Massage Trade
Why should we participate in a massage trade? Massage encourages a sense of wonder, peace, and serenity in those who receive it. It is more than a luxury; it reconnects us with our humanity, revitalizes our lives, and reminds us we are alive. Unfortunately, as massage therapists, we often fail to receive the massages we need to remain connected to our talents. When you participate in a massage trade, it reminds you how it feels to be a client, shows you new techniques, and methods.
Massage Trades Are Great Practice
As a professional, I am certain you have had clients who do not communicate throughout a session. This often occurs because they struggle to articulate their thoughts, others are so relaxed that it becomes a challenge, and sometimes it is because we aren’t asking the right questions. When you participate in a massage trade, it is an opportunity to practice your communication skills. Just because you are massaging another professional, it doesn’t mean they are good communicators. Truly, massaging experienced massage therapists can be dreadful because they often try to take control of the massage from the table. Similar to driving from the passenger seat, many massage therapists believe their approach to massage is the only correct way.
Massage trades are a great way to practice because they give us time to humble ourselves, relax, and allow someone else to take the wheel. If we can establish a strong and safe space, honest feedback can occur. When this happens, actual professional development occurs. To achieve this, both parties must recognize that they are not God’s gift to humanity and that they are both trying to improve their skill and experience ease.
Communication Reminder
Experiencing your desired quality of touch requires communication. The time before your massage is an opportune moment to share your wants and needs with your therapist. Inform them about any pertinent medical conditions you may have. If you fail to communicate with them, they will not meet your expectations. You are the central component of a great massage. If you have a desired outcome for the session, they need to know it beforehand.
I tell my clients that they know their bodies infinitely more than I do. “My education and experience have equipped me with knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pain science, but you have lived in your body since the day you were born. We just met, so give me the knowledge I need to be the tool that helps you feel fantastic.”
An essential component of effective communication is the fair application of personal and professional boundaries. If the therapist you are trading with tells you they do not use a particular kind of pressure or modality, do not pressure them into doing this. I have worked with massage therapists who wanted super deep/firm pressure. When I told them this is not something I do, they said it was okay. However, once the massage started, they were adamant about me using more and more pressure. When I told them I do not use firm pressure, as I said before the massage, they huffed and puffed passively aggressively trying to guilt-trip me into doing more pressure than was safe for me, and them.
In a massage trade, it is okay to ask for what you want, but do not expect the therapist to provide you with something beyond their ability.