“What’s wrong with me?”
When we’ve been dealing with tension or pain and can’t figure out why beyond the vague basics for a long time, a massage seems like the obvious way to find out. That’s why so many of my clients ask me “what’s wrong with me?” or “am I really tight?”. But its not a question I can always answer easily – nor do I want to.
If there’s a clear reason for someone’s tension or pain, we’ll definitely talk through it during the massage. If it’s more ambiguous, we can discuss that, too.
However, I still won’t frame any of it as being something “wrong” or “very tight”. This is because I’ve seen so many clients who’ve been told by someone, at some point, that their “pelvis is tilted” or their “shoulders are really tight”. This is a very small amount of information with potentially big meaning. These statements about what’s “wrong” can turn into judgements.
As a Fascial Release massage therapist in London, I have seen clients carry around these judgements for years. After a certain point, they turn into narratives we tell about our bodies. These narratives become a source of tension and pain itself. I’m often able to feel this compounded anxiety during massage. Particularly in the upper body, it can feel wooden. In the pelvis, it can feel “heavy”.
Plus, I believe that an important aspect of giving massages is humility. I have enough knowledge to do my job – a drop in the ocean! – but I do not have complete expertise, and that’s okay. Putting myself in a position of power via knowledge over my clients’ bodies is something I would like to be careful around.
So, when clients ask me “what’s wrong with me”, or say “are my muscles too tight?” I remind them that it is normal to have tension and pain. Often, fascial and muscular tension are a consequence of us having and using our bodies, which is a beautiful thing.
I also focus on the possibility for repair. For example, if someone really does have very tight shoulders, I’ll explain why different muscles act together to create that tension, how deep tissue massage may or may not work, and how alternative techniques such as fascial release can soften the muscles, enabling them to repair themselves.
I can see the difference in my clients’ tension when they recontextualise their pain in this way. Truly holistic massage is a treatment for the mind as much as it is for the body. So its my responsibility to help my clients feel comfortable, not judged, in their bodies.
I would love to arrange our massage, so we can shift the tension you’ve been feeling. And I have a special offer at the moment! My appointments are limited, so make sure you don’t miss out. I look forward to hearing from you. – Cat
- Ray
SUCH a gorgeous massage with someone who has a deep knowledge of and respect for the body, and knows how to create a really holding and comfortable space. I love how Massage Cat Therapies can treat bodies and sensations beyond 'good' and 'bad'. The experience was so tailored to what I was experiencing in my body and I felt listened to and really cared for. 100% would recommend especially if you are trans, neurodivergent, brown, fat... all of the above (like me!)
- Jo
I cannot recommend Cat enough- clear in communication, loving to your body, caring for your soul! I told Cat about the trouble I was having with my back and my upper glute- and we not only focused on these areas, but Cat really just relaxed my body- I fell asleep, and felt like I was in light travel, going in an out- a massage so meditative and medicinal <3
- Nat
I had a session of myofascial release with massage cat and it’s truly different from anything I’ve had before. Their approach is so gentle and I really felt listened to both in the consultations and on the table in their hands. The effect was very powerful and I felt a deeper relaxation than I’d felt in a long time and a lot more ease in my body afterwards. I didn’t feel like I was being pushed into something intense, but more like some deep stagnant parts of me got some space to breathe. I have had 2 sessions with massage cat and will be returning as the experience feels really comfortable but effective.
- Al
Incredibly gentle yet strong massage! Lovely, soothing environment. Cat has a very sensitive approach & the booking process is extremely straight forward. I couldn't recommend my experience enough! It transformed my understanding of 'pain' that I typically associate with massage that has physical as well as mental health benefits. I will definitely be becoming a regular. Thank you Cat!
- Marcus
As a deaf man who relies on lipreading as well as being able to converse through writing things down, I appreciated not only having an amazing massage but also the fact that they took the time and patience to understand my communication needs and to communicate well with me throughout the session, which is very rare. It was my first time and they made me feel very comfortable throughout. I left feeling much more relaxed and no longer had pain and tension in my shoulders, neck and back. Definitely will go back again
- natalie
Have been wanting to book in for a treatment for a while after I came across Massage Cat on Instagram, and finally managed to find a slot! It was everything I was hoping it would be, Cat had a gentle and inviting energy, and we talked through what I wanted out of the treatment. She used plenty of deeply relaxing myofascial techniques, her pressure was intuitive and spot on - her slow, rhythmic pacing was deeply relaxing, I found myself instantly able to relax out of my busy brain. I enjoyed it so much I've booked again and will recommend her to friends. As a massage therapist myself, I really value good therapists and can highly recommend Cat! Thanks again for a great treatment 🙂
- Taro
As a trans person who is also autistic and has ADHD, I often struggle with the logistics of making/attending appointments, however, Massage Cat Therapy made the process of booking in for a massage extremely pleasant and comfortable. Prior to booking, I emailed Massage Cat to communicate my access needs - they were very responsive and communicative and I felt confident and reassured that they could accommodate for my specific needs. I was warmly welcomed by Massage Cat and we had a brief chat going over my medical history/problem areas/general expectations from the massage, this helped to ground me and ease me into the space. The actual massage was incredible - I have genuinely never felt so relaxed in my life. Massage Cat is a very skilled massage therapist and has a very reassuring and calming energy; it is clear from their work that they are passionate about massage. I have struggled with shoulder pain and neck tension for years and have accessed various types of massage to try and relieve my pain. Not only was my massage with Massage Cat wonderfully relaxing, I also felt immense relief from my pain. I would highly recommend Massage Cat Therapy if you are seeking deep relaxation and/or pain relief in a safe and welcoming space. I am very much looking forward to booking in for another massage again soon! - G
- Hikmah
Truly amazing. Super clear communication, Cat makes you feel at ease from booking the appointment. They allow you to take your time and had a pre/post massage discussion. Worked with breath (as mentioned in our coversation) and truly made me feel relaxed and cared for which carried me throughout the day. 12/10 highly recommend!
- Oluwatosin
Even before I had my massage, I was anticipating good things based on Cat's clear communication, which continued throughout the session. I had an incredible massage - firm without being painful, relaxing and effective. Cat checked in, listened and responded to any request for change (there was only one - to turn the heating up!), and I felt able to let go and simply be in the moment. I have recommended Cat to multiple people I love, and am looking forward to going back soon.
- Sasha
This was the best massage I have ever had! Cat created such a peaceful, open, and inviting space. Cats combination of fascial and other massage techniques made the experience so peaceful, and I was transported somewhere else. I had issues with my neck and shoulders, which we worked through in a calm, slow and meditative way. I felt so relaxed and calm afterwards. I will definitely be coming again. Cat is incredible, gentle and so talented. Thankyou 🙂
