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 59 Department stores make it easy to go in for just a few things and later get home with several items you never intended to buy. Strategize ahead of time and make two lists: "Need" and "Want." Set a budget. If you still have money remaining in your budget after addressing all your needs, you can treat yourself to some of the items on your "want" list. Highest on the "Need" list are your tools of the trade: a massage table, face rest, stool, bolsters, linens, and lubricants. When choosing a table, consider whether your table will stay in your treatment room or if you will occasionally pack it up for mobile sessions. If it will remain in your studio, you can opt for a heavier table, even one with built-in drawers. If not, you will likely want a lighter table with a carrying case. Your massage table is a very important part of your clients' experience, so try to obtain the most comfortable table possible for the type of work you do. Do your homework, ask colleagues for their opinions, and test different models. This is one purchase that calls for you to invest time, research, and money—you won't regret it! The face rest is extremely important to your clients' comfort as well, so take your time to get this one right. Ask for recommendations from colleagues and be sure to test-drive it yourself. It should be well cushioned, stable, and fully adjustable to accommodate a range of clients. Your stool should be comfortable, silent, mobile, and easy to adjust. Having the ability to raise and lower the height will improve your ergonomics, protect you from injury, and enhance your clients' experience. You will need a way to keep track of time while in the treatment room. Whether you choose a wall clock or desk clock, you'll want a silent model. Any sort of noise—even soft ticking— can disturb your more sensitive clients. Also on the "Need" list is equipment for special modalities you offer, such as a hot stone kit. Consider investing in a hot towel cabinet. Adding a few hot towels to a client's session may seem like a small thing, but it can make an amazing difference to your client's experience. Before you go shopping, think about the atmosphere you would like to portray and what colors will best complement it. Modern? Clinical? Comfortable? Classic? See the sidebar on page 61 for ideas on choosing a color scheme. what s essential Mirror: Clients usually wish to check their hair and clothing once the session is complete. They will appreciate a makeup mirror or a full-length mirror. Additionally, a strategically placed mirror can open up a small room, lend depth and light to the environment, and allow you to check your body mechanics while you work. Furnishings: Clients need to sit down, change, and store their belongings. When it comes to furnishings, aim for quality over quantity. A spacious room with clear surfaces allows people to feel relaxed and creates physical and mental space. Opt for a few quality pieces over a mishmash of cheaper items. I like to add some containers to make it easy and intuitive for clients to store their belongings: a nice cedar box for shoes and a decorative bowl or small dish for watches, earrings, and other jewelry. Your containers might be glassware, pottery, or wood; choose the medium that best