The phrase massage therapy entails a varied range of techniques and practices; there are actually over 80 types of massage therapy. In each type, massage therapists manipulate, press, and rub the muscles and other soft tissues of the body in varied movement and pressure. Massage therapists will often use their fingers and hands, but might also employ their feet, elbows, or even their forearms. The usual goal is to ease tension from the soft tissue, lower pain, warm the massaged areas, and stimulate the flow of oxygen and blood to the desired area.
Aromatherapy might also be coupled with a massage to further relax the person receiving the massage. Scented candles, oils, and incense can be used to subtly relax the mind, body, and soul. Not only is the massage itself important, but so is the setting. Harsh lights and background noise can bring back the stress and anxiety that a massage is supposed to alleviate. The room where the massage is given should be one that is peaceful, tranquil and warmly lit. That way the mind and body are relaxed before the massage even begins. Music is another way to engage all of the senses. Studies have shown that music is an excellent tool in meditation and relaxation, and might even be used to drive sickness from the body. How many times has your mood been affected by music? How many times has music affected your mood? Combining soothing music with a serene room filled with relaxing scents as a way to further your massage experience can prove to be a profound experience.
The practice of massage therapy goes back thousands of years. References to the ancient art have been discovered in writings from a number of cultures, including China, Ancient Rome, Ancient Greece, and Egypt, as well as the subcontinent of India.
Some benefits of receiving a massage are: lowering dependence on medication, increase flexibility in joints, improve the body’s range of motion and cure lower back pain, fortify the immune system by stimulating the body’s natural defense system (also known as lymph flow), decrease anxiety and depression, reduce stretch marks and scar tissue while promoting tissue regeneration, alleviating migraine pain, and reducing cramping and spasms.
It is estimated that up to ninety percent of disease is related to stress. There’s no faster way to age both internally and externally than with high levels of stress. Receiving a massage can decrease anxiety levels, grant greater energy, improve concentration as well as circulation, and even improve on the quality of sleep. People have even remarked on a feeling of clarity and perspective after they receive a massage. The emotional benefits of a massage can be just as if not more so vital and valuable than the physical benefits.
There are boundless benefits of touch. It can be used to treat neurological disorders, chronic diseases, injuries and decrease tension. More and more of the medical community has realized the benefits of massage and have included them as a vital part of neonatal intensive care units and general hospice care. A great deal of hospitals have now begun employing on-site massage practitioners as well as spas to care for pain or post-surgery or pain patients as a step in the road to recovery.
Frequently scheduling an appointment to the massage parlor can do a person a world of good. It can play an integral part in how youthful you’ll remain and how healthy your body can be as the years pass. Even though a massage may feel like a luxurious treats it doesn’t mean that the benefits can’t be therapeutic.