When you decide that you want to be a massage therapist, you are doing more for people than just giving them a relaxing back massage. Massage therapy can be an important tool in the beauty trade also.
Not only do massages help relax us, there are also facial massages that can be done which can help keep away wrinkles and keep your face looking younger and healthier longer. In fact, there are some facial massage techniques that are believed to have amazing anti-aging effects.
If you take a trip to a day spa you are sure to see many massage techniques being practiced. Deep tissue massage, facial massage, reflexology and hot stone therapy are only a few of the massage techniques that exist to help us stay healthy and relax naturally, without the use of prescription drugs.
No matter what kind of massage you want to practice, you’ll need the tools of the trade, which include a variety of different types of massage tables, oils and more.
The massage table allows your patient to get in a relaxed position that not only allows you to address their physiological needs, but also allows them to lay comfortably. Oils are important because they make it easier to perform the massage, and reduce painful friction from letting your hands glide freely. Plus, the oils themselves have different properties that can help with relaxation, rejuvenation, healing, and many other health benefits.
Blankets and sheets help your patient feel more comfortable, enabling them to be comfortable on the table and to modestly cover up. Each tool has its purpose in your studio or spa and not only helps you do your job, it also makes sure that customers feel that you are a professional.
A basic list of items you’ll need to be a professional massage therapist include:
- Massage table and/or chair
- Aromatherapy supplies, including oils
- Relaxing music
- Charts, videos and books, for your own studies and reminders
- Towels
- Sheets
- Hot and cold therapy items, such as hot stones
- Oils, cream and lotions
If this interests you, start researching schools and different licenses needed in your state and/or city.
You will also want to promote your massage therapy business once you get going. People won’t know who you are or what you offer if you don’t advertise. Get fliers and pamphlets made that let people know that you offer beauty massage for more than just relaxation.
Include photos of your massage tables, studio items and yourself looking professional and rejuvenated. Nothing sells your services better than looking like you successfully use them.
Good luck!
*This article was contributed.
