7 Characteristics that Define Top Massage Therapists

Most people think that being a massage therapist only calls for selective massage-based skills. Contrary to this belief, in order to become a successful massage therapist, you must possess a certain level of stamina and determination.

Nonetheless, some of the most common characteristics of the top massage therapists include education, experience, the ability to provide the needs of clients, patience, and compassion. Below we go into greater detail about some of these qualities (and more,) and how you can go about pinpointing the perfect massage therapist for you.

1) Ability to relate to different personalities

Due to the fact that massage therapists meet several people from different socioeconomic, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, they should know how to easily adapt and be flexible. Likewise, there will be times where they need to a handle a patient that has physical disabilities and this shouldn't stop them from fulfilling their role.

A good massage therapist should be kind, respectful, and as much as possible, set their personal feelings aside to make the massage experience of their client truly remarkable. According to American Massage Therapy Association, an experienced massage therapist has the desire to help people and make them feel satisfied and relaxed.

2) Sensitivity

Experienced massage therapists know how to read people's mind and take the hint of a client during the massage session. As an example, some clients enjoy a quiet massage, and there are some who'd rather have an engaging conversation with their therapist. Likewise, the direction of the massage should be based on the client's wants and the therapist must know how to pick that up and deliver it smoothly to provide an enjoyable experience.

3. Physical strength

Believe it or not, massage therapy is a demanding job. In fact, performing massages to a number of clients a day could be quite exhausting. It requires good physical conditioning and the ability to stand for hours. Furthermore, massage therapists should also have a certain degree of physical strength and stamina because some clients, depending on the massage service, may ask for more pressure, such as with a deep tissue massage.

4. Flexibility

Being a massage therapist could be a daunting task. Oftentimes, these people work on schedules that others don't, such as graveyard shifts, weekends, and even holidays. This kind of setting is normal, because these are the times where the clients are free from work. Therefore, a massage therapist should be flexible, since the schedule could change from time to time. For instance, there will be clients who'd only book once, while some would book weekly or monthly.

Also under the category of flexibility is the capacity the therapist has in providing various massage therapies, or styles of massage. A well-versed massage therapist, or center with numerous professionals, can be beneficial if you enjoy various types of massage treatments, such as Swedish, relaxation, or sports massages.

5. Consciousness

As a rule of thumb, people who work in massage centers should try their best to refrain from wearing perfumes, scented lotions, or hair products. Why? Some people are sensitive to certain scents. It could make them feel ill by just smelling it. Likewise, massage therapists should never smoke while in their work clothes. In case that they do, they should properly wash their hands and even brush their teeth before handling a client. They don't want to offend those customers who are sensitive to the smell of smoke.

6. Organization

There will be clients who'll book last-minute appointments. Being a professional, a massage therapist should still try his best to accommodate this type of client and still stay organized. Experienced massage therapists should always have their clean sheets, massage oil, and face rests covers ready at all times.

7. Patience

Last but not the least, the main quality that the top massage therapists should have is patience. This applies for standing for hours, providing information, answering queries, and executing activities that are required for a therapist. An experienced massage therapist could handle these things with ease.

As most of us know, massage treatments are not cheap. Working the best among professional massage therapists in your local area is important to get the most from your massage therapies.

5 Hair Salon Styles to Give You a New Look

Summer is right around the corner and with a new season comes new beginnings and a change of pace for the better. Of course, nothing says change better than a new hairdo.

We often see this in movies and television where after a huge life-changing event— often times, a break-up or some sort — is typically followed by the woman getting a haircut or a completely new hairdo.

This isn’t too far off, as a new hairstyle can signify a new change in one’s life or something to boost your confidence during trying times. Of course, hair salon visit need not be as intense or as meaningful as that. A change in hairstyle can typically mean just that — a change in hairstyle and trying out something new.

Whichever the case may be, a new hairstyle is always good, and there are tons different styles to ask your hair salon stylist about. To get your savvy and sassy juices flowing, here are five simple yet creative hair styles that you can ask from your favorite hair salon stylist.

Blunt Bangs and Shoulder Length

A lot of celebrities are sporting blunt bangs that cover the forehead. It gives hair a sophisticated look without being overly trying. Often times, blunt bangs are paired with a bob but that may be too aggressive for some. A nice way that you can rock those bangs while still maintaining an approachable look is by pairing it with shoulder length hair. It’s still fashionable but definitely easier to grow accustomed to and definitely easier to maintain.
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Long and Wavy

When it comes to looking natural, nothing beats the long and wavy hairstyle. You’ll often see this hairdo on celebrities sporting a natural look. It gives off a feeling of not trying too hard but still looking glamorous. For women with naturally super straight hair, your hair salon stylist might need to use one of those big barreled curling irons to get the same effect.
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Loose Braids

If the Long and Wavy is going for the natural look, Loose Braids are taking it one step further and going for the fresh-out-off-bed look. Contrary to what it looks like, it actually requires some effort to pull off. The wild and messy look is certainly attractive and is certainly becoming popular with some of the hottest fashion icons. Tousling your locks with some gel will ensure a messy, stylish look.
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Glam Side Pony

Forget the traditional high ponytail and try something more sophisticated. Try this side ponytail with loose messy strands framing the face for a chic and glamorous look. It’s pretty, feminine, and is perfect for both morning and evening functions.
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Pixie Cut

Want to try something daring? Tired of locks being swept all over your face? Pixie cuts are all the rage right now and judging by how famous celebrities look with them, there is little to wonder why. Your stylist will have to cut the back of your hair really short with a slightly longer length on the top and sides. However, be warned; contrary to popular belief, shorter hair is actually harder to manage on a day to day basis. Fortunately, you hair will grow out eventually.
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Any good hair salon should be able to pull off such hairstyling techniques. Just ask them about and see what they have to say. A professional should be familiar with all of these styles, and more.