A question I’m often asked is How did you get into massage therapy?
It’s not the typical role people think of for a Sister but to me it is just as much about healing as being a nurse is. I’ve been nursing now for 25 years and throughout this time I have been fascinated how touch benefits us physically and psychologically. Massage therapy then seemed to be a natural expression of that healing touch.
First experiences of massage
Many years ago, I worked in a neurological respite unit and had my first experience of massage there. I was asked by one of the nurses, who was also a massage therapist, to be a “model” for her demonstrations to family carers of techniques they could do at home for their loved ones. It was a wonderful relaxing experience for me which I never forgot but didn’t get a chance to repeat for a long time.
Years later two things happened- I was working in a very stressful job in a large NHS trust and was becoming disillusioned in it. Then, unexpectedly, I had several operations on one eye within a few months. At the time we didn’t know how much sight I would have left which raised questions about my ability to drive and to keep nursing (think reading doctors’ handwriting). This forced me to think about how else I might express my caring skills and so, massage therapy came back to mind.
Training
My training took place in London on a part-time basis. Looking back, I can’t believe I managed to do all my case studies, assignments and practice hours as well as exams while working full-time! Since then, I have had the privilege of meeting and working with so many wonderful clients and patients. I bring my nursing knowledge and my massage skills together to offer a unique experience of holistic care. And I never stop learning. It’s good to keep training in new skills and therapies I can add to my toolbox to make sure I offer you the best care possible.
Working with Family Carers and Health professionals
Over the years I’ve noticed how much family carers give of themselves when taking care of loved ones, often at the expense of their own mental and physical health. That’s led me to focus on providing some support for them through massage. It might be to help with managing their stress, helping recovery from injuries in pushing someone in a wheelchair, providing a safe space to have time alone. There are many ways therapeutic massage can help. I am always happy to see health professionals too as I’ve never forgotten what it’s like to be out there in the frontline of health and social care.
Ask me more
If you would like to know more about how therapeutic massage or ScarWork might help you please check in on these monthly blogs, follow my Facebook and Instagram pages or get in touch via the contact page here. https://therapeuticmassageandscarwork.co.uk/#contact