Gabriel_Shaw's Massage Interview
Do you remember your first client ? Tell us something about that first day when you decided to be a Masseur!
My first clients beyond training were older gentlemen in a club in Portland, OR. I loved meeting new people and feeling like I had been a positive force in their healing.
Some people say that being a Masseur is addictive. Would you miss your Masseur days ?
Of course! It’s a wonderful way to connect to people and I would always find a way to provide that release to my friends.
Do you consider yourself a successful Masseur?
I do. If you find joy in what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life. This does not feel like work to me. It is a pleasure to share my skills with others.
Tell us a little about yourself, if you were to pick something what would you like your clients to absolutely know about you?
I am a Renaissance man: An highly trained Army veteran who deployed to Afghanistan, an opera singer, art history enthusiast, politically aware, gemini, party boy, cool, baker… on and on. I want to be a better person everyday.
How would you like someone that contacts you for a massage to feel when they leave?
Relaxed, happy, satisfied, understood, provided for, valued, balanced, and able to better manage their own mental state to dominate their lives.
What are your hobbies, what do you like to do in your spare time?
I am an opera singer. I perform with many professional choirs in Chicago, and value my musical and performing background dearly. I also read a lot, and play video games.
Why did you become a Masseur?
Because I didn’t want to work. I wanted to connect to people one on one and find ways to make them better while elevating myself.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a Masseur?
Love people first. Your clients are the only thing you have to worry about. Show up for them, and they’ll show up for you.
What distinguishes you from all the other Masseurs?
I have few boundaries in my session. We are all experiencing this life together and we are all wanting similar moments of joy, love, and peace. I want you all to feel valued and provided for.
How long have you been a Masseur and how long do think you'd like to continue?
About ten years now, but I began as soon as I knew how it felt myself. When I was a kid, I would try to use my touch when invited and help people connect to me and feel relieved.
How often do you travel? Do you prefer to travel or are you more of a homebody?
As often as possible. I do have a beautiful dog that is so precious to me. But he is less an anchor than I used to think. I want to see the world and do good.
Is extensive training necessary for a Masseur in order to be successful?
No, but being willing to learn new skills everyday is paramount. Listening to your clients and responding to their physical and verbal feedback will make each client seem manageable and important. Tailoring the experience to them is my goal.
How do you like clients to feel about the experience when they leave?
Satisfied, worthwhile, pleasant, and with a desire to come back as soon and as often as possible.