What is Massage Therapy?
Massage Therapy is a profession in which the practitioner applies manual techniques and may apply adjunctive therapies with the intention of positively affecting the health and well-being of the client.
What is Therapeutic Massage?
Therapeutic Massage involves the manipulation of the soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate discomfort, muscle spasm, stress, and to promote health and wellness. Therapeutic Massage is not a replacement for medical attention, consult your doctor, if your unsure about your state of health, before receiving bodywork. Therefore, Therapeutic Massage may not be recommended in some cases, such as inflammation of the veins (phlebitis), infectious diseases, certain forms of cancer, some skin conditions and some cardiac problems.
What can Therapeutic Massage do for me?
Today, research studies are ongoing proving the physical and mental therapeutic benefits, massage has on ones well-being. There are numerous benefits, the following is only a partial list; lowers cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress – reduces stress, helps relieve muscle tension, reduces muscle spasms, increases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, reduces blood pressure, improves circulation of blood and lymph fluids, strengthens the immune system, improves joint flexibility and range of motion, fosters peace of mind, reduces levels of anxiety, helps relieve mental stress and more.
How does Therapeutic Massage help stress?
Therapeutic Massage helps balance the effects of stress in our lives and avoid stress related disease and dysfunction as follows; Triggers the relaxation response, relaxes tense muscles, reduces anxiety level, normalizes blocked energy flow, improves immune system functioning, restores a calm mind and feeling of well-being.
Why is it necessary to fill out a health intake questionnaire?
To insure the client has a safe and beneficial session, the massage therapist needs to know the reasons for you getting a massage, current physical condition, medical history, experiences with specific areas of pain, life style and stress level. It’s essential, for the massage therapist to make sure there aren’t any conditions present that rule out having a massage, due to any health risks. Then, the massage therapist needs to know what your needs are regarding the massage, along with your expectations and goals for the session. Lastly, the information you provide helps the massage therapist determine what techniques to use and how to structure the session.
What is a full-body session like?
Once you’ve completed the health intake process and the structure of your session is determined, the massage therapist will ask you to remove clothing to your comfort level. Disrobing takes place in private and a sheet, towel or gown is provided for draping. The massage therapist will undrape only the part of your body being massaged, insuring that modesty is respected at all times. The massage session takes place on a comfortable padded massage table. The table will have some extra attachments and cushions, such as; a face rest which allows you to lie, in a face down position without turning your head and neck. If you don’t like using any attachments, ask the massage therapist to remove it or not use it. Expect a peaceful and comfortable environment throughout your massage session.
What can I do to get the most from my massage – before, during, and after, the session?
Before your receive your session, it’s a good idea not to eat any large or heavy meals, sugar, caffeine, or other stimulants. Be on time for your session and give the massage therapist accurate health information. Good communication is very important, so before the session, let your massage therapist know what your needs are. During the massage session report any discomfort, whether it is from the massage or due to any problems or distractions related to the environment, such as; room temperature, music volume, lighting, etc. Feel free to give feedback to the massage therapist regarding the massage, such as; draping, amount of pressure, speed of movement, etc. Also, tightening up/contracting your muscles during the massage is counterproductive. If you are able, relax those muscles and let your massage therapist know this is happening. She may need to adjust the massage technique being used and help you relax the affected area. Also, to facilitate the relaxation, don’t hold your breath, this does not help with the muscle tension. After the massage session, if you are dizzy or light headed do not get off the table until it has passed. Finally, be sure to drink plenty of water after the session, to facilitate cleansing of the bodily systems.
Why use self-care techniques after a massage session?
In between your scheduled massage sessions, one can do relaxation techniques, gentle exercises to increase flexibility, release tension by contracting and releasing muscles, pressing “trigger points” or using ice and heat. These, plus other techniques, are just some ways to continue your health care maintenance outside the Massage Therapy office, to enhance your healing process and well-being.
Do you have monthly specials or incentive programs?
Yes, a choice of various offers are given, to help clients save money either on a monthly basis or with ongoing incentives. (frequent client, referrals, gift certificates, packages)
