07.23.08
Massage - The Touch and Heal Therapy
With growing awareness of the side effects of painkillers
and other chemical medicines, more and more people are
opting for the massage therapy. Massaging the body to
alleviate pain, stress and tension is performed by rubbing,
pinching and kneading the body properly. Pressure is
applied to the soft tissues of the body, ligaments, joints
and muscles to increase the blood flow of the body.
Massaging the body also helps in digestion and reduces
swelling and inflammation. A gentle massage can induce
relaxation by reducing the raised blood pressure and the
levels of stress chemicals like cortisol. For improving
mobility and flexibility, a stronger massage is
recommended. It stimulates proper blood circulation, thus
providing constant supply of oxygen and nutrients to body
tissues.
Depending on the different reasons for applying massage,
various types have emerged. The Chair massage reduces
tension in the back, neck and shoulders by providing better
blood circulation. It provides the best way for
revitalizing oneself. For carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches
and whiplash, Deep muscle therapy is an effective option.
It restores circulation of blood, thus provides relief from
neck and back pain. A part of lovemaking is the Erotic
massage that involves massaging the genitals for sexual
arousal and orgasm. The sore spots of the sole are healed
with the help of the Foot or Sole massage.
It involves breaking down of crystals and increasing the
blood circulation, thus relieving pain. It is believed that
the painful spots reflect illness in other parts of the
body.
Postural imbalance is cured through the neuromuscular
therapy. There are other useful types of massages like the
Beema massage, Deep tissue therapy, the Hawaiian Lomilomi
massage, scalp massage, soft tissue therapy and more.
Releasing endorphins to prevent pain and increase the blood
and oxygen flow in the affected area is done with the help
of Acupressure. Aromatherapy makes use of essential oils
derived from herbs, roots and flowers. These essential
oils, taken from the plants, are mixed with massage creams
and oils to increase their efficiency.
Ayurvedic massage, involving the use of warm oils and
herbs, helps to strike the perfect balance of the three
life energy forces - the energy of structure, digestion and
movement.
Massaging the body helps in relieving the aching muscles
and relaxing the whole body. Proper massage treatment
reduces pain, mental stress, headaches and calms the
nervous system. Massaging the body aids in recovery of
injuries and illness.
Regular massage is beneficial for office workers as it
makes them more alert and less stressed. Apart from
providing a calming effect on the mind, massaging decreases
the effects of pain, depression, anxiety and tension.
Sharon Albright is the owner of Massage Therapy Site. Read more articles
on massage therapy and visit her recommended resources.
