From the bustling streets of North East Thailand to the vibrant city of London, Alex has always been drawn to new experiences and challenges. Since moving to the UK in 2008, he’s built a successful career as a massage therapist at Asiatic, using his gentle touch and expertise to soothe minds and bodies. When he’s not helping clients unwind, Alex can be found lacing up his trainers for a run, snapping photos of London’s hidden gems, or planning his next big adventure. We met Alex to discover what’s driven him to succeed, what he loves most about his work, and what’s next for this dedicated therapist.
What inspired you to become a massage therapist?
As a massage therapist at Asiatic in London, I’m thrilled to share my journey with you! The incredible potential for human bodies to heal themselves drew me to this profession.
During my studies, I discovered that massage therapy isn’t just about easing physical pain but also an effective way to unlock emotional release. I fell in love with the holistic approach of massage, recognising that it’s all about understanding the intricate connection between physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
That’s why I specialise in Thai massage, which combines the ancient wisdom of acupressure, gentle stretching, and rhythmic compression to promote balance and harmony in both body and mind. I also excel in deep tissue and relaxing massage techniques, perfect for melting away muscle tension and stress. At Asiatic, we’re dedicated to providing top-notch therapy sessions that cater to each individual’s unique needs. Let’s work together to uncover your body’s hidden potential!
Can you tell us about your educational background and training in massage therapy?
As I embarked on my journey in massage therapy, I was eager to discover the rich educational background that would lay the foundation for my career. At Asiatic in London, I completed my Diploma in Massage Therapy, immersing myself in diverse modalities that have become the core of my practice.
From Thai Massage, Swedish Massage and even Deep Tissue Massage, I honed my skills and developed a unique approach that combines the best of what I learned. But my education didn’t stop there! I also pursued additional certifications and attended workshops to stay ahead of the curve and continuously improve my techniques.
Today, I’m proud to bring this comprehensive training and expertise to Asiatic’s clients, delivering tailored massage therapies that cater to each individual’s unique needs.
How long have you been practising massage, and what has been your most rewarding experience so far?
As a professional massage therapist at Asiatic in London, I’ve had the privilege of practising massage for over five years. One of the most unforgettable experiences that comes to mind is working with a client who has been battling chronic lower back pain for years. Seeing their progress after several sessions was a game-changer – they reported significantly reduced pain and improved mobility. It was amazing to witness how massage therapy could transform someone’s daily life, allowing them to regain confidence and energy.
Moments like these remind me of the incredible impact that massage can have on people’s lives. It motivates me to continue doing what I love—helping others discover the benefits of massage and achieve their wellness goals. By incorporating massage therapy into their routine, my clients can experience a profound difference in their overall well-being, and this kind of reward keeps me passionate about my work.
What type of massage do you specialise in, and what makes it unique at Asiatic?
At Asiatic, I’m delighted to offer various massages catering to diverse needs. My speciality is Swedish Massage, which is all about relaxation, ease of movement, and overall well-being. I also infuse each session with aromatherapy CBD oils and soothing music to create a serene atmosphere that melts away stress and tension. But that’s not all! I’m also trained in Thai massage, combining the ancient art of acupressure, stretching, and rhythmic compression to promote physical and emotional balance. My deep tissue and relaxing massage techniques are designed to relieve muscle tension and leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
At Asiatic in London, I take pride in tailoring each massage experience to your unique needs, ensuring you feel refreshed, renewed, and ready to take on the day!
What are some common issues or areas of tension you typically address during a massage session at Asiatic?
As a massage therapist at Asiatic, I’ve seen my fair share of knots and kinks! Typical areas of tension I typically address include the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Many clients come to us with poor posture, stress, or repetitive strain from activities like desk work or intense exercise. I also help clients manage muscle imbalances, scar tissue, and injuries from sports or accidents.
My goal is to melt away tension, improve circulation, and increase flexibility – leaving you feeling relaxed, renewed, and ready to take on the day! Whether you’re a gym enthusiast or desk warrior, I’m here to help alleviate back/neck pain and promote overall well-being.
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest developments and research in massage therapy?
As a dedicated massage therapist at Asiatic, staying informed about my field’s latest advancements and research is essential. To achieve this, I regularly attend online courses and workshops to expand my knowledge and skills. I’m always looking for new techniques and best practices to incorporate into my sessions.
Whenever I’m in Thailand, I make a point to meet with renowned experts in Thai massage to learn from their expertise and gain new insights. Learning from others is vital to continuous development, so I also try to pick up tips and tricks from my colleagues whenever possible. By staying informed and adapting to the latest research, I can provide my clients with the most effective and innovative treatments.
What sets Asiatic apart from other spas or therapy centres in London?
At Asiatic, we pride ourselves on blending the best of both worlds – traditional Eastern techniques and modern approaches. This unique fusion allows us to craft personalised treatment plans that cater to each client’s specific needs and goals. Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, relaxation, or improved flexibility, our expertly trained massage therapists will work with you to create a customised treatment plan that addresses your unique concerns.
Combining the wisdom of Eastern massage traditions with modern knowledge and techniques can provide a truly distinctive and practical experience that sets us apart from other spas and therapy centres in London.
How do you build rapport with Asiatic clients, and what do you find most fulfilling about working with them?
For me, building rapport with our clients is all about creating a sense of trust and understanding. I listen carefully to their needs and concerns, taking the time to understand their goals and objectives. I also strive to create a comfortable and calming environment that makes them feel at ease. Doing so, I believe, allows them to open up and feel more relaxed, which enables me to tailor my approach to their specific needs. What I find most fulfilling is seeing its positive impact on my clients.
Whether helping someone manage chronic pain, alleviate stress, or feel more relaxed and centred, there’s no better feeling than knowing I’ve made a difference in their life. Seeing them leave Asiatic feeling better physically and emotionally is truly rewarding and motivates me to continue providing the best possible service.
Can you share a success story or testimonial from a satisfied client?
I love sharing stories of our client’s success! One of my favourite examples is a client who came to Asiatic with chronic migraines. They had tried everything under the sun to manage their migraines, but nothing seemed to provide lasting relief. After several sessions of regular massage therapy combined with relaxation techniques, they reported a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of their migraines. It was amazing to see the tangible results and know that I was able to make a real difference in their lives.
Another great example is a gym enthusiast who came to me with severe muscle tightness and back pain. Because of the discomfort, they were forced to modify their workouts or skip them altogether. After several massage therapy sessions, they experienced significant relief and could get back to their usual routine—pain-free! Moments like these remind me why I do what I do. Seeing clients achieve their goals and regain their quality of life is incredibly fulfilling.
What is the most critical aspect of self-care for individuals in London’s fast-paced environment?
Living in London can be overwhelming, to say the least! With its fast-paced atmosphere, long commutes, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle. In my opinion, finding time to relax and de-stress is crucial. Taking a step back, breathing, and prioritising your well-being is essential. Regular massage therapy can be a fantastic way to do just that – it helps to release tension, calm the mind, and rejuvenate the body. Of course, meditation and exercise are also excellent ways to manage stress and improve overall health.
Do you have any personal tips for clients new to massage therapy or looking to get the most out of their sessions?
As a massage therapist, I’ve worked with many people who were new to massage therapy, and I love helping them discover the benefits for themselves! For those new to massage, I always recommend starting with regular sessions to get accustomed to the experience and all the fantastic benefits it offers. It’s like anything new – it takes a little time to adjust, but trust me, it’s worth it!
I want to encourage clients to be open and honest with me during their appointment to get the most out of their sessions. Let me know if you’re feeling any discomfort or tension – it’s my job to work through it and help you feel amazing! Communication is key to getting the best results, so don’t hesitate to speak up if you need extra attention in a specific area. Additionally, remember to stay hydrated before and after your session (water is your friend!) and follow any post-massage advice I give you – it will help your body absorb the benefits of the massage and reduce any potential soreness.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to getting the most out of your massage therapy sessions and experiencing all their incredible benefits. Happy relaxing!
How do you incorporate relaxation techniques or meditation into your daily routine?
As a massage therapist, I’m passionate about promoting relaxation and self-care to our clients, but I also believe it’s essential to prioritise these practices in my own life! Incorporating relaxation techniques and meditation into my daily routine is crucial for maintaining my well-being and providing the best possible care to our clients. I make it a point to practice daily meditation to stay centred and connected—it’s amazing how it helps me stay focused and grounded!
In the morning, I prioritise relaxation by setting aside some quiet time. Whether it’s a quick meditation session, some deep breathing exercises, or simply sipping herbal tea while listening to nature sounds, I take a few moments to centre myself for the day ahead. It’s incredible how much of a difference this simple practice makes! By taking a few minutes each morning to relax and unwind, I’m better equipped to tackle the day’s challenges with clarity and compassion.
By prioritising relaxation and self-care, I can be more fully present for our clients and provide them with the best possible experience. It’s all about balance, right?
About Alex
Alex is a skilled massage therapist at Asiatic, with two locations in London.
On Tuesday and Wednesday, he works at Asiatic Islington at 93 Upper Street, London N1 0NP. Telephone number 020 4531 5032
He can be found at Asiatic Highbury, at 262 Upper Street, London N1 2UQ, on Monday, Friday, and Saturday. Telephone number 020 4531 5032
With a passion for helping others, Alex is dedicated to providing exceptional massage therapy services in London. Call Asiatic to schedule an appointment with Alex TODAY!