Custom_massage's Massage Interview
How would you like someone that contacts you for a massage to feel when they leave?
To be honest I don't always give the client the massage he had in mind...
During the massage it happens that a client clearly needs an other kind of massage and attention, and I will give him that. Changing the massage style happens with the client's consent, spoken or unspoken.
So I try to give the massage he needs rather than what he initially asked for.
That extra personal touch makes a client really happy!
What are your hobbies, what do you like to do in your spare time?
I like to go outdoors with the dogs. I take care of 'guestdogs' three times a week. Used to go horseriding, I want to pick that up again. I do fitness, yoga and meditation. On holiday I love to read. Broad interest in cinema, culture, musea, dance, architecture. And love a good conversation about social en political issues.
What distinguishes you from all the other Masseurs?
Originally I had a three years professional training as Shiatsu massage therapist and 1,5 y Basic Western medical knowledge. Later on I added other western massages styles like Swedisch massage.
And with the experience during the years came the sensitivity and intuition, which is so important.
Apart from that I am a qualified management- and life-coach. Post grad. in Body Oriented Coaching, including bodywork, breathwork and Haptonomy.
I m glad to use both Eastern and Western techniques combined with my knowledge and coachingskills.
Do you consider yourself a successful Masseur?
My clients are happy and relaxed after a massage, and they come back!
How long have you been a Masseur and how long do think you'd like to continue?
I have been a masseur for 11 years now. And still learning and getting better.
So as long as I enjoy my work I ll continue.
How do you like clients to feel about the experience when they leave?
I like my clients to feel that they had a professional massage, custom made and with real personal attention.
Is extensive training necessary for a Masseur in order to be successful?
A good training and a broader view on massage and life is essential to work with a wide range of clients.
Do you remember your first client ? Tell us something about that first day when you decided to be a Masseur!
I did my 4,5 years massage education, as a hobby next to a full time job.
A few years later I decided to make a carreer switch from freelance manager and trouble shooter to masseur and coach.
During my massage training I massaged several friends for free. First client? Gradually by the end of my professional education people offered to pay. So after I had my diploma my friends just insisted on paying me.
The first full treatment as a beginning massagetherapist was a psychotherapist: that got me nervous at first! But treating here on a physical level got her of her mental problems and worked out well. That was a food boost for me.
Some people say that being a Masseur is addictive. Would you miss your Masseur days ?
yes, ofcourse I would miss the personal contact with my clients.
Tell us a little about yourself, if you were to pick something what would you like your clients to absolutely know about you?
Im interested in body and mind. Although talkative by nature, I can be silent both in meditation and during work.
Im quit down to earth and at same time try to "maintain" my spiritual side.
Why did you become a Masseur?
I felt the urge to speak with my hands and connect with my feeling side.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a Masseur?
Take some time to get a good basic professional education. And be aweare of your own metal health.
Your own physical and mental stability is the basis for a healthy attitude towards your client.
It is the foundation to work with the right intention and energy.
How often do you travel? Do you prefer to travel or are you more of a homebody?
I like to travel. Been in a few countries, several continents. Africa, Asia, North and South America, Arab Countries.
I love different cultures and backgrounds. Simple travels, meet people.
My clients are from all over the world, regardless of colour, race, religion etc.