One of the most wonderful aspects of the massage and bodywork industry is the broad array of practitioners, techniques, styles and benefits that can be found within the field. From people who practice Swedish massage to those providing healthy touch to cancer patients in the hospital, and nearly everything in between, the realm of massage and bodywork has so many different facets.
With such a diverse range of modalities and techniques, it can be difficult for a massage therapist or bodyworker to ever focus on one, for each different skill holds its own special appeal. However, if you are one of the fortunate massage therapists or bodyworkers who has a particular passion for one category within this massive industry, then you probably have the drive to pursue expertise.
There is an old phrase that refers to a “jack of all trades, but a master of none.” A number of massage therapists and bodyworkers might wish to learn just enough about quite a few different modalities, which can be great for those clients who are seeking such a varied session—and many clients are looking for this type of variety.
It is important to remember, though, that if you spend your time learning about new topic after new topic, it may be quite a bit harder to find the time to become a “master” of any one of these techniques. On the other hand, if you stick with one to three areas of interest, then it is highly likely you could find the time to become an expert in at least one of them, if not all three.
The beauty of reaching expert level in any business, including massage therapy and bodywork, is that clients will seek you out to have access to your advanced skills. In additions, the advanced skills you offer will allow you to charge a higher rate for your services, for you will be practicing top level techniques, which often are harder to find within any community.
If you happen to be one of the massage therapists or bodyworkers who has found one or a few modalities you have the passion to pursue at advanced levels, then begin your journey toward expert by enrolling in the right continuing education classes. This means doing your homework in terms of finding out who the best providers are when it comes to your topic of choice.
The definition of “best provider” will differ based on each student, so keep in mind your own learning style and individual needs as you investigate the different teachers and companies who offer courses on the technique you wish to pursue. If possible, find one provider or continuing education company that offers classes on this specific modality from the basic level all the way to the most advanced tiers.
By sticking with the same brand of continuing education, you will be able to grow more familiar with the material without having to get used to a new teaching style every time you change classes.
Enroll today, and be well on your way to becoming an expert.
–Brandi Schlossberg