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What Kind of Massage is Right for You?
from: Cathy TaylorMassage feels sinfully good, doesn't it? The truth is, massage is one of the
best things you can do for yourself; especially during times of change such as
menopause.
This soothing therapy has been shown to lower blood press, reduce muscle
pain, improve joint flexibility and alleviate headaches, just to name a few of its
healing powers.
Most people think of massage in terms of muscle aches, but it's much more
than that. It increases blood flow to your muscles, tissue and every cell in your
body which brings oxygen and nutrients to these critical areas. It also
stimulates lymphatic flow, improving tissue drainage and the immune system.
Here are some of the different strokes you have to choose from:
Acupressure
An ancient Chinese technique involves the therapist using his fingers to press
key points on the skin to release muscle tension and promote circulation and
energy flow. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same points, but
acupuncture involves needles. The pressure restores balance to the body and
treats ailments such as headaches, menstrual cramps and constipation.
Swedish Massage
This is probably the most common form of massage in the US. Its main goal
is relaxation and improved circulation. The therapist applies oil to the skin and
uses flowing strokes and kneading movements to relieve tension from the
muscles.
Deep Tissue Massage
This type of massage is more vigorous and uses various styles to loosen the
muscles. It helps break patterns of tension, relieves chronic pain, including
inflammation-related pain such as tendonitis and improves range of motion.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is Japanese for ˇ°finger pressure.ˇ± This technique is similar to
acupressure where the practitioner uses their finger, thumb, palm, elbow,
knee (and sometimes even walk on you) to put pressure on acupuncture
healing points. This unblocks the flow of energy and encourages blood and
lymphatic flow. It also promotes relaxation and strengthens the body against
disease and restores balance.
Sports Massage
This treatment incorporates several massage techniques which is great for
athletes. It keeps the body flexible, increases performance and assists in
rehabilitation from an injury.
Hot Stone Therapy
During this therapy, heated stones are placed strategically on the body which
dilates blood vessels and gets blood and oxygen flowing into tense areas. It
can feel like a body ˇ°rush.ˇ± The soothing heat can also prepare the body for
deep-tissue work as well as alleviate PMS symptoms.
Aromatherapy Massage
The therapist incorporates essential oils extracted from herbs, flowers and
roots into the massage. They select the proper oils based on a particular
physical condition and blend them into a massage oil or lotion. The end result
is a relaxing massage tailored to your individual needs.
Reiki
This therapy is an Eastern method meaning ˇ°universal life energy.ˇ± It brings
healing energy to the organs and glands in order to bring the body back into
balance and help prevent disease. The massage practitioner places their
hands on or just above the body to realign chakras and dissolve toxic
substances from your physical and emotional being. People often feel
warmth or tingling sensations during Reiki.
Pregnancy Massage
This massage focuses on a pregnant woman's needs including swollen hands
and feet, stress on weight-bearing joints, exhaustion and lower back pain.
And of course the practitioner positions you to accommodate your baby bump.
Craniosacral Therapy
This therapy involves the Craniosacral system which extends from the skull to
the bottom of the spine and consists of the brain, spinal cord, cerebrospinal
fluid and surrounding membranes. The practitioner uses a light touch to
restore cerebrospinal fluid movement. This can help treat such conditions as
headaches, eye and ear problems as well as whiplash and back pain.
About the Author
Cathy Taylor is a marketing consultant with over 25 years experience.
She specializes in internet marketing, strategy and plan development,
as well as management of communications and public relations programs
for small business sectors. She can be reached at Creative Communications:
creative-com@cox.net or by visiting www.everythingmenopause.com or
www.internet-marketing-small-business.com or www.howtoconquermenopause.com
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