Episode 37: When Words Escape Us - Rethinking Consent, Boundaries, and Connection in Dementia Massage with Nicolle Mitchell - Sustainable Bodyworker Podcast

If you’ve ever wondered how to show up for clients when you’re scraping the bottom of your own energy barrel, this episode’s going to hit home. Nicolle Mitchell opens up about what actually shifts the quality of care for people living with dementia—not just fancy hands-on techniques, but the real, relational groundwork: slowing down, truly attuning, and making consent a living, breathing part of every interaction.  The biggest takeaway? Sustainable, nervous system-aligned practice isn’t about doing more, it’s about carving out genuine space for connection, boundaries, and curiosity. And honestly, that’s what lets you stay present without burning out (even if the work gets heavy). This episode is full of real tools and permission to check in with yourself, not just your clients—so you can keep showing up, in a way that actually feels good. Click here to explore more of Nicolle’s work!  ----more---- If you’re a massage therapist who wants your practice to feel sustainable again, the Sustainable Bodyworker Membership is where we go deeper. Inside you’ll find practical tools, honest conversations, and support for building a practice that actually works for your body and your life. Click here to learn more and join us. ----more---- Affiliate Links:  We’re careful about what we share here. Everything in this section is something we personally use and come back to again and again — tools that support our own bodies, nervous systems, and day-to-day work. Bon Charge: Use code SUSTAINABLE for 15% off! Swanwick Glasses: Use code GRETCHENPOPP for 10% off! InHarmony Meditation Mats: Use code NEURO5 for 5% off! Global Cupping: Use code NEURO for 20% off your first order! We are so grateful for your support of the Sustainable Bodyworker Podcast and would love to hear how we can better support you! Click here to give us your feedback on the show.  If you’ve got a story, skill, or insight you think would help other bodyworkers, we’d love to hear from you — click here to apply to be a guest on the Sustainable Bodyworker Podcast. The ideas and techniques shared by our guests on the Sustainable Bodyworker Podcast are their own unique perspectives and don’t necessarily reflect those of Gretchen Popp or the Sustainable Bodyworker team or community as a whole. Click HERE for your FREE Mindset Shift hypnotherapy session with Gretchen!