Mingling Water Therapy With Business

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My name is Edward Kosen – a student pursuing Diploma in Business Management at Strathmore Institute of Management and Technology. I have a degree in Sports Administration Management from Kenyatta University and I am an ardent lover of water and its therapeutic features.

Covid-19 allowed me time with my family, especially with my dad, and I truly appreciate all the fireside chats we had.

Tell us more about the tête-à-têtes.

Among many other things, we talked about what I hoped to do with my career. I was a bit hesitant to share this because what I longed to pursue – hydrotherapy – is a fairly new profession in our part of the world.  However, that was not a reason to cave in but rather a time to open up to Mzee Kosen.  He likes it when we call him that.

I need to mention that it was not a one-time chat. We met often. I was on a mission to make sure he understood my reasoning and aspirations in this line of work – sports management as a career path. I believe this is an area many can tap into as sports is gradually offering many career opportunities.

“How are you equipping yourself for this line of work?”  He would ask.

“My diploma endows me with the management skills I need and offering hydrotherapy exposes me to some aspects of sports management,” I would say.

What is hydrotherapy?

Experts have defined hydrotherapy as the use of water (hot, cold, steam, or ice) to relieve discomfort and promote physical well-being. It’s important to note that the temperature of water used affects the curative aptness. For example, hot water is chosen for its relaxing qualities while tepid water is a stress reliever. Cold water is great for reducing inflammation. The next time you catch a cold, try inhaling steam as treatment; it works on the sinuses like magic. With that said, I encourage us all to always seek medical advice on any kind of ailment.

So, how are you acquiring skills in hydrotherapy?

By actively helping clients through their rehabilitation. I started by helping a relative and from that a few clients came along. Most of those I work with continue to be referrals. I must mention that I do not originate the set of movements to do, rather the client comes with a print out of the set of movements their doctors or physiotherapists recommend. To better serve them, I go where the client is since they have what is needed, for example, a swimming pool. In addition, it gives me flexibility since I can plan around my course work. For example, there was a time I had to go to a client very early in the morning and still had to make it for my class. At the start, I would travel by cab but my dad advised on working smart. I often use matatus; it is not easy but it is worth it.

Have you ever taught your parent (s) a lesson?

I teach young children to swim. Being in water is something I have enjoyed from childhood. I credit my parents for not only allowing me to just do it for fun but also participate in competitive swimming. One of my most memorable trainees is Mzee Kosen. Behold, he became my student during the lockdown and he can now swim like a pro. He remains one of my memorable and rewarding students. Wondering what to teach your parents? Start by looking into what you are passionate about, start a conversation about what comes naturally and slowly. Do not be in a rush, remember they have been patient with you since you were born.

Finally, the path that I have chosen is a work in progress but I am keeping myself informed and open to the trends. For now, I focus on my studies while making the life of the young and the young at heart meaningful, either by teaching them swimming as a life skill or water therapy as a way to recovery. Do not drown yourself to the common forms of professions. Instead, be on the lookout for other trends. Research and above all, be passionate about what you wish to be because it is a journey to become a pro in what you choose.

 

This article was written by Annete Karanja.

What’s your story? We’d like to hear it. Contact us via communications@strathmore.edu

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