Tony Poland, IPSB instructor specializing in sports and rehabilitation bodywork, focusing on myofascial trigger points. From scoliosis to the Olympics, his journey is as inspiring as his dedication to healing.

We couldn’t be more proud to call Tony one of our own! Our students have such an edge getting to learn from him 👨‍🏫

Cyndi and I met at IPSB School of Bodywork in early 2005 while I was finishing my 500-hour program and assisting classes. Despite multiple attempts, I couldn’t manage to speak with her until we took a Deep Tissue course together. I was struck by her humor, passion, and kindness. To my surprise, she asked me to assist her with an IPSB Foundations class, and we quickly formed a deep connection over lunch one day. By the end of the class, we were looking at our future together.

In 2008, after almost three years together, we were both IPSB employees and engaged, planning an October commitment ceremony. When Proposition 8 was overturned, legalizing same-sex marriage in California, our ceremony turned into a wedding right in an IPSB classroom.

In September 2023, after 16 years of marriage, we purchased the school that brought us together. Founded by a q***r individual in 1979, IPSB has been a safe space for LA’s LGBTQ+ community long before gay marriage was federally recognized. We work with the LA LGBT Center and are expanding our curriculum to be more inclusive in 2024 and 2025.

Loving and uplifting our LGBTQ+ community requires embracing intersectionality, anti-racism, and continuous learning. As an educational wellness institution, it’s vital to train the next generation to provide safe and affirming care. IPSB brought me the love of my life, as it has for many q***r couples. We’re proud to foster an environment of acceptance and celebration, committed to an equitable future.

-Sabrina Ortolano, IPSB Co-Owner

🌟 New Blog Post! 🌟

Meet Taliesin Laub, a versatile bodyworker, IPSB student, and talented multidisciplinary artist, in this week’s Stories Series!

Discover how Taliesin masterfully blends bodywork with artistic expression, creating a unique approach to healing and wellness. From childhood memories to profound life experiences, his journey is a testament to the power of healing touch and creativity.

Dive into Taliesin’s story and see how massage therapy can be the perfect complement to your passions.

🔗 Link in bio to read more!

Congrats to Kim (.tribe) and Elana () for completing their final Practicum classes, wrapping up their programs at IPSB! We’re so proud of you both, and cannot wait for all the amazing things you do. ✨

According to the
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for massage therapists is expected to grow by 26% by 2026. More people are seeking out bodywork (and rightfully so) as preventative and mitigative health care. Not only is this a positive turning point for the health of our community, it also gives massage therapy a great outlook as a viable, sustainable career option.

If you’re looking for a career that will last, come to our next in-person Information Session on June 27th to learn about your options!

Jun 27, 2024
6:45 PM – 8:30 PM PDT
IPSB, 3400 Airport Ave STE 25, Santa Monica, CA 90405

Register online at IPSB.com/events

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✨ New Blog Post Alert! ✨

We’re thrilled to introduce our latest Stories Series feature: “Beyond the Big Top: Bri Price’s Story of Embracing Massage as a Second Act.” 🌟

Meet Bri Price (.bash) a talented circus and performance artist who found their second passion in massage therapy. From the aerial studio to the massage table, Bri’s journey shows how bodywork can be the perfect complement to your artistic pursuits.

Go to IPSB.com/blog to read more about Bri’s inspiring story and learn how massage therapy can support your dreams, whether it’s your first love or your second act.

There are so many reasons to enter the bodywork profession- these are just a few!

✨Become your own boss. It’s important to know though that those who are self-employed are responsible for all their overhead, booking and scheduling, and client retention.

✨Create a flexible schedule.

✨Opportunities for travel.

✨Have a career in wellness that will keep you active.

✨Help improve the quality of life in others.

✨Demand for massage therapists is expected to grow 26% by 2026.

What was your biggest reason for becoming a massage therapist?

Become a Founding Member at with our exclusive annual wellness membership offer! Secure your spot today with a $150 deposit to lock in this special rate before May 31st. The remaining amount will be billed 90 days before our grand opening. During those 90 days, enjoy complimentary bodywork, movement, and stretch sessions before your 12-month membership officially begins. For all the details, visit IPSBwellness.com. Don’t miss out on shaping the future of wellness with us!

Some of you don't know yet that Cyndi and I are in the process of launching a wellness center to expand on the IPSB School of Integrative Psycho-Structural Bodywork we have been teaching at for decades and took over in September of last year.

The new building is in Marina del Rey and is everything we could possibly dream of. It will be able to house the school, a retail store, a bodywork clinic, yoga studio, pilates space and assisted stretching, eventually we will have a cold plunge, an infrared sauna and halotherapy. We will be offering services in a membership platform.

It's in a beautiful neighborhood and will be a long term home for our community. We can't wait to share it with you!

For the next couple of weeks we have a very special, limited time promo offer for our founding members. We are offering a discounted first year!

If you opt for the Annual Membership, it will be $1500 but you will get nearly $5,000 in services!!!

The monthly membership option is $155/month for the first year and gets you $375 of services a month.

To reserve your membership (there is a limited number available) you need to place a deposit on our website ASAP. Get more information on our new site:

www.ipsbwellness.com

MEMBERSHIP | IPSB Wellness

Attention New and Seasoned Massage and Bodywork Professionals! Would you like to learn the principles of an IPSB Massage?

For over 35 years the IPSB style of massage has helped therapists deliver a powerful, deeply moving sensory experience to clients while protecting the therapist’s body from stress, injury and burnout. CORE SKILLS overviews the principles of IPSB Massage through movement exploration, hands-on bodywork and exercises in personal sensory awareness. Students learn tai chi-based movements to integrate into their massage repertoire as well as a kinder, gentler approach to deeper circulatory work. Proper body mechanics, an introduction to tai chi, communication skills, professional boundaries, injury prevention and integration of body, mind and heart are emphasized.

🤲 IN PERSON (24 hours)
5/15/24-5/29/24
Wednesdays: 10am-7pm
Location: IPSB, Room 76

Register now at the “View All Our Classes & Links to Enroll” in the bio. For questions email [email protected] or call our office (310) 342-7130.

Honored to have our very own IPSB instructor, Tony Poland recognized as a running shoe expert in ! Here he shares insight on choosing the best shoe to correct form and prevent injury. Thanks to for the spotlight!

Tony is currently teaching Anatomy & Kinesiology to a full class with a wait list. Stay tuned for the fall schedule.

Tony will also be teaching Sports Massage and Stretching on Sundays Nov. 10-24, 2024, 9:30am-6:30pm. Enroll now to secure your seat!

Register now at the “View All Our Classes & Links to Enroll” in the bio. For questions email [email protected] or call our office (310) 342-7130.

🌟 Don’t miss out on our upcoming CPR and First Aid training specifically designed for massage therapists! Here’s why you should join us:

⛑️ Essential Training: Being trained in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and first aid equips you to handle medical emergencies that may arise during massage sessions. This includes critical situations like cardiac arrest, choking, or allergic reactions.

⛑️ Comprehensive Curriculum: Our class covers Adult CPR, standard First Aid, and AED (Automated External Defibrillator) instruction. You’ll learn how to respond effectively to life-threatening emergencies.

⛑️ Hands-On Learning: We emphasize practical skills through a blend of knowledge development, hands-on practice, and realistic scenario simulations. This approach builds your confidence in providing care during emergencies.

⛑️ Certification: Upon completion, you’ll receive a 2-year CPR certification, a valuable asset for your professional toolkit. This certification is typically a $100 value, but we’re offering it to you for just $88!

Email [email protected] or call 310-342-7130 and secure your spot now and ensure you’re prepared to handle emergencies with confidence and competence. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and prioritize client safety!

Check out the new blog post https://wix.to/YtAeEfW

Discover the Healing Power of Touch! 💆‍♀️✨ Recent scientific research confirms what massage therapists and bodyworkers have long understood: touch is essential for our well-being. 🌿 This comprehensive study dives deep into the benefits of touch interventions, from reducing anxiety and pain to enhancing mental health and growth. 🌟 Check out our latest blog post to learn more about the profound impact of touch on physical and mental health, and how massage therapists can leverage this knowledge to offer tailored and effective services.

The Healing Power of Touch: Physical and Mental Health Benefits Examined Recent research has delved deep into understanding the profound effects of touch, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic where social distancing has limited physical contact. This comprehensive evidence-based research shares with the public what massage therapists and bodyworkers alrea...

Check out IPSB's new blog post https://wix.to/QE5DMZB

Meet Alison Fisher, a massage therapist specializing in oncology and medically complex cases, and an IPSB alum!

Join us for Holding Space, an upcoming online class with Gary Strauss of the Life Energy Institute, that will transform the way you organize and tap into your life energy system. Discover practical techniques to harness the natural energy of the world for healing and optimizing your intentions across all areas of life. More than just a technique, Holding Space offers a powerful practice that empowers you to bring resources and strength to life’s energetic processes.

Learn how to optimize life-energy-based living, adding depth and dimension to your healing practices. This class seamlessly integrates the tools of holding space into the realm of distance or remote healing. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your well-being and expand your healing modalities.

Register now at the “View All Our Classes & Links to Enroll” in the bio. For questions email [email protected] or call our office (310) 342-7130.

🌟 Elevate Your Massage Experience with Griffin Table Covers! 🌟

Revitalize your massage table with these expertly crafted covers, designed to not only prolong its lifespan but also infuse it with vibrant colors that reflect your unique style.

Designed by a professional massage therapist, not only add a touch of personality to your portable massage table, but also allow you to use your table longer.

Made from 100% double-knit cotton, adorned with sturdy plastic buttons and elastic for a snug fit, each cover is crafted to ensure durability and comfort.

Perfect for Massage Therapists who have had a table long enough for it to show wear, and for Massage Students who buy used tables and would like to extend their use.

Priced at $74.99 each (sold in pairs to cover whole table).  Order yours today from ipsb.com/shop and experience the difference!

Have you completed Foundations? Are you ready to take your skills to the next level?

In Advanced Modalities, students move into mastering circulatory massage skills with advanced skills and techniques learned in this class.

Learn new massage concepts, deep strokes, and build confidence in your work. Your skills will move from technique to artistry and become more dynamic and fun to do!

There are a few seats available in the upcoming Advanced Modalities class that will meet Wednesdays, 6:30pm-10:30pm and Sundays, 9:30am-6:30pm from April 3 until May 5.

Register now at the “View All Our Classes & Links to Enroll” in the bio and secure your spot! For questions email [email protected] or call our office (310) 342-7130.

Our very own instructor, Tony Poland () was featured as an expert in POPSUGAR’s article “’Can You Use a Massage Gun on Your Neck?’ Experts Say No.” Huge thanks to the editor, for this fantastic piece. We’re so proud of Tony, grateful for this article, and so happy to that our students get to learn from the best of the best! Go to popsugar.com to read the full article.

Tony is currently teaching Anatomy & Kinesiology to a full class with a wait list. Stay tuned for the fall schedule.

Tony will also be teaching Sports Massage and Stretching on Sundays Nov. 10-24, 9:30am-6:30pm. Enroll now to secure your seat!

Register now at the “View All Our Classes & Links to Enroll” in the bio. For questions email [email protected] or call our office (310) 342-7130.

Check out our new blog post!

How Happy are Massage Therapists? Today, let's dive into a topic that's close to the heart – the happiness of massage therapists. Have you ever wondered what it's like to spend your days surrounded by soothing scents, calming music, and the magic touch of healing hands? Well, take a deep breath and exhale, because we're about to t...

We have a few more spaces available in this class that meets on Sunday! The only requirement is that you have taken Advanced Modalities.

This course, “Introduction to Prenatal Bodywork,” is designed for practitioners aiming to provide safe and informed bodywork for pregnant clients and those in side-lying positions. The primary focus lies in enhancing the therapist’s confidence through a comprehensive understanding of pregnancy anatomy/physiology, contraindications, and common issues and pathologies.

Participants will acquire skills in client positioning and specialized pregnancy massage techniques, including concepts related to deep tissue work.

Register now at the “View All Our Classes & Links to Enroll” in the bio. For questions email [email protected] or call our office (310) 342-7130.

Join us at Massage Makes Me Happy and Healthy Day - 💻 ONLINE

https://wix.to/DZgtbev



IPSB is a proud ambassador for "Massage Makes Me Happy and Healthy Day," a Global Wellness Institute Initiative. Sabrina and Cyndi Ortolano are hosting an online discussion on March 20 at 7pm for the IPSB Community on the benefits of massage therapy, self-care massage tips, and current trends in the field from an IPSB perspective. Follow the link to register.