In 1995 I had my first experience with bodywork. A good friend and roommate of mine was receiving Shiatsu regularly and would always speak highly about his Shiatsu experience. He spoke of it days before and for days after each session. I eventually went and was immediately hooked. It was as if I was finally introduced to “myself” and had experienced a body awareness and grounding unlike ever before. I became fascinated with how Shiatsu made me feel, with the meridians and this thing called Ki. After about three sessions I enrolled in Shiatsu school and was on my way towards a career change and new path of learning and healing.

2. What do you find most exciting about bodywork therapy?

I love how it makes people feel. I love how it makes me feel. The integration of the body, mind and spirit that one feels both during and after a bodywork session is fantastic. The satisfaction felt when you have really helped someone is also beyond words.

3. What is your most favourite bodywork book?

My favorite bodywork book is Paul Lundberg’s “The Book of Shiatsu”. It is a wonderful blend of TCM and Shiatsu theory. It is complete with artistic illustrations and photos depicting not only the Shiatsu routines and theory but also the meridians and commonly used points. It also includes some nice additions such as warm-up and grounding exercises as well as the Makko Ho meridian stretches.

4. What is the most challenging part of your work?

The most challenging part of my work is seeing people discontinue treatment after only one or two sessions. Many of these people often say “it just didn’t work for me” when they actually didn’t give it an honest try. We as alterative healers are often the “last stop” for people, many of whom have exhausted all other options. When these same people quit prematurely it is frustrating and disheartening. Had we been given the opportunity years earlier with many of these patients we could have quite possibly been the one and only stop.

Many of these conditions were years in the making and we must educate these patients that natural healing takes time.

5. What advise you can give to fresh massage therapists who wish to make a career out of it?

First and foremost, remember the principles of proper posture, stance, position and technique. Your hands and body are your livelihood and you must take care of yourself. Practice what you preach and receive massage regularly. You can always trade with other therapists. The main reason that body workers quit the profession is injury.

Also, I suggest that you do not limit yourself to only one setting or environment at the beginning. Work at a spa, for a chiropractor, doctor and do chair massage at the local market or mall. It is important to get as much exposure at the beginning to really boost your clientele.

Do not stagnate in your profession but continue to learn massage techniques and refine your craft. Attend continuing education workshops so you can remain informed and provide your patients with the best possible care.

6. How do you see the future of massage therapy?

Massage is an ancient practice that is seen in all cultures throughout history. When we injure ourselves the basic and natural instinct is to rub or hold the injury.

Today we have scientific explanations for the healing and medical benefits of massage. Massage is no longer just viewed as a luxury or purely for relaxation. Massage has now integrated into medical settings throughout the world. The public is getting more educated with the healing, medical and preventative benefits of receiving massage. I feel that recent regulation of massage and stricter curriculum in massage schools only servers to benefit and provide added credence for our profession.

I see a very bright future for massage therapy as the general public and medical profession continues to increase their awareness, acceptance and understanding of our powerful healing art.