Massage is the Ultimate in Relaxation and More

Long considered the ultimate in decadent pampering and relaxation, massage is actually a method for the masses that can do a lot more for a person’s well-being than simply feeling good.

There are over a hundred of types of massage now in practice, with more seeming to appear every day. But in most instances, when people think of massage they are thinking of what is known as Swedish massage.

This is a method that uses kneading and stroking motions on the superficial layers of the skin, often accompanied by the use of lotion or oil, to relax muscles and improve circulation by bringing nutrients and oxygen to the body’s largest organ.

Massage has Other Benefits

That would be enough for most who enjoy a good massage. But the therapy has been shown to have other benefits for the body as well. And often people with certain medical issues have found massage to be helpful.

Some of the conditions for which massage is used include:

  • Back strain or general pain

  • Muscle spasms, sprains, or strains

  • Respiratory and circulatory complaints

  • Post-operative or injury recovery

  • Arthritis, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome

  • Headaches and migraines

Massage therapy also help reduce stress and lower the levels of stress hormones. It also is said to improve the body’s immune system.

Other types of massage have become increasingly popular, including:

  • Aromatherapy massage, which adds scented oils to the experience

  • Hot stone massage, which uses heated, smooth stones to relax the muscles

  • Deep tissue, which targets deeper layers of muscle

  • Thai massage, which uses pressure on specific points, stretches, and compression to align the body’s energies

Massage is not for everyone

There are those, however, who should avoid massage therapy. They include:

  • Those with rashes or skin infections

  • People who have just had an operation or chemotherapy

  • Those who carry a risk of developing blood clots

Pregnant women should check with their doctor, though there are specialists in pregnancy massage.

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