Massage Therapy: Benefits
I'll explain massage to those who haven't had the pleasure of using it before or haven't heard of it. Massage has been utilized for many centuries. It is a practice that dates back to the early Chinese who believed that applying pressure on the skin would treat injuries and pain. Massage has become an expertly trained and skilled art form, which is used worldwide by thousands. There are many types of massage that are available that each target the specific issue like inflammation, soreness or muscle tightness.
It's now recognized as an essential art of healing, and many major health insurance companies will cover the cost of massage therapy. Many insurance companies require that massage therapists have a license, because they have been trained to provide basic touch and manipulation to patients. One of my most favorite things about massage therapy was being able to touch and manipulate patients. This was one of the questions I was often asked when I was a teacher at a top massage institute.
The answer is Communication. After spending over 25 years as a massage therapist I've found that massage helps improve communication between therapist and patient. This is especially important in everyday life, as we are constantly bombarded by messages from others as we go about our daily lives. Humans are constantly bombarded by messages. Massage therapists become the link between the patient and the therapy provider, creating a space in which the therapist can help the client reach the goals they desire in life.
In addition to communicating with the touch of a massage, it also transmits messages via touch. The massage therapist might apply gentle pressure to certain muscles or areas of your body while you're receiving massage. These muscles can become tense due to emotional stress or pressure at work or simply from the stress of life. Through the use of pressure points on your body, your therapist is communicating your needs and aiding you relax tension. A good therapist will take note of the sensations and inform you whether they're being gentle or harsh.
A lot of people get a massage every day. To be effective every client should feel the touch of the therapist on their bodies. Some clients might only touch their head, and although it's fine to do this when it comes to massage therapy, if a client feels more contact than their hands, this could indicate that the therapist is over stimulating the client's muscles. If you'd like to feel the hands of your therapist, ask if he or she would like to massage your back or your legs.
When the communication has started, it will be important to maintain it. As we've mentioned, it is very common for individuals to breathe deeply during massage therapy. When receiving a massage that is effective, the client should breath in a normal manner, and release all tension from the body. Although the ultimate purpose of a massage is relaxation, holding your breath can be dangerous. The therapist works to relax muscles and can cause discomfort. Move your legs and arms to help you breathe easier if you struggle to let your breath go after an massage.
Another important factor to keep in mind is that people who participate in regular massages are less likely to be depressed or stressed. Patients who have suffered injuries or are suffering from chronic illnesses tend to be exhausted after a massage. Sessions with a therapist regularly could be beneficial to those who need mental or emotional support in their everyday lives. Important to remember that the therapist must remain consistent in order to ensure that the client is getting the results they want. If the therapist starts to suddenly lose focus and become lax in the way he or she conducts his work, the client may be annoyed and likely to feel worse.
Overall, the advantages from massage therapy are immense. Many people believe that massage is vital to their lives due to the significant benefits it can bring. For others massage benefits are realized on a few different levels. It doesn't matter whether you believe massage is an essential element of your life. But, consistent use can bring numerous benefits to your body and mind.