A Journey of Trust

At some point in our lives, most of us will come to a crossroads. To a place where we have to decide how the rest of our lives will play out. For many of us, this is a frightening moment. But it can also be exhilarating – a moment when we take the leap we’ve always wanted to take. A moment when we find the courage to listen to our authentic voice, feel the pull of our heart, and choose a path that will take us in the direction of our dreams.

For those who choose a career – a journey – in massage therapy, it is both an exciting and reflective moment in time.

Massage therapy is more than just the mechanics of touch; more than just the anatomy of muscles and joints; more, even, than a lifestyle of giving and healing. Before it is any of these things, it is a journey of trust. Before a person will ever be able to trust you with their story; with their vulnerability; with their body; you will first have to learn how to trust and believe in yourself. At Balance Massage School of Vermont, that journey of discovering, developing, and affirming self-trust is at the center of everything we do.

A career in massage therapy will be unlike any path you have ever traveled. And as that path unfolds – often in ways and in directions you could not have anticipated – you will come to understand, trust, and best of all, love yourself in ways you may never have imagined possible. And it will be that acceptance of, love for, and trust in yourself that will help you build bonds with your clients; and sustain you as you bring light, comfort, and relief to the people whose lives you touch.

For many years I was in search of my purpose…what I was meant to do with this life. I held back from pursuing my dream of helping others because I wasn’t sure which road to travel down. I told myself I wasn’t worthy of being a healer. Or the timing wasn’t right. Or that I should put my college degree to better use. Or maybe massage therapy was something I could do when I could afford to get educated in the field. Or worst of all, maybe people wouldn’t like my massage. I didn’t feel like a zen-filled or peaceful person that had it all figured out. The list of reasons that hold most of us back from following our hearts or trusting our innermost desires is endless; it takes a great deal of courage to set that list aside.

Becoming a massage therapist is not for everyone. It takes courage, commitment, and a willingness to step into and towards the unknown. But for those who are ready to fly, not in pursuit of what the world says is important, but for the sheer joy and freedom of flying, it will be unlike anything you have ever experienced. Balance Massage School of Vermont is a 10-month long exploration of ourselves, our hearts, our motivations, and our inner strengths. We learn about the science of massage therapy and application of strokes; and how the power of touch can provide healing and release. We learn also about the power of trust, both in ourselves and in our dreams. And as we draw closer to this sacred profession, there comes a day when it suddenly dawns on us: We are free. We are not tied to the expectations of others. We are not imprisoned by others’ opinions of us. As we move closer to our center, we become less afraid (and ashamed) of our faults, and more aware of what is truer about and inside of us. And in the end, we learn to love, accept, and trust ourselves. And then we offer that same gift to our clients.

Are you at your crossroads? Does your heart tell you there is more out there for you? Is it time for you to begin walking – even cautiously – in the direction of your dreams? I invite you to learn more about a career in massage therapy, and about Balance Massage School of Vermont. Drop me a note and let’s find a time to talk.

With Love,
Steph Haddox

BoatsSteph Haddox