It’s easy to think that if you’re feeling anxious and sore you have no choice but to take over-the-counter pain relief and continue your day. James Bodner, licensed massage therapist says you don’t have to just grin and bear it.
Bodner states that massage can be used to relieve stress, relax, and ease muscle tension. Learn more about the different types of massage available and how they can benefit you.
What is massage therapy?
Massage therapy, which is done by licensed massage therapists, involves the use of different pressures and movements to manipulate muscles and other soft tissue in the body. Massage therapy has the goal to slow down your nervous system and relieve stress, tension, pain, injuries and improve wellness.
Massage therapy: Types
Massages come at all price points. Here are some examples of what you might find in a massage menu.
Swedish massage
Feeling stressed? Swedish massages are a classic choice for relaxation. Swedish massages are a full-body massage near me with a gentle touch. This massage is great for anyone new to the art of massage. It can calm your nervous system. Bodner states that Swedish massage can help you relax and have a positive impact on your muscles.
Deep tissue massage
Repetitive use of something, such as sitting, driving, or hunching over a laptop can cause muscles to become tight. Bodner says deep tissue massage can get into your muscles and trigger the release of tightness. It is beneficial for anyone with chronic pain, injuries or general muscle tightness.
Sport massage
Similar to deep-tissue massaging, sports massages focus on the muscles that have taken a beating from repetitive activities or playing sports. Bodner states that dancers and athletes use their bodies in a different way than the average person. “Sports massage is an excellent way for therapists to address tight muscles and treat injuries.”
Trigger point massage
A trigger point is a knot in your neck, or a tight spot on your back. Bodner explains, “A trigger point can be a tiny muscle spasm/tight spot in the tissue.” The massage therapist applies focused pressure to those trigger points using a massage. This causes blood to flow more easily and allows for the body’s natural healing process. This type of massage can be beneficial for those suffering from chronic pain.
Myofascial Release
The fascia, a network of connective tissues under the skin, is what we call the “web” of fascia. Bodner explained that the fascia supports our muscles and allows us freedom of movement. Myofascial releases are performed by a massage therapist who will stretch and knead the muscles and fascia. This is to relieve tension and tightness. She says that myofascial release is a deep stretching technique often combined with therapeutic massage techniques. It is great for loosening tension in your neck, shoulders, upper and lower back.
Lymphatic massage
The body’s lymphatic fluid performs many functions including maintaining fluid levels, removing waste products and maintaining fluid levels. Lymphatic massage employs a gentle touch to allow lymphatic fluid to flow more freely throughout the body. Bodner says lymphatic massage is beneficial for anyone suffering from inflammation.
Prenatal massage
Prenatal massages are great for moms-to be. They can help with the stress and anxiety that comes with carrying a baby. Bodner says that prenatal massages are great for easing the pressure on the hips as well as reducing swelling in the feet, legs and feet. And when mom feels good and relaxed, so does the baby.
Massage can have many health benefits
While massage therapy is beneficial for everyone, it has been proven to be especially helpful for people with various medical conditions, such as heart disease, stomach problems, and fibromyalgia. Prior to the first session, you should talk to your therapist to discuss any medical concerns. These are just a few of the benefits that massage therapy offers.
Reduce stress and anxiety
According to a study, massages can help reduce stress and anxiety. Two nervous systems control your body. One is the sympathetic nervous, which controls your “fight-or-flight” response in stressful situations. The other is the parasympathetic nervous. It focuses more on everyday operations and routines that can lead to relaxation and rest. Your parasympathetic reaction to massage may be increased, which can help reduce anxiety.
Sleep quality is improved
Massages can lower cortisol (a stresshormone) and increase dopamine and serotonin levels, which are neurotransmitters known for stabilizing your mood. Studies show that massage therapy can be beneficial to those suffering from insomnia due to menopause, congestive heart disease, and other conditions.
You can reduce muscle tension and pain.
Numerous studies have investigated how massage can help reduce pain like pain in the neck, back, and knees. Results showed that short-term relief is more common than long-term. In some cases, multiple 60-minute massages per week were better than shorter or less frequent massages.
Improves immune function
Can a massage boost your immune system? According to a study, regular massages may increase the body’s production of white blood cells that fight viruses.
It relieves constipation
Study shows that abdominal massages may be beneficial for constipation sufferers after surgery.
Lessens fibromyalgia symptoms
Studies show that massage can be used for five weeks to improve sleep quality, mood, memory, and mood. Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease that causes joint and muscle pains and fatigue.
Reduces pain from cancer
Cancer treatments can be very difficult for people who are undergoing treatment. Massage therapy has been used to decrease cancer pain, increase relaxation, and improve the quality of one’s life. There have been many studies. Some don’t show that massage therapy can reduce cancer pain, while others do.
Who should consider massage therapy?
Massages can be very beneficial to many of us. They are a great way for people to feel better, reduce pain, and improve their overall wellbeing. Talk to your doctor about any medical condition. A prenatal massage is a great option for those pregnant.
Bodner says, “There are so many great reasons to see a masseuse.”
You aren’t sure which massage you should get? It doesn’t matter if you are a novice or a pro at massage. Actually, massage therapists may use a variety of techniques to address your individual concerns.
Bodner says that massages can be performed in a variety of ways. “A massage therapist employs a combination of techniques in order to help you relax and get rid of tight muscles.
