Have good body mechanics

Body mechanics is all about how we move. Massage therapists are always moving and standing. It’s important to learn good posture techniques, how to properly bend and move, as well as good lifting techniques. Having good body mechanics will help prevent injuries from happening on or off the job.

Properly stretch

Since you are on your feet and exerting some strength and pressure when you perform massages on your clients, it’s important to treat your job like exercise. With that being said, before you exercise every day you should stretch. Light stretches before meeting with any client is a good starting point. This will keep you from cramping up or pulling muscles.

Have routine massages for yourself

As a massage therapist, you already know the benefits of having massages routinely. However, it’s important for you to take care of the largest organ on your body, your skin. It’s also important to relieve tight muscles and knots. Massage therapy does take a toll on your own body, so it’s important to practice what you preach—and take care of you.

Allow yourself time off to rest

We have become a society of workaholics. We take little time for ourselves, since our daily lives, routines and work dictate most of our lives. Be sure you allow yourself to take time off to relax and rest. Also, work and stress can add up, so take vacation time, at least once yearly and allow yourself the time to enjoy yourself.

Take care of your hands and skin

As a massage therapist your biggest tools are your hands. It’s important to wash them regularly throughout the day, however over-washing can lead to dryness and cracked skin. So it’s important to properly moisturize your hands and skin as needed. Be sure to have well-manicured nails that are short too. Having jagged or long nails is not ideal when you are massaging patients.

Keep your mood in check

We don’t always come to work in the best mood. However, massage therapist can’t take care of client properly when they are in a bad mood. If you’re upset or frustrated before seeing a client, clear your mind and focus. Your job will be a lot less stressful for you and more effective for your clients if you set the right mood and atmosphere.

It’s important to take care of yourself both professionally and personally. These self-care tips should help you become healthier in mind, body and spirit, as well as help you continue to have a job you love.