Massage Therapy
What is massage therapy?
Massage therapy is the act of manipulating the soft tissues of the body. It is generally used as a relaxation tool and stress reducer. Massage therapy is one of the 'touch' therapies. Though it is not now generally consider a part of mainstream medicine, in ancient medical practices, massage was a most vital part of the healing process. Even the great Hippocrates said, "The physician must be experienced in many things, but most assuredly in rubbing." What massage therapy does not do is try to diagnosis illness, prescribe medication, or manipulate the skeletal structure, as in chiropractic.
What are the benefits of massage therapy?
Massage therapy has such a wide range of benefits; it would be difficult to name them all. Relaxation is the most sought after result of massage therapy and rightly so. When a person becomes relaxed, all manner of healing can begin to take place. Here is a short list of massage therapy benefits:
- Relaxation
- Reduces stress, anxiety, and depression
- Improves circulation
- Stretch and loosen tight muscles
- Reduce spasms and cramping
There have even been reports of massage therapy aiding in increasing quality of sleep, arthritis relief, and lowering high blood pressure.
What can I expect during a massage therapy session?
When you visit a massage therapist, you will be met with a very calming atmosphere. Quiet music may be playing and the scent of relaxing aromatherapy oils are just the beginning of a very pleasant and therapeutic experience. For a full-body massage, you can expect to spend at least an hour. If you only have time for a partial massage, then allow yourself thirty minutes. In order to make the most of your session, leave a little time to unwind prior to the massage and some time after to bask in the relaxation.
You will be asked to disrobe prior to the session but only to the point where you are comfortable. Then you will then be asked to lie on a specially designed table and drape yourself with a clean towel or sheet. Only the section of your body that is being worked on will be uncovered.
A typical full body massage will include your head, neck, shoulders, arms, back, legs, and feet. Make yourself comfortable and relax. The practitioner will tell you when you need to move or he/she will gently move you if necessary. You can close your eyes and meditate, think about nothing, or talk if you so choose during your session.
There are over 250 techniques used in massage therapy. Most practitioners will use a combination of these during the course of your session. You will likely experience many, if not all of these techniques: stroking, kneading, pressure, friction, rocking and/or tapping. If you feel discomfort at any time during the session, let your therapist know immediately. When you are uncomfortable you cannot relax, thus the sought after effect of massage will be hindered.
Are there any reasons a person should not receive massage therapy?
Massage therapy has a great many health benefits, as previously discussed however, there are a few instances where massage therapy should be avoided. The therapist will complete a medical screening prior to your session. You must inform the practitioner of any and all medical conditions and any prescriptions or over the counter drugs you are taking.
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