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| 'Round the Table Bodywork can be a demanding profession. How do you mentally and physically care for yourself? I follow the advice I give to my clients: Make "me time" everyday. Tending to myself is the best way I can be a whole and healthy therapist for my clients. My favorite "me time" activities are simply sitting quietly and enjoying morning solitude, spending time with my animals, and expressing gratitude for the smallest and most commonplace things in life. Linda Maureen Sanches Livermore, California Over the years and through trial and error, I continue to develop a toolbox of sorts to help take care of myself. While always trying to cultivate a good dose of self-awareness, I will implement what I might need. Some of the support I offer myself may include exercise, proper nutrition, quiet time, talking things over with a trusted [friend], taking a day off (and enjoying it), time in the sunshine, aromatherapy, and of course, I schedule regular massages. I believe that this profession has a hidden blessing. It demands that we take care of ourselves or we simply will not thrive as a massage therapist. Maryanne Gilbert Golden, Colorado When I first began working as a massage therapist, I was working as an independent contractor 4-5 days (approximately 18-22 clients) a week. My body took the toll after a while and I knew if I wanted to keep this up, taking care of myself was first priority. So here's what I did: each day I returned home from seeing clients, I would do a hot/cold bath for my arms and hands. Filling one side of the sink with steaming hot water and the other with ice cubes and icy cold water, I would immerse my arms all the way to my elbows in each side for 1-2 minutes, then switch to the other side, continuing back and forth. I received massages twice a month with the studio I was working at or I would find a trade. I would have them scheduled in advance so that I wouldn't miss one. And finally, I had a heart to heart with my ego and told it that it was okay to set boundaries on how many clients I could see without becoming exhausted. I let go of one day at the studio and took a yoga class on that day instead. Amy Ashburn Emeryville, California I don't like to exercise, but I knew if I wanted to keep working at a job I loved, I better get on the ball! Just a minimal amount each week has made a huge difference in strengthening my muscles; I no longer have that hip pain that used to bother me. This has also helped mentally by giving me the confidence that I can work as much as I want and still feel good, and it gives me more energy so I drink less coffee. Don't worry if you can't exercise as often or as much as you want; just do something each week and give yourself a pat on the back for that. Naomi Bergner Brevard, Florida Being active, I had to modify my schedule so that I did not paddle or lift weights just before or after massaging. Also, I coach and receive at student clinics to learn new techniques and revive my body. I worked for physical therapists and now perform chair massage about eight hours per week through an employer. This, along with my private practice with several favorite modalities (barefoot, trigger point, myofascial release, Swedish, and craniosacral) have allowed me to mentally and physically cross-train to keep myself healthy and interested, and my clients saying wonderful things-quite a change from the less positive working conditions and attitudes in bridge construction engineering, from which I fully migrated last year. I am happy now, but respect my limits. Paul Svacina Goleta, California Mentally I care for myself by spending time every morning and evening appreciating how fortunate I am to have so much love in my life. In the morning, while I savor my first cup of tea, I spend time with my four pets. Each of my girls-Sophie, Bailey, Sasha, and Minne-offers unconditional love in her own special way and helps me become grounded. I think about my daughters and how they have become compassionate women. At the end of each day, I spend time with the love of my life, my husband Ted. We just spend time being together. It's a great way to end each day. Physically I care for myself by paying attention to my body, stretching throughout the day, trying to make healthy choices in my diet, and getting massage regularly. Nita Achelpohl Troy, Missouri Bikram yoga! I find it to be that most effective yoga I have tried thus far. It is so cleansing to the body and leaves you feeling light. It is challenging mentally, but I think I need that at times. It helps me out both mentally and physically. I do understand massage is such a giving profession and at times I feel drained, but pampering myself keeps me going. A hot cup of cocoa or a night alone with a good book. I think just knowing your boundaries is helpful in staying vital. Joelle Arnold Crested Butte, Colorado One of the greatest changes I've made in my profession as a day spa massage therapist is dropping down to three days per week. Since the demanding pace and rigorous schedule of a busy day spa takes its toll both physically and mentally, I supplement my income with teaching, spa consultation, and private sessions. I worried for some time that I just wasn't physically cut out for a decade of bodywork, or that I may have to leave a profession I love due to burnout and physical discomfort. Luckily, I have been able to strike a balance between my physical and financial needs, which allows me to continue my hands-on work and to spread my love of massage to new students entering the field. That's the beauty of what we do; the hours are flexible and possibilities are endless. Bozena Barton Los Angeles, California I see no difference between mental and physical self-care. Eat well, sleep well, exercise regularly. There's no big secret. I'm a bodyworker, personal trainer, and former yoga instructor, and in my opinion the absolute finest self-care approach is circular strength training (CST), a health-oriented approach to fitness that covers everything a bodyworker needs. CST is a more complete and better integrated approach than yoga or tai chi or Pilates. Regular CST practice dramatically improves breathing habits and one's ability to stay calm and grounded. Jason Erickson Eagan, Minnesota I have made notes in my charts about the table height I need for any given client. I have these notes kept on a separate form in each chart. I can also include notes about special events in the lives of my clients here. Let's face it-my memory isn't what it could be for things like this, so the notes are a lifesaver, both for my mind and my body. Heather Seals Dallas, Oregon I definitely practice what I preach. I have regular weekly massage therapy and chiropractic maintenance every 6-8 weeks. These two modalities keep me in prime form as a therapist. Stretching is a daily practice that keeps me limber and in touch with my body. I love my practice as a registered massage therapist, certified reflexologist, and Thai massage practitioner with my intro level. The key balance for me is to listen to my body and book my schedule accordingly. My intention is to always provide a treatment that I myself would love and enjoy; it's the old adage "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." This is the Golden Rule and the best advice on how to live your life. Cathy Baldwin-Wilson New Brunswick, Canada I try very hard to find things that are relaxing for the body as well as the mind. I love to read and that helps. I also schedule exercise classes (cardio, strength training, and yoga) on a regular basis. Surrounding myself with positive people and laughing as much as possible is always important. Cynthia Bryant Columbus, Ohio I care for myself by, number one, receiving at least one relaxation massage/week and additional therapeutic massages for problem areas. I also listen to my body and seek out chiropractic care when needed. I work with a personal trainer twice a week and do cardio work at least thirty minutes, three times per week. In addition, I get plenty of rest and eat nutritional meals of lots of veggies, fruits, and whole grains. I make sure to take time out for "play" as well. Janet Copelle Toledo, Ohio A healer needs to take care of herself just as much as she would a client who seeks help. I have been a massage therapist since 1993, a skin care therapist since 2000, and a Rolfer since 2005. Over 75 percent of my present practice is Rolfing, which are typically 75-90 minute sessions. I learned long ago that limiting my sessions per week and taking two days off in a row allows me the down time required to rejuvenate. The benefit of taking care of myself simultaneously increases the connection I have with each client, which pays off in referrals and return visits. I restore most quickly when I receive bodywork. My healers include a massage therapist and two Rolfers. Receiving a bodywork session once every two weeks minimum reminds my body and mind of what it is to give and receive work. Yoga and breathwork are tools I incorporate to unwind my body and maintaining stamina required to give bodywork. Practicing what I preach not only makes me a better healer, but a better person. Heather Corwin Altadena, California Take the time and techniques to care for yourself. As a reflexologist and bodyworker, I vary the pressure techniques used on the feet. Mix it up and stay focused on the bodyworker's muscles that are engaged while working different areas of the body. Utilize other modalities to keep yourself centered on the recipient, such as Pilates, and aromatherapy and treat yourself to regular bodywork! Carol Crockett Tucson, Arizona I recently read an article that therapists lasted about three or five years. I totally wrote to the author disagreeing with him, and personally told him if therapists are getting injured, what the heck are they doing? Like any profession, there are good schools, so-so schools, good teachers, so-so teachers, and the one thing that will help any therapist is how well they know their anatomy and how well they have been trained in proper body mechanics. To this day I see therapists doing deep tissue with their fingers, and I am sure we have come a long ways enough to know that there are other techniques that relax and treat chronic lesions by learning to use other body parts that are not prone to injury. Ricardo Guerrero Zacatecas, Mexico Mentally, I meditate. Physically, I exercise (which also helps my mental state) and I get bodywork at least once a month. Usually it is massage, but I have also gotten exfoliating treatments, structural integration work, and acupuncture. I am not so consistent with stretching, but that helps too. When I am working, I protect myself from negative situations, whether is it client whose attitude is difficult or who has health conditions that might be harmful to me. The main thing I try and remember is "do unto others as you would have done unto yourself" and that means the suggestions I offer my clients about bodywork, stretching, using cool or heat packs, etc., I apply to myself as well. JL Hansen Evergreen, Colorado Bodywork is definitely a demanding profession. The expression comes to mind "you'll never work a day in your life if you love what you do." Mentally I prepare by treating each client as uniquely as possible; you must learn to customize each massage by learning many of the techniques available. You'll find breathing, meditation, and centering of oneself prepares you mentally and physically by you yourself taking advantage of massage and practicing what you preach prepares you for a long successful career. You must take care of yourself to provide quality care for others. Exercise, massage for yourself, stretching before and after each massage, and keeping up on the latest techniques and also a healthy lifestyle helps in caring for you so you may in return give your best to others. Jill Houston Toms River, New Jersey Putting myself first allows me to take care of others with more compassion. Starting early in the morning, I begin with yoga to release tension, increase energy, and put my mind in a positive place. Next is meditation; this allows me to feel powerful and focused. Last I take a brisk walk with the dog, followed with an energizing breakfast with my husband. By spending time at the beginning of my day with those I love, I feel fulfilled, joyful, and grateful. Once I am energized in this way, the demands of the day are less overwhelming. I am motivated by helping others, but drinking plenty of water with vitamin and minerals added keeps my energy high. Also avoiding sugary foods keeps my energy consist without peaks and crashes. At the end of the day, I reward myself with another long dog walk as I reflect on my day and create focus for my future ahead. Doing this allows me let go of what weakens me and put my focus on what makes me better. Amy Leclercq Naperville, Illinois I get my own sessions. Massage, polarity, acupuncture, and chiropractic care are part of my own health care. I take time to read spiritually uplifting materials for self-growth and fun fiction to just relax. I am lucky to work with other holistic practitioners and having that camaraderie and a supporting family helps, too. I also do Dr. Stone's polarity exercises and yoga throughout the day. It helps to keep me flexible and in shape to continue to do the job I love. Stephanie LoGrande Gloucester, Massachusetts Taking a moment to mentally ground myself before a massage session helps me to stay focused on the goals for the session and the client. Physically, getting enough rest, yoga, and general cardio exercise help me to regenerate and stay healthy. Although giving yourself a break between sessions is important, if I have a busy schedule, I find that keeping fruit juice on hand to drink between sessions as well as plenty of water, help to keep me energized so I don' t burn out. I also touch base with my massage therapist friends and colleagues to "talk shop" and give each other moral support. Dianne Overton Carthage, Missouri I have been practicing for 12 years, full-time, in this wonderful occupation of massage and bodywork. Honoring, creating, and maintaining strong boundaries with my body, mind, and spirit are what creates health for me as a caregiver. I use my Anusara yoga practice, a whole foods diet, and lots of time in nature to care for myself on all levels of being. I keep good company with those who seek uplifting experiences in life. Setting parameters for health in life, relationships, and activities is of huge importance for me. Ally Morrison Breckenridge, Colorado I work out as much as my schedule allows each week, focusing on being flexible and strong. Vegetables, fruit, lean protein, and whole grains make up the majority of my diet. It's important to remember good body mechanics, and get worked on at least once a month by another therapist. I also use a body Theracane for further tension release. With any occupation you always need to have something that re-grounds you, whether it's a hobby, an activity, or something simple like reading a book. That time to yourself is critical. Vanessa Colorado The reason I got into bodywork & massage because it helped me relieve the pain from injuries I had sustained from another profession. I barter with other holistic professionals. I get bodywork weekly (structural integration, NMT, and deep tissue massage); acupuncture once a month; chiropractic every three weeks; yoga/pilates/stretching (you can never get enough); eat well, an alkaline diet; aerobic exercise (I love Turbojam and kyaking). Drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, enjoy time with my family. I have an eighteen month-old grandson I babysit three times a week. He has brought out the kid in me; we have so much fun! I love being a grandparent. Gratitude-I count my blessings every day that I have found a profession that gives me flexibility in my schedule. I learn something new every day. I truly love what I do. As each year goes by, my passion grows to learn more. Even though times are tough, I have not been affected. I have been blessed with repeat clientele I hold dear to my heart. Paula Jean Ring Chula Vista, California I receive several bodywork treatments each month. I also keep a "gratitude" journal of sorts, and read inspiring books. I also like to play games and draw for stress-release. I schedule plenty of time between appointments so I can relax before the next client comes in. I also work to keep the appointments to the set time-no "extra" time because my client showed up 15 minutes late and didn't bother to call! I work on my health by eating nutritious foods and working out or attending a yoga or tai chi class. I also work to keep my relationships healthy-whether they are with my spouse, family, friends, acquaintances, colleagues or clients. And I try to be more intuitive and "listen" to what my body needs. And I try to schedule consistent vacation-time and downtime. I do the best I can. Since I have focused on keeping myself healthy, I don't feel stressed or anxious about my day. And being more relaxed has helped my business grow. Kimberly A. Rogers Waupaca, Wisconsin When I massage someone, it is the best de-stresser for me. Physically, I get adjustments from the chiropractors I work with at Lake Pleasant Chiropractic, and I work out with our personal trainer, Jackie, who owns On The Ball Fitness. It definitely helps keep me healthy and strong. I also return the favor by working on my colleagues every chance I get. Gabriela Serbu Phoenix, Arizona I use emotional freedom techniques (EFT) and self-hypnosis. I see another therapist locally once a month or so. I live in a town of 95,000. It's pretty small, and it took me three years to find a therapist I liked. I've been in practice 25 years, and I'm very picky. Kay Warren High Point, North Carolina I care for myself by having regular sessions for myself along with a lot of self-care bodywork and exercises. I drink a lot of water and I always exercise before and after each session. Sharron Williams Framingham, Massachusetts Let us hear your thoughts! Join Us 'Round the Table in Massage & Bodywork' Round the Table is a column in each issue of Massage & Bodywork magazine, providing practitioners a voice on a particular topic relating to the field. We'll provide the topic, then you give us your expert opinion. Your submission can be as short as you'd like and up to 250 words. However, due to space constraints, we may edit your material to a suitable length. Submission of a piece does not guarantee inclusion in Massage & Bodywork, but we will post all suitable submissions online at www.abmp.com and www.massageandbodywork.com. Current Topic (for November/December 2009): Tell us about one thing that’s made you a better MT. Deadline: August 15 Publication date: November/December 2009 Upcoming Topics What single piece of advice would you give to students ready to graduate from massage school and enter the field? Deadline: October 15 Publication date: January/February 2010 How have you incorporated design into your office/massage space to make it welcoming to clients? Deadline: December 15 Publication date: March/April 2010 |
