I’m amazed at how often my work reminds of this saying. Dealing with people on such a personal level as a massage therapist really drives home the fact that the way people come across at first may not be an accurate picture at all. I have guests with disabilities who are still very capable of doing things and most of all they often have the most amazing personalities.

Recently a new guest came in to book an appointment. She was in a wheelchair and dressed very casually. We made the appointment for a few days later and during our introduction time she shared with me that at another place she was made to feel very uncomfortable. Now granted, we do have a policy that the person coming in for a massage needs to be able to get on and off the table by themselves or bring assistance, but we also know that massage can be extremely helpful to persons that spend most of their day in a seated position. I was so glad that she came to us and she really enjoyed her massage that day, she was even talking about coming back soon.

I’ve had guests come in all happy and cheery, however when they are in the treatment they start talking about their feelings and problems. Some even shed tears and apologize for it and my usual answer: it’s called massage therapy for a reason. So just because people look happy all the time, doesn’t mean they don’t have their own fair share of problems, they just choose to not throw it out there.

I find that each time I stop myself from judging a person or catch myself doing it, I learn so much more about life. I know that sounds very ‘Dalai Lama’-ish, but it feels great and I highly recommend it. Just because something is normal to me, doesn’t mean that something outside my way of normal is wrong. What is right to you may be completely wrong to another person. And honestly, how boring would life be if we all liked the same things and did the same things all the time. So get out of your comfort zone and explore the world! Go to a restaurant and try a cuisine that is completely new to you, go watch a foreign movie, book a trip to a place you’ve never been before, go volunteer for a cause you’ve never put much thought into, be adventurous.

Have a great week & remember to take time for yourself, you deserve it!

Caroline

P.s. If you are interested in getting our newsletters announcing our specials, just contact me at caroline@simplyspasantee.com