MASSAGE

Few people in the world would turn down a massage, if offered to them.
The gentle or firm caress of the skin helps to release muscular tension while
also helping to realign the body so that it is free of pain and tightness.

Unlike rolfing, massage is focused on the release of stress within the muscles
– not necessarily helping the body balance itself.
Of course, this can be a welcome 'side effect.'
Massage works through the direct manipulation of the muscles with the
hands and body weight.
A masseuse will push into the layers of muscle until they feel them release.
By using a number of techniques, the massage therapist can attack various
tense spots and help them loosen up.
They aren't using their hands to push the muscles either, but rather they are
using their body weight to help the hands sink into the muscle layers.
For example, on your back near the shoulders, there are several layers of
muscles that can be stimulated. Some massage practitioners will start by
relaxing the outer muscles, allowing the inner muscles to become exposed
and accessible for more stimulation.
It's a long and drawn out process, but since much muscle tension is deeper
than the surface, it's necessary for getting the full benefits of the massage.
These techniques include:
• Kneading
taking pieces of flesh or muscle into the hands and rubbing
• Tapping
using the tips of the fingers to tap at the muscles
• Cupping
cupping the hands to help release muscular tension
• Stroking
using a lighter touch to sooth the outer muscles

These techniques are aided with a specially designed massage table that will
support the body and place it in the proper position for the masseuse to
access the muscles they need to touch.
The massage therapist will also use massage oils, lotions, or gels to help the
hands move easily along the skin.
This helps the pressure be even on the muscles that are being manipulated,
plus it soothes the client and helps them relax into the massage session.
Massage can take on many different forms:
• Deep tissue massage
This massage is best for those with extreme muscular tension. For
those who sit at their desks all day or those who workout regularly,
deep tissue massage will work hard to soothe sore muscles. While this
can be too painful for some people, it's certainly going to reduce your
tension.
• Swedish massage
The most often taught and used massage, Swedish massage uses long
strokes to help release tension in the body.
• Sports massage
This is used on professional athletes when they are injured or after an
intense workout, but it can also be used on average runners and
aerobic fanatics. By working on the muscles, the massage therapist
helps to break up the lactic acid that builds up and causes soreness.
• Myofascial release
By working on the face, the therapist helps to relieve tension that
surrounds the shoulders and the neck. This helps to realign the spinal
column in order to promote health.
But there are also Hellerwork, barefoot, craniosacral, neuromuscular, shiatsu,
hot stone massage and many others.
Just as everyone likes a certain favorite food, there will probably be one type
of massage that works better for you than any other one. Make sure to try
out several different kinds of massage when you're first trying out massage
for your aches and pains.
The benefits of massage include:
• Reduced pain
• Less muscle tension
• Fewer headaches
• More flexibility
• Less soreness after a workout
• Increased circulation
• Improved lymphatic system function
Not that you needed any more reasons to schedule a massage.
Massage should be done on a regular basis in order to reap the most
benefits. Once to twice a week is a good suggestion for the beginner to
massage.
You can find massage therapist at some chiropractic offices, spas, and
massage therapy offices.
After you have a massage, it's a good idea to drink plenty of water in order
to flush out any toxins that may have accumulated as the tissues of your
body are stimulated.