Massage therapy is a branch of alternative medicine that uses touch to manipulate the body's soft tissues. The goal of massage therapy is to promote relaxation and well-being. Massage therapists use a variety of techniques, including kneading, effleurage, and petrissage, to achieve their desired results. Massage therapy is beneficial for various conditions, including headaches, stress, anxiety, and back pain.
There are many different types of massage therapy, and each one offers unique benefits. If you are looking for a way to reduce stress, promote relaxation, or relieve pain, then massage might be the perfect solution. But with so many different types of massage to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you?
This type of massage type is the most common form of massage widely used. It is also known as regular massage. Swedish massage uses gentle pressure with long and smooth strokes to the muscles. The massage therapist utilizes kneading and circular motions with the help of massage oils to make it friction-free.
Swedish Massage is the go-to choice for those new to massage therapies looking to relax and lower their stress.
Deep tissue uses more significant pressure to penetrate deeper muscles where they are tight and knotted. Many seek deep tissue massages to relieve chronic pain in their necks, upper backs, lower backs, legs, and shoulders.
Deep tissue massage is perfect for athletes or labor workers who repeatedly use the same muscles to perform specific actions because it relieves tensed muscles.
Lymphatic massage helps improve lymphatic flow. Lymphatic fluid is an integral part of the body's immune system. It helps to circulate white blood cells and remove waste from the tissues. Those who are suffering from inflammation can benefit from Lymphatic Massage.
The therapist uses slow and circular motion in this massage around the armpits and neck while applying pressure to stimulate the lymphatic system and drain fluids.
Reflexology massage is a type of massage that involves applying pressure to specific areas of the feet, hands, and ears. The theory behind reflexology is that these areas are connected to different parts of the body and that by stimulating them, it is possible to promote healing in other parts of the body. Reflexology is often used as a complementary treatment for a wide range of conditions, including headaches, back pain, and fatigue.
Dopamine is one hormone that can be released during a massage that is helpful in reducing pain.
Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils to promote physical and psychological well-being. Essential oils are natural compounds extracted from plants and have been used for centuries in various cultures for their healing properties. The aromatic molecules in essential oils interact with the limbic system, the part of the brain that controls emotions and memory. This can lead to a reduction in stress and anxiety and an improvement in mood and focus.
The essential oils are added to the massage oil or lotion and then massaged into the skin. Aromatherapy massage has been shown to be beneficial for a variety of conditions, including stress, anxiety, headaches, and insomnia.
A hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy that uses smooth, heated stones to help relieve muscle tension and pain. The heat from the stones helps to increase circulation and promotes relaxation. Hot stone massages are typically performed with smooth, oiled basalt stones of varying sizes. The therapist will place the stones on specific areas of your body, such as your back, abdomen, or chest. The therapist may also hold the stone while massaging other parts of your body. A hot stone massage is usually 60-90 minutes long and is performed with the client lying on a massage table.
The result is a profoundly relaxing experience that can often provide relief from chronic pain. Hot stone massages are typically safe for most people, but pregnant women and those with certain medical conditions should consult a doctor before booking a session.
Belden Village Chiropractic and Wellness Center offers massage therapy services for many different conditions. If you need a relaxing massage or to get relief from your condition, call or visit us today.
References:
https://www.closingthegap.ca/
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/