Massage Therapist

Massage Therapists manipulate muscles using a variety of hand and finger motions to promote relaxation and healing. There are over 80 different massage styles, known as modalities, that range from commonly known types like Swedish to more obscure varieties like trigger point. Massage Therapists can also train in modalities developed by particular cultures, like the Hawaiian lomi lomi or the Japanese shiatsu.

As a Massage Therapist, your goal is to unite physical and psychological well being through your touch, whether that touch is long and follows the length of the muscle or short and delivered with a cupped hand. The vast majority of massages are conducted using oils or lotions in a dimly lit room with soft music playing in the background. This promotes relaxation and sets the client’s mind at ease.

Before each appointment, it’s crucial to interview your clients about their health and why they are getting the massage. Patients with some chronic ailments should not receive intense massages because it could aggravate the condition. Vigorous massages are not the best choice for customers who want to de-stress. During an interview, you can also assess which muscle groups need more of your attention.

Massage Therapists face unique on-the-job challenges that are not shared by many other professions. Your job duties are physically demanding and you can develop repetitive strain or fatigue injuries if you do not allow enough time in between sessions and practice proper techniques. You usually have to provide your own massage table and supplies, especially if you own your own business like most Massage Therapists.