As a massage therapist, I have a lot of cool skills. I can help relieve your low back pain, loosen up your legs and hips so you perform better in your next race, and even melt away the tension of a stressful day. And while many of my clients think I know exactly where the pain is and how to make it go away, I’m not psychic. But I’m often surprised by how many people seem to think that I am.
People who think I’m psychic will say things like “you’ll figure it out” during their intake. Ummmm, yes, I probably will. But maybe not until the last 5 minutes of your session. Wouldn’t it be better if you tell me about what’s bothering you so I can figure it out in the FIRST 5 minutes?
Someone once said, “I have tight shoulders, just like everyone”. Well, no. Not everyone has tight shoulders. And even among people with tight shoulders, they’re not all tight in the same way or for the same reason. Every body really is unique. Yes, we see common patterns, but bodies aren’t interchangeable.
Most frustrating are the people who don’t say anything. They don’t tell me if a certain position is uncomfortable to them, if the amount of pressure I’m applying isn’t perfect for them, or if they are too hot or too cold. They seem to think that I automatically know exactly what they are experiencing. Actually, no. I can feel how your tissue is responding and what is comfortable for MOST people. But again, you are unique.
Someone once said, “I have tight shoulders, just like everyone”. Well, no. Not everyone has tight shoulders. And even among people with tight shoulders, they’re not all tight in the same way or for the same reason. Every body really is unique. Yes, we see common patterns, but bodies aren’t interchangeable.
Most frustrating are the people who don’t say anything. They don’t tell me if a certain position is uncomfortable to them, if the amount of pressure I’m applying isn’t perfect for them, or if they are too hot or too cold. They seem to think that I automatically know exactly what they are experiencing. Actually, no. I can feel how your tissue is responding and what is comfortable for MOST people. But again, you are unique.
Equally frustrating and potentially dangerous, are the people who don’t bother to tell me about injuries (old or new), conditions like arthritis, or even recent illnesses. They’ll say they are “just” getting a massage. But how, exactly, do they think massage works? I’m going to apply pressure to your body, move your limbs, maybe use some essential oils. All which can deeply affect your body and any existing conditions you have.
So my reminder to you is that while our therapists are skilled, compassionate, and empathetic – they’re not psychic! So speak up and tell us all about what’s bothering you and what you’re experiencing.
So my reminder to you is that while our therapists are skilled, compassionate, and empathetic – they’re not psychic! So speak up and tell us all about what’s bothering you and what you’re experiencing.
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