Having a few months break imposed on my massage services was not without its positives. It was a time for reflection about best practices and an opportunity for doing some CPD. I attended a few online training events, and I have improved some of my processes. With a little professional help from my daughter, I’m now doing more digitally. This includes using Google Forms to send out Covid-19 Screening forms. For new clients, the Consultation form is also sent ahead of the appointment. This reduces face to face time during the appointment itself, which is not only Covid-19 secure, but it provides me with vital information ahead of time, enabling me to give the most effective treatment on the day.
I’ll be honest, reopening in July was a daunting prospect. Not only had massage services been closed for several months but going back was not simply a case of reopening the doors. My treatment room has enjoyed a full makeover (see photo!). It has been deep cleaned, tidied up and transformed from garden green to apricot white. Those of you who have seen me recently (or read my blog) will know all about the extra measures in place. If I had seen myself in mask and visor a year ago, I would not have believed it.
Yet here we are a couple of months down the line, and I am happy to report that both clients and therapist have largely got used to the new routine. Clients so far are accepting of the Covid-19 hygiene measures, as well as the new face of massage, allowing them to feel safe and relax during treatment.
Despite all these developments, one important thing remains: the power of positive touch and the outcomes of a good treatment. Massage therapy continues to promote physical healing and mental wellbeing; it gives your whole body and mind permission to relax. Some things never change.
Since reopening in July, I have had the pleasure of meeting and treating quite a few new clients, many of whom have been working from home, often hunched over laptops on coffee tables during lockdown. Well we’ve all been there! I have seen a lot of painful shoulders, necks, and backs. The good news is that most of these aches and pains can be easily resolved with a few treatments and a little extra attention to posture and stretching.
There is still a lot of uncertainty about the way ahead during this pandemic. My governing body, the ISRM (Institute for Soft Tissue Therapists) has been most supportive from the outset. They have kept abreast of government guidelines and have communicated these clearly every step of the way. I have attended webinars to ensure safe practice and I have received regular updates. I am waiting to see what comes next.
In the meantime, I’ll keep washing those linens, spraying those surfaces, and above all, treating my clients to the best of my ability.
Who knows what tomorrow will bring?
Springhead Sports Massage 
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