| Did you know that massage has been used as a | | | | training. |
| therapy to ease human aches and pains and | | | | Proper techniques of massage therapy can also |
| create relaxation for thousands of years. The | | | | help relieve constipation and gas and encourage |
| instinct to rub and stroke muscles that are tense | | | | proper digestion. |
| and tired has been refined and studied so that | | | | Relaxation of the physical body can also reduce |
| massage therapy performed by a professionally | | | | the effects of stress physiologically. After a |
| trained practitioner can promote health and well | | | | session of massage therapy you may feel |
| being, relieve stress and help heal injured areas of | | | | relaxed, refreshed and feel greater self-esteem. |
| your body. | | | | EASTERN AND WESTERN MASSAGE |
| WHAT IS MASSAGE THERAPY GOOD FOR? | | | | The type of therapy you choose will be based on |
| Have you thought about seeking massage | | | | your personal preference or the purpose of the |
| therapy for healing or relaxation? There are many | | | | therapy. One of the most common forms of |
| techniques of massage therapy to choose from. | | | | massage is based on Swedish massage which |
| Some therapies, such as those used for athletes, | | | | involves the manipulation of the soft tissues of |
| are focused on healing injured tissue by increasing | | | | the body with the masseuse's's hands. Swedish |
| circulation and preventing injury that can be | | | | massage is often used for general relaxation and |
| caused by tense muscles. | | | | increasing mobility of the joints but can also be |
| Other therapies combine massage with soft | | | | adapted to target specific problems. |
| music, dim lighting and soothing aromatherapy oils | | | | The other common form of massage has |
| to relieve stress and enhance feelings of well | | | | Eastern origins. These techniques are performed |
| being. | | | | by putting pressure on specific areas of the body |
| Massage therapy can also provide relief from | | | | with fingers or other blunt objects (acupressure) |
| many common ailments from morning sickness to | | | | or needles (acupuncture). These techniques are |
| migraines. | | | | used to relieve ailments such as: headaches, |
| WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MASSAGE | | | | nausea, depression, pain, digestive disorders as |
| THERAPY? | | | | well as stress and other ailments. |
| Massage helps with the circulation of blood and | | | | There are many variations on these techniques |
| the release of toxins. Massage increases the | | | | and what appeals to one person may be very |
| circulation of oxygen through the body, helping to | | | | different for someone else. Feeling comfortable |
| heal muscles and reduce tension. The increased | | | | with the technique as well as the practitioner is |
| circulation can also increase lymphatic drainage | | | | important in experiencing the full benefits of the |
| helping to rid the body of excess fluids and waste. | | | | massage. Whatever method you choose you are |
| The physical manipulation of muscles can break | | | | wise to take time to find the right person for |
| down any scar material, thickening or inflammation | | | | you; determine if the practitioner is trained, |
| of the tissues which can increase mobility and | | | | qualified, insured and has recommendations before |
| reduce stiffness. The additional mobility and toning | | | | starting treatment and feel comfortable with the |
| can help prevent injury, especially for athletes | | | | setting you will be receiving your massage in. |
| who use massage therapy as part of their regular | | | | |