Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/365665
I t p a y s t o b e A B M P C e r t i f i e d : w w w. a b m p . c o m / g o / c e r t i f i e d c e n t r a l 19 ❱❱❱ Did You Know? Burnout and injury are some of the main forces behind attrition in the profession, so it's hugely important to take care of yourself. Check out the "Get Fit" article in the July/August 2014 issue of Massage & Bodywork magazine online at www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/329694 for mental and physical self-care tips. down to the fact that people work hard for the money they pay me, and I need to dig deep and give them the best I've got." Even if you are working for someone else, you still have a standard of excellence to uphold in the workplace. Janis Payton, a therapist in Nevada, had this realization on her first day of work at an expensive, high-end resort spa: "A guest said she had planned and anticipated her vacation, and especially the spa appointment, for nearly a year. I felt a great responsibility to meet her expectations." For you, the practitioner, each massage may feel like just another appointment in a long week. From the client's perspective, though, it may be the one thing they've been looking forward to for days, weeks, or months. It could be a gift that a loved one saved up to purchase for him to celebrate a special occasion. When you find your attitude trending downhill, think of the person on your table and the experience that he's been looking forward to receiving under your skilled care. It's up to you to meet his expectations so he can look forward to booking another session with you, with the same guarantee of quality. MEDITATING THROUGH MASSAGE Many therapists note the relaxing effects of the work itself—there's something very meditative about the act of giving massage, and this alone can help you return to mindfulness and focus your energies in a positive direction. "Even when I am having a not-so- good day, I can always focus my energy on a massage, and this, in turn, pulls me out of the energetic low," says Shama Kern, a practitioner in Thailand. "Doing the massage becomes my therapy for myself." This meditative state is not only a benefit of massage, but a necessity for practicing effectively. Therapist Gary Addis in Mississippi points out that "grounding, settling into the proper frame of mind, putting aside personal issues, and concentrating on the job at hand are essential to our profession." Reaching a centered, mindful state is a skill that can be cultivated, and regular practice will allow you to return to this space no matter where you're at on any given day. Those who are truly adept at maintaining this mindfulness in everyday life know the benefits well. Says Kathryn Merrow in Michigan, "I don't have bad days. That's a choice we can make." Next time you're having an off day, make a decision to turn it around. Focus on the task at hand while blocking everything else out, and focus on the positives, while blocking out any negativity or sadness that intrudes. You and your clients will both notice a difference!