We understand that Massage Therapy is not necessarily a part of everyone’s health regimen. It can seem indulgent or extravagant. When in reality, it’s actually proven to be very healing for the body. Massage Therapy goes back to many ancient Chinese, Greek, Egyptian, and Indian practices. Massage Therapy is the practice of kneading or applying pressure to muscles and/or soft tissue in order to improve health. There are so many benefits that come from Massage Therapy, read on to learn more.

Types of Massage Therapy

There are a number of different types of Massage Therapy; depending on the specific need for Massage Therapy, one might be more beneficial than others.

• myotherapy – involves the assessment and treatment of soft tissue pain, injury and dysfunction affecting movement and mobility. Myotherapy is applied to restore and maintain the health and function of the soft tissue structure (muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia) of the human body
• remedial – is the objective assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of the signs, symptoms and causes of biomechanical dysfunction or injury, using specific mobilisation techniques, in order to restore normal health and function
• therapeutic – also known as ‘Western’ or ‘Swedish’ massage. One of the most popular forms of massage in Australia, this technique is designed to promote relaxation and improve blood circulation
• lymphatic drainage – a gentle whole body treatment which relaxes the nervous system and aids the body’s immune system
• aromatherapy – essential oils made from selected flowers and plants are added to the massage oil for their particular therapeutic properties. For example, the scent of sandalwood is thought to reduce nervous tension
• reflexology – based on the principle that certain parts of the body reflect the whole. Reflex points, which relate to all parts of the body, can be found in the feet, hands, face and ears. These points respond to pressure, stimulating the body’s own natural healing process
• shiatsu – an oriental massage technique that aims to improve energy flow by working certain points on the body. The underlying principles of shiatsu massage are similar to those of acupuncture
• sports – this is an application of massage, not a particular massage technique. The type of technique or treatment applied is dependent on the nature of the stage of training or competition, sports injury or condition and the assessment of the remedial massage therapist. Sport massage is a blend of techniques that aim to enhance performance and help overworked muscles to recover quickly.

Massage Therapy Can Help with some Disorders

Massage therapy has been proven to help with chronic low back pain, anxiety, stress, high blood pressure, insomnia, soft tissue injuries, and Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS). Massage has even been known to help support people who suffer from chronic disease and even cancer.

Benefits of Massage Therapy

At the very least, Massages leave you feeling relaxed and calm. This is what a lot of people associate with massage exclusively. And while that is definitely one of the benefits, it is not the only benefit. But the reason you feel so relaxed and calm after a massage is because massages release endorphins, which is a chemical from the brain that gives feelings of well-being. In addition to this feeling of relaxation and tranquility, there are many many physical benefits that come from Massage Therapy. Some of those benefits include:

• Reduced muscle tension
• Relaxation
• Reduced stress hormones
• Improved skin tone
• Heightened mental alertness
• Improved circulation
• Reduced anxiety and depression
• Stimulation of the lymphatic system
• Increased joint mobility and flexibility
• Improved recovery of soft-tissue injuries

In this day and age, with heightened stress levels, massage therapy could be a very essential part of your health regimen. Self-care is important and should be a priority for all of us. F.u.e.l. Salon and Spa is excited to introduce Julie, massage therapist, to our Centennial location. She’s offering an awesome October special, call our salon to get scheduled. There are some cases where massage is not recommended. Be sure to check with your doctor first.