Sunday, July 10, 2016, 9:00 am, my hotel room, Louisville, KY
A young apprehensive client sat nervously on the edge of the sofa and waited for me to finish refilling the oil dispensers. I was focused on pouring with precision the coconut oil from the larger glass jars into the smaller pouring bottles I use during the session. I was trying NOT to spill any coconut oil down the sides of the bottle. As I poured, I began to feel the pressure of finishing quickly – I had a client waiting. I held my breath to focus.
Client: “Um….this isn’t one of those massages that will leave visible marks or bruises…is it?”
Me: “No, that costs extra.”
A little later, I sat next to him on the sofa. I could tell he was a still a little nervous. And, when I sense someone is apprehensive, I usually try to lighten the mood with laughter. (And, more on this later…but, I’m not an escort, why would anyone be nervous?) I held his right hand with my right hand and gently palpated his palm with my thumb. And, with my left hand, I held the same arm while my thumb gently palpated his forearm.
After I asked a few questions about his mobility and flexibility, he indicated that ‘medium’ was his desired pressure. I looked him in the eyes to emphasize the importance of the words to follow. “Most people are too shy to ask for more pressure or less pressure. If I press to hard, please let me know immediately. Don’t be a hero.” His eyes widened to their physical limits. “But, don’t worry, I haven’t permanently injured anyone in a long time.” His lips unconsciously separated and I began to laugh hysterically slapping his knee repeatedly. “I’M JUST KIDDING! I’M JUST KIDDING!”
I’m not sure what he thought of me before, during, or after the session…but, I’m sure there’s a list somewhere. I do remember him leaving more relaxed than when he arrived and I also remember feeling like I did my job WELL. I hope the feeling was mutual.