You’ve heard me talk about the word Shorter… a lot! It’s one of the key words I use when teaching others how to provide massage for those who are ill. What I really mean when I use the word, is:
Shorter Massage Sessions
I had a student contact me this week about a client who was scheduled to see him that day. The client was having his first chemotherapy treatment and the student was unsure that he should provide massage for this client on the same day chemo was received.
You know me, I believe that anyone who WANTS to receive massage, CAN receive massage – when the massage is provided by someone who is trained is gentle-touch modalities.
As I thought about this student, I was very aware of the extensive training he had and knew he was well prepared to provide massage for his client.
Thinking about the situation, I realized there are two things at play here.
I knew he had the skill.
In this case, it was more of a mindset issue. How do I reassure him that he is well prepared? What do I say that will give him the confidence he needs to proceed?
There’s definitely a heart connection that is needed. I offer specific words for my students to explore, such as: attitude, compassion, presence. As they explore these things for themselves, they understand how to “be” with someone who is ill and helps take some of the fear away.
Oh… the fear is always there – or at least it is for me – especially when working with someone with advanced illness. The last thing we want to do is make them feel worse, right?!
I’ve learned how to be calm when in stressful situations… it took lots of practice. And, I find that when students explore these attributes for themselves – digging deep into their own heart and soul – many are able to put fear into its proper place. Fear is healthy in some situations, it just needs to be managed.
In addition to reassuring him that he can provide a massage for his client, I suggested a Shorter session. Why? Chemo and other treatments can put demand on the body and a long session could make the client feel worse.
Confidence and Skill – he had both following our conversation and proceeded with the massage. Happy client, happy student!
I just wanted you to know about this so that you can picture yourself with the skillset and mindset to provide gentle-touch massage for those in your circle who are hurting physically and emotionally.
Touch… it’s a basic human need and should be available to all.
Questions? Comments? Please get in touch: susan@progressivemassagetherapy.com
