Massage Therapists need the Trager Principles
I never seem to get bored with the principles of the Trager Approach and how they deeply affect people in such a positive way. I am particularly fascinated and inspired everyday how vital they are for those who touch as a profession. Massage Therapists work incredibly hard to help others through pain and discomfort, yet often give so much that they find themselves having to receive almost as much bodywork as they give just to get through the week.
We all need our own sessions, but this seems unbalanced and maybe even extreme to be putting one’s body through so much stress, that they need to do this much ‘external self-care’, massages, icing, heating, creams and so forth. As a Trager Practitioner, my self-care has turned into an ’internal self-care practice’ called Mentastics! We have the opportunity to play with these principles while we “work” (not really work) with another body.
I think massage therapists are tired; tired of giving to the point of their own pain, tired of working so hard and not seeing the long lasting results they hoped for. They are tired of worrying about their own body’s ability to sustain a long career. And they are tired of a goal only oriented outcome that forgets about the process of educating and empowering their clients. And tired on not really understanding that there are simple answers to this challenge.
I have witnessed thousands of new massage students as well as long time professionals find new inspiration and hope through learning even the basics of these principles! I am personally one that was saved by the Trager Approach, and I mean saved. I am so incredibly grateful. I encourage others to reach out these amazing people and share your stories of success with them. The Trager community has so much to offer this population!
One of many ways the USTA wants to support massage therapists is by changing the structure of student dues which allows an easier entrance into the training program. If you haven’t already heard, the membership fee for students is now only $100 for the first two years, and then only $50 per year thereafter. Many Instructors are scheduling the classes so that one can become a practitioner within a two-year time frame. Massage therapists need to understand that they can still do their fantastic work, but even better and without hurting themselves in the process.
Enjoy this month’s Trager Talk!
Linda MacConnell, USTA President