A new client walks into my massage room. What are they there for? Sometimes they will know exactly. Perhaps they woke up that morning with a stiff neck; they want relief, and as quickly as possible! Yet another person may not have had a massage before, but a thoughtful friend has treated them to a gift certificate. These folks may not quite know what to expect for their first massage, but have heard that massage helps reduce stress or that it is “good for you”. It all sounds great, but then there is a moment where people realize that letting their guard down, means, well, letting their guard down! Not the easiest thing to do with a complete stranger! Even those hardy souls who “know the ropes” and may have been for many a massage in their lifetime are, in some ways, let’s face it, still entrusting their well-being to the therapist. In each case, a client trusts me to give them a competent, safe, nourishing and respectful experience of therapeutic touch. How can I let them know that it is safe to do so?
What I Can Do
First, I give them my full attention. I want everyone to feel that they can ask questions, and if they have any concerns, can voice them. I want clients to know that I respect their need to feel safe, and that I want them to always respect their own need to feel safe, too! I want them to be in charge of the session. If anything feels uncomfortable in any way, they are to let me know and I will stop immediately. I invite clients to set an intention for the session. While exact results can never be guaranteed, I find it helpful, for both of us to focus on their health goals for that moment in time.
What You Can Do
Some people get a sense of who I am by calling ahead to ask about my education, credentials, our location, how long I’ve been in practice, modes and methods I employ, and how massage can help them with their particular health aims or issues. Others always rely strictly on the referral of friends before trying something new, and still others want to see testimonials. These things contribute to establishing confidence in the practitioner, but the most important thing of all, is to remember that in order to relax and gain the benefits of massage, you must first feel that you are in a safe place with a person you can trust.
