As men, we are rarely touched in modern society, especially by another man.
Reiki, Massage Therapy, and Shiatsu are some great examples that allow acceptable, non-threatening touch, yet are powerfully connective.
4
Avoid the F-Word – Feelings
Many men prefer to deal with emotions and feelings internally and resist, or even become numb, when asked to express them out loud. Use modalities where emotions, energetic blocks, and even trauma can be released without the client having to “deal” with them or “re-live” them. Hypnosis, Advanced Reiki (e.g., Karuna), Sound Healing, Massage Therapy and Shiatsu are some good choices.
5
Be aware of...
the generational differences of your male clients. I find that this awareness can give me beneficial insight into what modality may best suit the client. In general, I’ve found those that come later in ‘Generation X’, as well as those in ‘Generation Y’, are more expressive of their emotions once rapport is established as opposed to older “Generation X’ or ‘Baby Boomers.’ However, in my experience, clients from these younger generations can be the least receptive to suggestion (e.g. hypnotic suggestion) or be more unwilling to let go of outdated and/or non-beneficial attitudes and behaviors. I feel this is due to these generation’s more independent natures as well as the tendency to be more assertive with strong views as opposed to older generations of men. ****
SOURCES:
* Mann, Nicholas R., HIS Story: Masculinity in the Post-Patriarchal World, Llewellyn Publications, St. Paul, MN, 1995, pp. xviii-xx.
** ibid
*** ibid
**** Novak, Dr. Jill (Texas A&M), “The Six Living Generations in America”, MarketingTeacher.com, May 8, 2014.
Bio: Elliott Challandes is the owner of A Healing Place, located at 560 North Street in Springfield, Illinois. He is a Holy Fire Usui Reiki and Holy Fire Karuna Reiki Master/Teacher as well as a Certified Consulting Hypnotist. Currently, he is studying Zen Shiatsu and Massage Therapy. Elliott provides private sessions to both men and woman, promoting holistic health, deep relaxation and the integration of mind, body and spirit. For more information see www.wisdomofthesacredsoul.com, www.hypnoiscanhelp.org or contact him at elliottchallandes@gmail.com.