Once you’ve figured out which general spa or beauty field you want to pursue, you can certainly choose to specialize even further. There are so many options in all aspects of your general spa or beauty interest – it’s hard to name them all. For instance, have you ever considered an infant massage career? Who knew that massage existed for individuals of all ages?

Now, you may be asking: why in the world does an infant need a massage?! Well, according to the International Institute of Infant Massage, infant massage promotes emotional health and a nurturing atmosphere. Through infant massage, infants form attachments to their caregivers and continue a feeling of safety and warmth.

With an infant massage certification, you can truly be an integral part in the lives of those just starting their families. And massage therapists are not the only ones who can become certified. In fact, a wide variety of professionals who work with children can obtain their infant massage certification. From occupational therapists and physical therapists to speech pathologists and social workers, infant massage specialists have a variety of backgrounds. However, they all have one thing in common: a love for children and families and a desire to help others learn.

An interest is a key first step to studying infant massage therapy. By researching a little deeper and finding a program that suits your needs (ie, location, tuition, flexibility), you’ll be on your way to achieving your goals. Explore infant massage certification today to get going on your infant massage career!

-Amanda Fornecker

As much as we love school here at SpaBeautySchools.com, we totally sympathize with every student who has their stressful moments. That’s where a massage therapist comes in. And if you’re studying to be a massage therapist, then you’ll know just the right place to visit when it comes time for your very own massage.

When I think of a spa school I immediately associate it with massage, even though there is such a wide variety of spa schools out there. And there are even more specific specialties, which is great for those who want to branch out. Some of these include hot stone massage, acupressure, and chair massage. You may even become involved with working on a cruise line and choosing between western and eastern massage.

Massage therapy is a helping profession for sure. And there are so many education options within this spa career. You can earn an associate or bachelor’s degree and then specialize with a certification. You can also attend a spa school and pursue your education even further. The options are endless and with more education you’re sure to have even more opportunities for massage therapy jobs (and even higher salaries). In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the field of massage therapy will grow by 19 percent through the year 2018. That’s certainly faster than the average. In May 2008, it was estimated that the highest 10 percent of massage therapist earned more than $33.47.

So what are you waiting for? Go get a massage to ease your stress or tension from school or work and consider the career of a massage therapist. You may be next…

Research a career today!

-Amanda Fornecker

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

There are lots of opportunities within the massage field. When you attend massage schools, you’re able to get a broad understanding of the massage therapy field, as well as the ability to specialize in a particular spa or massage area. Here are five special massage techniques that you may choose to pursue once you attend massage schools.

Shiatsu is a Japanese massage technique that aims to help the body’s immunity, as well as its ability to naturally heal itself. This massage therapy is generally effectively performed on a mat on the floor.

Chair Massage is often practiced in malls, nail salons, and other locations for a short period of time. In as little as a 10-minute period, these massage therapists are able to effectively ease the pain and stress of their client.

Prenatal Massage is especially for pregnant women and requires a special set of massage techniques in order to ensure the safety and comfort of the client. This type of massage therapy helps women relax, while also promoting better circulation and health.

Acupressure uses ancient Chinese pressure techniques to ensure that the body is freed from disease. Acupressure massage therapists know just the right pressure points on the body to relieve pain and problems naturally.

Myomassology is a massage therapy technique that involves treatment for a variety of ailments, which include pain and unbalanced energy. By earning a certificate you’ll be able to practice in places like clinics and spas.

-Amanda Fornecker