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Being A Massage Therapist In Saudi Arabia

Reader Stories: My Life As A Massage Therapist

From Rennie Lapuz

Why I Became A Massage Therapist 

I became a massage therapist because I am interested in the human anatomy and alternative healing programs. I enrolled in a Reflexology course and Massage course during my free time during my college days.

I wasn't able to finished my course in college and the best thing for me was to practice massage until it became my profession.

My Life As A Massage Therapist 

I came from a poor family in the Philippines and it was answered prayers when I was hired to work in a hotel in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.I worked very hard and my sponsor was very happy with my performance. I was slowly able to help my family get out of debt and also saved some money for my own savings.

Now I have 2 houses and some savings from all the years of hard work.Also I got married to the girl of my dreams using part of my savings.Just a simple ceremony but I didn't borrow any money.

Lessons Learned 

  • I learned that there are a lot of misconceptions about Saudi Arabia and its people. I want to share that Saudis are very friendly and hard-working people. It is true that their culture is very restricted, but I was able to adapt their simple way of life as well.

How Long I've Been A Massage Therapist 

I've been a massage therapist for almost 15 years.

Where I Went To School & What I Thought Of It 

I went to a government college that has a vocational program for poor students. It wasn't a professional school for massage but we studied very hard for it and many of us had the chance to work abroad.

What I've Learned on My Journey 

I learned that doing the work you love is always productive. I'm still learning many things about life concerning about my work and those I cherish the most.

What I Wish I'd Known Before I Started 

I wished I have known about massage theories and practices more before I got started because I was a bit rusty on some techniques.

Anitra Brown, Spas Guide, says:

This story is interesting because it shows that the path to massage is different in other countries. The licensing requirements aren't the same the world over. Some countries require little to no training; others require much more than the U.S.

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