Massage Therapy Journal Spring 2026

24 • Massage Therapy Journal

H indsight is 20/20. We’ve all heard that before, and typically the expression is used to suggest what’s done is done and nothing can be changed now. But sometimes the experiences of others who

from working as a massage therapist for many years. These types of things can and do happen to therapists of any age, but age is definitely a factor for those of us who come to it later in the game. I would tell myself that if you want to stay in business, your own body must be the priority!

came before can help guide following generations. For this reason, Massage Therapy Journal reached out to some massage therapists to ask them one question: “If you could go back in time and tell yourself something when you were just starting out as a massage therapist, what would it be?” Read what they had to say. Daphne Walker, LMT, Owner, Why Knot First, I would tell myself that starting my own business is the right decision ... for me! I think many massage therapy students grapple with the decision of whether to work for someone else, such as in a spa setting or health care environment of some sort. Indeed, not many people are cut out to wear all the hats that are required for business ownership. Because I came to massage therapy later in life, I had some business and medical experience to draw from. After doing some teaching last year, I saw many people who are simply not prepared for that type of responsibility and juggling. Honestly, massage school does not fully prepare nor really even speak much about working for yourself. That said, I do not at all regret my decision to jump in with both feet from the beginning. Secondly, I wish I could tell my younger self to go to massage therapy school earlier! I feel that I lost some valuable time in doing other jobs that could have been better invested in the career that has brought me the fulfillment and success I enjoy today. We all know, however, that the most challenging experiences are often the most valuable. My more mature self is grateful for the lessons learned along the way. I might have been more satisfied, however, if I’d gotten my massage education and career off the ground a bit faster. Along with that, I have also had to accept the physical injuries and limitations that come

AMTA RESOURCE Career longevity depends, in part, on taking care of your physical and mental well-being. Explore AMTA’s “Self-care Fitness Principles for Massage Therapists” at amtamassage.org/learn .

Lastly, I would tell myself to advocate more for my own business. As massage therapists, I think we

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