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Sandy LyonGrowing your practice is half art half science. Start with promotional basics, add in incredible massage techniques, blend in a sprinkle of feng shui, and a pinch of charismatic personality, then season with some je ne sai quot and voila – you have a totally booked schedule.
But in reality, a lot of us try many things, stumble along the way, learn from our mistakes and from others, and arrive at success gradually and with some dings along the way. Practice makes perfect and sharing experiences and learning from others’ is a wonderful way to give back or speed up the success curve.
Use this forum to ask questions about building your practice or share useful experience.
massatabThere are many kind of massage therapy. If I want to become a massage therapist, where should I start ? I meant which one should I learn first ?
Thanks very much
AndreaMost massage therapists start with basic massage training, which will prepare you to pass your exams (MBLEX or NCBTMB; and local exams if required by the state you wish to practice in) and practice safely and effectively. The first, most basic massage technique which is taught in most schools is Swedish massage. You’ll learn the fundamentals of human anatomy and physiology, your muscles, bones, organ systems, and some basic biology to understand how massage effects the body. Once you’ve learned those basics, you’ll expand upon your knowledge in school during elective courses (most of which are packaged within the curriculum) which will introduce you to other techniques like: shiatsu, trigger point therapy, myofascial, polarity, cranial-sacral, forearm flow (also called Esalen taught as Lomi Lomi), and others — depending upon the curriculum your school offers. You’ll also have courses is safety, client communication, business, ethics, sanitation. Most massage therapy programs can be completed in under a year.
Generally, massage therapy certification programs are from 700-900 hours, and require a clinical practice hours as well, where you’ll practice massage on the public under supervision of a registered instructor-teacher/supervisor who is also an LMT.
Once you graduate with your basic massage training, you’ll have an idea of what specialty you wish to pursue. I chose Polarity Therapy, and studied for a year and a half after becoming licensed to become a certified Polarity Therapy practitioner.
Also, you may be required to have continuing education hours every year or two to renew your massage therapy license, once you establish your initial license. This is a great opportunity to take specialized courses to expand your interest and ability to practice these techniques appropriately and effectively.
Make sure you choose a program that is accredited and will be accepted by your state for licensure. Choose a program which is well-reputed and will prepare you for success in your future career. Study hard, practice much, and before you know it, you’ll be on your way!
Remember: You must have a valid license to practice massage therapy as a professional!
