Therapeutic Massage
A therapeutic massage combines Swedish techniques to relax and neuromuscular work to release tight knotted muscles.
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Therapeutic massage is a general term that describes any type of massage modality that helps relieve pain, reduce stress, and work on a specific problem, such as a frozen shoulder, tight neck and shoulder muscles begging to be massaged and released this is the massage for you.
The therapist may go in deep but at such a gradual rate that it will not feel hard on the body. Instead Chris focuses on long slower strokes that slowly work to lengthen and loosen the muscles so as to release the tension and to allow those muscles to move freely again.
What to expect in a massage session
A typical Massage session will start off with a brief conversation to let you, the client, know what to expect and to answer any questions you may have. Then we'll talk about why you need the Massage session, what is going on in your life, and what you are hoping to get out of the session(s). This will determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, buttocks, stomach, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.
You will fill in a form with some basic information and acknowledge that you understand what can be expected from a typical session. You will aslo be asked which type of oil or lotion you would prefer is used.
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The therapist will then leave the room whilst you disrobe. Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session. You then relax, on a massage table relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet.
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A session typically lasts an hour unless otherwise requested. You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed. What will a massage feel like? It depends on the techniques used. Many massage therapists use a form of Swedish massage, which is often a baseline for practitioners. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil also helps hydrate your skin. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.
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After the session is complete, the therapist will leave the room and you can take your time to get up and get dressed once again. Once you are dressed the therapist will talk to you and answer any questions that you may have about the session.
What Does Massage Help With?
These are the 10 most common benefits reported from massage therapy:
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1. Reduce Stress
A massage is a great way to unwind and de-stress. However, clients are sure to notice themselves feeling relaxed and at ease for days and even weeks after their appointments!
2. Improve Circulation
Loosening muscles and tendons allows increased blood flow throughout the body. Improving your circulation can have a number of positive effects on the rest of your body, including reduced fatigue and pain management!
3. Reduce Pain
Massage therapy is great for working out problem areas like lower back pain and chronic stiffness. A professional therapist will be able to accurately target the source of your pain and help achieve the perfect massage regimen.
4. Eliminate Toxins
Stimulating the soft tissues of your body will help to release toxins through your blood and lymphatic systems.
5. Improve Flexibility
Massage therapy will loosen and relax your muscles, helping your body to achieve its full range of movement potential.
6. Improve Sleep
A massage will encourage relaxation and boost your mood. Going to bed with relaxed and loosened muscles promotes more restful sleep, and you’ll feel less tired in the morning!
7. Enhance Immunity
Stimulation of the lymph nodes re-charges the body’s natural defense system.
8. Reduce Fatigue
Massage therapy is known to boost mood and promote better quality sleep, thus making you feel more rested and less worn-out at the end of the day.
9. Alleviate Depression and Anxiety
Massage therapy can help to release endorphins in your body, helping you to feel happy, energized, and at ease.
10. Reduce post-surgery and post-injury swelling
A professional massage is a great way to safely deal with a sports injury or post-surgery rehabilitation.
Do you think that massage therapy could help you find relief in any of these areas? What improvements would you like to see in your health?
today with your questions about massage therapy and see how we can help you get on the path to improved health and wellness!
