Breast Massage in Demand in Shanghai
Shanghai's birth rate has been climbing steadily in the last few years. 131,000 Shanghainese babies were born this year, the most in the city's history, and the government expects the rate to rise until 2015 when 160,000 babies will be born. Don't ask me how they know this, I am merely reporting the facts. As with any baby boom, there is a growing demand for everything baby-related-- day-care, strollers, cribs, baby clothes, car seats and breast massagers. Sorry to digress, but I just thought of something. You know it may seem that writing a website is glamorous or something, but really, it isn't. Flumesday does not pay the bills. I know I'm venting now, but I just think it's time for me to get a part-time job and do something different. Maybe gain a new skill. I've always dreamed of doing something in the pseudo-medical field. I don't know, maybe breast massage is something I'd be interested in. And according to Thursday's Shanghai Daily, Shanghai's baby boom has created a "huge demand for nursemaids, especially those who are trained in breast massage." And if there's the demand, then I'll be the supply. I can't think of anything more satisfying than helping a new mother partake in the loving fluid exchange that is breastfeeding. The Daily describes the job as follows: "an experienced masseuse can spend hours massaging a new mother's breast to prevent stiffness and stimulate the secretion of milk." And this wouldn't be like a charity thing. After I undergo instensive breast massage training from an expert breast masseuse, I would make some serious money. Reportedly, a certified breast masseuse gets paid 200 yuan ($25) to 600 yuan for one session, not a shabby fee in China. Well I know what you're thinking. How long is one session? And I would answer by saying, "Who cares?" As long as it takes. Because, while the pay is good, it's not about the money. It's about doing something new, doing something that matters, and doing something that prevents breast stiffness and makes milk. Sign me up.

•Shanghai Daily: Breast Massage in Demand