Sophie Cedat
HOW DID YOU BECOME A MASSAGE THERAPIST? WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND?
Human connection has always driven and fascinated me. Encounters and exchanges have enriched me during my travels. I developed this passion over 18 years through home-based family support work, assisting elderly individuals with physical or mental health challenges, as well as families in their daily lives.
Traditional natural medicine interested me, and I began practicing Shiatsu in 2009. It was a revelation for me to discover both a therapy and a way of life, a way to do good for oneself… and for others. The great adventure of giving and receiving.
I practiced Shiatsu for a long time through exchanges, which allowed me to deepen my knowledge of assistance and care for individuals, particularly through various continuing education courses in both health and social work.
It was after a therapeutic foot reflexology training in 2018 that I took the plunge. I began practicing in a private office and became partially self-employed, in parallel with my work as a socio-educational assistant at L’Espace Parents-Enfants for families in extreme precariousness.
HOW DID YOU COME TO WORK WITH THE MAINS DES BAINS ASSOCIATION, AND SINCE WHEN?
For a long time, I had been visiting Bains des Pâquis to recharge and often thought about the privilege and joy it must be to give massages in such a wonderful place. In early 2021, I learned that the association was looking for several massage therapists. I seized this opportunity to submit my application, which was accepted. After various discussions and interviews, I had the great pleasure of joining the Mains des Bains association in September 2021.
WHY DO YOU ENJOY WORKING WITH THIS ASSOCIATION?
I am amazed by this magical island in the heart of Geneva. Bains des Pâquis is a unique place due to its history and alternative development. People can meet in a friendly setting combining creativity, shows, poetry, and well-being, and this has been the case for years.
I appreciate the diversity of people who come for massages and those who work there, coming from all walks of life. I admire how my colleagues have created and structured the Mains des Bains association; it’s magnificent.
WHAT MASSAGE TECHNIQUES DO YOU PRACTICE AT BAINS DES PÂQUIS?
I practice Shiatsu and therapeutic foot reflexology.
WHAT TECHNIQUES DO YOU PRACTICE IN YOUR OFFICE? WHERE IS IT LOCATED?
I practice Shiatsu, therapeutic foot reflexology, Lahochi, and KU NYÉ there. I share an office, “Centre de Shiatsu,” located at 21, rue du Prieuré, in Geneva.
IN YOUR OPINION, IN FOUR WORDS, WHAT QUALITIES ARE ESSENTIAL TO BE A MASSAGE THERAPIST AT BAINS DES PÂQUIS?
Kindness, energy, empathy, flexibility.
WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS?
To continue exchanging and developing this art of living, one that comes from the heart, and to cultivate this precious treasure that is LIFE.
