Massage
What is massage?
Massage is a stroking and manipulation of the skin, muscles, tissues or ligaments. There are many types of massage, some for specific parts of the body. Massage focuses on emotional conditions as well as physical conditions, thereby creating a healthy balance between body and spirit.
There are many benefits to massage, some of these include:
- Relief of muscle tension
- Increased mobility and flexibility
- Preventing injury by relaxing muscles
- Stimulating circulation, which helps oxygen and nutrients to reach organs and tissues
- Relief of stress and anxiety
- Helping to clear lactic acid and other waste
What massage involves:
This depends on the massage type. Sessions can last from 30 to 90 minutes; they can take place either in a massage table or in a chair and the amount of pressure used will vary, again depending on the type of massage and the part of the body being worked on. The area to be massaged may be uncovered and creams and oils are sometimes used to facilitate the process. The results can vary as well. You may feel energized, tired, relaxed, or a bit sore afterwards.
Types of massage
Sport massage;
This can be used both before and after physical activities. It prepares the muscles by relieving tension, improving flexibility and reducing tissue stress which can lead to injury. After physical activity, sport massage can help to heal muscles by making them remain strong and flexible.
Massage in pregnancy and labour;
This type of massage helps prepare and support the body through a period of change, aid to relieves pain and relax the body. Skin stimulation releases a hormone which reduces stress levels, not only on the mother but indirectly on the foetus as well.
Face massage: This is a gentle form of massage which stimulates pressure points and restores the suppleness of the skin to improve its elasticity and vitality. The benefits of face massage include, Toned and improved complexion, Relaxed face and vibrant appearance and Lessens wrinkles and expression lines
Holistic Massage: Sometimes referred to as Swedish massage, this is a type of massage that uses a soft stroking of the hands to ease muscles, calm and relax the mind and body. It can be used to improve circulation, Decrease in high blood pressure, improvement in physical and mental fatigue and improvement in toxin elimination
Hot stone massage:
Despite its name, hot stone massage can use both warmed and cooled stones. It is derived from an ancient healing art of therapy using various massage techniques. This provides a totally relaxing, therapeutic experience, deep muscle and tissue relaxation and alleviates stress.
Indian head massage:
Based on traditional techniques practice in India, this type of massage is done through the clothing on the upper back and arms, shoulders, neck, face and scalp. It help to relax the major muscle groups in the neck and shoulders and restore flexibility .The circulatory and lymphatic systems are stimulated and toxins release from muscles. Excellent for tension headaches, eyestrain, stress related symptoms.