Net Wellness recommends that massage can be used to increase circulation, enhance the immune system, promote nervous function, reduce blood pressure, relieve muscle tension and pain, improve mood, intellectual reasoning and job performance.
Some clients just come for a bit of pampering but many come with a specific problem relating to stress, injury, post-surgery and even headaches.
“I think we sometimes undervalue the benefits of massage.
So often today, we sit at a desk all day and the tension and stress build up in our body.
The more stress in our body the worse it performs.”
Massage can counteract that by allowing muscle tissue to loosen which restores blood flow to all parts of the body. Those with circulatory problems benefit from massage, which lengthens muscles so they are not contracted. The fascia, a thin sheath of fibrous tissues enclosing a muscle/organ is helped.
“Fascia is intertwined into every muscle tissue in the body. It’s a huge part of our structure.
It’s wrapped around all our organs and it plays a big factor in our overall health.
Massage keeps the fascia hydrated and keeps fluid reaching all of the muscles.”
When we are feeling tight, it limits our ability to move properly.
Drinking plenty of fluids after a massage can aid the body in ridding of the toxins broken down during the massage.
“Massage regulates the nervous system.
Mood can be improved because massage helps release good endorphins.
And when you feel better, you can work more productively.”
When the myofascial surrounding the muscle and organs are tight, the body does not function at its optimum and can cause pain and dysfunction.
“The digestive system can be affected.
And if you are tight and tense, you don’t breathe properly.
So, routine massage can help with these body functions, too.”
Often people will experience problems with sciatic nerves which results in numbness down the leg. This happens when tight muscles put pressure on the nerve. Massage works on loosening the muscle to relieve numbness and discomfort.
Another benefit of routine massage is to strengthen the body preventing injury. Keeping muscles elastic, greatly reduces the change of injury.
Here is a quick guide to the massage treatments available at The Devon Clinic:
Commonly known as Swedish massage or massage therapy. The masseuse uses long smooth strokes, kneading and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using lotion or oil. Swedish massage can be a very gentle therapy. It is a good therapy if you have not had a massage before.
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Aromatherapy Massage
A massage that uses one or more scented plant oils (essential oils) to address specific needs. The therapist can select oils that are stress-reducing, energising, balancing, relaxing, etc. Aromatherapy is particularly suited to stress-related conditions with an emotional component.
Heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centres in the body. The therapist may hold stones and apply gentle pressure. A hot stone massage is good for those who have muscle tension but enjoy a light massage.
This massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. This massage is used to chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural issues or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for up to 48 hours after treatment.
Sometimes known as a foot massage, it is more than this. Reflexology involves applying pressure to specific points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. It is very relaxing, especially for those who stand for long periods of time.
Specifically designed for those involved in physical activities but you do not need to be an athlete to have one, many who are an active benefit. The focus is not on relaxation but prevention and enhancing performance. Strokes are faster than Swedish massage. Facilitated stretching is a common technique. It helps to loosen and increase muscle flexibility.
A massage solely targeting the back. A back massage can vary in pressure and products used depending on client preference.
