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In this episode I chat with Tanya Thomlinson, a dedicated Registered massage therapist specializing in grief-informed massage. After transitioning from a corporate career, Tanya was inspired by her children to pursue a path in massage therapy, leading her to establish Viveca Massage, a practice focused on supporting clients through their experiences of grief and loss. Tanya's unique focus on grief-informed massage, came from her personal experiences and her professional training, including a certificate in grief education from the University of Toronto. Tanya discusses the importance of fostering a welcoming and safe environment for clients, detailing her approach to providing information and maintaining professional boundaries. Tanya offers valuable insights for fellow therapists, emphasizing the importance of being comfortable with their beliefs about death and establishing clear boundaries in their practice. Enjoy this insightful episode with Tanya!​
TAKEAWAYS
  • Understanding Grief Beyond Death: Grief is not limited to the loss of a loved one. It encompasses various forms of loss, including the loss of a job, health, or relationships. Massage therapists should be aware of the different types of grief their clients may be experiencing to provide empathetic support.
  • Creating a Safe Space: It's crucial for massage therapists to foster a welcoming and non-judgmental environment where clients can express their emotions freely. This can help clients feel safe enough to relax and engage with their grief during sessions, allowing for deeper emotional and physical healing.
  • Client-Centered Approach: Each client's experience with grief is unique, and therapists should tailor their approach accordingly. This includes listening actively, validating their feelings, and providing appropriate care while maintaining clear boundaries between support and therapy.
  • Managing Expectations: Clients should be informed that grief is not something that can be "fixed" through massage. Instead, the goal is to provide comfort and a space for emotional release, which may include tears or laughter. Setting this expectation helps alleviate pressure from both the therapist and the client.
  • Continual Learning and Training: Massage therapists interested in specializing in grief work should pursue additional training in grief theory and client support. Understanding the nuances of grief can enhance their ability to serve clients effectively and sensitively.
ABOUT Tanya Thomlinson 
Originally from Winnipeg, Tanya Thomlinson lives in beautiful Calgary, Alberta. Her formal education includes two Bachelors degrees – in Psychology from the University of Manitoba, and Economics from the University of Winnipeg.

After a career working in both the non-profit and corporate worlds, Tanya stepped away from paid work to raise her family. She began her studies at massage college in 2016. After working at a clinic for a few years, Tanya started a home-based practice that focuses on clients experiencing grief and loss.

With considerable lived experience as a grieving person, a caregiver, and a grief support provider, Tanya decided to build on that with a Certificate in Grief Education from the University of Toronto’s Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, which she completed in early 2023. She is a regular volunteer with the Rejuvenation Program at Ronald McDonald House Calgary. 

CONTACT
www.Vivecamassage.com
[email protected]
Facebook & Instagram: vivecamassage
Also Facebook: Tanya Thomlinson Rmt

TRANSCRIPT
​EPISODE #111 TANYA THOMLINSON
​* Transcripts are automatically generated and may not be word for word accurate. 

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