PureBodyGuru'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 paid client was a very famous Ballet dancer in NYC. I had no idea. he would become a client for the following years! Many years later we live in different cities but we are friends and keep in touch. Life is good.
I've always been good with my hands. I'm an artist. When I realized that one of my talents were "sculpting" the body thru massage, I knew I was on to something!
Do you consider yourself a successful Masseur?
Yes I am a successful Masseur. I have worked on all aspects of the business, from the front desk of a spa to an elite massage therapist that was booked 4 weeks in advance. That kind of reputation is a good mark of success.
Some people say that being a Masseur is addictive. Would you miss your Masseur days ?
I get lost in my work while my body and hands are notably feeling and kneading their way to healing. I really enjoy doing massage, it's grounding for me too!
Tell us a little about yourself, if you were to pick something what would you like your clients to absolutely know about you?
After massage school, I worked for years at a mens spa in NYC, I would work on 4 clients a day. That was intense. When I decided to add yoga to my experience, I noticed it enhanced my knowledge of how the body works. It allowed me to give helpful advice for hurting muscles. My work as a masseur has become an act of art for me.
How would you like someone that contacts you for a massage to feel when they leave?
I love hearing after the first 5 minutes "wow I haven't had a great massage like this in years". A client that wants to book for more time on my table is a rewarding feeling. I know good massage- and I can appreciate it as well. Finding someone that you vibe with and is talented is a keeper.
What are your hobbies, what do you like to do in your spare time?
I have had my massage and yoga company "PureBodyGuru" for many years. Usually in the summer I increase the hours for the holistic business. IM a creative and work on freelance projects when I'm not working with body clients. Its a good compliment.
Why did you become a Masseur?
My university degree is in Elementary Education. With summers off - I thought what a great job - massage. I was always great with my hands. After awhile I stopped teaching and focused on the holistic career. I've still managed to be a teacher tho. I teach workshops on how to massage and couples sensual workshops.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a Masseur?
Depending on what city you are in, the massage business has slow and fast times. Educate yourself with a good learning institution. Understand that we are all healers in one way or another, this is just another means or tools to channel that energy. A good tool!
What distinguishes you from all the other Masseurs?
I use an educational and intuitive approach to my massage sessions. I don't have a routine but rather I adapt modalities and skills based on experience and knowledge to cater to the clients specific needs.
How long have you been a Masseur and how long do think you'd like to continue?
I've been working as a Licensed Massage therapist for many years. I haven't always worked full time, this is why many many years later I'm able to continue my work. Massage work is intense and hard on the body. I have worked as a massage therapist for 8 years.
How often do you travel? Do you prefer to travel or are you more of a homebody?
I take small USA trips about three times a year. I try to take one holiday trip outside the USA once a year. I have lived in many cities and travels a lot in my past. I moved to California to slow down and grow some roots. Southern California is a great place to be.
Is extensive training necessary for a Masseur in order to be successful?
Honestly, no. However, a learned skills always help. Education is always a plus. However, being intuitive and a healer are natural abilities I like to think.
Experience with different types of bodies and personalities is a plus.
How do you like clients to feel about the experience when they leave?
I want the client to feel like I met their needs and possibly a little beyond expectations. I always state "this is your massage, you're allowed to ask and design it to meet your needs.