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November 29, 2007

The Importance of Listening

I can't emphasize enough the importance of listening to our clients during a massage session. The elderly, especially, can sometimes be burdened in unique ways with few safe outlets for venting the stresses in their lives. This may lead to depression which can have a huge impact on the amount of pain people feel in their body.

Take the case of a client who has a spouse with a terminal illness. Care of this individual may take all of their time and strength. They fear leaving them unattended for long periods of time. They may feel cut off from their peers who usually lend moral support because of their obligations at home. They may have to give up many activities that are important for maintaining their own mental health. And then their is the imminent loss of one of the most important people in their life looming before them.

Then consider the case of a client who has an accident which has created reduced range of motion and pain. They see their abilities decline quickly. They've been to the doctor, and medication for their pain has been unhelpful or, at best, temporary. They sit down because it hurts to move and they believe it is the beginning of the end of once vital life. Depression sets in. An attentive ear to listen to their frustration and fear while getting treatment for their pain can lift the fog of depression. As their pain dissipates and their abilities return there is hope again that they can live out their life fulfilling the expectations they had made.

Another case can be illustrated by those oldest of the elderly who have beaten the odds. Their advanced age and vitality are an inspiration to the rest of us of what our lives could be if we take care of our health. But at some point they can no longer be fully independent. The impact on those who have to give up their home, reduce their activities, and lose control over how they choose to live their lives can be huge. Well meaning children who step in to do everything for them because "they deserve the rest" take away a sense of purpose for these very active people and depression can set in. Listening to these elders life stories helps give them perspective about where their life fits in the larger context of history. This is an important part of closure and preparation for death.

So the next time you become worried that there is too much chatter going on in your practice room, remember to listen, really listen to what is being said. Talking may be the most important part of the therapeutic process. It is important to hold a safe place for these clients without violating our scope of practice by giving advice. Confidentiality is crucial. Grounding for the therapist is also important in order to prevent burnout or accidentally taking on the emotional load these conversations can carry. Centering through breath or prayer, or daily practice of yoga, Thai chi or chi gong are good ways to prepare to hold a space for your client's needs.

tags: massage massagetherapy wellness massage therapy bodywork health

Posted by linda at November 29, 2007 7:18 AM