Would you have thought that in just one year, you could fit in 15 professional training courses as you embark on a new path—all while building a completely new massage practice from a background in software development? Exactly one year ago, on October 23, 2025, I enrolled in my first Swedish massage course. At the time, I had no idea where that decision would lead me.
From Curiosity to My First Massage Course
When I think back to the beginning, it always makes me smile. I didn’t set out with the firm resolve that „from now on, I’m going to make a living as a massage therapist.” I was simply driven by curiosity.
As a software developer, I previously focused mainly on developing embedded devices, but I’ve always been fascinated by biology and how the human body works. Ever since my advanced biology classes in high school and my studies in agriculture, I’ve harbored a desire to understand more deeply: why we experience pain, why musculoskeletal complaints are so common, and how I could make a meaningful difference in my own community.
A fantastic, supportive group came together for the first course. And the instructors’ feedback was clear: if I didn’t put this knowledge into practice right away, I’d lose it. That gave me my first real push. I didn’t want to get stuck at the level where I just knew the moves. I wanted to take it further.
The First Guests: The Early Days at Kálvin Square
I was looking for an opportunity to practice one or two days a week in a downtown setting. I deliberately sought out a supportive environment, and that’s how I met Sandra. Eventually, the salon on Kálvin Square became the venue where I launched my first Swedish massage, lymphatic drainage, and reflexology foot massage sessions.
It was here that I gained my first invaluable experiences: I learned how to interact directly with guests, became familiar with a wide variety of requests and complaints, and got a taste of the day-to-day realities of running a business.
Developer Mindset, Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship
In the summer of 2025, when I left my previous job, I originally had an idea for an app in mind. But as I talked to more and more people, I realized something important: it doesn’t matter if I have a good idea in my head if I don’t yet have a precise understanding of market needs and the marketing knowledge necessary for sales.
I've decided to set a smaller but more realistic goal: I'm going to learn about marketing and get my basics in order.
Alongside my massage training, I also completed a ten-month intensive training program at MentorKlub. Through one or two full days of training per week, as well as supplementary courses, I learned the basics of online content creation, pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, strategic planning, and the legal and tax aspects of running a business.
Coming from the world of embedded device development, the worlds of content creation and influencer marketing were quite foreign to me, but step by step, I learned how to build my own online presence.
Eight square meters in Zugló: How NeoVitál Came to Be
Kálvin Square was a great start, but over time I began to miss having complete independence and flexibility. I wanted a space that I could shape according to my own vision, and where I could welcome visitors on my own schedule.
That’s how I discovered the Pillangó Health Center—almost by chance—during a visceral therapy session. The location hadn’t even been advertised, but I jumped at the opportunity right away.
Starting in June 2026, as the proud tenant of a small, eight-square-meter room, I began to set up a treatment room tailored to my own taste. I bought my first massage table, as well as furniture and accessories.
That’s when I decided to look for a name that evokes renewal, expertise, and vitality, and that also captures the essence of my massages: from gentle, relaxing treatments to more intense sports massages. After several weeks of thinking and searching, the new name was finally born: NeoVitál.
This Is How I Ended Up with My Own Therapist
Some of my incredibly enthusiastic regulars even joined me on the trip from Kálvin Square to Zugló. To this day, I am immeasurably grateful for their unwavering trust!
One year, 15 vocational training programs: What’s the story behind the number?
Many people ask me during massages, „Tibor, exactly how many training courses have you completed?” When I counted them up the other day, I was surprised myself: over the past twelve months, I’ve completed 15 professional courses and exams.
My goal wasn't just to collect certificates. Behind every single module was the desire not only to work using well-practiced techniques, but also to gain a deeper understanding of anatomy, movement, and the individual needs of my clients.
Basics and Relaxation
Swedish Massage I, II—with passive stretching—and III, focusing on specific areas; lava stone massage; wellness techniques, including honey, chocolate, salt, and exfoliation treatments, as well as mud wraps; reflexology foot massage and cellulite massage.
These form the basis for the Swedish massage and the wellness massage as well as personalized events.
Targeted Recovery and Physical Support
Sports massage, cupping, as well as kinesiology taping and sports taping. The sports massage I always adjust the intensity and supplementary techniques to suit the specific situation and your comfort level.
Knowledge of Circulatory and Lymphatic Massage
Advanced lymphatic massage and drainage at MediCenter and the Feövenyessy Academy. The manual lymphatic massage In every case, this is preceded by prior consultation.
Professional Expertise and a Musculoskeletal Approach
Musculoskeletal anatomy and pathophysiology; EMMT (Equipment-Assisted Myofascial Mobilization Therapy); and a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment, including postural analysis, observation of movement patterns, and muscle testing.
When you lie down on the NeoVitál massage table, you can feel the knowledge and expertise I’ve been continuously building up—it’s what underpins my work. It’s just as important to me to recognize my own professional limitations and, if necessary, recommend that you consult an appropriate healthcare professional.
Learning Continues
My studio in Zugló is now almost complete. After completing a few shorter courses, I’ve now embarked on a longer, more in-depth professional training program, so I look forward to sharing new anatomical and professional knowledge with you week after week.
My goal remains the same: to create a calm environment based on safety and professional expertise, where you can take time for yourself, let go of daily stress, and work on relieving your muscle tension with a personalized massage.
Thank you for being a part of my journey
Thank you to everyone who has placed their trust in me even just once over the past year. And thank you also to those I haven’t mentioned by name: every little bit of support, no matter where it came from, has contributed to where I am today.
The journey is just beginning!
Tibor Baracskai
NeoVitál – Expertise and Renewal in Zugló
Let's meet on Pillangó Street!
If you'd like to take some time to recharge, You can find the Fresha appointment scheduler here. NeoVitál is located at the Pillangó Health Center: Budapest, 14th District, 12 Pillangó Street, 3rd floor, Treatment Room 4.
Do you have any questions? Call me at +36 30 823 9013, or Check out my contact information. Everyday life is shaped by the On my Facebook page You can follow it, too.
