I receive approximately 15 massages a year, over the last 25 years that could have been 375 different massage therapists.
With so many choices for Massage Therapy, how do you choose?
I have been serious about receiving at least a monthly massage for over 25 years. I would never have considered having just one therapist but I have asked myself why someone would limit themselves in this way.
My needs change, my moods changes, my emotions flow.
Some times I want to be nurtured, other times worked over or have an issue dealt with during a treatment plan. I want a Therapist with great decision making skills, confidence, excellent communication, strong palpation and an understanding of anatomy. They should know when an area has had enough treatment and when they should continue to manipulate, stretch and treat that chronic tension.
Some times during a massage treatment, I want to talk and sometimes I want to listen but most of the time I prefer to share my health history, past injuries and the goals I would like addressed during the treatment. I like participating in the initial pleasantries, followed by 90 minutes of no talking.
Meditation while being massaged gives me a focal point, allows me to focus on my breathe and the touch of the therapist. Knowing when to breath into an area being treated allows me to withstand more pressure while keeping my mind in the present moment.
I have a massage therapist I prefer for each of these.
I know every Massage Therapist may have the required 2 years of education to be registered in Alberta, to me this is the start to a great relationship.
I want to experience many types of treatments, including the therapists techniques, their energy, their stories, their niches, their specific reason to touch and heal for a living.
I love being referred to someone's favorite Massage Therapist and then discovering their treatment was not for me. It helps me define what I do like, setting me up for a successful treatment the next time I need or want a treatment.
The idea of only having one Massage Therapist often comes from being afraid of being disappointed or feeling like your time was wasted.
I have felt that way. When I am disappointed I get clearer on my ability to articulate my needs going forward. Time is never wasted when we spend it expanding our beliefs, learning who we are and sharing time with each other.
Gathering insights about my needs while growing my understanding of what kind of massage I need this month, has helped me find my team of Massage Therapists that now create the healing experience I deserve.
If you know what kind of massage you need or may be you want to see many therapists without hurting anyone's feelings, our admin team will ask you questions and choose a therapist for you based on the experience you are looking for.
Let someone help you find the massage treatment you deserve.
Shelly MacGregor
Owner of Apex Massage Therapy ltd
Est 1994
