Jamie Windust on Bodywork, Boundaries & the Power of Touch
Bodywork is more than just physical—it’s a conversation between body and mind, a way to reconnect, and a form of self-care that evolves with us.
Writer, speaker, and model Jamie Windust shares their journey with massage therapy, from overcoming misconceptions to using bodywork as a tool for healing, strength, and self-awareness.
In this Q&A, Jamie talks about learning to communicate their needs, the importance of regular treatments, and why a welcoming, ego-free space like MASAJ makes all the difference.
How has your relationship with bodywork evolved since you first started?
My motivation for visiting MASAJ was to learn more about how to communicate my own needs when it comes to touch in a safe and structured environment. My relationship with bodywork has greatly improved, and I've been able to really understand what I like and what I don’t like in a safe and comfortable environment which facilitates communication, consent and respect. It’s helped me tremendously to be able to visit regularly and build bodywork into my routine, especially as someone with sexual trauma. Being able to reconnect and affirm that touch can be safe has been life changing.
What were your initial hesitations or misconceptions about massage, if any, and how have they changed?
My initial misconceptions definitely related to seeing massage as just something that was purely for relaxation purposes. I’ve been moving and being more active in the past 12 months so it’s been amazing to come to MASAJ and adapt my preferences and book for a deep tissue or a relaxing massage depending on what I need. I’ve been able to learn that it can really help when I've used new muscle groups and need to have deeper attention to a specific area. It’s also helped me learn that massage doesn’t have to be one thing - it is an adaptable experience dependent on what your body needs at the moment of your appointment.
Could you describe a moment when you really noticed the impact bodywork was having on your life?
In a literal sense, being able to have an upper body deep tissue massage for when I've used new muscles in my arms and back has been really helpful in allowing me to get stronger and fitter at the gym. By looking after my muscle groups and giving them attention I have been able to subsequently avoid injury and continue to learn more about my body's capabilities and strength. Emotionally, I've been able to learn that bodywork isn’t always just about the physical touch. It can be about communicating when you need something different or new to what you may have had before. The boards that ask what communication style you desire and having that choice is so unique and so helpful for me as someone who can often struggle verablising my needs in the moment. The therapists at MASAJ have been so helpful in allowing me to emotionally connect with my body and know that I am always in control when I'm on the table.
How regularly do you have massage/bodywork treatments?
I’ve been attending regularly for the past two years and I really try to aim to have some form of bodywork at least once every six weeks.
What challenges do you face in maintaining regular bodywork, and how do you overcome them?
It can be difficult sometimes to fit in bodywork around time or travel, but giving it the respect it deserves has been really important for me, to learn how integral it is to keep that routine. I see it almost like going to therapy, or going to visit the doctors or the hairdressers. It’s a part of my body and my world that deserves attention. I used to see massage as something to
do when my body would hurt or it needed attention, and now I realise that that’s sometimes too late. For me, it’s a practice that’s gone from something that is reactive or used in an ‘emergency’ to something that is integral to my mind/body connection.
How do you decide when it's time to book a session? What are your body's signals?
Sometimes it is because I've worked on something new at the gym, or taken up a new sport. For example, my most recent appointment with Nicky at Marylebone was a lower body deep tissue massage because I’ve recently started running, and wanted some relief from tightness. I also used the session as a chance to learn more about what muscle groups need attention, and Nicky also shared some stretches and cool downs with me to take home and use after a run which is invaluable. Other times it’s because I need to relax and know that a massage is a great way to recalibrate and connect back into my body and mind. Stress with work or even busy social times can require that space to just relax, and visiting MASAJ ensures that I can relax.
What about MASAJ's approach to bodywork resonates with you personally?
The lack of ego and hierarchy at MASAJ really appeals because a lot of fitness and bodywork spaces can feel intimidating or only for ‘certain bodies’. The LGBTQ+ friendly approach, the awareness of bodywork and its connection to the mind and the calm welcoming space is what resonates with me to keep me coming back. There’s no judgement, just acceptance and warmth - and as a queer person that’s so vital for me to relax.
What challenges do you face in maintaining regular bodywork, and how do you overcome them?
Sometimes I feel self-conscious about my body, or I don’t feel strong or I feel perhaps aware of changes in my body and this can sometimes feel like a challenge in maintaining regular body work. But every time I visit MASAJ I am reminded that everybody is welcome no matter. It’s a reminder that nothing is ever ‘wrong’ with my body.
Jamie’s experience is a reminder that bodywork is more than just a treatment—it’s a way to reconnect, reset, and honour what your body needs. At MASAJ, we welcome everyone into a space of support and empowerment, helping you build a self-care routine that works for you. Whether you’re looking to ease tension or simply take a moment for yourself, explore our treatments and book your MASAJ today.
Jamie’s journey with bodywork is just one part of their broader advocacy for self-care, identity, and community. Their book, In Their Shoes: Navigating Non-Binary Life is filled with positivity, compassion, and sharp wit, offering an honest and human perspective on what it means to be non-binary. Reminding readers that they are never alone in their experiences. At MASAJ, we share this belief, creating spaces that foster self-acceptance and well-being for every body.