Who is getting Asian Bodywork Therapies?

Today I had a massage therapy client ask me what type of people get ABT and for what sort of complaints? I haven't found a certain type of individual gets one type of bodywork versus another but I have found that a few clients who get ABT are receiving it for some of the same reasons.

First, they have received massage therapy in various forms (ex. Swedish, Deep Tissue, Myofascial Release, NMT) and still aren't satisfied with the results. Everyone can agree that it all feels GREAT to receive, I myself am a bit of a bodywork junkie, I like it ALL! But when you are dealing with a specific issue such as a frozen shoulder or headaches or tendonitis, you want that issue to be resolved. It would be foolish to say that one form of bodywork is better then another. Everyone resonates with forms and therapists based on their own needs. During treatments, the client may find that the results don't last long or even stop getting results. The reasons for this are so vast I won't begin to get into that today. These clients will search out different modalities for relief and some will try ABT.

Second, many clients are just attracted to Eastern culture and so will receive ABT and Acupuncture because it is second nature to them. They have studied the philosophy and agree with it. They want a bodywork session that is well rounded and will encompass their emotional, mental and physical being.

Third, some clients of ABT don't feel comfortable having skin on skin contact and prefer to have the session done while they remain dressed. This may also be due to skin conditions or allergies that don't allow for use of oils or lotions.

Last, I have had some clients come to me because they heard Shiatsu and Tui Na were really DEEP. That isn't always the case. When making an assessment prior to the session, the therapist may find the best treatment is a lighter touch. Any session can be tailored to meet specific needs so nothing needs to end up hurting in the end. Besides the thinking that it will be deep, many clients come for the stretching. During shiatsu, stretching is incorporated and my clients love how it will open up their joints in ways they can not do on their own.

To sum it up, everyone is getting ABT! So be cool and schedule your appointment today. For a therapist in your area, click here for a list of qualified therapists all over the country.