Week 4

Since last week, the students had a chance practice effleurage - the stroke that most people picture when they hear the word "massage". Also, we are finally joined by our teaching intern tonight, who will be with us every week from now on, bringing the student/instructor ratio to an amazing 4:1. Homework went well for most people, although we hear a couple of frustrated groans:"I am STILL struggling with effleurage!". "Really?", I say in mock horror. "In Week 3, you are still struggling with a new skill? Congratulations, you are EXACTLY where you should be!" Smiles, sighs of relief.
We review the benefits of Swedish massage, answer questions about specific medical conditions they encountered and discuss the questions they are asking during the intake process. There is a lot of information we want from clients, but they are often reluctant to give it to us, not realizing the implications their medical conditions might have on the plan and the outcome of the session. The students need to be able to articulate not only the questions, but also the "why do you need to know?" answers.
Tonight we work on the anterior part of the body. The chest draping can be tricky, so we walk around, making suggestions and offering assistance. Some students like to have an instructor "parked" by their table as they work, while others stop midstroke when I approach. Note to self: "Figure out who likes what, and stop hovering..." I got all the first names down, the learning styles will take awhile longer. "It's Week 3, " I say to myself and take a deep breath, " you are EXACTLY where you should be."