Benifits of massage therapy

Posted by frank henry on April 12th, 2019

Massage Therapy primarily consists of hands-on manipulation of the body’s soft tissue, specifically muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints, for the purpose of optimizing health.

Massage therapy has a therapeutic effect on the body by acting on the muscular, nervous and circulatory systems. Physical function can be developed, maintained & improved and physical dysfunction & pain and the effects of stress can be relieved or prevented through the use of massage therapy.

Why Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy primarily relaxes muscles and relieves you of stress. There are various other issues massage therapy can help you with:

1. Reduce stress
2. Manage digestive disorders
3. Combat insomnia
4. Manage soft tissue strains & injuries
5. Manage joint pain
6. Promote muscle relaxation
7. Improve circulation
8. Improve posture

How to prepare for a massage therapy session?

You may need a massage therapy treatment for various reasons. Be clear about your purpose to see the therapist. Go to the clinic early so you have some time to discuss your needs and goals. Be forthcoming about your medical conditions or allergies. Let the therapist know if you are under any medication. If you are looking for a full body massage, the therapist may ask you to strip to your undergarments for easy access to the parts that need to be massaged. If you feel any kind of discomfort, let the therapist know about it.

What to expect at the massage therapy clinic?

Massages are usually received in places that are specifically dedicated for them, like spas, wellness centres or massage centres. But now, medical clinics also provide massages to treat many medical conditions. The designated room has a calm environment with soothing music in the background. A professional therapist will never ask you to expose your genitals or breasts.

What are the techniques used?

• Longitudinal gliding massage involves strokes in the direction of blood flow. It reduces inflammation and swelling and also relaxes the tight muscles.

• Compression massage technique involves putting pressure on the muscle areas that need to be treated. The tissues are pushed down with pressure and this pressure varies from light to deep. This stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system and promotes relaxation.

• Transverse friction is the process of moving the skin with the fingers. This breaks up the adhesion and muscle knots, which improves flexibility and circulation.

What to do after the massage therapy session?

Drink more water than you usually do to keep the blood flowing. It also helps in flushing out the toxins. It is advised not to consume any toxic fluids.

Though you were just lying down all through the massage, your digestive system was hard at work. Hence, keep a snack to munch on after the session.

After massage therapy, do not go for any intense physical therapy. Going back home and taking a nap would be the best option.

Have a nice warm bath which promotes relaxation. Make sure the water is not too hot as this would cause inflammation.