Online SOBI Sponsored Study Groups

The Society of Ortho-Bionomy International sponsors monthly Online Study Groups. They are primarily in a conference call format and are taught by various Registered Ortho-Bionomy Instructors via Zoom.

Our Study Groups cover a variety of topics and also count towards the study group requirements in the Practitioner and Advanced Practitioner Training Programs.

The receipt received upon registration will have a link to download the handout, any preview materials and the Zoom link. Be sure you have these materials available before you login to the study group.

There is a limit to class size, so be sure to register early.

After a group finishes, all attendees will be emailed an evaluation form for that session. To receive study group credit attendees must attend the class live, keep their cameras on during the study group, and complete and submit the evaluation form within two weeks.

Recordings of select past study groups are also available in the SOBI Bookstore.

The study groups are a full three hours, with no credit given for homework time.

Out of respect for the instructor and the other students, please be on time for the study group.

Anterior Neck, Hyoid, and Trachea

with SOBI Registered Associate Advanced Instructor Melissa Malm

September 17, 2026

6 PM Eastern, 5 PM Central, 4 PM Mountain, 3 PM Pacific, 12 PM Hawaii (US and Canada)

Three hours--Online through Zoom

SOBI member $55; non-member $75

Do you want to expand your comfort in working with the anterior neck? This study group explores the anatomy of and techniques for the hyoid and trachea. The hyoid bone is an essential element to swallowing, anchors multiple muscles in the region of the mouth and throat, and is the only bone not to have an articulation with any other bone in the body. Making sounds, coughing, breathing, moving the tongue, and the larynx are all tied in with the function of the hyoid bone. Working with the trachea can help with the breath, speaking, singing, and expressing oneself. The gentleness of Ortho-Bionomy can allow your client to feel safe when you work with this important area of the body.

No practice partner is needed for this study group. We will be looking at anatomy as well as palpating and practicing on ourselves. I will also demonstrate techniques that you can practice with a partner after the study group, once you get the recording from SOBI.

About Melissa

Melissa Malm has been practicing massage since 1997 and studying Ortho-Bionomy since 2007. She is a Registered Associate Advanced Instructor and loves to share her knowledge of this incredible bodywork, both in person and online. Melissa lives in Southern Oregon with her family and two dogs.

Upcoming 2026 SOBI Study Groups
October 15 Sara Sunstein Chapman's Reflexes Self-care	November 19 Jessica Mark Ethics—From the Inside Out
December 17 Rouel Cazanjian Phase 7

Past Study Groups

Did you miss a previous study group? Recordings of select past study groups are available in the SOBI Bookstore. Take advantage of these excellent resources to deepen your understanding and practice of Ortho-Bionomy. The two newest available recordings include:

A Structural Approach to Plantar Fasciitis
with Instructor Rob Rich

Plantar fasciitis is often treated as a foot problem, but what if the source of the pattern lies elsewhere? In this study group, you'll explore a whole-body Ortho-Bionomy approach to plantar fasciitis, focusing on identifying and addressing the underlying drivers rather than chasing symptoms. Through anatomy review, assessment strategies, and demonstration videos of key techniques, you'll learn how restrictions in the lumbar spine, pelvis, and lower leg can influence weight distribution and contribute to ongoing foot pain. This study group includes demonstrations of practical techniques to evaluate these relationships and support more lasting change for your clients.

Understanding the Fascia of the Neck
with Advanced Instructor Sheri Covey

Understanding the fascia of the cervical spine is crucial for expanding your therapeutic tools in treating whiplashand neck trauma. This study group will delve into the intricate layers of the neck, providing insights into the deep and superficial fascia. By gaining a deeper understanding of these layers, you’ll forge a stronger connection with other aspects of fascia that significantly impact neck health. This connection can enhance your Ortho-Bionomy sessions and broaden your work with clients.