What is the solution? Unplug, go outdoors and get moving. Take the dog for walk, go hiking or cycling. Eat lots of fresh veggies and fruit and, by all mean, get regular bodywork.  Don’t wait until you are 50 and aching all over to schedule a massage. This world we inhabit is full of tension. Get it worked “out” before it works you over.

Their mission statement: To honor those who built the bridges for our profession, to educate the general public about massage, to educate therapists about different types of massage and to have fun.

Tip: Any M.T. therapist can add a link to their site for free.

2. What is your primary motivation?
If earning income is your primary motivation then you may be very disappointed because M.T.’s do not make a lot of money. If you like the idea of doing bodywork on beautiful bods then beware; you will encounter many body types and besides, after going to massage therapy school the human body will represent itself differently. If you want to help people improve their health and well-being and be a part of the alternative healing movement then massage therapy is a perfect career choice.

3. Are you ready for a personal transformation?
This one takes most people by surprise. Most M.T.’s will tell you that the person who came out of massage therapy school is vastly different than the person who went in. I have come to the conclusion that it is a combination of the following things. First, students both give and receive a lot of bodywork in school. This has a way of pulling emotional issues to the surface which can be the catalyst for deep inner reflection. It is not uncommon for students to make major life adjustments either during or after their M..T. schooling, such as maneuvering out of abusive relationships. Second, depending on the massage therapy school you choose, you may have the opportunity to study under some talented and enlightened individuals. You will be introduced to new ways of thinking. A good massage therapy school will  have a very good energy and you will experience some consciousness raising via osmosis.

4. Do you have touch issues? If so, are you willing to work through them?
Some students do not realize how much bodywork they will receive in school. A protocol will be learned for nearly every part of the body, excluding the most private parts, and this can be very difficult for anyone who has suffered sexual abuse or violent attacks on their body. Trauma is stored in our bodies. I have seen students have emotional breakdowns on the table during a routine bodywork lesson. If you do have touch issues and you are willing to work through them it can be very beneficial to do so in a controlled, safe environment with experienced instructors present.

5. Are you willing to change the way you think about money in order to do what you love?
According to the American Massage Therapy Association, in 2010, the average annual income for a massage therapist (including tips) who provides approximately 15 hours of massage per week was estimated to be $31,980. The AMTA also reports that more than half of massage therapists (57 percent) also earn income working in another profession. You can read the full 2011 Massage Therapy Industry Fact Sheet here.

The bottom line is that, in the beginning,  it can be challenging to make a substantial full-time income in the massage therapy field. This makes it perfect for people who are looking for part time income like S.A.H. moms and retired people. Of course, there are therapists who have thriving M.T. practices and are able to support their families with their salary. With a little creativity, flexibility and faith you CAN do what you love every day!

In summary, if you are open-minded, comfortable with your own body, flexible, kind and a seeker of wisdom, you are on the right path. May joy and happiness follow you on your journey as a massage therapist!

The fact that you are here, reading this, says that something has sparked your interest in the power of touch. Pay attention to your higher voice. The world needs more healers!