Massage as a Career?
I get regular emails from people who want to know what it’s like being a sports and remedial massage therapist in London. So I thought this might be helpful for those who are considering it as a career. If you’ve any more questions don’t hesitate to ask!
The Actual Massage Job
Must love people first and foremost – have the sort of personality that attracts other’s trust instantly. Friendly, open and non-threatening. (Well I hope I am!)
You must enjoy listening to and helping others. And be comfortable offering advice where appropriate and if within your remit.
Must (obviously) be comfortable around nakedness / (and yes, very occasional hygiene issues too!) be able to deal with this tactfully and confidently.
It’s physical – and sometimes it’s sheer, bloody hard work!
The Self Employed bit of the job- a separate job completely
Being well driven and motivated is essential – as is being focused, obsessive, confident, curious, experimental, energetic.
Opportunities? Not many to speak of that arrive on a plate – ‘jobs’ are few and far between. I get CV’s emailed to me every week from sports massage therapists looking for a clinic to work from in London. Especially a massage therapy clinic in Mayfair/Islington!
However everyone has muscles, and how many times do you hear the people around you complaining about aches and pains?. You must be a ‘survivor’ and be creative – and create your own opportunities.
It took me around a year to get things going, after 2 I was cruising. And that was ‘going for it big time’ (being the obsessive type!)
It’s not easy and most massage therapists drop by the wayside. That being said if you’re prepared to put everything in effort-wise, and, of course, are good at what you do, you’ll be fine!
I studied sports and remedial massage therapy at www.nlssm.com a school that comes highly recommended!
Good luck – and let me know if I can offer any advice or assistance in starting out..
