Imagine closing your eyes, sinking into a soft, warm cocoon of plush, cotton sheets and then melting into relaxed bliss as each and every tired, aching muscle in your body is gently massaged into tranquil contentment. Now imagine that you know that you can achieve this awesome state of being whenever you desire. This is what it is like when you have found your favorite massage therapist. How do you find such a person? Read further to learn how to spot an expert massage professional and how to select that perfect massage therapist, just for you, so that you can drift away into warm, cozy bliss.
Massage Therapists are Trained, Educated and Regulated Professionals
First of all, it is important to note that only formally trained individuals can perform professional massage therapy in the United States. Massage schools are varied, but all teach the basics, such as theory, technique, ethics, anatomy and physiology. Most states require either a license or certification to practice massage. You can find out what your state requires by searching your state government's website under professional regulations. Some states require the potential therapist to take a test and pay for a license, while others simply require proof of completing a course of study through an accredited school. If you have trouble searching your state government's website, try the Natural Healers website, where you will find a link to each state's requirements.
According to Natural Healers, currently, 37 states regulate massage therapists. If you live in one of the unregulated states you can look for a therapist that has been certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. A therapist that is nationally certified has passed a strenuous exam and aquires Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to maintain certification. Some therapists practicing in unregulated states maintain this certification to set themselves apart from non-professionals. While not every state requires a massage therapist to maintain professional liability insurance, many therapists do purchase insurance to protect themselves and provide the safest environment for their clients. There are 2 major insurers of massage and bodywork professionals; the American Massage Therapy Association and the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. These websites are a great place to search for a list of professionals in your area.
Ask Someone You Trust for a Recommendation
Now that you know how to determine whether or not your prospective therapist is a professional, let's explore how to find the perfect massage therapist for you. Asking a friend, family member or a trusted health care professional is a great way to start your search. Usually if someone has found a therapist that they like and trust, they will sing that person's praises to anyone who will listen. Start there. Give those recommended massage therapists a try. The health care professionals who are most likely to have a professional, working relationship with massage therapists are acupuncturists, naturopathic doctors, chiropractors, physical therapists, personal trainers and osteopaths.
Keep in mind that everyone has different likes and dislikes, so you should feel comfortable trying many different therapists to find the one that works best for you. You may find that you like, and receive different results from, several different therapists. One may be an expert at massaging away your worries and tension, while another is the only therapist you know who can work out that trigger point in your left shoulder. Don't be afraid to explore every option. Who knows, you may get lucky and find a massage therapist who can do it all.
Advocating For Yourself is Crucial to Having a Great Massage Experience
The following statement is really important: don't be afraid to ask your practitioner for what you need in order to feel comfortable during your massage session. Be an advocate for yourself, always. Is the pressure too deep? Is the room too hot to relax? Does the sound of the water fountain make you have to use the restroom? Let the therapist know what you need, so that you can be happy.If you love the style that a certain therapist uses, but can't stand the smell of the oils--tell her! A good massage therapist is someone who cares most about your privacy, safety and general happiness during each session. Your therapist should be an individual with whom you can easily communicate your specific needs and concerns.
Finding the Right Massage Therapist is a Fun Process
Massage is an intimate therapy that most people return to for relief throughout their lives, so finding a professional who you really like and who delivers results is key to your massage experience. Sometimes the search takes many months and sometimes it only takes one try to find the right person. You must feel chemistry, trust and comfort with your therapist. Enjoy the search and then relish in the knowledge that you will have less stress, pain and tension in your life when you have found your perfect massage therapist!
Lia Angelini - Lia Angelini is a contributing writer at Suite 101 and is a licensed, practicing massage therapist in the snowy state of Maine where she ...
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