Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/640605
106 m a s s a g e & b o d y w o r k m a r c h / a p r i l 2 0 1 6 Know What You Believe Granted, spirituality is a moving target. My understanding of the connections between the invisible world and myself is ever unfolding. On any given day, however, I strive to be clear about my beliefs about the invisible world. Since I personally believe I can tap into intangible guidance, which includes my own inner wisdom, I do so while working. But I also maintain boundaries on all levels and don't require that my clients share my beliefs. We are truly made of field upon field of oscillating energy, our own swirling dramas interacting with those of others. And while the famous chakra might like to portray itself as a solo act, there are dozens of other subtle energy bodies composing the self. These often function as various planes of reality, as well as energetic fields. Ultimately, the message of the chakra is this: we are each a mini-universe, a beautifully choreographed composite of subtle structures. Whether we call them bodies, energy layers, channels, tubules, or any other name, each constellation points us toward the heavens, our birthplace. Decide What You Are Comfortable Sharing About Your Beliefs If a client asks about your spiritual beliefs and you feel comfortable responding, then do so. But you might not feel comfortable. You might feel called to completely separate your spiritual beliefs from your work. Or you might desire to share your thoughts with some clients and not others. For instance, a certain tone in a client's voice might make you wary of her motive or agenda. It can be helpful to prepare a set of statements you can draw on if the subject comes up. For instance, you might state clearly, "I am a Christian/Buddhist/Hindu/ nonbeliever. My personal faith supports me in working with members of all faiths, however, without judgment." Or you might have ready an answer like this: "I draw on my faith for my work, but prefer to focus on my client, not my own beliefs. Is there anything you want me to know about your own beliefs?" not for us to define, evaluate, judge, or shape our clients' spiritual theories. And we might say the opposite is true as well. One of my pet peeves in the world of spirituality is that boundaries aren't always respected. I don't know about you, but I can't stand to be preached at. Neither do I want someone trying to convert me to his or her point of view. At times, I don't even want to share what I believe in. I used to be married to a pastor, and most of the people in his group continually asked me to justify my spirituality or prove that I shared their own. My own faith is a fount of incredible nourishment and wisdom to me, but I keep it guarded in the same way I safeguard my heart. Only over time are people invited into the inner chambers. You might feel the same way. Especially in a professional setting, it's important to remember our clients aren't looking for a patronizing diatribe, and neither are we. Given the need for respect and boundaries, statistics show that faith in the unseen is an important resource for people. The sense of receiving guidance, being watched over, and being cared for are important healing tools. Are there ways we can serve these higher needs if our clients or the situation call for it? In general, I offer the following guidelines as ways to support the exchange of guidance and healing between our clients and their source of unseen wisdom, if applicable. These ideas aren't the be-all and end-all. They are starting points for figuring out how—and if—you might incorporate this topic into your work. I encourage you to develop your own principles.