Massage feels sinfully good, doesn't it? The truth is, massage is one of the
best things you can do for yourself; especially during times of change such as
menopause.
This soothing therapy has been shown to lower blood press,
reduce muscle pain, improve joint flexibility and alleviate headaches,
just to name a few of its healing powers.
Most people think of
massage in terms of muscle aches, but it's much more than that. It
increases blood flow to your muscles, tissue and every cell in your body
which brings oxygen and nutrients to these critical areas. It also
stimulates lymphatic flow, improving tissue drainage and the immune
system.
Here are some of the different strokes you have to choose
from:
Acupressure
An ancient Chinese technique involves the therapist using his fingers to
press key points on the skin to release muscle tension and promote
circulation and energy flow. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same
points, but acupuncture involves needles. The pressure restores balance to
the body and treats ailments such as headaches, menstrual cramps and
constipation.
Swedish Massage
This is probably the most common form of massage in the US. Its main goal
is relaxation and improved circulation. The therapist applies oil to the skin
and uses flowing strokes and kneading movements to relieve tension from the
muscles.
Deep Tissue Massage
This type of massage is more vigorous and uses various styles to loosen
the muscles. It helps break patterns of tension, relieves chronic pain,
including inflammation-related pain such as tendonitis and improves range
of motion.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is Japanese for finger pressure. This technique is similar to
acupressure where the practitioner uses their finger, thumb, palm, elbow,
knee (and sometimes even walk on you) to put pressure on acupuncture
healing points. This unblocks the flow of energy and encourages blood and
lymphatic flow. It also promotes relaxation and strengthens the body
against disease and restores balance.
Sports Massage
This treatment incorporates several massage techniques which is great for
athletes. It keeps the body flexible, increases performance and assists in
rehabilitation from an injury.
Hot Stone Therapy
During this therapy, heated stones are placed strategically on the body
which dilates blood vessels and gets blood and oxygen flowing into tense
areas. It can feel like a body rush. The soothing heat can also prepare
the body for deep-tissue work as well as alleviate PMS symptoms.
Aromatherapy Massage
The therapist incorporates essential oils extracted from herbs, flowers
and roots into the massage. They select the proper oils based on a
particular physical condition and blend them into a massage oil or lotion.
The end result is a relaxing massage tailored to your individual needs.
Reiki
This therapy is an Eastern method meaning universal life energy. It brings
healing energy to the organs and glands in order to bring the body back
into balance and help prevent disease. The massage practitioner places
their hands on or just above the body to realign chakras and dissolve
toxic substances from your physical and emotional being. People often feel
warmth or tingling sensations during Reiki.
Pregnancy Massage
This massage focuses on a pregnant woman's needs including swollen hands
and feet, stress on weight-bearing joints, exhaustion and lower back pain.
And of course the practitioner positions you to accommodate your baby
bump.
Craniosacral Therapy
This therapy involves the Craniosacral system which extends from the skull
to the bottom of the spine and consists of the brain, spinal cord,
cerebrospinal fluid and surrounding membranes. The practitioner uses a light
touch to restore cerebrospinal fluid movement. This can help treat such
conditions as headaches, eye and ear problems as well as whiplash and back
pain.
Any method of pressure on or friction against, or stroking, kneading,
rubbing, tapping, pounding, vibrating or stimulating of the external soft
parts of the body with the hands or with aid of any mechanical electrical
apparatus or appliances with or without rubbing alcohol, liniments,
antiseptics, oils, powder, creams, lotions, ointments or other similar
preparations used in this practice, under such circumstances that it is
reasonably expected that the person to whom treatment is provided ...
Massage is the practice of applying pressure or vibration to the soft
tissues of the body, including muscles, connective tissue, tendons,
ligaments, and joints. A form of therapy, massage can be applied to parts
of the body or successively to the whole body, to heal injury, relieve
psychological stress, manage pain, improve circulation and relieve
tension.
The manipulation of skin, muscle, and joints (usually by hand) to relax
muscle spasm, relieve tension, improve circulation, and eliminate wastes.
Over 80 types of massage are in use today. Various forms include:
acupressure, athletic, polarity, reflexology, rolfing, shiatsu, sports,
Swedish, traeger, and watsu.
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