The East vs. West debacle has always been widely debated throughout history. And it still holds true today. New Yorkers enjoy the quick pace of their city, while Californians enjoy being laid back surfers. But that’s not the only East/West debate. In fact, there are two types of massage techniques that have their base within Eastern medicine and Western medicine. When considering a career in massage, which should you pick? Different massage therapy schools base their own curriculum on these different techniques. It’s something important to consider. With which method can you see yourself siding and working in day by day?

Western massage focuses on the digestive and nervous systems. Common types of Western massage include Swedish massage and myofascial release. The main focus is to create a sense of relaxation and muscle tension relief.

Eastern massage deals with balancing the body and its parts. Massage therapists use more vigorous techniques to treat patients. Tui Na and Shiatsu are forms of Eastern massage.

Read more about these types of massage therapy here, get started on your massage therapy career, and prepare to help others feel better soon.

-Amanda Fornecker

I love getting massages. They make me feel so relaxed and refreshed and good about myself. Every once in a while, I like to treat myself. Wouldn’t you like to be one of those individuals who make others feel good about themselves?

Massage therapists are actually in high demand, as more spas and salons continue to offer these services to clients. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says that the massage therapy profession will grow faster than the average of all other occupations by the year 2016. People are learning about the benefits of natural therapies, such as massage therapy, and are beginning to take advantage of these services. And the good news is that the average massage therapists could earn up to $24.22 per hour after they’ve completed their massage therapy degree and licensure.

So how do you get started on this exciting career? And where can you get more information? There are a plethora of resources out there, but here are a few to get you started…

Costs of a Massage Therapy Degree
Massage Career on a Cruise Line
What You’ll Really Learn at Massage School
Your Top Five Questions About Spa Schools

-Amanda Fornecker