spa burn out

by Stephanie
(Phoenix,AZ )

I specifically did not go into the spa industry..for this reason alone. Whether it was a high-end spa or a membership clinic..(Massage Envy). I spoke to plenty of people who did not appreciate the protocols not fitting in with their need to just be a healer and help people rather than cranking out massages like a factory worker. I ended up working for a Chiropractor, smaller offices, being able to really help patients with their physical issues. Now don't get me wrong. There is a lot of underpaid, no benefits, long hours as well. But it felt more rewarding. It brought me to where I am today. Managing and working at a small studio inside of a Gym. It's a lot of hard work, marketing plus massaging plus all the administrative stuff. But I have the ability to really work with my clients. Address their individual needs. build relationships with them. I think I would feel the same way as you, had I gone into the spa world. From the mouths of my clients, from pretty much all of them, they don't like the Spa massages. I get to work with clients that want Deep Tissue, Myofacial and trigger point massages. Sports and stretch. and before anyone gets offended. Not everyone wants to receive a Swedish massage and not all therapists wants to give those. I am that LMT that prefers to NOT. My choice. But you can make your practice whatever you want. That is the beauty of it. My business is struggling, the economy has had a huge impact on my business. But I cannot see myself working for anyone else anymore. The freedom that I have with my schedule, and types of massage I do is incomparable. I would consider looking into renting out a space, get started small and work from there. I think your skills would bloom! I think it would put that love and spark back into your hands. Your healing hands. Good luck to you!!!!!!!