Yay, Me! Celebrating with Bestie

Another Milestone Achieved

I've officially passed my massage licensing exam! I am one step closer to earning my massage license. I couldn’t wait to share the news with one of my besties, Nancy Gabriel. We have been friends for nearly 16 years. She gets me. We celebrated my achievement over lunch today.

Nancy and I have this fun thing we do because I'm horrible at celebrating my wins. So she came up with this idea: whenever I have a win, no matter how big or small, I text her a "Yay, me!" It’s a simple yet meaningful way to acknowledge our successes and support each other.

selfie of me and Nancy Gabriel of Mediation Around the Table

Reflecting on my journey through the massage program at the European Massage Therapy School, I know that I wouldn’t have made it without my tribe. The support from my family, friends, classmates, and instructors has been invaluable. Next week, I have my final massage practical exam, where I will demonstrate the bodywork techniques, communication skills, and professionalism I’ve learned. With over 625 hours of training under my belt, I feel ready but also nostalgic about leaving my classmates. We studied pathologies and kinesiology together, shared anatomy mnemonics, and memorized business laws and ethics. I’m grateful for the experiences we’ve shared, from late-night study sessions to practicing techniques on each other. These memories will always hold a special place in my heart.

What's Next?

The thought of helping others improve their health and well-being fills me with joy and excitement for what’s to come. As I prepare for this next chapter, I’ve been considering my career options. The world of massage therapy and bodywork is vast, offering many possibilities. Should I work in a chiropractor's office? Based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data from 2023, 37% of massage therapists are self-employed, which is definitely going to be my path. But will I take the route of working in a chiropractor's office? Poker tournaments? Traveling bodyworker? Working during conferences and events? All of the above? Renting a treatment room near my home in Green Valley is also an appealing option.

One of the most rewarding aspects of becoming a licensed massage therapist is making a positive impact on people's lives. I’ve always believed in the healing power of touch, and now I can officially be part of that process. Whether helping someone relieve stress, alleviate pain, or provide a moment of relaxation, I'm thrilled to embark on this new career path.

Looking Ahead

As I look ahead, I’m considering how to stay connected with my future clients. I’ve started a newsletter where I share tips on wellness, self-care, and the benefits of massage therapy. If you’re interested in following my journey and learning more about bodywork, subscribing to my newsletter will be a great way to stay in touch and receive updates on my services.

In the meantime, I’m focused on my final practical exam this week and ensuring I’m fully prepared to demonstrate everything I’ve learned. The skills I’ve developed in this program have been transformative, not just for my career but for my personal growth as well. I’ve learned the importance of communication, self-care, boundary-setting, and professionalism in this field.

The ability to help others heal and improve their quality of life is a gift that I’m honored to embrace. Plus, the community you build along the way makes it all the more worthwhile. Passing the state massage licensing exam (MBLEX) is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter in my life. Celebrating this achievement with Nancy reminded me of the importance of having a supportive inner circle. I’m filled with gratitude for the journey so far and eager for what lies ahead.

Thank you for joining me on this adventure! I can’t wait to share more about my experiences as a licensed massage therapist. Remember, if you want to stay updated on my journey and receive wellness tips, be sure to subscribe to my newsletter. Here’s to new beginnings and the incredible journey of bodywork ahead!