We were lucky to catch up with Sara Di Stefano recently and have shared our conversation below.
Sara , we are so happy that our community is going to have a chance to learn more about you, your story and hopefully even take in some of the lessons you’ve learned along the way. Let’s start with self-care – what do you do for self-care and has it had any impact on your effectiveness?
As a Licensed Massage Therapist, I prioritize self-care as an integral part of my routine to maintain physical, mental, and emotional well-being. My self-care routine involves various practices such as attending therapy sessions, receiving regular massages and skin care treatments, hair and nail appointments, and practicing yoga.
Engaging in self-care helps me feel relaxed, rejuvenated, and physically comfortable. By taking care of my own well-being, I can approach my clients with a clear mind and a focused, positive attitude.
When I feel good and in a balanced state, I can provide better care for my clients. I am less likely to experience burnout, have improved energy levels, and can better empathize with my clients’ needs. Prioritizing self-care allows me to be fully present during massage sessions, offer better quality treatments, and build stronger connections with my clients.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am a dedicated professional with a passion for holistic healing and well-being. I graduated from the renowned Swedish Institute College of Health Sciences in New York City, earning an Associate’s Degree in Occupational Studies. Holding massage licenses in both Texas and New York, I have established myself as a trusted practitioner in the field.
My journey began at top luxury spas in San Antonio, where I mastered the art of providing exceptional services. Inspired to make holistic healing more accessible, I offer luxury experiences at affordable rates.
As a Licensed Massage Therapist, my expertise goes beyond the conventional. I am also a highly regarded Massage Therapy Instructor and Continuing Education Provider, sharing my knowledge and skills with established Licensed Massage Therapists. My pursuit of excellence led me to specialize in additional areas, including being a Certified Cupping Specialist and a Certified Sound Healer. These qualifications allow me to offer a diverse range of services, catering to the unique needs of my clients.
With a wealth of knowledge and expertise, I excel in Therapeutic, Deep Tissue, Sports, Cupping, and Myofascial Techniques. My intuitive nature and innate healing abilities set me apart, allowing me to approach each treatment with a holistic perspective. By tailoring my techniques to the individual needs of my clients, I ensure that they receive a personalized and transformative experience. Passionate, skilled, and committed to my clients’ well-being, I am dedicated to helping others achieve optimal health and harmony. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, pain relief, or a rejuvenating experience, my therapeutic touch and holistic approach will guide you on your path to wellness.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, I believe the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that had the most impact on my journey as a Licensed Massage Therapist were empathy and communication, anatomy and physiology, and continued learning and adaptability.
My advice for those who are early in their journey is to focus on developing these areas to excel in the field of Massage Therapy. First and foremost, practice empathy and communication to create a comfortable and trusting environment for your clients. It’s essential to listen actively to their needs and build strong interpersonal skills to establish lasting client relationships.
Secondly, make sure you have a solid understanding of human anatomy and physiology. This knowledge will help you provide safe and effective massages, as you’ll be able to target specific muscles and address clients’ issues accurately.
Never stop learning and be open to new knowledge and techniques. The field of Massage Therapy is always evolving, so staying up-to-date is crucial. Invest in continuing education, attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to expand your knowledge.
Don’t forget to practice regularly and seek feedback from clients, mentors, or experienced colleagues. Constructive criticism will help you improve your skills and techniques.
Lastly, take care of yourself and prioritize self-care. Massage Therapy can be physically and emotionally demanding, so maintaining your well-being is essential to prevent burnout and ensure you can provide the best care for your clients.
Remember, your journey as a Licensed Massage Therapist is unique, so keep growing, learning, and developing to build a fulfilling and successful career in this field.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
The journey of becoming a successful Licensed Massage Therapist has been shaped by various sources of support and inspiration. First and foremost, my wife has been the greatest pillar of strength, providing unwavering encouragement and understanding. Her support has been instrumental in overcoming challenges and staying motivated.
In addition to my wife, the support of my family and friends has also been invaluable. Their belief in my abilities and passion for Massage Therapy has kept me going, especially during challenging times.
Moreover, ongoing education and mentorship from experienced colleagues within the Massage Therapy community have played a crucial role in my continuous growth and improvement. Learning from their expertise and experiences has been a valuable resource for enhancing my techniques and understanding client needs.
Ultimately, the combined support of my loved ones, professional peers, and a dedication to lifelong learning has been the driving force behind my journey as a Licensed Massage Therapist.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sufficientlywell.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/sara_d_lmt?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sufficientlywell?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Hern Photography
