We Asked: If you could choose any massage or bodywork mentor, whom would it be and why?

Here is what you told us...

Leon Botello. [He] trained in Colorado and [is] presenting, practicing and teaching here in New Zealand. Every encounter with him inspires me. His knowledge, his commitment and his passion for the art of massage stir every member of our class. The first time he took our class of 40 “wannabe” massage and neuromuscular therapists he said, "Live this [massage].” I have ever since. I strive to have as much knowledge and as intuitive [a] touch as he.
Kate Ellin
Auckland, New Zealand

I would choose Mother Teresa. She embodied the qualities of love and compassion. I feel it is so important to reach out to our clients with that same love and compassion. I know it is very powerful.
Vickie Sanchez
Salt Lake City, Utah

Terry Meyer saved the day for me! I was practicing massage in New Jersey since 1992 and then moved to Delaware six years ago. It felt like the carpet was pulled out from underneath me when the massage board stated I couldn't practice because I had too few hours of anatomy and physiology. She was so supportive and understanding in her quiet, calm way. When I met her, immediately a bond was made, as I felt her heartfelt caring and understanding of my dilemma. I finished the hours needed, got my technician's license and began my practice in Delaware. Presently, I am enrolled in her school to attain the remainder [of the] hours needed to become a massage therapist and will graduate in June 2005.
Janet Fante
Middletown, Delaware

My mentor would be, and is, my instructor, Katie Mickey. She has been a massage therapist for over 20 years, and more than that, she is a healer. She teaches with compassion and grace, and has a very holistic approach. In addition to the anatomy and physiology, we are learning to use our other senses - to "sense," if you will, what the client's body is "saying.” She is amazing, and to watch her massage is to watch someone dancing with joy. I hope to attain half her skill and intuition someday.
Virginia DeGrazia-Sanders
Oak View, California

My former massage teacher, Nina Beal. She embodies everything that a therapist should be. She is kind, compassionate, skilled and successful. During my time in school I not only had the priviledge of being taught massage and craniosacral therapy by her, but during class I was able to watch her give several massage and cranial sessions. Although I am only a recent graduate, thanks to Nina I am inspired and have a clear view of the type of therapist I want to be.
Martha E. Lyall
Phoenix, Arizona

It would definitely be my instructor at the college I am currently attending. She has given me an indepth understanding of the human anatomy that will remain with me for quite some time. I have never thought of the human body in this respect, and it gives me a deeper meaning to whole-body health and healing.
Patti Maki
Byron, Michigan

I'm currently a student at [Central Florida School of Massage Therapy] and have an instructor named Scott Coleman. The knowledge he holds and shares with us students is incredible. He's got experience in what seems to be every area of massage and holistic practices. Any question asked of him, he's got the answer. The amount of info poured out from this man is absolutely incredible, and I cherish him not only as an instructor, but also as [a] mentor and a friend in the years to come. The passion and sincerity of massage is reflected through him as he encourages us to feel the same and not just make it a business.
CheHae, Funk
Orlando, Florida