Neo's Massage Interview
Do you remember your first client ? Tell us something about that first day when you decided to be a Masseur!
I remember my very first client, I was nervous at first because I wanted to make a good impression and make them feel relaxed. Once we started talking and laughing, we were both at ease and chatted most of the session. After being a regular for over a year, he shared with me that felt more and more comfortable about his body which strengthened his intimacy and connection with his partner of 20 years.
Some people say that being a Masseur is addictive. Would you miss your Masseur days ?
There is something so satisfying about helping someone that comes to me with aches, pains and stress and then leaves with a smile and a sense of calmness and ease. I use my sessions as a space to meditate and centre my energy while transferring that to my clients. I would definitely miss this connection if my Masseur days were to end.
Do you consider yourself a successful Masseur?
I've been in this industry for several years now and being able to connect with different people, bring joy and good energy gives me a sense of accomplishment. Being able to continue to do what I love and make a career out of it, is success for me.
Tell us a little about yourself, if you were to pick something what would you like your clients to absolutely know about you?
There’s so much judgement and high expectations out there that I find myself at the opposite end of that spectrum. I’m a warm, calm and welcoming soul and I enjoy connecting with people physically, mentally and spiritually - everyone has a story and I’m happy to listen and learn from theirs.
How would you like someone that contacts you for a massage to feel when they leave?
My goal is for my clients to leave my studio feeling like they’re on cloud 9 as their stress, aches and pains have melted away and they can get back to their day with a bounce in their step.
What are your hobbies, what do you like to do in your spare time?
My spare time is filled with music, biking, working out and making and eating delicious food!
Why did you become a Masseur?
I have a couple friends in Chicago who are both masseurs and when I’d visit they’d always ask if they could try some new techniques on me. Free massage? Okay! The more I helped them learn and develop new techniques, the more I learned and enjoyed the connection. One day they both said I should try it and after 15min they said I was a natural and I do more. I’ve been massaging ever since.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a Masseur?
Learn what you can do to protect your hands and especially your thumbs. These are the most common injuries in this line of work as it’s easy to stress and strain your body if you’re not centring yourself and your weight behind the pressure you apply. After reading up on these practices I saved myself from many potential injuries.
What distinguishes you from all the other Masseurs?
I have met some fellow Masseurs from this site and I have been pleasantly surprised by how comfortable and connected felt meeting my colleagues. Something that I’ve been told by them and I pride myself on is that I’m very calm and relaxed which puts people at ease and in their comfort zone. My intuition and connection to my clients have always been genuine.
How long have you been a Masseur and how long do think you'd like to continue?
It’s been about 7 years now and I would like to continue as long as my body lets me.