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It is time to rest. Rest is a time of peace for the mind and spirit: a time of inactivity. In order to rest, we first have to reduce stress and relax. An excellent tool of relaxation is massage.
What is massage?
The most well known type of massage is Swedish massage. Massage is one of the oldest forms of healing art, dating back to 460 B.C. A Therapist rubs the human body to feel for muscle knots, stiffness, rigidity and to get a sense of the clients overall health and energy level. Massage involves the stroking kneading and pressing of the soft tissues of the body in order to induce a state of total relaxation.
Why massage?
Most clients choose a massage in order to relax or for pain relief. Generally, they see massage has a luxury, however in reality regular massage is necessary for optimal health. Massage can be beneficial to improve blood circulation, muscle flexibility and respiration. Massage can also aid in digestion and excretion of environmental toxins and metabolic wastes. Massage in theory is a "tune up” for the body. Massage is recommended, at minimum, once a month. Ideally, one would receive a massage weekly.
Types of Massage
Several types of massage have been developed over the years. As man evolved so has the healing art of massage. Each massage method has been designed to meet the specific needs of the individual. A few of these include cellulite massage, lymphatic massage, prenatal or pregnancy massage, infant massage, reflexology, acupressure and sports massage. When scheduling a massage, ask your Therapist what is right for you.
What should I look for in a good massage Therapist?
Massage is a form of communication with your Therapist; you can expect to have a verbal, physical and spiritual exchange. Even if you are nervous about your first massage, you should feel comfortable with the Therapist. Trust your instincts. If you are uncomfortable, it is your right to request a different Therapist. A Certified Massage Therapist (CMT) has been extensively trained in human anatomy and physiology and in the adverse effects massage can have on certain medical conditions. While they are not doctors and cannot give medical treatment or advice, the Therapist should be able to speak intelligently about the most common medical conditions and how massage may be beneficial to you.
Where do I find a massage Therapist? What should I expect?
Massage Therapists can be found at Doctors offices, spas, or chiropractors.
The most common duration for a massage session is 50-60 minutes. You can schedule a shorter session but you really are cheating yourself of the total experience. Massage is performed on a padded table adjusted to the height of the massage Therapist. The Therapist should go over your medical history and any concerns you may have before beginning the massage. After your consultation, the Therapist should instruct you to undress to "your level of comfort” and politely excuse themselves form the room. Massage is best received if you are completely undressed. If you are not comfortable with removing all of your clothing, at minimum remove your bra and socks. After you are undressed, lie on the table and cover yourself with the sheet and or blanket provided.
During the massage, the Therapist will uncover one part of the body at a time to perform the massage. If you are receiving a full body massage, you can expect your entire body to be massaged with the exception of your breasts (the nipple should never be touched) and genitals. If you are fortunate enough to receive your massage in an exotic location, breasts massage maybe the norm. (The pectoral muscle lies beneath the breast tissue). If you are concerned about anything before, after or during the session ask plenty of questions!
Common concerns and misconceptions
The Therapist is looking at my body.
Trust me they are not. A Therapist is concerned about your health and giving you the best massage therapy as possible. Not about the dimples in your thighs
The massage will hurt.
If a muscle is already tense when the Therapist begins to massage it, yes, it may be uncomfortable but it should not be painful. If the massage is painful, ask your Therapist to use less pressure.
I will feel vulnerable with my clothes off in front of a stranger. Remember massage involves communication between you and the therapist. Take control of the conversation and remember they are professionals.
I can’t afford a massage.
You can’t afford to be healthy, have more energy and live longer? It is a little known fact that both Bob Hope and George Burns, who both lived to be 100 years old, received a massage every day. It’s worth the money. You won’t miss a hair appointment, nail appointment or even a regular oil change for your vehicle, so why would you not add massage to your maintenance routine?
The best massage Therapist known to man said…
"Come to me all that labor and are heavy laden, I will give you rest.” -Jesus [1]
"Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest…” [2]
[1]Matthew 11:28
[2]Hebrews 4:10