CULTURE|PSYCHOLOGY
Confessions of a Former Massage Therapist
Clothing, judgment, and the weight of the world are a few things that people try to set aside inside a typical massage room
I used to be a licensed massage therapist for more than ten years. I can still hardly believe some of the stories I’ve heard from my clients, as well as co-workers.
I have worked at a few legitimate, upscale spas that provide various massage and facial services to men and women.
I’d say that about 40% of my clients were men and 60% were women.
Men rarely talked during their massage time, whereas at least half of the women had a hard time relaxing unless they talked.
I knew I gave better massages when people didn’t talk. I would talk as well, which took away some of my focus on their ailments. Sometimes I told them this, but it didn’t matter.
I came to learn that talking was part of their therapy, especially for those who were prone to anxiety.
It amazes me how much people can reveal to total strangers — things that they don’t feel comfortable saying to their close friends or family.
