The Spa, Massage Therapy, Beauty and Wellness Professional's Prayer Collection

The Spa, Massage Therapy and Wellness Professionals Prayer Collection
By
Eunice Estipona
yunesa(at)yahoo.com

Here is a collection of prayers of adoration, acknowledgement, thanksgiving and petition for the spa, massage, beauty and wellness industry stake holders. I encourage you, whatever your position in the spa, massage clinic or wellness center, to pray everyday with a spirit of expectation. Expect for the best, expect that God will make a way, God answers prayers and that God will provide- because He will.

Please share this collection of prayers with anybody in the spa, massage and wellness industry: your friends, staff and colleagues and find a prayer that suits you best.

Prayer of a Spa Concierge/ Receptionist/ Front Desk Staff

Lord thank you for hearing my prayers that even before I ask you, you already know what I need better than I know what I need. Thank you Lord because whenever I ask, I receive, whenever I seek, I find and whenever I knock, doors open to me. You make your angels go before me to work to clear my path. You make my day of work both enjoyable and filled with love. Bestow upon me the wisdom and wit to create the right impression for the establishment that I am working for. Give me the knowledge to know and suggest the specific treatments and therapies for each client that enters the door. I pray that I will make the right reservations, be able to organize treatment sessions and be very patient in handling people. Give me the ability to communicate effectively and tactfully. Let me enjoy my work to entertain questions and queries by guests over the phone or face to face. May I assign the right client to the right therapist, acknowledge and greet guests in a courteous manner. Making them feel as if they have entered their own complete sanctuary and a different environment than their usual. May I assist all of our team members such as the massage therapists, spa therapists, facial therapists and even the spa owners in making the establishment a profitable place for us all. May I fulfill your divine purpose in my life and make me do everything with gladness of heart, in Jesus’ name, Amen.


Prayer of a Reflexologist

I rejoice that you have given me the skill and the knowledge in reflexology. Your power is in me whenever I perform reflexology. You are my strength and my power without you I can do nothing. I exercise the gifts and virtues that you have given to me. You empower me to do what is right, to say the right things and to follow your will in my work as a reflexologist. Lord God, grant me the professional skill to perform hand, foot and ear massage. Let my professional experience be shared with others through my hands. Let me see the progress of good health and stamina that each session is giving my client. May I be able to establish good rapport with my clients, a peaceful working relationship with my co-workers and a concerned attitude toward my superiors. May I be able to identify the concerns of the client and be able to use the right techniques for their health and well-being. Make my heart genuinely interested in working with people and be comfortable in touching their hands, feet and ears. May I exceed the professionalism and sense of care required from most professionals, in Jesus’ most precious name, Amen.


Prayer of a Massage Therapist or Bodyworker

I praise you and adore you Father, Son and Holy Spirit. I know and I feel that you are blessing me right now dear Lord. You are pouring your anointing oil upon my hands as I pour the oil to my client’s body. You are blessing my oily hands with a double portion of your Spirit, your gifts, your virtues, and your healing. Make my skill, profession, and knowledge a positive force to affect the health and well-being of my client. Use my thumbs, hands, elbows, palms, knuckles and fingers to relieve the pain or tension in the muscles of my clients. May each technique provide relaxation and relief from all body, muscle and joint pains. Give me the strength to perform massage therapy that alleviates painful ailments, decompresses tired and overworked muscles of the body. May I always support other service providers in giving the best positive experience for the clients and be consistent with what the client needs according to massage and spa protocols and accepted professional practices. May I be able to assess the condition of the client, maintain proper body mechanics, proper decorum and be able to develop loyal clients under my care. Use my hands and physical capability to meet my client’s expectations in knowing how to knead, rub, rock, tap or apply pressure to client’s sore muscles and limbs. Use them to induce relaxation, assist in rehabilitation and contribute to their overall physical and emotional well-being. Let something good come out of this massage therapy session because I know that your abundance is above and beyond what I can comprehend. Through my massage therapy skill, a mountain of blessing awaits my life and through this skill, will I give glory to you Oh God. In Jesus’ marvelous name, Amen.


Prayer of an Esthetician, Facial Therapist, Skin Care Technician or Beauty Therapist

I praise you Lamb of God, King of kings and Lord of lords. You are my fortress and my delight. I am safe in the center of your perfect will, so lead me in your path for my work today. I trust you completely for my work and my future as an esthetician, facial therapist or beauty therapist. Today, I ask you Lord to let me begin in the inward beauty of a person and of myself. Let my work help alleviate skin disorders and help others improve and beautify their skin. Give me enthusiasm, team spirit and the knowledge fit for a professional with this skill so that the aesthetic treatments that I will perform will promote a feeling of well-being, care, tactfulness and a radiant looking skin. I pray that I will be able to execute services to accommodate the needs of my clients without compromising service, standards and sanitation. May I be able to recommend home care routines to each client serviced, so that each may have a clear skin. May I always be pleasant, caring and have a genuine interest in what I do. May I be able to adapt to change, calmly and efficiently multi-task, with an emphasis on cooperation and courtesy to my colleagues including the management. Let me use the right skin care product, the right techniques to the right client and be able to perform aesthetic procedures. May I be able to recognize skin problems that I must refer to dermatologists, podiatrist, plastic surgeons and other medical practitioners. Give me a heart to desire what you want from my life, to walk in confidence as I follow you daily, and be able to share my ability to others, in Jesus’ most powerful name, Amen.


Prayer of a Spa Therapist, Spa Technician or Spa Attendant

You are my delight, you guard over my heart and my soul. You mold me into your Son’s image through my work as a spa therapist, spa technician or spa attendant. Let my skill of providing treatments be evident in the work of my hands to improve the general appearance and the client’s well-being suit different client objectives. Give me competency, dear God with the variety of spa therapies and utilize what I know to satisfy and empower guests on the spot without hassle. Give me the knowledge, wisdom and discerning spirit to assess what products and services will be most beneficial for the client, perform body treatments on clients with care, professionalism and attentiveness to each client’s needs. May I always find it enjoyable to maintain treatment rooms to the highest standards of cleanliness, hygiene and presentation ensuring that all products and treatments delivered to every individual client are appropriate to the guests’ needs and condition. Let me shine His light through what I do and through the work that I do, in Jesus’ name, Amen.


Prayer of a Spa, Massage Therapy and Wellness Instructor, Trainer or Teacher

God in Heaven, Maker of Earth, thank you for renewing me everyday. You revive my spirit and give rest to my soul. You turn every problem into a spring of blessing. Dear Lord, I submit my students to you today to the level that I want them to be better in what they do, even if it means being better than me. Grant me the dedication to positively teach what I know, the guts to face a knowledge hungry crowd, and the ability to communicate effectively. Bless the information and the teaching that I will share today that my students will be able to use it to bless others and develop their skills and competencies. Let me be a knowledgeable guide and be able to provide an environment where my students can develop their understanding and cooperation with each other. May I always speak passionately in my subject matter. May I always be committed in imparting knowledge and developing my student’s potential instead of just letting them memorize facts and techniques. May I always inspire my students to open themselves up for more learning and acceptance of others and be able to use what they have learned to benefit others. I know that everything I need and ask for will come to me through the right opportunities, learning, circumstances, events and people. Nothing is ever impossible for those who believe, and so I claim the fulfillment of my hopes and dreams. In the Mighty name of your Son Jesus Christ, Amen.


Prayer of a Spa, Massage Therapy and Wellness Speaker or Lecturer

I adore you. I praise you. I worship you with my heart, mind, body and soul. Let my mouth be your mouthpiece. Let the words that will be uttered in my lips be your words. Let me bless my audience and provide expert support in the spa, massage therapy and wellness field. Let me be a force for good, be able to motivate and carefully plan my speech so that my audience will be able to learn and apply them in their lives. Let this event of speaking be a memorable experience both to my audience and to myself- so that I may speak the truth with love and understanding, and that I myself will be able to apply them in my own personal life. Let me have an insatiable appetite to learn and hone my speaking skills, know my audience, and be able to provide information relevant to this industry. Let the content of my lecture and speech be delivered with love and blessings to all those who hear. I trust in you Lord with all my heart and lean not in my own understanding. In all my ways, I acknowledge You. In You I stand secure and know that my past, present and future is in His hands. I face my audience with confidence and inspiration from above, Thank you Lord Jesus, Amen.


Prayer of a Spa Supervisor

You are causing my life to overflow. You Oh Lord have made me glad. I will shout for joy and sing praises to you my God. Dear God, today I submit to you my responsibilities to aid the spa manager in his/her tasks. Help me in the back end operations of the spa. Make me a team leader in the absence of our spa manager and a responsible overseer when needed. Let me focus on the frontline nuts and bolts of running a spa, act on behalf of a spa manager when one is not available, and provide leadership for spa attendants and spa reservation staff. Let me recognize every lack and be able to make-up for it. Let your protective arms surround me. Thank you for the miracles that come my way and thank you for granting my prayers in the best possible ways that my mind cannot not even comprehend. Every living thing conspires to bless me and my work. Thank you God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit, Amen.


Prayer of a Spa Director or Operations Director

You are glorious, You are wonderful, You are ever present and All-knowing. Your goodness and kindness follow me. You are awesome in my life and in my workplace, Mighty God. You are blessing me beyond measure and overflowing for others to be blessed as well. Use me as a channel of your love in overseeing the spa, fitness and leisure area. Let me set fair and workable policies that create the daily routine of all spa staff under me. Bless me in keeping the spa running smoothly to make sure that the staff operates with peak efficiency through coordination, communication and cooperation. Provide me with the knowledge to be responsible with financial budgets and outcomes, for growing new business opportunities, developing the market, and overseeing the staff around me. Let me have a sincere desire to help other people, to have excellent and first-rate communication and interpersonal skills, and to have the determination and persistence to achieve success. Let me be a spa director who is driven and passionate about understanding the client and exceeding their expectations and commit to develop my staff who works on these clients. Give me wisdom to look for solutions and problems that arise instantly. Make me organized, able to act on my initiative and be a reliable team leader. Give me the striving attitude to deliver financial goals with sound business acumen, high level of empathy towards those below my position, be emotionally mature, level-headed and can deal with different situations from different people at the same time. Let me have on my sleeves effective marketing strategies, negotiating skills, an eye for detail and a mentor for the professional growth of my staff. Let not the clients and other people see the stress that I am under in order to be truly present for guests and employees so that the spa can be financially successful. Make every move I make bring peace, love and joy unto others. Let me serve you by serving others, through Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Prayer of a Spa, Massage Clinic and Wellness Business and Operations Consultant

You are Lord that completes me and in your presence am I made whole. You root out any negative emotions in my heart, in my soul and in my mind. You set me free. God, Maker of Heaven and Earth, give me the wisdom to address the issues and concerns of my client and to be able to solve the specific issue at hand. Give me the knowledge and wisdom to handle all aspects of spa start-up including market assessments, financial feasibility and overall marketing plan. I pray that every problem, concern and circumstances that bother my client be cast away. I will grow deeper in love with you Lord through serving the needs of my clients and their businesses with each passing day. Let your abundance in supplying our needs be made open unto us as you prosper the work of our hands. As I use my strength, my knowledge and my gift to serve my clients and be richly rewarded. I praise you for the generosity and for giving us the steps to improve the business and lead my clients to abundance. Bless this professional relationship together as we grow and serve you deeper and deeper everyday. In the Mighty name of Jehovah God, Amen


Prayer of a Spa, Massage Therapy and Wellness Book Author, Writer, Blogger

Father God through your mighty son Jesus Christ, I submit to you my ability in writing. I ask you to bless the words that I type and write. I commit myself to enrich others through my writings, articles, blogs and books. I am truly wealthy with the knowledge that you have given me and since I am in a position to influence others through my writings, let this blessing flow through other people’s lives. You have given me a heart to serve others through what I write so let my hands be your hands and let me go the extra mile to serve others through whatever I write. Let my readers experience the words that I write change and transform others to be better persons and individuals to be able to fulfill your purpose in their lives. Let me serve you and others with humility, expecting others in return-not even acknowledgement or praise because your praise and acknowledgement is what I deeply aspire for. In Jesus mighty name this I pray. Amen.


Prayer of a Spa, Massage Clinic and Wellness Owner or Entrepreneur

You are with me Lord in this business endeavor. You are transforming us to be better citizens and better entrepreneurs for our own country, the people that work for us and the people that we serve. You are our model and to you, and only you, will we trust and obey. May those who seek physical health and well-being find our place a haven of rest and relaxation. May our staff who serves them, serve them with care and sympathy. You Lord are ordering the events that lead to the establishment of this business so that people I need to help will cross my path. You are sending your angels to protect our premises, the equipment and my staff and to aid me in our daily operations. You cause the right people to be favorable to me. Thank you. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

What is a prayer? Commonly, it’s an uttering of adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication, and requests to a higher being- some call Him Allah, some call Him Jehovah, some Jesus Christ, some God the Father, I call Him God, the Maker of Heaven and Earth. But mere prayer is not a prayer until we actually say it, believe in it and/or do it. A prayer is more than words. Did you know that what we think, say and do are also forms of prayers? God answers prayers: not the prayers that we merely say- the prayers that we think and do weigh much more than verbal prayers. You might be verbally praying to pass your licensure examination, but if on the other hand, you are not studying your lessons then what you are praying for is really to fail. If you are verbally praying for financial abundance but you do not save a portion of your income, then you are really praying for poverty. If you are praying for the downfall of another person then you are also cursing yourself because whatever you sow you reap. If you are praying to become one of the best massage and spa therapist in town but you do not want to learn different techniques and you are not interested in studying about them- then you are praying to be a mediocre spa and massage therapist. If you wanted to write a book on spa, massage therapy and wellness but you do not like writing your thoughts and compiling what you know then you are praying not to become an author. If you are praying for a successful spa, massage clinic business and yet you do not want to read numbers or you do not want to make a business plan then you are really praying for failure. If you are praying for the right opportunity but you are ignoring your core gifts and positions that only offer a small salary then you are not really praying for the right opportunity because with these small opportunities lies greater abundance. Remember Joseph started as a slave in Egypt, David started as a sheep caretaker. Its not only the words that we speak during prayer time. Because what you think, say and do- is actually your prayer.

May all your prayers give you love, joy, peace and prosperity!

God bless you more!


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If you are an owner or would be entering the field, profession or business of massage clinics, spa and wellness establishments offering massage therapy- you need to comply with the recent rules and regulations of massage therapy licensure in the Philippines- here is the link to the recent changes:

http://www.scribd.com/doc/5028198/HOW-TO-BE-A-LICENSED-MASSAGE-THERAPIST-IN-THE-PHILIPPINES


I would also like to share the five things that I have learned in massage school, in the spa and wellness industry- which I also learned from a pencil. This is the transcribed thoughts and speech I delivered as a guest speaker during the oath taking of newly licensed massage therapists last June 17, 2011. Click on the link below:
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2011/07/five-things-i-learned-in-massage-school.html


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A list of training centers, magazines, publications, books and literatures both local and international are all available in the book, “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Guide and Career Book”. You can order it online via http://www.amazon.com/ or for local Philippine orders, email yunesa@yahoo.com. If you are looking for a career opportunity, not just a job in the spa, massage therapy and wellness industry, this book is a must read.

This article is written by: Eunice Estipona a spa consultant, mentor, advisor, speaker and lecturer. One of her advocacies is to make healing and information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness accessible and affordable to everyone. If you are serious about turning your business or practice around, making the right decisions, getting an unbiased opinion and knowing where to get help, for lectures and other concerns she can be contacted at yunesa@yahoo.com or +639184745685. To find out how she can help you take your business to the next level, visit her site at http://www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy
These along with hundreds of resources found locally and abroad are contained in “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource and Career Book”, the first book of resource information to know more about the Spa, Massage and Wellness Industry in the Philippines and other countries including the United States, Australia and other Asian countries. You can view, read, download and print for FREE the book’s summary at this link http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book

If you are a spa, massage therapy and wellness information seeker the resources contained in the book for you. This book is a collection of data and valuable information regarding the spa and massage industry in a global perspective with a focus on the Philippines. Her advocacy in writing the book is to make “unbiased” information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness resources and career, accessible and affordable for everyone. If you are considering a career in the massage, spa and wellness industry, this book will prepare you and give you a glimpse of what it is like, the preparation you need to take: emotionally, intellectually and financially. In this book, you will learn more details in the spa and massage field and the possible paths you can take. You will also learn about local and international training programs offered and numerous employment possibilities. Giving you much needed information at your fingertips. You can order it from http://www.amazon.com/ or for local Philippine residents, you can email and get in touch with Eunice at yunesa@yahoo.com.

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One Thing You Could Do Everyday to Increase the Quality of Your Spa, Massage Clinic, Wellness Center Operations

One thing that you could do everyday to increase the quality of your Spa, Massage Clinic and Wellness Center Business and Profession

The one thing that you can easily start and finish everyday to increase the quality of your business, your work, your profession especially in the spa, massage clinic and wellness center business is that everyday focus on things that you are most grateful for and think of ways how to thank your clients, staff and colleagues. You say it warmly, graciously, sincerely and specifically.

I will list down below ways on how you could do that:

1. Send a quick email thanking your clients for the business they bring into your doors and your staff on the great job they did for the years that they have been with you.
2. Acknowledge any email from those whom you know personally, even if the email only contains Thank you.
3. Send an e-card and say thank you in many dialects of the Philippines:

English                    Thank you very (so) much

Tagalog                   Maraming salamat

Kapampangan         Dakal a Salamat
Hiligaynon               Madamu nga salamat
Cebuano                 Daghang Salamat

Ilocano                   Agyamanak

Chabacano (Zamboanga City)   Gracias
Yakan (Basilan)      Megsukul teed
Tausug (Sulu)         Magsukol

Waray                   Salamat

Ilonggo                  Salamat

Gaddang (Kalingga Apayao)     Mabbalat

Ibanag  /Ybanag (Cagayan/Tuguegarao)   Mabbalo’

Itawis                    Mabbalat

Ivatan                   Dius mamahes

Pangasinense        Salamat
Bicolano               Salamat na marhay
Iloko                    Pagyamanan unay (some version)
Samar-Leyte        Damu nga salamat

Although there more than 120 to 170 dialects of the Philippines (depending on how you classify them), I hope I got it all right. If not, and you know the right terminology, please email me.Thanks to Stephen Santos for the additions.)

4. Send a small token of appreciation: a post card perhaps (?) (I got this idea from one of my millionaire friend and a good friend Joey Magtibay) to those people who has helped you in your business and in your life as a whole.

5. Send a poem, a quote and the person’s relevance to your business.

Example:          We are grateful to be of service to you and want to say thanks again for visiting our or my (spa, massage clinic or wellness center). Rest assured that we will always take care of your spa-mpering needs. Call us anytime!

                        Thank you for choosing _______ (name of your business) and being part of our (service/product/spa) launching. We hope you would return soon, we would be happy to serve you again.

                        Thank you for spending you spa-rty here. We hope we exceeded your expectations and we look forward to be of service to you now and in every occasion you choose. Please do not hesitate to let us know about how we can serve you.

6. Since Filipinos love to text, then send a text message and say thank you as above.

Now it’s your turn. Send an email, jot a note, write a card. Be grateful and show it. Make someone feel valued. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you as well. Let gratitude multiply and spread!

See the two videos below to increase the probability of being more grateful everyday:

Live with Gratitude!

Cebu Pacific Dancing FA's, Price Wars and the Gaya Gaya Mentality: What does it have to do with the Spa, Massage Clinic and Wellness Center Business/ Profession?

Cebu Pacific Dancing FA's, Price Wars and the Gaya Gaya Mentality: What does it have to do with the Spa, Massage Clinic and Wellness Center Business/ Profession?
by Eunice
Whenever I travel, I would first window shop: I log online and shop for airline tickets, accommodations and tours. I shop from one travel agent to another, from airlines through their website, through their offices at the malls and compare them with two of my miles membership cards. It takes a week or so to finally come up with something that fits my needs. I found out that whatever you do, there will always be someone who will be willing to cut their price to gain business from us (the consumers). The irony of it is that once we have already bought something, we will find out that there will always be a cheaper alternative or a promo somewhere. That goes the same in almost all industry types and the spa, massage centers, fitness centers and wellness center business is not an exception. Nung hindi pa nauuso ang pag-pa-pa-spa, it was only for the elite and the socialites, while massage therapy naman was seen in a bad light and a not so wholesome or healthy connotation and the wellness centers are just for health freaks. Noon yun- iba na ngayon (That was before, now it’s different). Ever since spas sprouted like mushrooms, the spa owners and the people in the industry were taken aback by the rampant cost cutting of clients therefore more and more spas joined the band wagon of cutting their prices- and as you well know, maraming spas, massage clinics and wellness centers na nag slash ng kanilang service and retail prices. Pababaan ng presyo. As a result, maraming spas na nagsara. Hindi naging lucrative para sa marami ang negosyo but let’s take a look at the deeper aspect of price wars. The unseen, the invisible side to price wars and the Gaya-gaya system and how we can come up with some solutions.

Bakit ba may gaya-gaya system? At price wars? Ang sabi ng Wikipedia and I quote: “Price war is a term used in economic sector to indicate a state of intense competitive rivalry accompanied by a multi-lateral series of price reduction. One competitor will lower its price, then others will lower their prices to match. If one of them reduces their price again, a new round of reductions starts. In the short-term, price wars are good for consumers, who can take advantage of lower prices. Often they are not good for the companies involved. The lower prices reduce profit margins and can threaten their survival. In the medium to long term, they can be good for the dominant firms in the industry. Typically, the smaller, more marginal, firms cannot compete and must close. The remaining firms absorb the market share of those that have closed. The real losers then, are the marginal firms and their investors. In the long term, the consumer may lose too. With fewer firms in the industry, prices tend to increase, sometimes higher than before the price war started.”

There are several business and economic causes of price wars and gaya-gaya system. One deeply rooted cause is that one wants a market share that the other business has. One business wants what the other business (the competitor) has. People jump to the bandwagon because of money, profits and a share of the pie without real knowledge of the business. Basta hilig lang but it’s not enough. Passion is not enough to sustain a business operation. It takes wise business decisions, amongst other things. Last year, in one of my speaking engagements, I was invited to speak to a group of spa owners and students of massage and wellness about spa operations and management in the beautiful province of Tarlac and one of the questions a spa owner asked me was: what is the solution for price wars and the gaya-gaya mentality of Filipinos? I honestly told them that there is no silver bullet to this problem. There’s only the option to choose the ways that are much less damaging to spa, massage clinics and wellness centers owners than dropping their prices. If price is the problem, the first choice is to add value before dropping price. Anong ibig sabihin ng adding value? Instead of giving a discount, give them a free add-on or an additional time for a certain service. Halimbawa, they purchased a service equal to $100 or 5,000 Pesos give them a free 15-minute trial back and head massage. They have had the experience, and they might avail of the back and head massage next time. Sa spa business kasi dapat you have to sell the experience do not sell the price lagi. The next is to ensure, beyond a shadow of a doubt, any promotional rate is fenced properly. What are fences? Fences are tactics applied to rates to prevent one segment of demand from buying down into the next. In broad terms, there are four types of fences:

1. Product fences: Limit the offer to certain retail types.

2. Availability fences: Offer better deals on high end services and products. We see these promotions constantly. e.g. pay for five massage, get seven, et cetera.

3. Customer fences: Limit the offer to repeat/loyal clients as a reward.

4. Transaction fences: Provide a restricted booking window for a service over a specific period of time. e.g. pro-bono services should be done on slow time slots and not on weekends.

Of course, there are a lot of things naman (aside from those mentioned above) that we can do to reduce the effect of price wars and the gaya-gaya system. But there is something that we can personally do in order to minimize price wars and the gaya-gaya system. Let us now go into the invisible causes, effects and probable solution/s to the price wars and gaya-gaya system.
I think the basic thing one should ask oneself BEFORE one would enter the spa, massage or wellness industry is: if this is the kind of job that I’m going to be satisfied with and be really good at? Is this something I want to be doing five or ten years or even twenty years from now? If you are a massage or spa therapist who longs to start your own business, you have to be certain that this is the job that fits the way God has designed you to function and in the same fundamental way, it should satisfy your desire for contribution that God has planted in your head through your talents and skills and cultivated in your heart through your passion and interest. If you dream of becoming a spa owner someday: You have to know how to be a good worker before becoming a great boss. You have to know your numbers. You have to know how to read financial statements. You have to know how to carve your own niche in the sea of competitors. And a whole lot of things. Maraming dapat matutunan. Hindi yung basta basta na lang magtatayo ng negosyo na walang kaalam- alam sa pagpapa takbo nito.

It’s a tragedy when I hear about several business people who have already put up their own spa, massage clinic or wellness center tapos walang nangyari after three years. It’s equally disastrous for a person who wants to go into business and loves to do what they are doing yet, they do not want to earn from it. Bakit? God wants to bless you through your talents. Of course, not everything can have monetary value but consider the possibility of earning from what you love to do. God is a productive God, He wants us to earn from what we love to do. Hindi masama yun. Even God sent His Son to pay for our debt and He paid for us to be free from hell. Lahat may bayad. Everything has a trade-off maybe not always with monetary value but in some other thing. Tragic din if you are trapped (for whatever reason) in a work that you are not interested in. I had a former staff in a European hotel destination spa, we will just call her Aileen and back home in the Philippines, she told her parents that she was working in a hospital as a physical therapist. IN reality, she’s not she’s working in a spa as a spa therapist. Although she is a PTRP, Physical Therapist Republic of the Philippines, a designation for Registered Physical Therapist Licensed by our government. So, for the whole contract year she was rumbling how she does not like her job and how she does not enjoy it. Several ways to know that you are really not called for what you are doing are: you do not have interest in it, you do not enjoy what you are doing, you are bored to death, you feel like you are a prisoner and that work is a daily grind, your soul is searching for the feeling of freedom, you do not take pride in what you do and somehow, you do not feel satisfied. Imagine investing 8 hours a day, 5 days a week or 50 weeks a year- 80 thousand hours over a working life span of 40 years or so. All in a job that you do not enjoy nor care for or that does not fit you. That’s a big waste of life! And it’s not a good advertising for the originator of the whole idea of work either. This is lack of stewardship of being who God made you to be and accomplished what He’s put in your heart to accomplish. Importante rin that you discover your own calling in this wonderful industry of spa, massage, beauty and wellness, hindi pwedeng lahat spa manager, hindi puwedeng lahat maging spa owner, hindi pwedeng lahat maging massage therapist. We all have special gifts and no one is an exception. I was in a struggle a lot of times because I am torn by several lovers: the love for teaching, the love for writing, sharing my thoughts, travel and the love for the practice. I always have to think that there are people who are really gifted with their hands at saludo ako sa kanila dahil mas magagaling sila kaysa sa akin in that area. Come to think of it, there are a lot of gifted hands that are better than mine that is why I did not concentrate on something that I am not excellent at. Alam kong mas maraming magagaling na trainers, massage therapists and spa therapists kaysa sa akin. I have colleagues and friends in the industry who are excellent in what they do including Rommel Martinez, Hadjii Crespo, Alex Bulaton, Faye Rapio and many others. It’s important that we discover our own calling, the place of work in which your design: talents, skills, abilities, background, etc. comes together with your desire to form a motivated platform: school, pulpit, office, internet, online, etc. from which you represent the values of your Creator.

First and foremost, realize that our pursuit for the right type of business, profession, work or career will be empty without God. But when we turn to Him, when we make the fundamental decision to center our existence in a relationship with our loving Creator, then and only then does our life take on Purpose and our work have the potential to bring joy and satisfaction. Finding the right business or profession begins with a vital relationship with God, our Maker. Then make it your purpose to be God’s person in this world.


Secondly, if you have already committed your business/ profession to Jesus Christ, then trust the desires, the blue print of your personality that God has given you. I believe that no one on this Earth was born identical (not even twins have the same DNA), we all have different calling. A different gift for each of us. Some have similarities but all are different in some way. Because we are acting on what is natural for us, God will also move in our lives. Kung natural sa iyong magaling kang magmasahe eh di aralin mo ang ating katutubong masahe hindi lang ang Swedish massage. Ibahagi mo iyon sa iba sa pamamagitan ng pagmamasahe sa kanila. Ibahagi mo rin ito sa iyong kapwa na walang pagmamalaki o pagdadamot. Look for your natural abilities and cultivate on them, learn as much as you could and be a general in your field. Meaning, be very good at it. Know yourself, ika nga. To know yourself, is the process of discovering who you are and what you have to offer that will benefit others. So you can be a better steward of the way God has made us. Dapat alamin mo saan ka magaling at lalo mo pang pagalingin ang sarili mo sa paggawa ng mga bagay na natural na magaling ka. Saan ba magaling ang iyong spa? Depende yan sa galing ng spa staff mo. Ano ba ang unique sa spa services mo? What can you offer that others cannot? Kasi pag alam natin ito, hindi na natin kailangan pang mag copy cat or mag price wars kasi ang isang spa ay iba sa isa at iba-iba ang mga ino-offer ng isang spa kaysa sa iyo. Of course, hindi naman masama if we copy whatever is good from what we have learned from others BUT do not lose sight of your own gifts na ginagaya mo na ang lahat sa iba at wala ng self-identity and sariling branding ang iyong spa, massage clinic or wellness center. Remember that the more people that offers your type of services or product, the lower the value and the lower the price points. If you are offering Swedish, Thai and Shiatsu massage which are common in more than a thousand spas all over your area, do not expect to get paid a premium price for it. The more rare your service or product is, the better it is for you because you create value for what you do. Isang recent example ay yung ginagawa ng SM malls with their sales staff have implemented ways to make shopping more enjoyable like dancing, clapping and attentive sales ladies. Pati yung ginagawa ngayon ng Cebu Pacific with their dancing flight attendants. I am not saying it is right or wrong. Hindi natin pinaguusapan yun. Ang pinaguusapan natin dito is yung uniqueness of your service and the value you create. If it’s fun then it’s fun. We all have different tastes, likes and dislikes. But, those passengers who are already bored with the usual routine of safety features (which only a few listens to) can also enjoy the ride.





Third, we have to offer our true self to God and to others. Only in offering our true self, do we have anything to offer. You cannot give or sell what you do not have. All you can actually give is who you are created to be. Kung gaya-gaya ka sa iba na hindi naman yun ang talent mo, magiging second class lang ang gagawin mo. Kaya kung mag nenegosyo ka at gagaya-gaya ka lang sa iba, magiging second class lang ang negosyo mo. Mananatiling maliit. Mananatili kang nag-iisa. Whatever else you try to offer, will not, in the long run, be much of a contribution. Kasi nga hindi natural sa iyo yun. Plus, in giving out a false image of yourself will result in burnout, boredom and will drain you and dwarf others. Kaya napaka raming boss, amo, manager na hindi effective dahil hindi nila calling yun. They are draining themselves while dwarfing others. Can we not realize that if we are not in our rightful position then our rightful place is empty? If you would always aim at someone else’s target market, you will lose sight of your own. Let your business and profession be a product of yourself. Be yourself and those who notice would want some of it. Eventually, there will be a ripple of effect.

How do we know that we are in our rightful position? We have peace of mind and we have joy even if we encounter problems and discouragements. God has a mission for all of us: we simply have different platforms and areas for which we can grow.

Last but not the least, we should decide, plan and take action. That may mean starting and completing that business plan, taking that examination you need, reading more books about your area, mingling with others, asking for help from those who came before you, setting a deadline, baguhin ang mga spa services mo at maghanap ng mga services na different sa iba, etc. Do not just hear, read and do nothing, act on something one day at a time towards your dream. On the other side of the coin, study, learn from where you are right now. It only means you have common sense and are serious about it. It does not mean you are weak or intimidated. It just means you’re smart. So take your time, but don’t take too long.

Finally, Colossians 3:23 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men."

If God directs you to put up that spa, start that massage clinic or build that wellness center, however small- will be grand in the eyes of God. You are unique, you can be brilliant in what you do if you would only offer what you are (really) good at, who needs a gaya-gaya system and who needs to cut prices?


Beyond the Usual Tasks

By yunesa



Our usual tasks are light and its results beautiful

If we have eyes to see their shining ministry

The owner investor with his finances twined in the business

The contractor, carpenter, architect and engineer

Whose skilled hands built the infrastructure

Building a home for the business

The janitors and housekeeping staff

Working with brooms and vacuum cleaners

The manager who watches over and tends the needs of the business

The staff who performs hands-on, faces the clients everyday

Faithful to their partnership with God

These are the artisans of a business

And oh, the client,

with their needs and requests we should fulfill and satisfy

from which we draw the fuel for the business

For these are all great ministries and calling

They are all beautiful

If only one can see beyond the usual task.

Island Spa @ Rustan's Makati (A Spa, Massage Therapy Review from a Spa Connoisseur)

Island Spa @ Rustan's Makati (A Spa and Massage Therapy Review from a Spa Connoisseur)
by Eunice
yunesa@yahoo.com

November 05, 2010- What is different about my visit today at Island spa?
1. Towels- Obviosuly, hindi sila nag titipid ng towels. I love the warm towels applied on my back during the session and afterwards: application of warm towels on my arms, legs and foot.
2. The ginger tea they offered. Refreshing and delicious.
3. The therapist kept on asking to be excused everytime someone is at the reception area because they lack staff.
4. I have taken photos of the nice room we were in.

Here you go my latest thoughts on Island spa.

May 06, 2010- I was at Greenbelt 4 Makati and was aching for another spa-ing or "me" time. Although I only have three hours to spare, I opted to shop for another spa that I can blog about and hopefully, it would be worth blogging about (hehehe). I have been in and out of many spas, facial and beauty centers but one of my weakness is having to sit down and write my thoughts while I am enjoying my session. You have to agree with me that its diffucult to write your thoughts and enjoy the session at the same time. Mahirap kaya yun. But for this day, I chose to give myself a break, just relax and take it easy on my writing. It is worthy to note that prior to this consumer review I have already visited different spas but do not intend to write about it (yet) because I am giving them the chance to improve their services as they did not pass (in my personal opinion) professional standards of what a real or authentic spa is like. So instead of blurting out my disgust (or yelp about it), I will choose to be quiet and hunt for spas, massage clinics and wellness centers that are worthy of blogging about. Hopefully in the near future when I return to these spas, massage clinics and wellness center establishments they would have improved and perhaps that would be the time when I could blog about it.

Since the old spa (near a gym) where I frequent to whenever I am in Greenbelt is now closed and have transferred to another location, I promtly asked from the concierge for the nearest spa and they said it is located at the 5th level of Rustan's Department store, the Island Spa. Okay, so off I went to this upper level of Rustan's to venture into my spa cravings. As geographically challenged as I am, the location is quite difficult to find if you are coming from the Greenbelt area. Its also right near Belo Medical Group's center- maybe next time I will visit Belo instead.


Location and Ambiance

The location is quite difficult to find (no wonder I can only see a few people coming upstairs) . The ambiance is Thai-themed but amidst the Thai ambiance, their services do not include a Thai massage. It's called a spa but in reality, it's not a spa but a massage clinic or center as they do not offer any spa services only massage therapies. They also call their establishment Island spa but do not include different types of island-ish massage therapies. So much for branding huh?

I like the peppermint-ish scent of the candle when I entered and the serene atmosphere, realizing that we are on the fifth level and only a very few people are seen on this side of the mall. The ambiance is more relaxing than that of spas located in SM malls. The ambiance of the whole small floor where these medical spas and beauty centers are located emanates an aura of elegance and exclusivity. Good for those who would like to take a nap during their session. The big minus is that Island Spa do not have any toilets or wash rooms inside their massage center so when I asked where the toilet is at, they said you have to go outside of Island spa and walk a couple of feet away just right beside the alley around the Belo Medical group- so I asked the staff  "are there times where clients would ask to be excused for a bladder break wearing the spa robe?" and they said "yes ma'am- the guards outside know that you came from here- so no problem you can go to the bathroom" but for me (personally speaking) it's kinda awkward because you have to pass by the clinic of Belo and a coffee shop where people are taking "tea time". Oh well, luckily for me, during that time I do not have to take a bladder break until after my session was over.

Another disadvantage is that the rooms are separated only by open partitions so if there are a lot of clients simultaneously taking their session and one client happens to be a blabber- naku lagot- everyone will be able to eavesdrop from their conversation. But good thing I went right after lunch time (around 1 pm) so there isn't one client except me- so I have the privilege of having the spa all by myself.

I like that the flooring in between the rooms are made of stones and makes it appeal like you are not inside a mall but in a resort spa somewhere in Thailand.

I also like the back ground sound and music, soothing and similar to old Chinese themes.


Hygiene, Cleanliness and Sanitation

The sheets seem to be clean as the massage recliners are all covered in white and does not seem to have any funny smell. Generaly hygiene and cleanliness passed my standards. The toilets outside the Island spa is clean and neat- as we expect from upscale mall spas around the city.


The Menu of Services

When I looked at their services they have the following in their menu and the prices are very reasonable:
1. Chinese Therapeutic Foot Massage starting at 30 minutes duration for only 375 Pesos to 2 hours for 1,115 pesos (approximately U$D22). I wonder how many techniques there are for a 30 minutes and a two hour session (?). Maybe next time when I am within the vicinity, I will be able to try this one out.

2. Foot and Back Massage for 1 hour and 15 minutes = 800 pesos (approximately U$D16.00). Come to think of it, I should have chosen this as my back and shoulders were stiff that time (as it always was)...hehehe...

3. Full Body Massage which is composed of Swedish and Shiatsu techniques. They have one hou, 1.5 hours and two hours valued at 690 pesos (approximately U$D14), 970 pesos (approximately U$D20) and 1,190 pesos (approximately U$D24) consecutively.

4. Aromatherapy massage priced at 1,145 pesos (approximately U$D 23) for 1.5 hours.

5. Hot Stone Massage priced at 1,200 pesos (approximately U$D24) for 1.5 hours.

6. Foot and body combination at 1.150 pesos (approximately U$D23) for 2 hours- this one was what the staff recommended so I took it. because I am that greedy about massage as I am greedy about taking the knots out of my shoulders and back.

7. Express Back Massage at 375 pesos (approximately U$D8) for 30 minutes- this is the cheapest/least expensive massage they offer.

They also offer coupon booklets for five thousand and ten thousand pesos (approximately U$D100 to U$D 200) which contains 10 and 20 pieces of marked down prices coupons for massage. So if you already are their loyal client and you live near the area, I suggest you go for this value coupons. All in all, their menu is limited to massage therapy, do not expect any spa services even if they claim to be a spa, they do not have any hydrotherapy services or even remotely spa-ish services. Technically, this is not considered a spa but a massage center or massage clinic.

They accept credit cards for payment which is a good thing.

Staff and Decorum

The front desk and staff were nice and helpful. She also asked me if I would have my tea in my room or in the reception vis a vis lounge area. Someone also assisted me when I got lost trying to find the comfort room outside....hehehe....I told you, I am geographically challenged.

The massage therapist assigned to me was also accommodating. But she should go beyond the basic motions of the massage and actually work with your individual body to help not only relax but work towards healing you. They should be receptive to your personal preferences and needs. For someone like me, whose back is filled with really intense knots and carries a ton of stress around, this sort of attention and care is absolutely imperative.

Massage session and techniques

Since I choose Foot and Body Massage combination here is what I experienced:

The staff ushered me to a small room with a recliner for massage and then asked me to change and put on the robe and shorts, she then prepared the foot soak while I was changing then started with an herbal foot soak. Literally it has leaves on the foot soak and I like the feeling because of the hot tub of water with soothing herbs. It was similar to an herbal foot rub I experienced in Thailand except that in Thailand they do not put plastic or cellophane on their foot spa machines. Here the foot spa machine was covered with cellophane/plastic for ease and convenience of cleaning it up afterwards. While soaking my feet for five minutes or so, she also placed a warm massage pillow on my shoulders, making me start the session with ease and comfort. The warm pillow smelled like guava leaves though and I like the smell. The usual massage techniques that were used was nothing exemplary. It took around 30 to 45 minutes all in all. If you are well-versed with massage techniques, this is just an ordinary foot and leg massage nothing more to it.
Then came the time for the body massage proper. She asked me to stand up first while she moved the recliner downwards and put on the face rest. Then I was set to go for my body massage. She started with my legs upwards to other parts of the body. The feeling that it's systematic but not personalized. For me (as a massage therapist myself and a spa consultant), I am very particular about massage therapists who listen to the body's muscle movements while they knead. Its not only the spa or massage ritual that counts. They have to listen to the body not just execute techniques. Overall, the massage was just okay nothing exemplary. It's a combination of Swedish and Shiatsu massage with a bit of stretching.

What I like about the session though is the application of hot pack on my back while massaging on the supine position what I do not like is that I have to rise up and about again for her to be able to change the recliner suited for a supine position.


Overall rating = 80%
They have two branches: Main branch is located at Island Foot and Body Wellness 2/F Jupiter place 136-138 Jupiter st. Bel-Air Makaticity
Tel. Nos. 899-1234 or 7518296

For this visit and blog, I was at Island Spa
5th level, Rustan's Makati
Tel. No. 7108588
Sorry, they do not have any website or email address.

Guidelines in the writing of this spa/massage clinic review were observed, click on the link below to read about my guidelines:


http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/07/consumer-and-spa-enthusiasts-review.html

The most comprehensive resource and information guide on the list of training centers, magazines, publications, books and literatures both local and international are all available in the book, “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Guide and Career Book”. The First Book on Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Book and Career Guide
http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book
(this has the most comprehensive list of training centers in the Philippines and abroad with tips from professionals and employment opportunities, legal laws and regulations, list of employment agencies, how to choose a trainer, and information that you need in order to succeed in this industry and before you shell out money for your tuition or training, there are a lot of ways you can grab a copy of this valuable information para hindi ka mag sayang ng time and money enrolling in trainings you do not even need. This book will give you the information to start right in the industry with secrets you should know and being able to find your rainbow in the wonderful world of massage, spa and wellness.

1. You can order it online via http://www.amazon.com/ at 34.95$

2. You can order it via a Kindle device at $7.99

3. You can order an e-book copy through my blog at http://www.yunesa.blogspot.com/ at $19.95

4. You can also get a copy from National Bookstores nationwide at P799Pesos

5. For locals only, you can order it from me at local discounted rates with free delivery at 900Pesos (via LBC or FEDEX Air 21. Anywhere in the Philippines. Please allow 1-5 working days

If you are looking for a career opportunity, not just a job in the spa, massage therapy and wellness industry, this book is a must read.



This review was written by: Eunice Estipona a spa consultant, mentor, advisor, speaker and lecturer. One of her advocacies is to make healing and information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness accessible and affordable to everyone. If you are serious about turning your business or practice around, making the right decisions, getting an unbiased opinion and knowing where to get help, for lectures and other concerns she can be contacted at yunesa@yahoo.com or +639184745685. To find out how she can help you take your business to the next level, visit her site at http://www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy

These along with hundreds of resources found locally and abroad are contained in “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource and Career Book”, the first book of resource information to know more about the Spa, Massage and Wellness Industry in the Philippines and other countries including the United States, Australia and other Asian countries. You can view, read, download and print for FREE the book’s summary at this link http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book

If you are a spa, massage therapy and wellness information seeker the resources contained in the book for you. This book is a collection of data and valuable information regarding the spa and massage industry in a global perspective with a focus on the Philippines. Her advocacy in writing the book is to make “unbiased” information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness resources and career, accessible and affordable for everyone. If you are considering a career in the massage, spa and wellness industry, this book will prepare you and give you a glimpse of what it is like, the preparation you need to take: emotionally, intellectually and financially. In this book, you will learn more details in the spa and massage field and the possible paths you can take. You will also learn about local and international training programs offered and numerous employment possibilities. Giving you much needed information at your fingertips. You can order it from http://www.amazon.com/ or for local Philippine residents, you can email and get in touch with Eunice at yunesa@yahoo.com.



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The content of this review is solely the property and opinion of its author, Eunice

Spa, Massage Therapy, Beauty and Wellness Questions and Answers

Spa, Massage Therapy, Beauty and Wellness Questions and Answers


By

Eunice Estipona
(For those who would like to download a FREE copy see below for details)




Spa, Massage Therapy, Beauty and Wellness Questions and Answers


By

Eunice Estipona



For my first blog for 2010, I am compiling here a few of the questions, which have been emailed to me through the years regarding the practice, the profession and business on spa, massage therapy, beauty and wellness. Someone once asked me why are you wasting your time answering questions from strangers online? I believe that we become accountable for people other than ourselves. If we all can help one person a day and stop thinking about what is in it for me or what am I getting out of this o ano bang makukuha ko dito? I believe that the world would be a bit better to live in. In answering these questions, I also believe that anyone, including myself does not have a monopoly of knowledge nor I do not consider any question as irrelevant, there is nothing small about asking. I do not have all the answers so why am I doing this if not for the fame or the money? It’s because I have seen that Filipinos have big ideas, I see huge potential on what we can do only if we can be guided and I feel we have larger than life expectations. I wanted to promote the spa, massage therapy, beauty and wellness industry and other allied industries and support them by raising awareness and spreading the message of wellness and well-being not only physically but in our everyday lives as well.



From here on also, I will be combining both Tagalog and English in all my blogs, for those of you who needs a full-length English version, please do not hesitate to email me at yunesa@yahoo.com



Naalala ko ang isang kuwento tungkol sa isang daga. Hayaan niyo po akong mag kuwento sandali.



May isang daga na nakakita ng crack sa wall at nakita niya na ang magsasaka at ang kanyang asawa na nagbubukas ng package.



“Humm....... ano kayang pagkain ang nasa loob nun?” Tanong ng daga sa sarili. At nung nilabas na ng magsasaka ang laman ng package nakita niyang mousetrap pala ito. Siyempre natakot at nalungkot ang daga. Kaya pag dating niya sa farmyard ng magsasaka sinabi niya sa lahat ng mga animals doon na may mousetrap sa loob ng bahay. Ang sabi ng manok, “Mr. Mouse, alam mo malaking issue yan sa iyo pero para sa akin, wala akong pakialam. Para naman sa mga mouse ang mouse trap hindi para sa aming manok.” Pagkatapos ang daga ay pumunta sa baboy at sinabi rin niyang may mousetrap nga sa loob ng bahay. Ang sabi naman ng baboy, “I am sorry little daging. Wala akong magagawa diyan. Huwag kang mag alala, isasama kita sa prayers ko” pagkatapos noon ay umalis na ang baboy. Kayat si daga ay pumunta sa baka at sinabing may mousetrap sa loob ng bahay ng farmer. At ang tugon naman ng baka ay: “Naku Pasensiya ka na. Hindi ako puwedeng makialam diyan” kaya’t malungkot na umuwi ang daga sa kaniyang silong at nagtago.



Nang gabi ring yun may narinig ang lahat na malakas na lagapak ng mousetrap at diyata’t nakahuli na ito ng kaniyang bitag? Kaya’t dali-daling pumunta ang asawa ng farmer sa mousetrap na nakitang ang nahuli pala ay napakalaking ahas. Dahil sa ang buntot lamang ng ahas ang naipit ng mousetrap nagkaroon ng pagkakataon na matuka ng ahas ang asawa ng farmer at dahil doon dinala ng madalian ng farmer ang kaniyang asawa sa ospital. Pagkagaling sa ospital habang nagpapagaling ang kanyang asawa naisipan ng farmer na ipagluto ang kaniyang asawa ng tinolang manok sapagkat maganda itong pang-palakas at pampatibay ng resistensiya. Pagdakay kinuha ng farmer ang kaniyang bolo at pumunta sa farm at kinatay ang manok para sa isang masarap na nilagang manok. Pero pagkaraan ng isang araw wala pa ring pagbabago ang kondisyon ng kaniyang asawa so maraming nagpunta na mga kapit-bahay para tumulong kaya’t pumunta ulit itong farmer sa kanyang farm para pumatay ng baboy para gawing lechon para i-serve sa mga kapit-bahay at yung iba naman ay ginawang nilagang baboy sa kaniyang misis. Ngunit lalong lumala ang kondisyon ng kanyang asawa at pagkaraan ng ilang araw ay namatay na ito. Kaya’t sa dami ng nakiramay, pinapatay niya ang baka para gawing lechong baka at ang iba naman at pocherong baka para mai-hain sa mga bisita at kamag-anak na nakiramay sa burol at libing ng kaniyang asawa. Habang si daga naman ay lungkot na lungkot sa mga kaganapang nangyari na dahil lamang sa mousetrap.



So what’s the moral lesson of the story? Hindi naapektuhan si daga di ba? So, the next time you hear someone is facing a problem and you think it doesn't concern you, remember ---When one of us is needs help and threatened, we are all at risk. We are all involved in this journey called life. Pag hindi maganda ang nangyayari sa isang sector ng industry ng spa, massage therapy, beauty or wellness, it affects us all. We must keep an eye out for one another and make an extra effort to encourage and help one another. Hindi tayo dapat magkibit balikat at magsabing, hindi tayo apektado dahil in the long run maapektuhan din tayo.



So even if we do not gain any financial or worldly wealth helping people (online or offline), we still do not know the extent of effect that has happened to someone else’s life. All we need is more time to consider others more than we consider ourselves.



So, without further ado, here now are a few of the questions and answers which I took the liberty of compiling, editing some grammatical errors and in order to protect their identity, I chose not to publish nor include their email addresses:



I. What is the shelf-life of massage oils before they become stale or unusable?

Actually it depends on a lot of factors, the truth is that 'aromatherapy' and essential oils are not the same as milk or bread, which follow a predictable and rapid path toward spoiling over a known period of time. The shelf life of a natural oil or essential oil are governed by its chemical stability, and anything that interferes with this stability will cause the oil to start the slow process of deterioration. It would vary depending on many external factors like the climate, the bottle from which it is stored and therefore it’s very difficult to predict the exact “shelf-life” But given an (almost) ideal temperature and humidity conditions, oils have a short shelf-life and the general rule is about one year.

II. I have been in business for 5yrs. I have great clientele base and continue to stay busy in the US and Europe. My question is with the recession here in the Philippines, what would be the best marketing venues to address? I am in 2 different phone books and on the internet. Please let me know what more i can do. As some marketing tactics I adopted and learned in America are not applicable here.

Eunice answered:

Thank you for an interesting question. But before I discuss ways to help you, I would like to ask you this: how many of your client base are still active (regular) clients of yours to date? Remember the 80/20 Rule. 80% of your business (sales) comes from 20% of your clients. So it will be more expensive for you to acquire new clients than to retain the ones you have. Compute first how much do you need a month in order to survive or make a living doing what you love to do. If your client base is not enough, you need to find ways of reaching your target market. Focus on them. Example, if you specialize in Hilot, you will have a better chance of offering it to Hotels without spas, Asian and Foreign business communities, groups and forums. Get in touch with the Presidents (or whoever is the deciding person) of these organizations and offer your services and sell your gift certificates in bulk. For your current client base, you can offer incentives and perhaps small gift items (free sea shell necklaces, key chains, ballpens, etc.- all with your logo or name and contact details on it to create branding) for those clients who has been with you through these years. Also some gifts does not have to be directly related with your business. Example, your clients would appreciate it if you can give them a gift voucher if they shop in a health store for Valentines or their birthday, you can also give a promotional free fitness hour at the gym which you can coordinate with the gym owner/manager without you having to pay for it.



These are just some of the ways, but I am sure there are a lot of ways out there.



You can join our upcoming meetups so we can also help you promote your services as well.



Hope this helps a little.



Peace,



Eunice









III. What are the financial benefits or costs of opening up a franchise spa in Asia rather than from starting from scratch and building your own spa from ground up? Is it easier to talk to the banks for a franchise there in your region? Thank you.



IV. Would you recommend franchising a well known spa or to just start a spa on our own. I have recently spoke to one franchisor and it looks like a good proposal. I was wondering what your thoughts are.



My answer to these two questions are quite similar:



Eunice replies:



Thank you for your questions and queries are all helpful.



The investment of the franchise depends on the perceived “value” or branding already made by the parent company. It will also depend on the menu of services (the more comprehensive their services = the more complex the spa operations = the more expensive the franchise fee), the area/location/country or locality. Rough estimate ranges anywhere from 1 Million Pesos to as much as 5 Million pesos with or without royalty and after sales support services. In order to attract more franchises with less capital requirements, some franchise today offer only focused services like massage therapies only, tanning, yoga or beauty regimens where the franchise fee will fall down to around 50,000 pesos and above. You will also have to consider the minimum liquid required capital which is around 40-50% of the franchise fee. You also have to consider what area are they open for franchising baka naman may name nga wala namang tao kasi sa dami ng competition within the area that you are interested in and thus will affect your ROI. There is also some minimum net worth requirement or capital requirement. Please also inspect, their franchise support system (which is very vital to both you and the parent’s company) kailangan matatag ang support system. Siyempore yung mag o-offer ng franchise will tell you all the good things you need to hear but you have to inspect. Trust but verify. Due diligence baga. Sometimes, it is safe to say that if you do not know anything regarding spa management and operations: the least financial risk, is to own a franchise BUT (the big but) there are also things that you should consider. Some useful documents you should inspect are:



Company policy manuals

SOP/Work Procedures Manual/Corporate Handbook

Customer agreements

Current by laws and articles of incorporation

Tax returns

Etc. (at marami pang iba)





A few PROS of owning a franchise:

You already have the system built ready, ROI is almost always (nearly) achievable in the time-frame the parent company designated as long as you stick with their principles, loans are also easier to get for a franchise depending on the bank and branch policies, you will also benefit from years of research, study and experience handed down to you through your franchise agreement.



A few CONS of owning a franchise:

You will not have the individuality, you will get stuck with the company policies and protocols, you will shell out a royalty at kung walang royalty wala ring support system ang parent company while if you have your own spa, build on its business, as years come by and expand- in the end-you might be the one franchising your idea of the spa. People will be the one paying for your franchise. The bottom line is, whatever you prefer to do, it should be in alignment with what you would like to be doing 3, 5 or 10 years from now.



Assess yourself personally, would you rather own and operate your own brand which is more difficult especially during the start-up phase? Or operate your business using other people’s idea? Or will your financial goals be met by owning a franchise or selling your own franchise?



Whatever it is, it should be all aligned to your personal goals (aside from financial goals)



Hope this answers both your questions. Be well.



Eunice



V. Ako po ay taga Albay but our friend's spa is in Naga. I have done trainings for them, but we need help in spa management and operations because spas here are under-cutting our prices, papano ba talaga ang proper pricing ng services namin?

This, is an excellent question, and I am sure marami din may ganitong katanungan so with the asker’s permission, again I posted it here. Hopefully, more people will learn and participate in.

Cultural and regional differences will always affect business, no matter what industry you are in. The spa, massage therapy, beauty and wellness industry, in all corners of the world, is still considered luxury services, and are not considered (yet) health care services. Although thanks to spas that are committed to holistic and healing services, we are moving more that way- now more than ever before. However, if we are to be realistic- it will never be that way completely and therefore as spa owners vis-à-vis spa managers/supervisors- you will always be concerned with capitalism, profit margins and competitive position.

Over and under pricing can be a death trap for a new spa. Kaya nga lagi kong sinasabi HUWAG na HUWAG magkiki-pag price war because there will always be someone who will definitely go lower than what you are offering. Pag nag under price ka, you are setting your value to your clients/prospective clients agad regarding your quality and are setting a serious precedence that maybe difficult to correct in the short term. Pag nag over price ka naman, you will not have the business volume you need to survive-ultimately losing potential clients to your competitors. So anong dapat mong gawin?



To price properly, you should look at the following factors:

Case #1. What does it cost you to provide your service? (this will include the labor/wage/pay, supplies na ginamit para maibigay yung tamang serbisyo, the facility percentage cost –kung may ginamit bang equipment, etc.- at yung operational cost mo)

Just to give you a rough estimate, kung papano mag pricing:

Case #1 If your aromatherapy massage oil costs 3,000 pesos per liter (you need at least 20 - 25 ml per person so sa 1 liter, pag 20 ml ang ginagamit mong baseline you will have 50 persons sa isang litro and pag 25 ml naman ang basehan mo you will have 40 persons na gagamit sa 1 liter)

kapag 20 ml ginamit mo the product cost per massage is = 60 Pesos

kapag 25 ml naman ginamit mo the product cost per massage is = 75 Pesos

Eh product costing pa lang yan ha? Eh , magkano ang bayad sa therapist per day? If the minimum wage today in Manila, is…sabihin na nating, 350 pesos (net). And the average number of clients one therapist have in a day is sabihin na nating 3 (variable figure), therefore, you are paying your therapist 116.66 or to round it off 117 pesos per client.

So, 117 Pesos (labor cost) + 75 pesos (Cost of Goods/Product cost) = 192 Pesos per one hour massage

Therefore, 192.00 pesos ang ginagastos mo sa labor and products na ginagamit for 1 client in an hour of massage.

Eh hindi pa kasama yung operational cost mo diyan…so tell me, if you are charging just 250 pesos sa isang massage therapy service mo may kinita ka ba?



One has to give-in, mag su-suffer ang staff dahil ma u-undermine yung skills nila. Most probably sila ang babawasan mo ng sweldo (which should never be the case) or siyempre ang gagawin mo imbes na true aromatherapy oil ang gagamitin mo mineral oil na lang para maka tipid, at i-a-advertise mo pa rin na aromatherapy yun kahit hindi na kasi mabango naman. I hope you got my point. The important thing to know in pricing ALWAYS, is how much does it cost YOU (as a business owner) to deliver your service. Ito ang dapat na unang-una mong basehan. Not your competitor.



The formula should be:

Service Price= COG + Labor/Overhead + Operational costs + Profit margin



Case #2 As a trainer, I have encountered quite some few questions papano daw ba mag price ng service ang training:

As a side note, in my opinion Starbuck’s Coffee prices are too high but people are still in there fully willing to pay for what they want. They can certainly buy a cup of coffee more cheaply, but not Starbuck’s coffee. And people want their coffee. It’s the value you give to your guests/clients, not the price that is relevant.

Pero, just the same, mag costing dapat….like yung fare/gasoline mo, yung materials na gagamitin mo like manuals, rent sa building or office mo, certificates (if you will be issuing one), the duration, yung per hour na halaga mo as a professional at marami pang iba. Most of the time (hindi naman lahat), pag mahal ang binayad sa training mas maganda ang training kaysa yung maliit or walang investment. Kaya nga pag sa ibang bansa nag aral ang isang tao di ba parang wow…sikat…kasi nga alam natin na mahal yun at may value. Kasi pag walang investment on the student’s part, they will not give any importance dun sa tinuro mo, kaya yung perception natin sa industry ay mababa kasi tayo rin ang may kasalanan binababa natin masyado ang ating halaga at yung halaga natin sa profession mababa rin…..”so after ng training, mag ca-call center na lang ang mga estudyanteng natapos sa training kasi maliit naman pala ang kita dito sa industriya natin. Hindi makakabuhay. Diba? Kawawa naman.”



Bottomline is, NEVER GO INTO PRICE WAR, ASSESS FIRST YOUR FINANCIAL OPERATIONS before putting the figure of your price into your flyers and brochures, etc. So when we price, we price fair otherwise everyone in this industry will suffer.



As I would like to stress, again, the value we give to our services, reflects the value we give to our services and the industry as a whole.



2. Also you have to consider, based on your spa’s/wellness center’s/massage clinic’s financial goals for that month, quarter or year- ang question na dapat mong sagutin is- what percentage of your net revenue do you need to achieve on each service? Meron ka bang monthly budget na sinusunod? Kung wala…eh may problema tayo…dapat meron. Just get in touch with me so I can give you details.



3. What are your competitors charging for the same service? But this does not mean na dapat ka talagang gumaya sa price nila. This is just for comparison lang. If your competitors are offering free services, whenever I ask those who would consult me if it is effective, I ask them to do one simple thing for me: prove it by documents. Show me through client/financial records just how effective the service giveaway campaign has been. So far no one has been able (or willing) to do it. This huge and expensive assumption will most certainly consume time, products, and labor—all in addition to whatever marketing dollars you’re shelling out. And a darker problem usually develops in this type of business promotion: resentment on the part of employees who are forced to perform “free” services. I’ve almost never visited a spa where management and employees agree on the personal obligation or value of complimentary services. Employees often feel taken advantaged of or devalued as professionals when their talents can be doled out to the public like cheese samples in a supermarket. How good could a massage or facial be when performed by a technician who is unhappy about having to do it? The message will come across to your prospective client. Of course, there are probono services that we should offer to help others but, what we are talking about here is the business side.



The conclusion here is: Compare but set your own pricing that is commensurate to your target market and the value you give them. Even if your price is slightly higher, yet your services are better, clients will still flock to you. Know your market, know your business. Do not underprice and never overprice.



4. Once you have a comparison list of competitor pricing, how does your service compare? If you are charging more, is it warranted? Ano ang mas espesyal sa iyo kaysa sa iba? What is so unique about your massage clinic or spa that people will want to try your services out? If you are charging less find out also why. How did you come up with your service price?



Since it is January, at the start of this year, if you find yourself in a similar situation it might be a good time to make some important changes in the structure of your spa/ massage clinic or wellness business. I have a lot of things in mind pa…but I do not want to trouble you with details. I have a business worksheets CD which will help you in documenting financials and other CD's that will educate you just let me know so I can give you details. Hope to see you in our meetups so you can learn there.



Thank you and hope this helps a little.



Peace,



Eunice



VI. Noisy/ Boisterous Client?

Question:

I had some customer who like to converse to our massage therapist in the room (our room are separated by curtains, I believe that's how all massage shops are here in California), but i feel that they are also disturbing other clients next to them. I feel like telling the client to lower his voice or only converse on what the massage therapist practice. I don't know what to do or how to prevent it. Should there be step taken before the massage is performed? I really don't know what to do.



Eunice’s Answer:

Thanks again for a brilliant question.



Questions and conversations cannot be TOTALLY avoided, the therapist should be able to answer directly, succinctly and (gently) in a small tone of voice so if and when the client responds they will also mimic her/him replying in a soft tone of voice.



Also, if the client/guest is really talkative (as it is in a few cases), normally this is what I say, I would gently tell the client to "sir/ma'am ______. Don't worry I will attend to all your concerns/questions after our session at the reception area, in the meantime please try to relax so you can enjoy what you paid for" Then the therapist/practitioner can shut up. Except if the client has some urgent things to say. Or you as a therapist, have some clarifications to reply to.



Also, you can post or display a reminder/ note at the reception area, something like (you can edit them as you wish):

The spa is a place for solitude and haven (or serenity) for others, please be considerate of others using the premises. We would appreciate it if you would turn your mobile phones off or in a silent mode and lowering your voice. Thank you.



While waiting in the reception area, please turn off your cell phones or pagers and remain as quiet as possible. Massage requires that the practitioner and the client be able to focus on the massage. Noise is kept to a minimum so as to not disrupt this focus and concentration. Thank you for your cooperation.



I hope this helps a little.



Eunice

PS- I also noticed that you call them your customers instead of guests/ clients/ patrons. Perhaps we can use a more politically correct term: like guests/ clients/ patrons or patients (if in a medical spa facility).





VII. I was recently emailed a question regarding lamig and hilot. I would like to share this because this has often been the subject of dicussion among the circle of professionals/ practitioners in the field of massage. Hope we could all learn from.



Hopefully we can generate some replies too.



I took the liberty of excluding the questioner's name for his privacy. Let us just call him Mr. D:



Questioner: Mr. D

Category: Massage

Private: No



Subject: Lamig at Hangin

Question:

I know your familiar with "Lamig" and "Hangin" terms, madalas kong naririnig yan sa mga nagmamasahe specially here in the Philippines, marami daw nyan sa likod lalo na pag masakit ang likod mo. Pero others said to me hindi daw ito scientific, pinauso lang daw ito ng mga manghihilot, Now, i want to know what could be the best explanation to this at saan ba ito nagsimula, is this right or wrong? I want to know the truth, masyado na kasing kumalat ito sa larangan ng pagmamasahe.

Answer:



Hello D,



Thank you for your question.



In medical term it’s called nodules pero sa ating mga katutubong "hilot" (noun) or "manghihilot", its "lamig". Walang kaso dun wag na lang nating pag awayin ang science at traditional therapies. Both are correct in their own language dictums. Western term kasi ang nodules while eastern term ang lamig. At hindi lang kasi alam ng ating mga sinaunang mga Hilot kung paano i-explain yung origin or etymology nung words kaya parang hindi tamang gamitin ang word na lamig. But it is traditionally validated.



There are a lot of possible causes of nodules or lamig but I will just discuss yung common in relation to massage, it maybe a combination of any of the following:

1. too much stress on the muscles

2. exposure to hot and cold temperatures within short time intervals (yung bang galing ka sa init eh di siyempre open yung pores mo and then bigla kang ma-e-expose sa cold temperature (like an air-con room) papasok sa open pores yung cold air and it will be trapped inside.

3. Muscle soreness

4. Body fatigue



These are just a few but hope this helps a little.



Just let me know if there is anything more that I can help you with.



Peace,



Eunice

yunesa@yahoo.com





VIII. I recently received another question from one of our meetup friends and would like to share with all of you, below is the query:



Eunice , what is the customary tip sa Pinas for spa, last time we went my aunt castigated me, she was annoyed when i gave the therapist $20



Below was my reply to him which was edited a little (let us just call him Mr. J, to protect his privacy):



Hello Mr. J,



You have a very good question.



TIPS is an acronym for "To Insure Prompt Service" or sometimes referred to as gratuity. Your question is how much in the Philippines is an acceptable tip. It depends on the industry (because we also tip waiters, cab drivers, airport helpers, even our laundry ladies, etc) but below is my personal gratuity giving guide for any spa, massage clinic, wellness centers and similar establishments:



No gratuity for terrible service

20 to 50 pesos (approximately 1$) is cheap; only for service that is so-so

100pesos (approximately 2$) is fine ; for good service

200 pesos (approximately 4$) is wonderful; for above standard service

500 pesos (approximately 10$) is exemplary; for way above the average service

1,000pesos and up (approximately 20$) is great generosity; for highly commendable service



Of course in other countries, this might sound very minimal (as tips are generally 15 to 20% of the service price so if the service price is 50$, a client is expected to give 10$ at minimum) but then again you are asking about the Philippines. So what am I trying to arrive here then? My bottom line here is whether you are in the Philippines or anywhere else in the world for that matter, give whatever you are comfortable giving, give within your means and give out of the abundance of your heart to give. It is not the amount actually, but our attitude about giving.



Hope this helps a little.





Peace,



Eunice



IX. Ano po ba ang magiging hit na mga spa trends for the Philippine for the next two years ahead?

When it comes to being eco-friendly I think more and more spas will go for locally made products- the nearer you are to your market the better; as we all know, we are consuming more fuel and more energy purchasing imported goods than locally sourced out ones. So, less and less consumers will choose imported items. So move over imported items...



When it comes to branding- more and more people will also be mindful of how these “branded” companies treat their human resources, labor and the like. Before buying, consumers would feel good regarding buying from companies who comply with fair trade and labor. So it will be good for these branded companies to partner with socially responsible organizations within their region and outside of their respective countries. Although I think employment possibilities for Asians will tremendously increase due to an increase in demand for skilled labor in this field. The business of personalization in branding will also be a good niche.



When it comes to marketing trends and mindful spending, more and more people will recommend ONLY people they know, yung bagang alam nila yung product/service that they have tried themselves or they know the owners first -hand. People who they can associate with at levels they can afford. Ibig sabihin magiging less and less ang anonymous-ness ng isang product/service. Personalization is the key to being closer to your focused segment and be able to survive financially.



Learning labs will take a lot of shapes and forms and will also blossom into mentorships, advisory committees and groups, it might converge with the academe in the spa and wellness industry reaching more and more individuals. Maybe a learning kitchen? spa travels and escapades? online spa? perhaps the establishment of more libraries and museums which will be geared towards the past, the present and the future of this industry. The hunger for more knowledge and insider’s advice and information will definitely push for a compendium of human knowledge regarding the field of spa, massage, bodyworks, wellness, etc. whether this be digital or otherwise and will occur at an overwhelming pace and intensity.



More and more convergences and divergences will be at the forefront of our industry where those who wants to stay in business will be pushed to excel, do more for others and at the same time be economically viable. - yunesa@yahoo.com



X. I have recently received a question which I think we can all learn from so I am taking the liberty of posting it here, let us just call her Ms. B, below is her question:



Subject: Free Blowjobs



Question:

I'm a 24 year old woman and I'm a massage therapist. Although no one else knows about this, I have been giving free blowjobs to all of my male clients. Since I first gave one of my male clients a blowjob, I have been giving them to every male client that I massage. I ask the man if I can please suck his dick and that I'll do it for free. If the man says no, I tell him that I'll actually pay him money to suck his dick (I've done this several times). If he still says no, I tell him to please not tell anyone else that I offered giving him a free blowjob. If the man says yes, then I take off all his clothes and I take off all my clothes and I suck his dick until he ejaculates. After I swallow all of his cum, we put our clothes back on and that's my usual massage with a male client. I thought about if I should become some sort of sex worker but I don't wanna become a prostitute because I don't give free blowjobs for the money. I do it because I love sucking dicks and I love the smell and taste of them. And I don't have a boyfriend so I'm not cheating on anyone! I give free blowjobs to any and every male client who'll let me because I'm the type of woman who thinks that all men are hot, some are just hotter than the others. So, I'd suck off any guy. I wanna continue giving free blowjobs to every male client I get but I'm worried about what will happen if I get caught. I work at a nursing home (but I give massages in a room with lockable doors) and every man there knows that I give free blowjobs. They wink at me and I wink back and I have a sexual relationship with almost every man at the nursing home (I say almost because some men have not allowed me to suck their dicks but assured me that they won't tell anyone). Anyways, I'm pretty sure that all the men know that I'm not interested in being in a serious relationship with them. I just wanna suck their dicks and continue doing what I do. If I somehow get caught for giving free blowjobs, I know that I'll obviously get fired, but do you know if I'll go to jail for anything I've done? I've never been arrested for anything before and I don't think it's likely that I'll get caught for giving free blowjobs but I just really wanna know if I'll go to jail for something like that!





Hello Ms. B,



First, please be informed that I will in no way, judge you for what you do and what your beliefs are. So I will answer your concerns in the most caring, logical and professional manner, as I believe every individual deserves dignity and respect.



Second, I think you should re-consider doing it at the expense or under the disguise of massage therapy. Massage therapy is a decent profession NOT a perverted way of sexualizing a relationship. Technically, you are not allowed to use massage therapist as a title if you are doing something sexual other than therapeutic massage. It makes the industry look tainted and cheap. This will also hurt a lot of people trying to make a decent living out of it. With your description you are not doing massage at all. You neither mentioned about nodules, nor effleurage, petrrissage and the like.



Third, if they pay you for a massage then give them massage NOT and NEVER b__________ the one you are giving.



Fourth, what about female clients? Will you refuse massage to them even if they need it?



Fifth, not only will you lose your job but it depends on the state or country, you will be dis-barred from associations and stripped of your professional license (if you have one)...you will certainly go to jail.



Sixth, if I may add, sex should not be viewed as ugly. Sex is not about using people but as a way of showing that two people's union in love and respect sharing their body and their lives together. Sex without those is empty. After the pleasure now what? It should have a deeper meaning, deeper than reaching one's orgasm. Sex is created by God to be pleasureable so that we can enjoy it with the right person at the right time and the right place. It is not to be given to just anybody nor practiced with fear at the back of our minds because we might get caught. All in all sex is completely fulfilling if done in God's perspectives. I hope you will come to realize that. You are an honorable person, do not degrade yourself by offering b______. Men will think that you are a whore or a prostitute and as you said you don't like that. If you really don't like that at all, then stop what you are doing. It hurts you in the process and it hurts us all in the industry.



Seventh, last but not the least, I would like to invite you to read, download and print for FREE my article regarding Massage and Sexual Advances:

http://www.scribd.com/doc/3539943/Preventing-and-Avoiding-Sexual-Advances-During-Spa-and-Massage-Sessions



I hope this will help and enlighten you.





Peace,



Eunice



XI. Is this normal in THAI massage?

hi i've been going for thai massage in a reputable place. The asian masseuse covers me properly and i am never exposed, always covered well with a towel. She leaves the room when i am changing.



But there is an instance in the massage, when i am on my back, facing front. She will PRESS and HOLD on my upper thigh just near my Genital/testicles,(while the towel is covering me) and then she releases and presses again in that area, then she moves/shakes that area while pressing it which causes my genitals to bounce around abit. This is done for couple of minutes, the genital itself is never touched.



It feels relaxing, but i was wondering if this was something legit is she trying to excite me, or is it a normal part of thai massage? The fact she's pressing/massaging close to that area.



im new to thai massage so i'm asking , i've tried other types and didn't involve such technique.



Eunice’s answer:



Thai Massage involves more stretching and range of motion techniques rather than pressing muscles and NO, its not normal but then again, if at any time, you feel uncomfortable, you are free to tell your therapist.



Also, people should consider massage as a wholesome and healthy treat NOT some profession that involves some hanky panky. Thanks to the many day spas and legitimate massage clinics and massage therapists that conduct their business professionally, eventually, the notion that massage and sexual acitivity is one and the same- will disintegrate. Hopefully, the public should be aware that although massage is intimate, it is not intended to satisfy someone's sexual apetite.



You can also read the article about Massage and Sex at this link: http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/preventing-or-avoiding-sexual-advances.html





XII. Can you suggest me some spa treatments, in particular for man ? I going to a spa next week and I need some suggestions. Manicure, pedicure, body scrub, body wrap, face treatments or whatever you think is good. What do you think ? Thanks.



If its your first time, try a Massage like Swedish Massage and Facial Therapy for Gentlemen.



XIII. What career? Spa therapy or Web developer?

I can't decide and I have two months to make a decision. I don't have any prior experience with spa therapy, but I've kept it as an option because it could get me into the work force easier. Plus, I learn about muscles, I can get healthy (being in shape is a requirement) also flexible hours. However, I am a male and it's more female dominated. My other option would be web developer/ or computer information sciences, which I'd go to community college for. I can't make up my mind. I'm 21 and I'm tired of living with my parents. I want to get out on my own.

Eunice replied:

Read books and articles regarding both careers. There are spa therapy career guides out there. Also, know what is really your passion and get into it. Follow your heart...



XIV. Do Spa microdermabrasions work?

So, im thinking about getting a spa microdermabrasion because i want to get rid of my acne scars do they actually work? And how much is it per session? And does it hurt



Eunice replied:

Depending on the depth of your scar, normally, it works if done on a regular basis (at least once or twice a month depending on your type of skin). The intensity of the treatment will also depend on the suction and abrasion procedure but generally it will only be a mild scouring of your dead skin cells. Precautionary measures should also be stated like: you should not be menstruating during the session, you should not expose yourself to sun and its rays after the procedure, if irritation occurs there should be a first aid cream to be given, if your skin feels tight afterwards use ice cold water to rinse your face and apply ice, etc.



Go to a professional and trusted medical spa/professional.



XV. Questions about massage?

1- were do they massage

2-what happens if you get and erection and you lying on your stomach that doesn't sound terribly comfortable

Eunice replies:



First, professional massage therapy only massages on areas like muscles, joints and not on private areas. Gluteal work or butt massage may also be included depending on the type of massage BUT even if gluteal techniques are used, you will still be draped properly. If this makes you feel uncomfotable you can ask your therapist not to include this. Massage therapists concentrate on areas that needs kneading to relieve pain and soar muscles and not on sensual areas so there will be a slim chance of feeling sensually aroused. But if you get an erection, professional massage therapists and technicians are trained to handle this properly. They will not feel awkward but will instead make you feel that its normal. Nothing persomal because sometimes its a physiological effect to relaxation BUT even if this is a valid reason- at any time- you can ask your therapist not to include certain areas you feel will not be comfortable with you.



Massage in itself is a pleasurable experience but not intended to sexually gratify a person.



You can also read these articles to help you in getting acquianted with massage therapy:

Do you want to know the right type of massage for you? Do you you want to know the common types of massage and how it is practiced? This article will give you the glimpse of massage therapies:

The Basics of Massage Therapy (Massage 101)

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/basics-of-massage-therapy-massage.html



Are you tired of putting up with sexually charged clients? Do you know how to handle sexual harrassment in the spa and massage therapy setting? Then this article will definitely help you:

Preventing/ Avoiding Sexual Advances during a Spa or Massage

session50 ways of Handling Client Advances

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/preventing-or-avoiding-sexual-advances.html







XVI. My 11 year old cousin wants to have a Spa themed party for her 12th birthday. Her mom and I have decided for a party person to come to her house and give the kids spa treatments. It is going to be a sleepover party and 8 children (including the birthday girl) are going. It is in December and we are having it in her basement. I have a few questions. Firstly, What games/activities/crafts can they do? Also, where can you buy cheap robes and slippers for the kids? I do live in Ontario, so Canadian stores/websites will be helpful. Thank you:) Also any other ideas would be helpful too.



Eunice replies:

Spa themed party might include:

Healthy cooking and demonstration

Back massage for 15-20 minutes each

Hair grooming sessions with the kids

Aromatherapy conconctions (just choose which oils are less harmful for the kids)

Choose a teacher who is lively, similar to a clown (?)



Visit an spa or massage place or schools for spa,massage or wellness and inquire if they can provide spa parties or spa-rties for kids.

Disposable slippers are a better choice.

Robes which can be taken home as their memorabilia or perhaps there are stores that can rent out robes for the occasion.





XVII. I received my first swedish massage last week and it went a little strange. The massgae therapist recomended that I be nude under the draping which wasn't a big deal being that it is common. What I felt was awkward was that about midway through the massage while lying on my stomach, he lifted the draping all the way up to the small of my back leaving my behind completely exposed. He then "really" massages my behind for a good five minutes. It did feel very good but they way he was doing it and the time he spent there made it seem unusual. I didn't say anything not knowing what to expect. Other than that it went well. Thoughts?



Eunice replies:

If you feel anything unusal and you feel uncomfortable with it please let the therapist know and be heard. They are professionals and they will ensure that your preferences will be honored.



There are certain massage therapies that includes butt massage but there are also some Swedish massage techniques that does not include the butt (or the gluteal area).



The bottomline here is your comfort and if anything makes you uneasy or taken advataged of then feel free to voice your concern.





XVIII. Hello. I'm very confused on what I want to do. Im a single mom and do not have a lot of time. I'm thinking about getting a degree in web design, it would take 2 years and I really don't like living in Seattle..so I'm dreading having to stay here for two more years or more. Another alternative for the time being I was thinking about is massage school. It pays very well about $60-$160 an hour and it's only a 9 month program. I've always been told I should be one. I just need to make money now..tired of struggling, but I'm more tired of living here. I'm used to sunny Florida and I moved here a year ago and I'm not liking it. Anyway, so if I can have some input on my decision that would be great. I do want to eventually pursue graphic or web design, but I need a job that is flexible and that pays in order to pursue my dreams. Thanks!



Eunice replied:



The answer lies into what would you love to do three, five or ten years from now. Being a massage therapist is also an expensive career. Would you still like working on people or perhaps put up your own massage center or even a spa? do not base your decision now on money alone. Money will come as a bonus when you enjoy first what you do.



I suggest you do a research on job outlook for both sectors: massage and web design. Which would you enjoy doing in the long-run? before plunging into any of these fields talk also to people who are already working in the area that you are interested in. Ask for advice from your close friends and family. They know you the best, so they might be able to give you an insight. Know the pros and the cons for each field.



My sister , who is naturally inclined to beauty and cosmetology, entered the field of massage- after awhile she get bored and I told her that instead of focusing on massage she should have focused on aesthetics (facials and body therapies, etc) and has shifted her focus from massage to aesthetics.



Research on your other options as well.



Last but not the least, pray that you will choose a field that is very much suited to your interests, your talents, your financial goals and being "you"...because you are unique



XIX. Does anyone have any insight on what specific questions would be asked during an interview for either or both of the above positions? My wife is really excited about her interview with a career training school and wants to be as prepared as possible.



Eunice replied:



1. number of years in the spa industry.



2. challenges you encountered on the job and how you handled it.



3. your career background- be able to discuss your previous employment experience



4. as an instructor, what do you love teaching? how patient are you?



5. expectations and salary requirements



here is also a link that can help her answer some questions: http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/suggested-interview-questions-and.html



XX. What are your opinions on Kids Spa?

Eunice replied:

It would be a great business idea.



Great place where kids can learn about wellness and taking care of their bodies as early as they can.



Fun place.



Good place to leave the kids- while you go have your spa treatment at the same place or some place else.



Trends show that younger and younger generations are going to spas. So it would be another good opportunity for investors.



XXI. My father put this profession sort of down this one lady told me massage therapy was looked at as a dirty job! and not only that my father told me his friend said that this lady was doing massage therapy and he proceeded to laugh and said it was a dirty job as well! my father smirked and said well just research it and I kind of felt discouraged is massage therapy really a dirty intimate job with lots of negative in it or is it a rewarding career? I don't know I seen the curriculum for massage therapy and it seemed to me that it looked very interesting and inspiring and I would love to help my family with all of there backs? soo should I feel down about this or what give me some suggestions you guys before i go ahead and plunge some money and go to school helpppppp!



Eunice replies:

Gone are the days that massage therapy is viewed as something just for sex or pleasure. It is now being integrated into health and wellness as a whole. Its a noble profession but of course, it has its bad image so we have to professionalize it. It's not a dirty job. Any work can be dirty if you will use it to harm people. Even a doctor can be dirty if they do not stick to their oath. Massage therapist should not be looked down because its an life honoring job. It's also lucrative and interesting. Wait till you see the curriculum which will include: Anatomy and Physiology, CPR and First Aid, Microbiology, Parasitoloy and Virology, etc. It is not easy, but its worth it. Go to a respectable and reputable spa or massage therapy center and observe carefully what the therapists do. It will give you a glimpse of how they work. You can also buy a book by Steve Capellini entitled Massage Therapy Career Guide.



XXII. Hi, I want to become a massage therapist in the future and I had some questions for you.

1. What college did you go to and why?

2. What classes did you take that allowed you to become a massage therapist? Were they hard?

3. Where are you currently working?

4. Do you enjoy being a massage therapist?

5. How much is your salary?

6. How many years did you attend college?

7. Is it easy to find a job as a massage therapist?



Number 6 is optional because some people feel sensitive about talking about that with a total stranger.



Thank you for your time!



Eunice replied:

I started out as a massage therapist. I will try to answer your questions one by one:

1. What college did you go to and why? Actually, it depends where would you like to concentrate: massage only or spa therapies also. I attended some of my massage modalities in Thailand. Its cheaper there instead of enrolling in the US at the same time, I think when learning about Thai massage, I would rather learn it from a Thai and when I want to learn Balinese massage- go to Bali, Indonesia, when you want to learn hilot- you come here in the Philippines. It really depends on the type of massage or spa therapy that you would like to concentrate on.

2. What classes did you take that allowed you to become a massage therapist? Were they hard? Expect that, most of your subjects will be about health and science subjects like: Anatomy and Physiology, Hygiene and Sanitation, Microbiology and Parasitology, First aid, etc. You have to check the state law what are required in your state as well as check the school's curriculum. If you are interested in a school, visit them and learn more about what subjects and workshops/seminars they offer.

3. Where are you currently working? I am now currently working as a spa consultant and wellness speaker

4. Do you enjoy being a massage therapist? Yes. Actually, it depends on your inclination, there is nothing wrong with being a massage therapist but my interest is more into coaching, mentoring, teaching and stuffs like that so I decided to put up my own consulting firm.

5. How much is your salary? It depends also on where you would like to work. Is it a cruise ship, resort spa or private practice? Generally, you should be making 1USD per minute of your work.

6. How many years did you attend college? Before entering the wellness field, I was a medical technologist (4 years in college) but it also depends. In most states, you will need anywhere from 200-500 hours, even 1,000 hours. Know your state laws regarding massage therapy.

7. Is it easy to find a job as a massage therapist? yes and no-depends on your qualifications and your location or the location you want to work.







My last advice would be- in a form of a question- what would you love doing even if you were not paid, you will still pursue that dream role?



Answer that and you will have your dream career.



Peace be with you



yunesa@yahoo.com





XXIII. I have gone for several massages before, and I wonder if it is always necessary for the towel to be on? I always wear briefs or shorts on anyway, and I find the towel often to be too warm or a nuisance. I guess my question is: does the towel always needs be on, or is it for the dignity of the patient?



Thanks





Eunice answered:



Most massage therapies require towels and drapes. Its generally used for propriety purposes. That is the reason why spas that I recently have put up, instead of towels (which are thick and warm) if you are in a venue or climate that is already warm in itself, we have improvised something like a "sarong" or a massage cloth, which is cool to touch. Also, if you can request your massage therapist to take the towel off and it is not against their policies, you can have it your way.



XXIV. lately, i have been thinking about going to get a massage but i am not really sure what kind i should get. i am just wanting something that will be really relaxing and make me feel refreshed afterwards. which kind do you think i should get? also i was wondering if draping is required while receiving a massage. i dont know if the rules vary by country or state, or at all; i live in texas though. i would prefer to not be covered. would that be weird to ask for in a massage? one more thing....what should i do in the event of an erection? should i tell the therapist or keep it to myself? thanks for you help.



Eunice answered:



Hi Aaron,



Thank you for your question. Different States/countries have different regulations in massage but normally you will be covered during the whole session except the parts that are being worked on. So expect to be draped but not to the point of being uncomfortable. Tell your massage therapist your preferences so they can adjust, if possible.

If its your first time, I would suggest you try a Swedish type of massage, if after the session you feel that you need a stronger and heavy prssured type then that is the time you experiement on other forms of massage or bodywork.

As a norm, you should NOT have any erection during a massage therapy BUT there are certin ocassions that we, as therapists, encounter that. In this event, just ignore it. We as therapists, consider that, nothing sensual but its the body's physiological reaction. Massage therapy is purely for therapeutic purposes thus the word "therapy". Gone are the days that it is viewed as something only for red light districts. Thus, the proliferation of credible spas.

If I may add, you can also ask for the menu of services at the reception area of the massage center or spa and ask them what they would like to recommend as sometimes they have other name other than what is generically called Swedish massage.



Anyway, hope you'll get to enjoy the session and feel rejuvenated afterwards. Let me know if there are other things I can help you with or to give me some feedback on your session.



Spa-fully,



Eunice



XXV. Hello,



I am studying an ITEC in Anatomy & Physiology and Holistic Massage and am about to start my first case study. I have been practising on family and friends for the last 3 months since I began the course and in that time some interesting questions have arisen. One of them being from a friend who has a ten month old baby and recently asked me how the expulsion of toxins throughout the body during massage might effect her breast milk in any way? She was slightly concerned about it as she is a very conscientious mother. I wondered if you might have any knowledge about this?



Thanks for your help



Catherine





Eunice replied:



Hello Catherine,



Thank you for your query and congratulations on choosing massage therapy as your career.



Regarding your question, Massage Therapy/Aromatherapy generally expel toxins through the skin and urine (kidneys). I do not think it will in anyway affect breast feeding as the mammary glands (breasts) are not an excretory organ.



I hope this helps a little.



Eunice

yunesa@yahoo.com







====================================================================================



The first informational blog regarding spa, massage therapy, beauty and wellness with a focus on the Philippines. Eunice’s blog and updates are found in this link www.yunesa.blogspot.com



Some articles written by Eunice, which you can view, read, download and print for FREE. Just click on the links:



What term should really be used?

Client, Patient, Customer, At Iba Pa

Masseur, Massagist, Massage Therapist, At Iba Pa

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/03/client-patient-customer-at-iba-pa.html





Is the spa, massage therapy and wellness industry included in the Top Businesses to start in these times of global financial challenges? Find out in this article so you can adopt and perhaps change your business into profitable ones:

Top Businesses to Start in Uncertain Times/Sluggish Economy

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/top-businesses-to-start-in-uncertain.html



If you are an employer these are the things you should ask, or if you are a prospective applicant, job seeker or someone who interviews people, this article can help you answer and ask/probe questions:

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/suggested-interview-questions-and.html



Are you a smart boss, staff or employee? This article will give secrets on how to become a Smartest Spa, Massage Therapist/Practitioner.

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/smartest-spa-massage-therapist-ang.html



Do you want to know the right type of massage for you? Do you you want to know the common types of massage and how it is practiced? This article will give you the glimpse of massage therapies locally and abroad:

The Basics of Massage Therapy (Massage 101)

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/basics-of-massage-therapy-massage.html



Do you want to know how much capital you need to start your own spa, massage clinic or wellness center? Do you want to know what it is like being a spa owner? Do you want to be (really) prepared before you shell out money into putting up your own spa, massage clinic or wellness center? Do you want to know what steps you have to take before putting up your own business in this field?

How to Start, Begin or Open a Spa, Massage Clinic or Wellness Center

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/organizing-opening-starting-putting-up.html



Are you tired of putting up with sexually charged clients? Do you know how to handle sexual harassment in the spa and massage therapy setting? Then this article will definitely help you:

Preventing/ Avoiding Sexual Advances during a Spa or Massage

session50 ways of Handling Client Advances

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/preventing-or-avoiding-sexual-advances.html



Do you want to know about Hilot, Dagdagay and other indigenous therapies of the Philippines? If yes, then read on!

A Wee-bit of Philippine Indigenous Therapies with a Focus on Hilot

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/wee-bit-of-philippine-indigenous.html



Rules and Regulations on How to Become a Licensed Massage Therapist in the Philippines through the help of the Department of Health, here is the new update:

How to Be a Licensed Massage Therapist in the Philippines

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/how-to-be-licensed-massage-therapist.html



Licensure, Accreditation, Certification and Assessment

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/licensure-certification-accreditation.html



On anti-aging and Physical Appearances

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/on-anti-aging-and-physical-appearances.html



How to renew a Massage Therapy License in the Philippines:

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/05/license-renewal-for-massage-therapy-in.html



If you want to be updated of spa, massage and wellness activities and events or be a part of a support group

What is Meetup all about?

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/06/everybodys-meetup-dito-po-sa-atin.html





The most comprehensive resource and information guide on the list of training centers, magazines, publications, books and literatures both local and international are all available in the book, “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Guide and Career Book”. The First Book on Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Book and Career Guide

http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book (this has the most comprehensive list of training centers in the Philippines and abroad with tips from professionals and employment opportunities, legal laws and regulations, list of employment agencies, how to choose a trainer, and information that you need in order to succeed in this industry and before you shell out money for your tuition or training, there are a lot of ways you can grab a copy of this valuable information para hindi ka mag sayang ng time and money enrolling in trainings you do not even need. This book will give you the information to start right in the industry with secrets you should know and being able to find your rainbow in the wonderful world of massage, spa and wellness.

1. You can order it online via www.Amazon.com at 34.95$

2. You can order it via a Kindle device at $7.99

3. You can order an e-book copy through my blog at www.yunesa.blogspot.com at $19.95

4. You can also get a copy from National Bookstores nationwide at P799Pesos

5. For locals only, you can order it from me at local discounted rates with free delivery at 900Pesos (via LBC or FEDEX Air 21. Anywhere in the Philippines. Please allow 1-5 working days



If you are looking for a career opportunity, not just a job in the spa, massage therapy and wellness industry, this book is a must read.



Also, CD's included in the kit for spa management, practice and operations available:



The Spa and Wellness Business- Understanding the Basics (PowerPoint format)

Seven Deadly Mistakes to Avoid as a Spa Owner and Practitioner in the Spa Wellness Business (PowerPoint format)

Spa, Massage and Facial Therapies 101 (The Basics) (PowerPoint format)

Business Worksheets for Spa and Massage Business in the Philippines (Excel and Word format/program includes all the financial worksheets you need in computing for your operational cost, etc.)



This article is written by: Eunice Estipona a spa consultant, mentor, advisor, speaker and lecturer. One of her advocacies is to make healing and information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness accessible and affordable to everyone. If you are serious about turning your business or practice around, making the right decisions, getting an unbiased opinion and knowing where to get help, for lectures and other concerns she can be contacted at yunesa@yahoo.com or +639184745685. To find out how she can help you take your business to the next level, visit her site at http://www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy

These along with hundreds of resources found locally and abroad are contained in “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource and Career Book”, the first book of resource information to know more about the Spa, Massage and Wellness Industry in the Philippines and other countries including the United States, Australia and other Asian countries. You can view, read, download and print for FREE the book’s summary at this link http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book



If you are a spa, massage therapy and wellness information seeker the resources contained in the book for you. This book is a collection of data and valuable information regarding the spa and massage industry in a global perspective with a focus on the Philippines. Her advocacy in writing the book is to make “unbiased” information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness resources and career, accessible and affordable for everyone. If you are considering a career in the massage, spa and wellness industry, this book will prepare you and give you a glimpse of what it is like, the preparation you need to take: emotionally, intellectually and financially. In this book, you will learn more details in the spa and massage field and the possible paths you can take. You will also learn about local and international training programs offered and numerous employment possibilities. Giving you much needed information at your fingertips. You can order it from www.Amazon.com or for local Philippine residents, you can email and get in touch with Eunice at yunesa@yahoo.com.



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