What if solving your financial pain felt as soothing as a deep tissue massage?
On the latest episode of The Tax Answer Advisor, Marcelino Dodge welcomes Courtney Cullen, owner of Hippy Hands Massage LLC, for a refreshingly honest conversation about the unexpected overlap between overcoming tax anxiety and the healing power of massage.
If you’ve ever lain awake at night fretting about unfiled tax returns, a surprise bill from the IRS, or the stress of unscrupulous business partners, you’ll know these financial “knots” show up not just in your bank statements—but in your body. Marcelino, a seasoned tax professional, compares his work to Courtney’s: unraveling the layers of problems, just like peeling back an onion. Courtney describes the gradual, gentle approach she takes with chronic muscle tension and explains how, in both massage and tax relief, healing is a process, not an overnight fix.
What makes this episode such a gem is its relatability. Both Marcelino and Courtney emphasize that no one expects you to know everything—whether about your taxes or about your body. Instead, their roles are rooted in education, communication, and compassionate guidance. Courtney points out that stress isn’t just emotional—it will literally settle into your muscles, exacerbating pain and tension. Similarly, Marcelino reveals how shame and embarrassment can keep people from seeking help with their taxes, prolonging both financial and emotional suffering.
The big takeaway? Proactive self-care matters. Regular communication with professionals—whether for massage or tax advice—can prevent crises, foster healing, and offer much-needed peace of mind. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember: you don’t have to untangle these knots alone. Reach out, start peeling those layers, and take control of your financial (and physical) health—one step at a time.
**Listen to the full episode for more insights on transforming anxiety into confidence on both the massage table and the tax desk!**
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