What is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy is a process of manual manipulation of the body's muscular and soft tissue structure through a variety of techniques ranging from relaxation to clinical and therapeutic applications.

 

What are the Benefits?

Massage encourages the feeding and development of the muscular system by stimulating its circulation and cell activity. A full-body massage causes the muscles to become both firmer and more elastic. Muscles too weak to be used voluntarily can be strengthened by a massage treatment. Massage is also an effective means of relaxing tense muscles and releasing muscle

spasms.

 

The supply of blood to the muscles is proportionate to their activity. It is estimated that blood passes three times faster through muscles being massaged than through muscles at rest. Particular massage movements create a pumping action that forces the venous blood and lymph onward, and brings a fresh supply of blood to the muscles. Massage aids in the removal of metabolic waste products and helps nourish surrounding tissues.

 

Muscle tissue that has been injured heals more quickly and with less scarring and adhesions when massage is applied regularly. Massage can have a positive effect on the range of motion of limbs that had previously been constrained by tissue injury, inflammation, muscle tension or strain. Endorphins (which are your happy hormones) are released during a massage naturally increasing how good you feel during and after. 

 

What do I wear during a massage?

During a massage you are covered by a sheet and blanket, only the area being worked on is exposed. You should dress down to your comfort level. Your privacy is always respected.

 

What should you expect after a Deep Tissue massage?

After a Deep Tissue massage, sometimes some soreness is felt; however, the muscle pain that brought you to this option will be alleviated. The soreness is much like what is associated with working out. Lactic Acid is released with both. Drinking plenty of water after your massage is helpful. A hot bath with Epsom salts or baking soda helps pull toxins out of your tissues, thus keeping you from getting as sore. 

 

Why Should I drink water after?

Water after a massage helps the body flush out any accumulated toxins in the tissues.

Massage stimulates circulation in the body while expressing water, salt and other minerals

from the muscles. Circulation is designed to carry away waste materials generated by cells.

 

Should I tip my therapist?

Tipping is never expected but always appreciated. 

 

How often should I get a massage?

If you want to enjoy cumulative benefits, you should receive a massage at least every 3 weeks.

Regular massages help prevent injures, boost your immune system and release and maintain

long term serotonin levels (an important neurotransmitter) which impacts and stabilizes mood,

appetite and much more.

 

Everyone has their own personal preference for how often they want to get a massage. It depends on many variables. Pain, stress, time and finances all come into  play. I have clients who come from once a week to once a month. Then, there are those who come in just when they are in pain or for a special occasion. See what works best for you.

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Massage really is a gift to yourself of self care. Taking time just for you. It's important.