A colleague of mine and I were talking recently about how to cope with life distractions as we work. The goal is to always maintain presence and to be available for the client. However, how do the [amazon-product type="text" text="Massage Therapists"]B000F7XIYS[/amazon-product] remain present when they have doctor’s appointments, a fight with a friend, and on and on on their mind? Some situations are more difficult to put out of mind than others. There are times when it takes a great deal of focus in order to be present with a client.
Mindfulness and Meditation can help a great deal. When working with any client it is important to put them first. Whether they are looking to you for relaxation or more intense therapy, the challenge of setting aside your world and putting someone else’s in its place can be very taxing. Mindfulness consists of paying attention to an experience from moment to moment. Working in the present moment can seem difficult at first, but as you practice so you grow. Presence is so important to this work. Whether they see it or not, your clients will feel the difference.
Try to balance and take more time for yourself when you need it - this is something that I say over and over to my clients, myself, and everyone else. As with most things I have the hardest time with my own advice.
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Tags: how to massage, Massage Therapy, mind-body connection, relaxation, stress relief, workplace stress
So true. I had an experience with a local spa a few years ago that your post reminded me of. I was getting a pedicure for my cousin’s wedding, and this wasn’t just a nail salon, but an actual day spa, and the young woman performing my pedicure was very tired from a long night out with friends, and was actually even recounting the night’s events to another employee.
The quality of the pedicure was fine, but the overall experience was completely lacking to say the least, and I’ll never return.
This is definitely something I need to try to keep in mind even in personal interactions with friends and family. If I can stay focused in the moment, I actually enjoy myself more, and the person I’m with is getting the attention and appreciation they deserve.
Thanks J!
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