As massage therapists, we spend so much of our time looking after other people. But what happens when the work we love starts taking a toll on our own bodies? Sore thumbs, aching wrists, tired shoulders. For many therapists, these things have almost become an accepted part of the job. But do they really have to be? In this episode, I'm joined by Tig McGregor, co-founder of Four Elements Company in the UK, to explore a different approach to massage that puts the wellbeing of the therapist right alongside the wellbeing of the client. Tig's journey began with an injury just six weeks into working as a massage therapist on a cruise ship. That experience eventually led her to discover zero strain massage, an approach that focuses on using your body differently to deliver everything from light, gentle treatments through to deep tissue work, without putting unnecessary strain on yourself. We talk about why so many therapists accept pain and injury as part of their profession, how we can rethink the way we use our bodies during treatment, and why sometimes the simplest thing you can do is pause, adjust and make yourself more comfortable. But this conversation goes well beyond looking after our hands. We also explore trauma-informed care, the importance of communication, creating a sense of safety for our clients and how those little things we do in the treatment room can make an enormous difference to someone's experience. One of the things I particularly loved about this conversation was Tig's reminder that we don't have to sacrifice ourselves to deliver an incredible treatment. Because looking after your own body doesn't mean you're giving your clients less. In fact, it might just mean you're able to give them something even better. If you're a massage therapist who wants to enjoy a long, fulfilling career, continue developing your skills and create meaningful experiences for your clients, this is a conversation worth listening to. Your clients matter. But so do you. Meet Our Guest: Tigger McGregor Tigger McGregor is the co-founder of The 4Elements Company, based in the UK, which provides training and support to massage therapists around the world. The company focuses on four key areas: helping therapists work in a way that creates zero strain on their bodies, developing psychologically informed therapeutic communication, incorporating trauma-informed approaches to help clients build resilience through touch, and creating opportunities for therapists to connect, learn and support one another. Following the passing of her business partner, Wendy Mills, from cancer in 2024, Tigger now leads the company, continuing their shared passion for supporting massage therapists to enjoy long, fulfilling and sustainable careers. Tigger holds a degree in Biological Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge and qualified as a massage therapist in 2005. Her professional experience also includes working in the UK civil service and an international consulting firm. Through 4Elements, Tigger is passionate about challenging the idea that injury is an inevitable part of being a massage therapist and helping practitioners deliver skilled, intentional treatments while looking after their own bodies. Connect with Tigger and 4Elements Website: https://the4elementscompany.com Free resource: 3 Tools to Get More From Every Massage https://www.the4elementscompany.com/bettermassage In-person training: Explore 4Elements training options https://www.the4elementscompany.com/4ETT
