My 8-year-old son wanted to help me write this article. When I asked him about the healing benefits of massage, he exclaimed, "It feels good!" And he added, "It's actually good for you. You can feel how much the person cares about you."
My son has enjoyed massage since he was a little guy. Massage is healing for people of all ages. It is calming, helps with growing pains, and stretches tight muscles. It improves circulation by moving lymph and blood, gently squeezing out the muscles like a sponge so that old blood can leave and fresh blood and nutrients can come in. This action strengthens the immune system, helps muscles to be more flexible, makes it easier to avoid and heal injuries, promotes relaxation, increases the production of happy neurotransmitters, and allows deep healing to happen.
According to the Mayo Clinic's website, "studies have shown that massage may be helpful for anxiety, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia, headaches, insomnia related to stress, myofascial pain syndrome, soft tissue strains or injuries, sports injuries, and temporomandibular joint pain. Beyond benefits for specific conditions or diseases, some people enjoy massage because it often produces feelings of caring, comfort, and connection."
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There are many different styles of massage. Swedish or relaxation massage has a lighter pressure. For deeper pressure, you may hear terms such as deep tissue massage, sports massage, and trigger point massage. Most Licensed Massage Therapists are trained in different styles of massage, and will combine styles to cater the massage to the pressure that you would like in different areas. It is a good idea to specify ahead of time if you would like a certain style so that the appointment is booked appropriately.
During a massage, communication is important. If you would like more or less pressure, or if there is an area that you would like the massage therapist to focus on, be sure to let them know. It is ideal to feel relaxed during a massage, and many people get so relaxed that they drift off to sleep.
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Massage isn’t just a luxury; it’s a good thing to incorporate into your health care regimen. By taking care of yourself, you are better able to take care of others. There are different lengths of massage to fit your budget, and it’s worth every penny.
Your Licensed Massage Therapist will discuss your health history and make a plan that fits your goals. This plan may include the areas to focus on and how often to come in. If you are working on a health problem, once or twice a week could be of great benefit. If you are receiving massage to stay healthy, once a week or a minimum of once a month is a great idea. Coming in once in a while is better than not at all!
Are you seeking relaxation, healing, or more comfort in your body? Now is the perfect time to set up your massage!
Dr. Megan Marco, Doctor of Acupuncture, Licensed Acupuncturist, is the owner and clinic director of Stonington Natural Health Center. She and the Licensed Massage Therapists of SNHC enjoy helping people with all health concerns, including pain, stress, fertility, anxiety, depression, diseases, and digestion problems. We look forward to helping you, your friends, and your family. 860.536.3880 www.snhc.com
