Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1498691
N ot a m e m b e r ? J o i n at a s so c iate d h a i rp rofe s sio n a ls .c o m 63 • Do not massage over the top of their hair. Instead, reach your fingertips into their hair so your finger pads are in direct contact with the skin of the scalp. Then begin applying circles. Doing this minimizes the chance of pulling the guest's hair. It also ensures you are engaging the tissue below the skin rather than just massaging on top of the skin, which has a far less therapeutic effect. • Avoid using your fingertips. Instead, use your finger pads. The tips of your fingers are too pointy to feel good, and it is also harder on the joints of your fingers to use the tips instead of the pads. • Don't ignore your body. Instead, always keep yourself in mind. It is easy to get caught up in massaging someone else and forget that you might be straining. So, avoid leaning over, rounding your back, and dropping your head. Keep your head lifted and spine long. Stay grounded in your feet and try to use your whole body as you create the circles. Essentially, you'll be rocking back and forth on your feet as you work. This also avoids overuse of your arms and shoulders by incorporating your entire body. • Don't forget the "Three Ps." Keep the pressure moderate, the pace slow, and the purpose at the forefront. IMAGINE THE EXPERIENCE FOR YOURSELF When you put yourself in the shoes of your guests, you're more able to recognize the value of the smallest details of their experience . . . and you can create the experience more intentionally. Remember, in many cases, your client's time at the salon is their only "time-out" from a full and fast-paced life. Imagine how you would feel if you received 2–3 minutes of unexpected bliss during your next salon appointment. I bet it would make your day! You have the honor of adding bliss to someone's day in the same way.