The need for massage therapists has nearly tripled over the last ten years as more people begin to realize the benefits of massage on health and morale. Because of this growing demand, spas, salons and private businesses are no longer the only employment opportunities for aspiring massage therapists, making this the ideal time to get involved in the field. If you enjoy working with people and promoting wellness, then continue reading this guide on how-to become a massage therapist.

Are you the person people seek out when they are stressed; the one whose presence promotes a natural feeling of calm combined with a gentle touch? Do you find you have the innate ability to pinpoint an individual's physical and psychological stressors? Moreover, do you thrive helping people; spinning your magic in order to promote a more healthy and meaningful lifestyle to those that seek your guidance? If so, a career in massage therapy is a great place to start. Read on and learn more about how to become a massage therapist.

• The general goal of a massage therapist is to promote health and well-being by physically stimulating muscles and tendons by rubbing, kneading and manipulating. It is imperative for the aspiring massage therapist to know the various types of massage in order to determine which one they would like to specialize in. Each type of massage has different goals and expectations and will often require a different form of training. Here are some of the more popular forms of massage:

• 1. Deep Tissue Massage
  2. Swedish Massage
  3. Sports Massage
  4. Thai Massage
  5. Reflexology
  6. Pregnancy Massage
  7. Shiatsu
  8. Hot Stone Massage

• Once you have chosen a type of massage to focus your studies, it is time to inquire about the steps you must take to practice massage in your local area. Every state, city and town have different rules and regulations, so find out what they are by:

• 1. Contacting local massage schools or training centers
  2. Asking local massage therapists

• Although every locality will have their own specified requirements for practicing massage therapy, here is a general guideline of what to expect:

• 1. Attend a massage therapy school - even if your state does not require this, even taking a few classes will help you gain invaluable experience.
  2. Get certified - 33 states, as well as Washington D.C., regulate massage therapists. Usually you will be required to take between 500-1,000 hours of related coursework. In most cases you will also need to take and pass an exam as well. A list of those regulated states can be found here.
  3. Gain experience - although not always required, it is a great addition to any resume, not to mention an ideal way to meet future clients and get your name out. Give massages to family or friends. Volunteer your services at a local massage therapy office.

• Now you are ready to find a job. Some people prefer to go in business for themselves, in which case you will need to:

• 1. Use the internet to advertise
  2. Word-of-mouth

• For those not interested in self-employment, you can contact your massage school or local massage therapists in order to inquire about employment opportunities. You can also search online or contact the following places that may also employ massage therapists:

• 1. Spas or salons
  2. Health clubs
  3. Local mall kiosks
  4. Chiropractor's offices
  5. Business offices

• Massage therapy is a growing field with many new opportunities every year. As the benefits of massage become more recognized, expect an increasing number of businesses and large corporations to begin hiring massage therapists to provide therapy to their employees in an attempt to boost morale and improve overall health and wellness.

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