My anxiety has been up as I wrestled with the decision to keep working or not as the numebr of illnesses increases daily. As a massage therapist there is no "social distancing" I can do from my clients. Even working with a mask and washing my hands I still felt I was leaving myself and my clients at risk. Yet there were no clear answers for how long I should continue to work.
This evening as I once again wrestled with confirming or canceling clients for the upcoming days, I finally got a clear answer. I was walking laps outside my parents' home trying to release some anxiety before family dinner that we enjoy with them each week. A client texted and in the process of looking at my phone I saw a message from the association that sets guidelines for massage. They were strongly recommending that every massage therapist cease work immediately in keeping with their oath to "do no harm". It was like a huge weight lifted. I was crazy or over-anxious. I had validation!
I felt the stress melt from my body as I sent out the necessary information to my employer, colleagues, and clients. After a day of praying and doing everything I could from yoga to meditation music to find peace, my call has been answered.
In my communication I learned that many people were nervous and seeking the same thing I had been, guidelines and clear boundaries. I had given that to them just as I was given.
I pray that more people and companies are able to receive this blessing of clear guidance. I hope that they act soon to slow the spread so we can keep people safe.
I'm so grateful for the beautiful blessing today by the AMTA. I'm grateful to feel the anxiety lift. I'm grateful to be tucked safely at home with my beautiful family. I'm grateful to keep my clients and family safe. I'm grateful for my walk, yoga, meditation, and all other forms of relief I tried. I'm grateful to feel my prayers were answered. I'm grateful to have guidance. I'm grateful to celebrate St Patrick's Day without need for all the normal hoopla. I'm grateful for health, love, and faith.
What guidance are you seeking? How is your stress level? What can we do as a community to help each other stay safe?
May today bring guidance. May we see the blessings even in these uncertain times. May we hold strong in our faith to see this through. Have a beautiful day!