Benefits of Massage Therapy

Massage Therapy

What are the benefits?

Massage and related bodywork techniques can release painful muscle tension, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, and reduce mental and physical fatigue. In addition, massage is among the most effective means available to combat stress. But the question most people want answered before first trying this healthful and enjoyable experience is, "What will it actually be like?"

What are some types of massage?

There are many types of massage, but Swedish massage is what many people think of when massage is mentioned. It uses long flowing strokes, deep kneading, surface friction, light tapping, and joint movement.

What is a massage therapist?

Massage therapists have completed many hours of education which includes a variety of bodywork techniques, extensive anatomy and physiology, and knowledge of when massage is and is not appropriate.

What is the first appointment like?

At your first appointment, your massage therapist will begin by asking you general health questions since there are some conditions for which massage is not appropriate. For a full body Swedish massage, most people undress completely, though you may choose to wear underwear. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress. Towel draping techniques will keep all areas of your body covered at all times except for the area being worked on.

You will relax on a padded table designed for stability and comfort. Your therapist may offer cushions or an adjustable face rest for support. The room will be warm and quiet, often with soft music to set a relaxing mood. Your massage therapist may use a light oil or lotion, which is good for your skin and absorbs well. For some kinds of bodywork, no oil is used.

A massage or bodywork session usually begins with relatively gentle pressure to calm your nervous system and begin releasing superficial tension. Gradually, your therapist works more deeply to address specific areas.

What should I do during a massage?

Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants you to adjust your position, she or he will either move you (for instance lift your arm) or will tell you what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable.

Many people just close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It's your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time. The desire to sigh or take a deep breath is a sign that you are relaxing. In fact, deep natural breaths can actually help you relax.

How will a massage feel?

Massage on healthy tissue feels good. The normal response is to slow down, breathe deeply, and relax. Your massage therapist uses gentle but firm pressure, gradually preparing you for deeper touch.

The saying "no pain, no gain" is not true for massage and bodywork. The most effective and deepest massage works with the body's natural responses, not against them. Working in the area of an injury or chronic pain may at first cause some discomfort, which usually lessens in the first few minutes. Your massage therapist knows ways to minimize pain, and will work carefully within what feels right to you. Always tell your therapist if you feel any discomfort so she or he can adjust.

How long is a session?

An hour is common session length. This gives time for a deeply relaxing full body massage, or more in-depth work on a particular area, for example back, neck and shoulders. A half-hour can be an excellent introduction to bodywork, with plenty of time for a specific area such as back, neck and shoulders or legs and feet.

BACKS BY POPULAR DEMANDsm charges $35 per half hour and $50 per hour for Swedish massage. Now also offering Four hands massage $100 per hour. Receive wonderful benefits from this massage, including an increase in circulation and joint flexibility long flowing strokes, deep kneading and surface friction help to relax sore muscles with two massage therapists. Deep tissue massage available for $50 an hour. Enjoy a deep tissue massage! Appointments are available Monday through Friday 9am-6pm and Saturday mornings.

What should I expect afterwards?

Massage and bodywork can be profoundly relaxing, affecting all your body's systems. Give yourself a moment to reorient before slowly getting up. After a session, most people feel very relaxed. Many experience freedom from aches and pains that have built up over months of tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience an increase in energy that can last for several days. It is important to drink plenty of water for several hours following a massage. This encourages the body to "flush away" the toxins released during the massage. Also hot baths after a massage will pull lactic acid from the muscles in the body.

If you don't feel results right away, watch for changes over the following days, such as pain relief, increased mobility, or reduced stress.

Where can I find other helpful information to enhance my massage experience?

There are many places to search on the internet to find information, but we have found one web site that will give you quite a bit on information in one place. You will find ideas for all areas of body care at TheBodyHelp.com

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