Posts Tagged ‘massage’

How Often Should You Have A Massage?

This is a question that I’m asked a lot by my clients.

The answer is different for everybody and will depend on your state of health, your time and your finances.

Ideally, if you can manage to have a massage once per week, you will be largely ‘maintaining’ and building on the work and healing that has been done in the prior sessions.

To put it another way, you’re not allowing the tension to build up and take hold of your body, mind and emotions, allowing you to function and move through your daily life with much more ease and focus.

However, if every week is too much for you, the next best option is to have your massage, once per fortnight. Although this is not as great as having a massage every week, it will still provide you with excellent benefits. If a fortnightly massage suits you better, you may like to book in for 90 minutes (instead of 60 minutes) to allow for more time to work out the tension in those areas that need it most, without me needing to rush on other areas of your body.

Last but not least, is having your massage every month. This in my opinion is the absolute minimum if you want to maintain a basic level of ease and flow in your body. Beyond this and any work that has been done in a previous session is completely lost. This is especially so if you lead a stressful to moderately stressful lifestyle.

So ultimately a massage once per month is minimum. Next best is once per fortnight. And the absolute best option is if you can come and have a massage every week. The long-term health benefits of a weekly massage are really incredible. You’re investing in not only feeling good today, but in your long-term future health and wellbeing.

I myself get a 90 minute massage every single week. If I happen to miss a week because I’m super busy (I’m a mum as well as a masseuse), I really notice it. So I really make it a top priority to book in my massage every week. That way I’m feeling really good and I’m able to pass this onto you and make you feel good too.

So when was the last time you had a really great massage? Why not come and see me this week. Give me a call on 0407 774 552 and let’s book you in for some much needed YOU TIME. You know you deserve it!

Massage - Ancient Art in Modern Hands

Massage - Ancient Art in Modern Hands
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Patty_Mooney]Patty Mooney

Touch is one of the highest expressions of love, and love is our purpose for living. What we strive for in life is emotional comfort (serenity, relaxation). Massage can be cathartic in this regard. When the body is relaxed, the mind can let go. As the mind opens, self-awareness begins.

Massage is a valuable tool in learning about yourself. It is a means of obtaining love and comfort, feeling your own skin through another person’s hands, balancing and relaxing your body, loving yourself.

Massage can be a brief yet powerful vacation. It soothes the nerves, makes aching muscles feel better and gets the blood flowing. A massage can wake you up, or put you to sleep.

Massage is a way to gain happiness through healthiness. Allow yourself to concentrate more on the pleasures of receiving massage rather than on anxieties — the mind chatter that could become obsessive, if you let it.

What to Expect

No two massages are alike. Each is as unique as the person who gives it. When you seek a massage, know what kind you want. Massage is simply a variety of strokes and pressures. Swedish massage employs any combination of oils (creams are acceptable, too, but require repeated application); in it, one kneads the body like bread, using “petrissage,” and uses long, firm strokes called “effleurage.” Shiatsu, jin shin jiutsu, reflexology and acupressure are zone therapies concentrating pressure or energy on various points along your body’s “meridians”. Rolfers give a deep massage reaching behind muscles for joints, bone origins and cartilage (i.e., that between the ribs and up the nasal cavity) sometimes leaving bruises. The desired effect after ten sessions is a structural realignment of your body.

You have a right to expect what feels best for you. This is where communication comes in. Know where your pains are (if you have any) and describe them to your practitioner. S/he can easily modify a general body massage to fit your needs.

Where to Get a Massage

A quick glance through the yellow pages will tell you where to find a massage. Look for massage schools and therapeutic massage services. A school may offer massage on their premises (by students or instructors) or can refer you to graduates with private practices. If you wish, the practitioner can come to your home. Certain health clubs employ massage therapists who specialize in half-hour “slap-down” rubs after your workout.

A good, thorough session lasts from forty-five minutes to one hour or longer, and costs $30 to $50 and up. Some establishments offer a sauna, Jacuzzi and/or steam bath; most facilities have showers.

It is important to feel comfortable with the massage therapist. Any feelings of discomfort from the beginning will only increase during the session and you will not enjoy the massage. Better to walk the yellow pages again than submit yourself to someone you cannot trust. Remember that massage uniquely is an art expression. The giver must be clear about why s/he does what s/he does; this becomes evident in her “handiwork.”

The massage environment — preferably a small, warm, darkened room — is also important. You will not be able to relax if you can hear someone working out with weights in the next room. If possible, there should be complete silence or meditative music that allows the mind to relax.

Self Massage

In case you are in need of healing touch and no one is readily available to help you, try self-massage. This can entail a “spot” rub, such as the feet, hands, head, face, back, neck; or a full-body massage. It’s as simple as applying your favorite lotion or oil to your body, really getting into the warmth and healing energy of your hands and varying the pressure. Experiment with your technique. Try pinching, kneading, rolling the skin between thumb and fingers and patting. Locate “trigger” points, where muscle attaches to bone, and rub deeply in a clockwise direction. You might be surprised at how relaxing just five minutes of self-massage can feel. Of course, your self-massage can last as long as you desire.

The more you learn of yourself through massage and/or self-massage, the better you will feel, the more self-confidence you may exude in the outside world.

Patty Mooney has been writing since the age of 16. Her favorite topics include women’s issues, homelessness, homeless veterans, the arts, cinema, biographies, nature and video production. Her work has appeared in many publications around the world, including the Los Angeles Times, The San Diego Reader, Create Magazine, Post Magazine, Women’s Sports & Fitness, Yoga Journal and others. You can read her blog, “A Diary Left Open” at http://www.sandiegovideoproduction.blogspot.com Her business site is http://www.crystalpyramid.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patty_Mooney http://EzineArticles.com/?Massage—Ancient-Art-in-Modern-Hands&id=2140075

The Right Way to Receive a Massage

The Right Way to Receive a Massage
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Monica_Leibacher]Monica Leibacher

What is the proper way to go about receiving a massage?

1. Answer all questions about your health honestly and completely. Discuss problem areas needing extra attention. Mention medical conditions (high blood pressure, heart problems, chronic headaches, varicose veins, etc), any recent injuries, or recent surgery.

2. Most therapeutic massage may be received with the body completely unclothed or wearing only underwear bottoms. Your body covered with a sheet (and blanket, if desired) except for the area being massaged. If this is not comfortable for you, let the therapist know and bring a swimsuit to wear.

3. Shower up prior to your appointment.

4. Conversation can be distracting to you and the therapist. Give feedback. Ask any questions. But don’t forget, relax. Talking about your job and the daily grind might prevent you from relaxing.

5. Close your eyes. Allow yourself to relax as completely as possible. Focus your attention on your breathing, which should be slow, deep, and even.

6. Allow the therapist to move your limbs into various positions. Be limp, like a rag doll, and do not try to help. Speak up if anything is too painful, too ticklish, or uncomfortable in any way.

7. Contrary to common notion in our society, massage is an ancient healing art and not a sexual service. The body might become aroused as you experience total relaxation; however, sexual behavior during the massage is inappropriate and will result in termination of the session.

8. Very often, as the body releases tension during a massage, the mind will release emotion. If you are suddenly sad, angry, or joyful, do not be alarmed. Allow yourself to express these feelings by crying or laughing. At the very least feel free to sigh with relaxation or hum with pleasure.

9. Many people fall asleep during a massage. This is an indication that the body and mind are releasing stress and tension. The therapist will gently wake you when it is time to turn over or end the session.

Monica Leibacher [http://www.rosewoodmassage.com]Celebration, Florida Massage Provided at Rosewood Holistic Health

Relaxation / Therapeutic / Chair Massage : Craniosacral Therapy : Hot Stone Certified Aromatherapy Parties : Young Living Independent Distributor

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Monica_Leibacher http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Right-Way-to-Receive-a-Massage&id=1835816

Aromatherapy and Massage - A Natural Combination

Aromatherapy and Massage - A Natural Combination
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Lita_Stone]Lita Stone

Aromatherapy Massage is a popular form of natural healing work that involves using aromatic essential oils to promote health and well being. The essential oils are usually combined with the massage oil and applied to the skin during the massage. Also a therapist might add the oils to a oil diffuser, that allows the natural fragrance to dissipate throughout the room. Using both techniques, the client gets the double effect of breathing the fragrance as well as absorbing the oils through the skin.

Other ways to receive the benefits of aromatherapy would be adding some drops of oil to a warm bath. A small bowl of hot water could also be used as a steam for inhaling. A few drops could be added to a tissue and held close to your nose and breathed in.Essential oils can also be used in hot or cold compresses and soaks to treat muscle aches and pains (e.g., lavender and ginger) Because of their potency, essential oils are diluted in a carrier oil or lotion before being applied to the skin. Any vegetable oil or olive oil can be used. A popular oil for massage therapists is almond oil, because of its pleasant texture and scent. Standard dilutions of essential oils in carrier oils range from 2 to 10%

In aromatherapy massage, essential oils are individually selected for their medicinal properties.These properties can be both physical and psychological. Some essential oils have a relaxing effect, other a more uplifting and energizing effect.Some are anti- inflammatory, while others increase the circulation. Following is a list of the more common essential oils used in aromatherapy and their health benefits.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita). Relaxes and soothes the stomach muscles and gastrointestinal tract. Peppermint’s actions as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antimicrobial also make it an effective skin treatment, and useful in fighting cold and flu symptoms.

Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobilis). An anti-inflammatory and analgesic. Useful in treating otitis media (earache), skin conditions, menstrual pains, and depression.

Lavender (Lavandula officinalis). A popular aromatherapy oil which mixes well with most essential oils, lavender has a wide range of medicinal and cosmetic applications, including treatment of insect bites, burns, respiratory infections, intestinal discomfort, nausea, migraine, insomnia, depression, and stress.

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea). This natural astringent is not only used to treat oily hair and skin, but is also said to be useful in regulating the menstrual cycle, improving mood, and controlling high blood pressure. Clary sage should not be used by pregnant women.

Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). Has bactericidal, virucidal, fungicidal, and anti-inflammatory properties that make it a good choice for fighting infection. Recommended for treating sore throat and respiratory infections, vaginal and bladder infections, wounds, and a variety of skin conditions.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). Stimulating essential oil used to treat muscular and rheumatic complaints, as well as low blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, and headaches.

Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata). A sedative essential oil sometimes used to treat hypertension and tachycardia. It is also valuable in stressful situations in helping to deal with irritation, impatience or anxiety. It has a calming and nurturing effect on the heart. A sedative essential oil sometimes used to treat hypertension and tachycardia.

These are just a few of the many popular essential oils used in aromatherapy massage. Combined with massage, aromatherapy provides still another dimension of emotional and physical healing to the treatment. A simple and subtle, yet profound addition to any massage therapy session. http://www.Massageclips.com

Lita Stone, the author, has been practicing as a certified massage therapist for over 20 years. She’s currently teaching massage on her Massage Training Videos. Visit her site for your Free Massage Training Videos now!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lita_Stone http://EzineArticles.com/?Aromatherapy-and-Massage—A-Natural-Combination&id=2161461

Massage Therapy and Its Health Benefits

Massage Therapy and Its Health Benefits
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Lita_Stone]Lita Stone

Have you always believed massage therapy was just a luxury to help soothe achy muscles? Well, it’s common to think that and you are were both right and wrong. It can do wonders for those sore muscles. But that is just the beginning. Massage also has many more wonderful health benefits.

The most obvious health benefit of massage therapy is it feels great! When you are in the hands of a good massage therapist, you can feel your body letting go of the tension that was causing discomfort. Its also possible to feel yourself dropping into a place of deep relaxation of both the body and mind. This state of deep relaxation and stillness can be profound. For some, learning to trust you can let go this deeply, may take a few sessions. Yet once you start to feel yourself deeply letting go, you’ll be amazed at how wonderful it can feel!

Dropping into this state of relaxation and peace can be, in itself, very healing. The nervous system is brought back into balance. In Chinese medicine, its referred to how the “Chi” or energy of the body can re-balance itself, bringing about renewed health and well-being. Getting regular massage therapy can do wonders for ones mood, alleviating depression and it’s health draining effects.Once you’ve found a massage therapist that you are comfortable with, just knowing you have that time for your self scheduled will do wonders for how you feel and will have an accumulative effect on you ability to let go of stress.

Here are still more great benefits to getting regular massage:

Massage therapy relieves stress

It improves the circulation of blood, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the different organs, systems and tissues

It stimulates the circulation of the lymphatic system- thus helping to release toxins (remember to drink plenty of water after a massage!)

It can help lower blood pressure.

It can relieve tension headaches.

Massage enhances flexibility, mobility and joint range of motion

It reduces muscle spasms

It treats musculoskeletal problems

It encourages faster healing of strained muscles and sprained ligaments, reduces pain and swelling and reduces formation of excessive scar tissue

It boosts the immune system.

Massage reduces fatigue (emotional and physical).

It helps with pain management in cases such as arthritis and sciatica.

The above is just an overview of the health benefits of massage therapy. Taking time out, on a regular basis to let go of daily stress with [http://www.massageclips.com]massage therapy can have far reaching effects on you overall health. And the wonderful thing is, it feels great to!

Lita Stone [http://www.massageclips.com/]Massageclips.com has been a certified massage therapist for over 20 years and is now teaching how to give a relaxing massage on her massage instruction videos. Visit her site and receive her free massage training video now!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lita_Stone http://EzineArticles.com/?Massage-Therapy-and-Its-Health-Benefits&id=1970343

Massage Gold Coast

Ways to Massage One’s Self
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Lorna_Finlay]Lorna Finlay

There are several ways to receive a massage. It will take a person hundreds, even thousands, of dollars to receive a month’s continuous session of massage. There are ways to achieve total massage effectiveness and save more; one thing is to massage yourself. Here are some steps to do an effective self massage:

Step 1 - Warm up

The first step is to loosen tightened muscles with a nice warm bath. To alleviate soreness, soaking oneself in Epsom salt will help. After the soothing bath, dry yourself with a towel fresh from the dryer.

Step 2 - Clothes off

As much as possible, since you’re doing it yourself, keep yourself with minimal clothing for it is better to give yourself a massage when there is skin-to-skin contact. Using a hypoallergenic lotion, gently apply it on the portion where you intended to focus the massage. Lotions and oils help in the loosening muscles and knots.

Step 3 - Shoulders and neck

Starting with the shoulders and neck, firmly work with your fingers in small circles. Move at the back of your head then down the shoulders. Continue until you’ve reached your hands. Perform small circles when you feel that there are knots. While doing the procedure, put yourself in a calm state with slow and even breathing pattern. Be sure that your fingers are well-lubricated so as not to induce friction.

Step 4 - Lower back

You can either wear clothes or not. Roll a large towel or blanket. Place the rolled towel or blanket on the floor then lay down on top of it facing up. You have to make sure that your back is positioned exactly on the roll. With the use of pressure by your body, initiate rolling motion. This will help ease out tension taken from the back.

Step 5 - Feet

With the use of your thumbs, dig it into a circular motion to the soles of the feet. Don’t forget to massage the bottom of your toes. Not forgetting to lubricate your hands, start rubbing your ankle across the top down to the toes. Roll the feet in order to perform ankle stretches. By lying flat on the floor, put up your feet on a wall then stretch your arms.

Step 6 - Regenerate

After the process, it is just proper to rest for a couple of minutes and drink appropriate amounts of water.

These methods may not be as good as what you are getting inside a massage parlor but it will definitely work to continuously maintain good relaxation and proper health.

Visit my website to find out more about [http://www.greathealthguides.com/Massage_Therapy.html]massage therapy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lorna_Finlay http://EzineArticles.com/?Ways-to-Massage-Ones-Self&id=1957989

Massage Gold Coast

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