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The old saying is true - "look
after your body and it will look
after you". Everything hinges
on how healthy you stay -
healthy in a "holistic" way.
Today we all experience stress,
many even know about the
detrimental effect it has on
one's mind and spirit; and how,
over a period of time, stress
manifests itself in the body in
the form of dis-ease.
Massage is an excellent way to
de-stress. Receiving massage on
a regular basis will serve to
maintain an individual's sense
of well-being and prevent the
onset of possible illness.
Massage benefits individuals on
many levels. On the
psychological and emotional
level it allows one to feel
accepted and respected which
assists in building self esteem
and self acceptance, which in
turn go a long way toward
dispelling any signs of
potential depression.
Physically, massage has been
proven to stimulate blood
circulation, move lymph faster
through the body thus helping
the detoxification process, tone
muscles, and lubricate the skin
to maintain its elasticity.
Massage releases endorphins in
the body which promote a feeling
of well-being which in turn
encourages self-healing of
damaged cells. It provides a
small slice of time during which
peace, tranquility, pleasant
music and a soothing touch can
be experienced. Massage and
body treatments give you the
opportunity to escape from the
hectic and demanding world while
you do something positive for
your health and general
wellness. Make the call and
reach for your piece of
serenity.
Namaste'
Definition of Massage types:
Swedish Massage - Is ideal for
de-stressing and having yourself
pampered, but don't underestimate the
value of what is sometimes perceived as
a "wimpie" massage. An over taxed
body benefits more from this relaxation
than from an intense Deep Tissue
Massage. The pressure is light to
medium and the strokes are long,
flowing, soothing -so falling asleep is
OK. It is also sometimes referred to as
relaxing massage, pampering etc.
Deep Tissue - Is when you have
tightness or "knots" in the shoulders,
neck, back, legs and even arms. The
pressure is deep and reaches deeper
layers of muscles, can be intense,
should not be painful, and is usually
very slow in order to allow the muscles
to process the work and respond in their
own time.
Sports Massage - This term gets
bandied about as a manly massage.
Actually it should be booked by
individuals who are about to take part
in some sporting activity within hours
of the massage or those who have just
completed the sporting activity. The
massage is brisk to warm up the muscles
and prepare them for the activity or
help stretch out the muscle to prevent
cramping post activity.
I've never had a massage what should I
expect?
Sometimes it can be intimidating, but
here are some facts to put you at ease.
Drink water several hours before and
after your massage. Tea, coffee, sodas
don't count - has to be cloud juice.
Remove whatever clothing you are
comfortable removing, however remember
that your privacy is respected and you
will be draped with a sheet or towel.
Also the fewer clothing articles the
massage therapist has to contend with
the better your massage will be.
Secondly once you are on the massage
table remember that you don't have to
help in any way unless the therapist
asks you. So let those arms and
legs just be, we'll move them as we
need. This is, after all, your
time for relaxation.
And thirdly, remember to breathe deeply
and let the breath out slowly.
Don't forget to communicate with your
therapist if the pressure or the
temperature is uncomfortable.
To get the most out of your massage.
Arrive on time. If you are going to a
spa, arrive early. Make use of the
steam room, sauna, jacuzzi or whatever
other facilities they offer before the
massage. It helps your muscles to loosen
and makes the massage more effective and
... you are paying for those extras.
Plan to stay a while afterwards to
absorb the healing effects of the
massage in a relaxation room. There will
be time soon enough for you to fight
traffic and re-enter the everyday chaos.
So enjoy!!!
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