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Join me for an inspiring episode of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast as I sit down with Elaine Santala, a Registered Massage Therapist with nearly 32 years of experience. Elaine has built a thriving, sustainable career by embracing flexibility, adaptability, and a deep passion for her work. Elaine’s journey has taken her from clinics to spas, and now a beloved home-based clinic on her scenic country property. With a rich background in natural skincare and wellness, Elaine has also taught Heated Stone Massage, mentored new RMTs, and served as an independent contractor for the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario for 14 years.

In this episode, Elaine shares:
  • How she navigated career pivots and challenges, including injury and burnout, to maintain her passion for massage therapy.
  • Why she believes in the power of relaxation massage and its role in client care and career sustainability.
  • Practical advice for new and seasoned therapists on rebooking strategies, client relationships, and creating a fulfilling work-life balance.
  • Insights on building a practice that evolves with your life, rather than the other way around.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking for ways to reinvigorate your career, this conversation is filled with wisdom and actionable tips for massage therapists who want to thrive in their profession for years to come.
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Whenever Elaine looks at this hummingbird in her treatment room it reminds her to check in and ask, "Am I being Client Centred?"
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Elaine's beloved home-based clinic on her scenic country property
TAKEAWAYS​
  • Adaptability is Key to Longevity
    Elaine emphasizes the importance of pivoting throughout your career to align with personal and professional changes. Whether due to injury, burnout, or life transitions, being willing to evolve your practice ensures sustainability.
  • The Power of Relaxation Massage
    Relaxation massage is often undervalued, but Elaine highlights its therapeutic benefits, especially in treating the effects of stress. She encourages RMTs to educate clients on its value as part of a treatment plan.
  • Client-Centered Care and Rebooking Strategies
    Elaine stresses the need for clear communication with clients about treatment plans and the importance of giving them a reason to rebook. Simple, professional approaches can make a significant difference in building client loyalty.
  • Mentorship and Community Matter
    Finding a mentor or being one yourself can provide invaluable guidance and support. Connecting with colleagues helps RMTs navigate challenges and create a professional network for referrals and advice.
  • Design Your Practice to Fit Your Life
    Elaine’s career reflects her belief that your practice should adapt to your lifestyle, not the other way around. She encourages therapists to set boundaries, tailor their schedules, and prioritize self-care to avoid burnout and maintain long-term passion for the profession.
ABOUT
Elaine grew up in Northern Ontario, surrounded by nature, where her Finnish heritage nurtured her deep appreciation for authentic wellness. From enjoying saunas and swimming at her family’s lakeside cottage to creating natural skincare products, wellness was always a part of her life. In her late teens, after suffering from acute neck pain, she sought help from the only RMT in town, who restored her neck’s mobility and inspired her to pursue a career in massage therapy. Over the years, Elaine has worked in a variety of settings, co-owned a wellness center, and taught courses such as Heated Stone Massage to RMTs and aestheticians. Since 2010, she has served as an Independent Contractor for the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) and mentored other RMTs to navigate this fulfilling profession. Passionate about collaboration, Elaine works to unite aestheticians and massage therapists, creating a professional, quality experience for their shared clientele. Today, she practices in beautiful Huron County, Ontario, where her studio is located on her country property, surrounded by everchanging farm fields. Elaine feels blessed to live and work close to nature, witnessing spectacular sunsets every day.⁠​

​CONTACT

​Website: https://www.elainermt.ca/​⁠
Instagram: @elainermt
Phone: 519-474-3691
Facebook: Elaine Santala RMT
Location: Brucefield , Ontario ( Huron County - 15 mins east of the shores of Lake Huron ) Bayfield area 

TRANSCRIPT
​EPISODE #118 ELAINE SANTALA, RMT
​​* Transcripts are automatically generated and may not be word for word accurate. 

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