"Why did you become a massage therapist?"
I am often asked this question and the answer is very clear.
When I was living in NY more than 20 years ago, I always had some pain in my low back and on my shoulders with headache. It was the kind of pain which was quite disturbing and annoying. Had some rather stressful days then, could be said that maybe it was "stress related", physically and mentally.
I remember that day clearly. I went to get some bodyworks, Shiatsu, and acupuncture in the morning - my day started with usual pain and feeling heavy. That afternoon, I experienced all that discomfort started to vanish...as the grey clouds in the sky cleared and blue sky appeared. What a wonderful feeling! That moment was almost like an "epiphany" for me - this thought struck me - "I am going to be a massage therapist!" - "I want to do a job which I can make people feel better."
There are so much that massage and bodywork can offer. I love what I do when every time I see my clients leave the office with full smile. I like the fact that everyday is a learning process with this job and we have to keep studying. I also like this treatment enhances your awareness to your body and mind - you gain responsibility of your own health and wellness and learn body's own healing power.
And above all, I am grateful of my job which gives me the sense of fulfillment and Ikigai.