I have many reasons to celebrate and becoming a massage therapist almost 19 years ago. Graduating from The Atlanta School of Massage in 2001 tops the list!
My massage training as a Neuromuscular Therapist, LMT, has served me well through the years when working with every-day people, office workers, tired and busy moms along with office workers and athletes requesting sports massage. It is the gift that continues to give despite the worry of time, money and effort put in many, many years ago.
This is my chosen profession and it suits me. This chosen profession as a massage therapist “works” with my lifestyle as it offers a flexible schedule, a viable living helping others, physical work with my hands and body, sometimes unusual and thought-provoking anatomy questions, and interesting work to name a few!
Like any job, there are some challenges in the massage profession which should be considered along the way. I share them here as a life-long student of massage!
One must be open, flexible and professional at all times whether in or outside of your work environment
Sometimes life interrupts our love of massage so it is important to offer a quality massage each and every session.
Stay on time for each and every massage; it helps the day run smoothly.
Focus on the physical areas mentioned during your health intake; the top areas of concern when working with each individual client.
Show up, be on time and offer a light, medium or heavy pressure massage to the client’s preference NOT what you think they should have i.e. deeper pressure than the client can tolerate or softer because your day has been busy. The right pressure per the client is always the BEST pressure.
Continue to seek “like-minded therapists” that have the same work ethic and passion that you do. I find this much easier to write about than to find!
Remember to prepare for your shift with light protein snacks and water for longer shifts
ALWAYS Know your limits on the number of hours that bodywork can be offered especially with chair massage
Continue to build a client base that value and honors your time and talent. I have had to let go of clients in the past we were not working together for optimum health
Keep documentation updated including state or national licensing, insurance and continuing education to post during your massage session/s.
Schedule your own massage and stick to it! with a set schedule.
Protect your hands and be gentle with them as they are your tools for your chosen profession
Breathe, relax and enjoy the gift you have been given!
Written by Janet Constantino, the CEO of Massage Kneads
