Massage, A Beneficial Indulgence

I used to think going for a professional massage was just an indulgent luxury.

Last year, I went to for help with neck pain and headaches. I only went there hoping for a little pain relief, and  I found that it did help my neck, but it relieved stress and emotional pain, as well. This so-called luxury was making me feel better and allowing me to be a better me.

According to massagetherapy.com, some of the benefits of massage include alleviating pain, enhancing immunity, increasing flexibility and decreasing depression and anxiety. The website also points out that many illnesses are caused by stress. Without a doubt, massage can reduce stress, which can enhance sleep quality, increase energy and improve concentration, among other benefits.

Barbara Toman is a Brecksville resident and  has been a licensed massage therapist for 11 years. She says that she has a passion for the healing arts. She has her own massage business, BodyWiseLLC, and she also practices massage therapy at Solia Spa in Brecksville. Her massage skills range from prenatal massage to sports massage, and she has special training in reiki, massage for the childbearing years, sports massage, Swedish massage and chair massage.  I met with her to find out more from the therapist's perspective. 

“As a therapist, you utilize a multitude of skills, as well as intuition and adapt to the client's needs," Toman said. "Every session is unique to the client. The most important thing is to be present for your client, be intentional about your massage.”

Toman said that anyone receiving a massage should let the therapist know if they are uncomfortable.

“Most therapists will ask before a massage if you like the pressure. Massage should not be painful, and always know that a massage therapist in the state of Ohio need to be licensed by the State of Ohio Medical Board to be called a massage therapist,” she said.

I kept hearing more about various types of massage, so I referred back to the extensive glossary at the website massagetherapy.com to find out more about specific types of massage. Some examples:

• Chair massage is a less expensive and convenient option for many. The client sits in a specially designed chair and is massaged through the clothing, using no oils. The focus of chair massage is the neck, shoulders and back.
• Swedish massage is a commonly taught technique and designed to stimulate circulation. The client typically is covered by a sheet, massage oils are used and therapists use a combination of massage techniques like kneading and tapping.
• Craniosacral therapy is a very gentle technique used to assist the natural movement of fluid within the spine and the skull. This therapy is said to help with sensory, motor or neurological difficulties.

Brecksville has quite a few resources for massage. Brecksville Massage and Wellness, Restoring Touch, BodyWise, Solia Spa and Be In The Tao are just a few that I’m familiar with. 

The price for a massage varies, ranging from $35  to more than $200 per hour. Some insurance plans cover massage if it is prescribed by a doctor or chiropractor, so check your plan first.

Massage is a luxury, but it also has medical and emotional benefits. Go ahead and indulge!