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Are you thinking about a career as a massage therapist? This is a great career choice if you enjoy working with and helping people. It's also a career with many possible directions to choose from. Massage therapists can choose what style of massage they want to practice, what kind of setting they want to practice in and what kind of people they want to work with.
Massage therapy has become very popular over the last decade. More people are looking to get massages for a variety of reasons. Active people and athletes may need help with an injury to the back or shoulder. Someone sitting at a computer all day may be looking for relief from neck tension. Just about anyone may want a massage simply to feel better and let go of stress.
Massages may be given on a massage table, or in a chair. As a massage therapist, you may work from your own office, at a resort or health club or possibly at a hospital or other healing center.
| How do you prepare for a career as a massage therapist? You probably want to attend a massage school. You should begin by researching what kind of schools are around, and what kind of massage you want to learn. You are usually better off attending an accredited massage school. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes a number of professional organizations which accredits massage schools. You can probably find an accredited massage therapy program in your area, or you may want to travel to one that suits your needs. |
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Over the last few years, as alternative healing and massage have become so much more popular, a wide variety of healing systems have become available to the public. Some of these are massage in the traditional sense, but others, like reflexology, reiki and aromatherapy, have origins in other healing systems (such as acupuncture or other Eastern types of medicine). Many people, however, incorporate these alternative modalities into their massage practice.
Some massage therapists specialize in Sports Therapy, which is a vast field in itself. This can mean treating anyone from professional athletes to weekend joggers, all of whom frequently need treatment for their injuries, or just to remain relaxed and flexible.
Another specialization is Spa Therapy. A massage therapist who works out of a spa has to be knowledgeable about a wide range of practices, such as nutrition, wraps, masks, aromatherapy and other treatments incorporated in the spa experience. For this you often need an additional certification in Spa Therapy.
Medical massage in another growing specialty. Physicians are increasing recommending massage for a variety of patients to help treat symptoms. The particular type of massage needed will vary according to the needs of patients, but this type of practice can be quite rewarding, as you can help people cope with a wide range of medical conditions.
A career as a massage therapist can be very interesting and satisfying. It's a practice where you can be well paid and also know that you are really helping people.
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