Massage therapists in the Flathead Valley trade with each other; you work on me, I’ll work on you. I like these kind of arrangements as it’s a money saver and I get good feedback about my performance from working on other Kalispell massage therapists. Well, awhile back I traded with a therapist who I’d never met before, just visited with over facebook and talked with on the phone. I agreed to receive my massage at this person’s home which I had never been to before. Upon arriving I was informed that they were running late, the massage table was not set up and I could wait on the couch. As waited, I visited a little with a child who had been sleeping on the couch, and surveyed the home which seemed to be quite cluttered, and, uh…messy. I was informed the family had been camping recently and hadn’t been home much. Finally I was told the table was ready, and I was directed to a porch/sunroom kinda area that was hardly private, and told to undress, which of course I did. The massage began and I immediately knew I was in the hands of a remarkable therapist who had lots of experience and knew what they were doing. Despite the lack of a professional setting, I began to relax and roll with it. Being there was no armsling under the face cushion for my arms, I had them draped over the side of the table. Suddenly, I felt something furry brush up against my arm and realized it was the family dog who was apparently allowed to roam in and out as it pleased. No harm done, but kinda weird nonetheless. Awhile later a child interrupted the therapist to discuss food, or bunnies, or…something. After this distraction was addressed and the massage continued, I recall thinking, “wow, lucky it’s august and decent weather or I’d be kinda cold out here…”. Then, I hear what sounds like an airplane going over the house and the therapist stopped the massage and informed me that it was a family member or friend in their ultralite gizmo and stepped outside to wave…or something. Massage continues. The pressure is fantastic, great attention to all body areas, and very therapeutic. Massage ends, I get dressed quickly due to the lack of privacy, give a thank you and make my exit, amazed that I just had a terrific massage it probably the worst imaginable environment.
I understand that many therapists work from home, have a special entrance for their business and follow laws and code. It saves money and allows more control. I now have a great appreciation for my office location, it is relatively close to my home, I have a great landlord and other therapists in the building to pal around with. When a client arrives at my office you can bet that I am prepared. Intake forms are set out, the table warmer is turned on, and soft music is playing in the background. I never leave my office without making sure the sheets are changed and the whole place is ready should I need to get a client in on a moments notice. I work very hard to provide a relaxing, professional environment, massage therapy just isn’t the same without it. My clients deserve not only an experienced, talented LMT but also the best possible scenario for receiving the work they are paying for. I don’t take them for granted and have put a lot of time and effort into making my office an inviting, pleasant atmosphere. So, when you’re ready for the best of both worlds, come see me. I promise to work to the best of my abilities, AND give you a super great place to receive your massage therapy! Cheers,
Johnny C.
