In grief, touch

A cool hand on a forehead.

A hug.

A soft touch on the shoulder.

Even when there’s nothing we can do to fix a problem, we can comfort each other. In times of grief and other overwhelming experiences, we have this to offer.

Getting a massage is putting oneself in the hands of another for the purpose of feeling better. Sometimes the sensation is reminiscent of a loved one’s caring touch. A key difference is the therapeutic relationship between client and massage therapist.

You might arrive for your treatment on a day when my heart feels heavy with grief. I will acknowledge this to myself, but I will never seek comfort from you. I will be honest if asked, but I will not engage in conversation that turns the attention away from what you’ve come here for.

Though that would be completely appropriate between two friends or family members comforting one another, in the therapeutic relationship, the focus all about the client’s needs.

It’s all about you.

If you are grieving, feeling tender, happy, celebrating, or any of the infant other possibilities, that’s okay here. Bodywork is a come-as-you-are treatment.

At the same time, I find it deeply comforting to offermy full attention and healing touch to another. But I am not seeking that experience. It is a benefit of my work.

If that sounds complex, please know that you, my client, never have to worry or even think about it. That’s my job.

It is my responsibility to create and contain a healing time and space for every client no matter what else is going on in our world. That may be my most important work of all.

When we cannot touch those in need directly, we help as best we can. Massage Vermont has contributed to the funds being collected for the victim’s of the Orlando Pulse Nightclub shootings. Here’s where you can do that:

https://www.gofundme.com/PulseVictimsFund