Soothing hands: Massage therapist Ralph Henderson

Ralph HendersonWhat inspired you to become a massage therapist?
As a varsity football player, and weight lifter in high school, I realized the importance of body healing and muscle tissue therapy after extensive training and working out takes a toll on the body. At that point, I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives and fulfill my purpose to service others and make their lives relaxing, stress-free and build body stamina. I was inspired by my athletic coach to pursue professional skills as a massage therapist and personal trainer.

What are the benefits of having a massage?
A massage helps the body to prevent and alleviate pain and toxins in the body, muscle spasm, discomfort, reduce stress, lower heart rate and blood pressure by promoting overall health and well-being. Massage therapy services are an investment in both yourself and your health.


What makes someone a good client?
A good client usually communicates well about their feelings and expectations of the massage experience. They possess consistency and a commitment to the progressive state of maintaining a stress-free and healthy lifestyle.

In massaging someone, what are some things you can tell about your client?
I determine if a client suffers from tight or stiff muscles, imbalance, or flexibility. Specifically, I assess the range of motion of joints and muscles (active, passive or resisting), and check for tenderness and tension of muscles. I inquire and assess the condition of pain (acute, sub-acute or chronic) and flexibility of the soft muscle tissues to identify any limitations to movement.


Can you share the type of massages that you provide and the description?
I provide quality therapeutic massages to solve client’s soft tissue injuries, muscular-skeletal problems such as back and neck pain, sprains and strains, headaches, sports injuries, and stress related conditions. I perform applied techniques such as deep tissue, body stretching, Swedish massages, and spa treatments that soothes muscles, relieves tension, heals soreness and eliminates stress.

What do you like most about giving massages?
I enjoy pleasing clients with therapeutic customized massages, setting an atmosphere with draping, candles, soothing music, application of natural oils, skin extracting creams, and healing products with a spa-like atmosphere for ultimate relaxation.

What was the process in establishing your business?
I started practicing my massage therapy profession in small spas and eldercare facilities. A year later, I began expanding my business by establishing a website, distributing marketing materials, and referrals. I built a successful client base in mobile massage services in the tri-state area during the last five years.

What type of education or certification is needed to work as a massage therapist?
I attended the Baltimore School of Massage; my associates degree in massage therapy, including anatomy, pathology, physiology and kinesiology was awarded in November 2009.

What makes your massages so unique?
My massages are unique because I travel to service each client and cater to their specific therapeutic needs. I feel excited and challenged to deliver my very best to promote a healthy and positive life style. I provide a wide range of massage therapy techniques and customized healing professional skills to retain my clients’ trust and loyalty. I strive to offer each client a unique, relaxing and stress-free experience, if only for a fraction of their busy lives.