Ilex's Massage Interview
Tell us a little about yourself, if you were to pick something what would you like your clients to absolutely know about you?
I really truly care about bettering the world. I want to enable my clients to achieve their goals and feel better. I'm someone who really cares that my life and actions have meaning, and I feel like massage and body work are extremely meaningful.
Do you remember your first client ? Tell us something about that first day when you decided to be a Masseur!
My first few clients with JDHATX were wonderful; I was able to learn a lot through mirroring JDHATX's movements. It was clear to me that I had the instinct and intuition of a masseur already, and with time and training mastery would be possible. I feel like I was made for massage. I was studying psychology at the time, and my goal of caring for people seemed to be better met through massage so I pivoted!
How do you like clients to feel about the experience when they leave?
I want you to feel release, and the sensation of peace. I want you to feel grounded, and that despite all the chaos in the world, you're going to be okay. I want to bring comfort, joy, and connection to your life. I want your body to feel relaxed, stretched, and a little tingly.
Some people say that being a Masseur is addictive. Would you miss your Masseur days ?
I know I want massage to be a stepping stone for me. I want to pursue the study of traumatic bodywork once I get more established in the principles of massage. As a trauma-informed individual, I understand how deeply different traumas can affect the body, and know there aren't enough people to help. I know I would like to continue to massage. I've always massaged, and I can't see myself stop, but I do want to deepen my practice and expand to other forms of bodywork.
What are your hobbies, what do you like to do in your spare time?
I love the natural environment. I take a lot of walks, sometimes foraging for wild edibles. I like to make things. Right now I'm working on constructing a pup hood. I'm a connoisseur of most things edible. I really enjoy wonderful meals with my friends and lovers. I love learning about nearly everything. I'm a people person, and get energy from community. I also do some volunteering for different queer events in Austin.