When people are looking to get a massage from a therapist they have never been to before, they often default to the closest, cheapest, or most convenient. In some instances, that’s your only option. I mean, a little bit of massage is better than none. Right?
I imagine this is likely to happen, especially when the person has never had a professional massage before. When they don’t know the difference between a mediocre massage and an exceptionally good one, it’s hard to preconceive all the important elements that go into having a good experience before you enter this therapeutic relationship.
In an ideal world, you want to find a massage therapist you like (their personality AND their work) and can rely on to show up and make you feel safe on their massage table. That would be as simple as a quick internet search or just going to a place close to home or work.
Aside from a highly recommended therapist, I’ve found it’s a little more complicated to find a good therapist who is a good fit. This is true of all health and care providers.
I would like to support you, who believe massage/bodywork would improve the quality of your life, and who are starting a brand-new search for someone to work on your body.
Before you start googling “massage therapists” and scheduling with someone, asking yourself these often-overlooked questions might help you find someone you like and trust faster. If you know what style and approach you want and where you will generate the best experience, the answers will help narrow down your search.
It’s more important that the practitioner is qualified and that you trust and feel safe with them. So you can let down your guard during your session and get down to business. Consider what kind of environment you think would be the most conducive for you. I wrote more about this in: What Massage Setting Would You Prefer?
This may require you to go to a few therapists before finding “the One.” There are different skill levels: talents, passion for bodywork, love for learning, and, more importantly, presence. Having a devoted bodyworker who can help you mend and take care of your body can be a lifesaver, a true saving grace.
I hope you will find this useful. Writing about it has made me reflect on my healthcare team and become aware of where I need to make some adjustments.
May you find what you are looking for and know the amazingness of massage and bodywork.
