Resuming Work in the COVID-19 Era
I’m not going to lie, the last four months have felt like a tornado. It has become very clear the importance of grounding myself, listening to my intuition, and going with the flow.
Since this work requires skin-to-skin contact and does not allow for social distancing, there as been so much to consider when massage was finally allowed by the County of LA on June 19th. It was three full months since I was deemed ‘non-essential’ and told to cease all operations.
In the midst of the storm, I lost my dad, 66, to complications from the virus. I had my own health related issues due to a cancer diagnosis in January. These factors have added extra weight to my decisions since I feel a strong ethical obligation to stay healthy and do my part to not spread the virus.
The added layer is the financial side. I have been really fortunate to survive financially through the three month stay at home order. However, I still have bills to pay and a resume that reflects only massage work in the last ten years.
I came to the conclusion after much consideration, that I can help people safely during this time. To prepare for this, I have stayed up to date on the latest recommendations and protocols for massage therapy as well as state and county guidelines. I took part in a 8 day webinar series for practitioners going back to work in this era and completed a couple continuing education courses on COVID-19 and best safety practices.
I have new procedures and paperwork to go with it. Here is the flow chart to help you navigate this new process.
I am so thankful to be in Southern California and able to work outside. It’s a really lovely experience!
**This is a visual guide to help you navigate the process and forms to fill out.
** Don’t worry if you don’t have a large outdoor space, if you have a smaller space outside I can still do chair massage sessions there.
You can find all of these forms under the Resources/Forms Tab but I am including them here as well. Please note, I update these regularly based on new guidelines, rules, laws, etc.
Prenatal New Client Intake Form
Returning Client Pre-Appointment Health Check
In addition to being required to work outdoors, booking in advance is also a must. I need at least 12 hours notice to ensure I have clean sheets, PPE, preparation,planning, and all the proper forms are filled out prior to each session. I am changing all my gear after each session and also need time to eat and re-hydrate. Although safe, the mask and face shield I wear are hot and don’t allow me to drink water during sessions. Not to mention, the drive time between sessions takes planning.
Plan to wear a mask, have your temperature taken, and wash your hands prior to your session. It is taking me longer to set up and pack up since I am disinfecting and wiping everything down well before and after your massage as well.
So far, you all have been cooperative and compliant with all of these new procedures. I know it is a lot of hoops to jump through but for now, this is the new normal. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate being able to work with you all again. Thank you!