Since the writings of Plato and Aristotle massage has been an effective method of relieving ailment and improving health. And indeed it does, massage is a proven form of general health improvement and stress relief. Massage is not unique to western society and there are over 80 different types of massage. For thousands of year’s humans from all around the world honed massage to the art it is today. The reason for it’s prevalence is obvious. A combination of history and science prove that massage is effective at relieving aliments, releasing tension and even helps with mental stress and fatigue.

Some argue that massages are overpriced salon luxuries that normal people like you and I couldn’t afford. However the truth is far from that, massages are not only affordable but downright economical. If you consider the health benefits of massage, both mental and physical, just a reduction of doctor’s visit and sick days is enough to make up for the cost. And for those with high stress jobs, a little relief could be priceless. Regardless of what benefit you gain from massage today getting a massage has never been easier.

So what can a massage really do for you? Well according to WebMD massages

- Reduce anxiety

- Decrease pain

- Enhance the immune system

- Heightens self-esteem

- Improves circulation

Avoid Massages If You Have

-Burns

-Open Wounds

-Cancerous Tumors

-Blood Clots

-History of Heart Attack

-Fractured Bones

-Osteoporosis

So what’s you health worth to you? Get a massage.

In any business, you need basic skills. In the massage therapy business, many do not believe that there is a need for formal business training or even informal business training however even employed therapists could use a little help. Here are few tips you might find useful.

1. Visit the SBA website; they have an amazing set of free resources like business planning, grant & loan information, market research and much more. If you are a self-employed massage therapist or do independent contracting, I highly recommend that you assemble some sort of business plan and portfolio.

2. Learn all you can by joining forums, communities and subscribing for newsletters. There are many great website you can visit to learn more about your field such as wikipedia and similar sites.

3. Participate in your field join the AMTA or the Massage Network. By being actively, involved with other people in your field you will learn more about business your trade and make new contacts.

4. Subscribe to magazines like Massage Mag, buy books and watch television shows about massage therapy.

By networking and participating with others, you learn a great deal about business, industry news, new massage equipment and general happenings. It is a fast past world and keeping up with the flow information is very important to the success of any business and any businessperson. In addition, if you do not believe you as a massage therapist are a businessperson ask an entrepreneur what they do. They advertise, find clients on their own motivation, purchase equipment and accessories, run their own finances and marketing and fund their own operations. This sounds a lot like an independent massage therapist doesn’t it.

Shoulders relaxed, breathing slow, there goes another satisfied customer. Massage therapy can be a very rewarding career. Most people don’t give the respect deserved of a massage therapist. Maybe you aren’t a doctor but not having a P.H.D. doesn’t mean you can’t be a healer. And that’s what you’ll be doing, healing, helping and making a difference. If you’re worried about not making enough money you can stop worrying. According to the bureau of labor statistics massage therapists held over 97,000 in 2004 and wages averaged about 15-30 dollars an hour. And wages and positions are only growing every year. Also about two thirds of all therapists either owned their own business or worked as independent contractors.

So does working for yourself and making a difference while earning good money sound good? If so, there are some things you need to know. First you will need to find a school or training center and there are about 1300 throughout the country. Go to http://www.ncbtmb.com/ and http://www.amtamassage.org/ to find training and all kinds of information about the industry. Then as you begin to explore this career path, carefully consider your massage table or chair. Your equipment needs to be the best and massage table outlet has the highest quality brands at competitive pricing. Some brands to consider are Earthlite, Stronglite or Inner Strength. Also if you are just starting out you may want to consider a used portable massage table. Still have some lingering doubts? Then go out and get a massage, treat yourself and taste the tranquility and satisfaction of your new career.