The Health Benefits of Massage
Believe it or not a good rub down does far more than make you sleepy and give you bed head. Massage therapy affects the body on a physical, mental and emotional level.
Emotionally: Reduces anxiety, creates a feeling of well-being, enhances the mind–body connection, satisfies the need for nurturing touch.
Physically: calms the nervous system by reducing tension and anxiety; improves blood circulation which is needed to deliver oxygen and important nutrients to cells; strengthens the immune system by increasing lymph flow which carries away the body's waste products; aids in reduction of blood pressure; improves posture; improves skin nourishment; enhances and promotes faster healing time from pulled muscles; reduces pain and swelling; reduces formation of excessive scar tissue; reduces muscle tension, muscle spasm, and stiffness; Increases joint flexibility and range of motion.
Massage therapy can also help with pain management in conditions such as arthritis, sciatica, and muscle spasms.
Mentally: Enhances calm thinking and creativity; improves the ability to notice stress signals and respond appropriately; reduces mental stress
Seeing Massage has such great health benefits you can’t go wrong, right? Wrong. Massage is not suggested if you have a fever, infections, or inflammation.
There are several medical conditions that are not appropriate for Massage Therapy. The following is a list of some conditions that are cautioned or in some cases not appropriate for massage. Always explain before your massage session if you have any health issues, are taking medications, etc. If you have any questions whether or not massage is appropriate do no hesitate to ask your Therapist and/or your doctor.
- Cardiovascular Conditions (including hypertension and hypotension)
- Medical Oedema
- Osteoporosis
- Arthritis
- Nervous/ Psychotic Conditions
- Epilepsy
- Diabetes
- Asthma
- Bell's Palsy
- Trapped or Pinched Nerves
- Inflamed Nerve
- Acute Rheumatism
- Any condition already being treated by your G.P or another complimentary therapist
- are pregnant
- have had a recent operation
The following localised conditions may still allow for Massage Therapy, but the affected area will be avoided.
- Some Skin Diseases
- Undiagnosed Lumps or Bumps
- Varicose Veins
- Cuts
- Bruises
- Abrasions
- Inflammation
- Scar Tissue (Can not be massaged for 2 years following a major operation or for 6 months for a small scar)
- Sunburn
- Areas of Undiagnosed Pain
- Menstruation (On the Abdomen for the first few days, or depending on how much pain you are feeling)
What to expect during a treatment?
It usually depends on the techniques used. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Usually, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. Please do not hesitate to ask questions or mention if you feel any discomfort so that techniques and pressure can be adjusted to allow you the optimum experience.
What will you feel like after the treatment?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days. For those receiving deeper work it is possible you may experience some soreness for up to 36 hours after your treatment. Many toxins will be released from your soft tissues during a session, therefore it is very Important that al lot of water is consumed following your massage.
