Self care for the busy massage therapist
It's a great thing to have a busy massage practice or be working hard to build one, but it can be stressful too!
Taking care of yourself is vital to your business, the last thing you need is to be out injured or sick. Self care also helps you, as a busy massage therapist, to give your absolute best to your clients; we can’t serve from an empty cup after all.
I’ve spent the last 20 years practicing massage in a variety of setting, and here are my best self care tips:
1. Eat a healthy breakfast with protein.
You don’t want to be running on empty by 9:30 and grabbing a donut. I usually have a green smoothie, eggs and toast. And, take snacks to work! Healthy snacks will save the day when your clients are early/late or the receptionist forgets your break. Plan your meals so you have energy throughout the day.
2. Don’t over book yourself.
You may see one less client but ALL of them will receive a better session and are more likely to come back for the quality work. If you are rushed or stressed clients can tell, plus you may not have time to do a treatment plan, and get your client rescheduled for regular sessions if you are overbooked.
3. Stretch in between clients and drink your water.
If you don’t have time to stretch in between clients, start and end your day with a good stretch. As you know, stretching increases blood flow to your muscles and can help prevent injuries.
4. Get a massage, practice what you preach!
I can’t emphasize this enough, trade or pay for regular sessions. This will help to prevent burn out and you know you need it. It may take awhile to find a good trading partner, but keep looking it will be worth it.
5. Set and stick to your boundaries.
Although it’s very tempting to work outside of the hours you have planned, you will build a business that you love if you do! Spend some time dreaming and planning your ideal life, and then you will create it. If you take clients in the evening for example and you really don’t want to work evenings you may end up resenting your clients because they will expect evening appointments. Concentrate on booking clients during the hours you want to work and refer the rest out.
Take care of yourself to give your clients your best and enjoy a long and successful career.
