Massage Therapist

The delightful benefits of massage don’t appear out of nowhere. The immediate soothing effects of massage and the long term health benefits of massage occur not from occasional backrubs from friends, but from the trained arms of certified massage therapists. Trained arms would be an understatement, because massage therapists actually use their entire upper body trunk to apply correct pressure – if they merely used their hands and arms, they would quickly tire, and the necessary pressure would not be applied. When looking for a massage therapist, there are a few things that must be understood in the search. First of all, it is important to understand who exactly a massage therapist is, and how to find one suitable for your needs. The next step, of course, is to understand what massage therapists do – what their job encompasses and the actual art that they practice. With this knowledge in hand, a wise decision that will lead to less stress and better use of muscles will be much easier to make.

A massage therapist is a health professional who is certified and licensed to practice a range of massage therapies to improve the wellbeing of his or her patient. The completion of a massage school, which is accredited by the state that it is located in, is necessary to legally practice massage within a recognized location. Thus, a massage therapist can be found working in such varied locations as hospitals and clinics, their own private or group practices, health spas and resorts, and large sporting events. The general program of study required for a massage therapist includes courses in neurology, anatomy, pathology, first aid, physiology, combined with practice in western and eastern massage theories. It is important to note that a massage therapist does not replace medical treatment by a doctor, but can very well supplement a physician’s prescribed treatment. Physicians often recommend seeing a massage therapist, and can refer their patients to an appropriate therapist.

However, a massage therapist’s services are certainly not confined to doctor referrals. A massage therapist’s office can be a great place for the prevention of maladies. Seeing a massage therapist on a normal basis, even for the healthy person (although in today’s social climates, stress has become a factor in virtually everyone’s life, and negatively affects health), decreases stress on muscles, and thus decreases stress on the mind. Massage therapy also acts positively on circulation, immediately aiding the capillaries, so near to the surface of the skin, to circulate blood, as well as acting on the muscles aiding veins bring blood back to the heart. A massage therapist assesses his or her patient, and designs a massage therapy program specific to the needs of the client. Seeing a massage therapist regularly can also lead to disease prevention in referring patients to see doctors when a condition out of the scope of a massage therapist arises.

The massage techniques used have been both subjected to the test of time and scientific study. Many techniques are quite ancient, and with modern study shining more light on their secrets, we are learning that their effects certainly are positive on the body. Massage therapy affects both the muscles being manipulated, as well as certain internal organs, via the pressure points in our hands and feet that influence those specific organs. The techniques used by massage therapists are very varied, from the traditional Swedish massage, which is known to be especially beneficial for the lymphatic system and the circulation of the blood in the veins, to the less conventional reflexology massage, which is the massage affecting our organs through manipulation of points on our hands and feet. Many other types of massage therapy exist, and it is wisest to both research the type that will be most beneficial for your specific need, as well as consulting with your massage therapist which therapy will be right for you. While every massage therapist will be trained in a variety of techniques, no one massage therapist will be a specialist in all of the types.

The job of the massage therapist is to reduce the mental and physical effects of stress, to improve the general wellbeing of their client, to restore health and to prevent future sicknesses and disease. These desired effects are achieved via the various techniques of massage therapy, which are wide and varied. While a massage therapist is not a physician, and does not pretend to be one, the regular visiting of a certified massage therapist can be very beneficial for the health, as well as an important supplement to many medical treatments. As information about massage therapy becomes more widely available, the medical community has begun to incorporate massage therapy into modern medicine. Massage therapists, who study the ancient art of muscle manipulation through rubbing, are making their permanent appearance in the modern setting of the medical community.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=65669&ca=Medicines+and+Remedies

Therapeutic Massage

Therapeutic massage is the use of massage to heal mental and bodily aches and strains. Also known as manipulative therapy, therapeutic massage provides physical and psychological benefits. Physically, the effects of massage include injury healing, pain management and circulation improvement. The psychological aspects, through muscle manipulation leading to tension relief achieved by manipulating the muscles, are known to relieve stress. Multiple types of therapeutic massage exist, utilizing various techniques and concentrating on various parts or problems of the body. Therapeutic massage has a long and vivid history, and can claim Hippocrates and Julius Caesar as proponents of its uses and benefits.

Therapeutic massage, through the application of manual and/or mechanical-aid pressure to the soft tissues of the body, eases much of the accumulated tension in the muscles. This tension relief is extremely helpful in situations when time is the best medicine. For example, strained and pulled muscles will only cure after time and through patience; massage can be extremely helpful in making the former go by faster and the keeping the latter with you. Muscle aches and pains, which accumulate as a result of stress, are greatly soothed by massage. A continuous regimen of massage therapy can reduce the aches and pains in the long term as well as the short term. Bad circulation, which can be the result of many factors, can be increased through massage. Of course, a healthy lifestyle consisting of a correct diet and sufficient exercise is needed to maintain healthy circulation, but massage does stimulate the blood vessels near the skin, thus improving circulation nearest to the skin.

It is a known fact that when we feel good physically, our psychology improves as well. Massage feels good physically as it lightly stirs our muscles and puts pressure on sensitive spots. This physical calm affects the mental state as well. While tension and pain are being released from our bodies, the mind is able to rest at ease, forgetting the pressures, both physical and emotional, of everyday life. Physical and mental health are cyclically related, as we are also apt to be physically more active in life when we feel good psychologically.

The range of therapeutic massage that exists is quite varied. For the athlete, there is the sport massage – the manipulation of muscles and tissues to keep them from tenseness and soreness – which reduces the risk of injury. For the injured athlete (or any injured person, for that matter), there exists the remedial massage, which concentrates on the injured area, and probably will include physical therapy to rebuild those muscles. Reflexology, derived from an Asian form, is massaging feet and/or hands to achieve relaxation throughout the body, as points in our hands and feet are connected to points throughout our body. Swedish massage focuses on deep massage of the muscles in the direction of blood flow to the heart. This type of massage is both beneficial for muscles and the circulation system. These above-listed types are a few of the various methods of therapeutic massage. Depending on personal needs and injuries, the specific therapeutic massage best for the specific need should be chosen.

Hippocrates is known to have said: “A physician must be experienced in many things but assuredly also in rubbing." Thus, the father of modern medicine confirmed his belief in the benefits of massage to medicine. Julius Caesar is known to have had regular massage treatments, for certainly, in between conquering empires, de-stressing his body was very important. Massage therapy has been used throughout the centuries, and is known to have been used as early as the Egyptian times – paintings depict the royalty receiving massage. Modern society is discovering the benefits, both physical and psychological, of massage. As knowledge of these ancient techniques increases, awareness of their benefits grows, and the popularity increases. It is becoming easier and more accessible to get virtually any type of therapeutic massage in most cities, and is quickly spreading to regions outside of metropolitan areas. Massage, as the millennium-old therapy shows, is not a temporary fad. It is a method of pain and stress a lleviation that is becoming accepted by the medical community as an important supplement to various treatments. Therapeutic massage, through muscle manipulation, can be extremely beneficial to living a healthy life. When the body feels free and easy, the mind follows suit, and the path is paved for a healthy life.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=65667&ca=Medicines+and+Remedies

Some Things You Should Know About Massage

Most Americans know that massage therapy can help relieve stress and pain, reduce blood pressure and boost the immune system. And, more people than ever are trying massage for the first time.

Perhaps you received a gift certificate for massage. Maybe work’s been stressful, and you’ve thought about getting a massage to unwind. Or maybe you’re already a fan of massage and want to try a different type of massage.

Whatever your reasons, there are some basic things you should know to get the most from your massage.

There are many terms for types of massage. The American Massage Therapy Association? (AMTA) designates the various methods as massage modalities. Ask your massage therapist what massage modality will give you the results you want.

The most popular include:

- Swedish massage: The most common type of massage, to relax and energize you.
- Deep tissue massage: For muscle damage from an injury, such as whiplash or back strain.
- Sports massage: To help prevent athletic injury, keep the body flexible and heal the body should injury occur.
- Chair massage: Massage of the upper body, while fully clothed and seated in a special portable chair.

Finding a qualified massage therapist is also important. Ask your massage therapist about his or her credentials. And remember, each massage and bodywork modality requires specialized training.

AMTA, which requires members meet education standards, recommends asking the following questions:

- Did you graduate from a program accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA) or from an AMTA member school?
- Are you licensed or registered as a massage therapist in this state? Not all states license massage therapists.
- Are you a member of AMTA?
- Are you certified by the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork?
- Do you have training in any specific massage modalities?

The web has become an excellent resource to help you find qualified, accredited massage therapists in your area.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=54065&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

Foot Massage

Foot massage or foot reflexology has a Chinese origin. It dates back to more than 3,000 years ago and is used in the prevention and cure of many health ailments.

Some in fact say, foot massage dates back to ancient Eygyptian times due to archaeological findings in cave drawings in Egypt.

The principle of foot massage rests in the premise that the meridian network connects all tissues, organs and cells in our body. Each organ in the body is connected to a specific reflex point on the foot through the intermediary of 300 nerves. A trained foot reflexologist can put pressure on different meridians or energy lines on the sole and side of the feet to determine the cause of illness.

By using pressure to these the reflex points, the foot massage is good for stimulating the activity internal organs, and to improve blood and lymph circulation. Thus, the top to bottom well being of a person can be made through the foot.

The principles of foot massage is not in congruence with western allopathic medicine. Western medicine merely sees the foot as a body part comprising of bones, ligaments and joints.

However, foot massage is fast gaining much popularity and acceptance as an alternative health treatment. Fans of foot massage believe it can cure not only colds and minor ailments, but more serious ailments as well. These ailments include liver dysfunction, constipation problems, chronic headaches, skin allergies, etc.

Like most Oriental medical techniques, foot reflexology is a “holistic” treatment. It concentrates on treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms of one particular ailment.

While Western medicine promises speedy recovery of all unpleasant symptoms, foot massage therapy can be slow and gradual. A series of visits is necessary to strengthen the body and to bring the body back to balance.

A session of foot reflexology in San Francisco, can set you back as much as US$40-100. Thus, foot massages over a period of time, can add up in terms of costs.

However, for practitioners and believers of foot massage, the cost for good health is well worth it. The alternative would have been money spent in clinics and western hospitals for prescription drugs and perhaps, invasive surgery.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=15517&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

Self Help Massage

There are many benefits of massage therapy. It will help you to relax tensed muscles and increase your blood flow. This will help you with stress management and relieve tension. It can often help you to feel better and improve your health. It can also help to heal injuries and certain ailments.

You can have the luxury of getting a massage done professionally or you can do some basic self-massage yourself. There are several ways that this can help you. The two most common are, helping you relax and improving your circulation. When you do this, you can relieve yourself of tension and reduce swelling that is caused by injury. A short massage will also help you feel less tired and make you feel rejuvenated.

You can use a massage belt, glove, or just your hands to do this. There are several techniques you can use. The ones you use will depend on what your purpose is. You can either: stimulate, relax yourself, or help your body to heal and synchronize itself.

It only takes 20 minutes to relieve tension with massage. Either sit in a comfortable chair or lie down. Massage one area of your body, slowly and methodically. Here are some techniques you can use.

• Kneading: this is a technique in which you massage your muscles as if they were bread dough. Sometimes it helps to use warm vegetable oil or aromatic oil.

• Rubbing: use the palm of your hand and rub your muscles in a circular motion.

• Vibrating: This is when you use the back of your hand to lightly slap or knock rhythmically. This will relax your muscles and improve circulation.

• Final strokes: use gentle outward directed strokes at the end of each session. Always massage in an outward direction and be gentle. If you see any red or broken areas, do not massage them.

A good massage to do at the beginning of the day is to massage your legs. This massage should be done in an inward movement toward the heart, and moving from the bottom to the upper part of the leg.

Self-massage can be a very good therapeutic treatment for both your mind and body. It is important to make sure that you are comfortable and undisturbed in order to get the best effects of this treatment. When done correctly on a regular daily basis, you will not only feel rejuvenated, but you will free yourself both mentally and physically, of tension and stress.

So try to give yourself just 20 minutes a day, relax and enjoy a healthy and beneficial massage today. You will be glad you did and be able to reap the benefits for years to come.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=142001&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

Pregnancy Massage: The Many Benefits Of Pregnancy Massage

If you're pregnant or are looking to become pregnant, you might want to consider looking into getting a pregnancy massage. The benefits can be numerous if you find the right massage therapist, and it can be good to have some time to yourself. As everyone who has ever been pregnant can tell you, having a baby can be a very stressful situation. Pregnancy can be difficult, especially as you start to deal with the stresses that go along with it. From nursery painting to the changes your body is going through, sometimes feelings of anxiety and panic can overcome you like a tidal wave. Whenever you're feeling like you can't take another minute of stress, it can be good to get away from it for awhile.

Pregnancy massage can be a great escape, even if it's only for an hour. If all of your money is going towards the new baby, instead of getting a full hour long massage you can go for 30 minutes. Also, you can ask for massage gift certificates as presents during the baby shower. After all, your friends and family are celebrating you just as much as they are the baby you're about to give birth to. Additionally, depending on who you talk to, some people claim that massages are great for releasing the toxins that can build up in your body. I'm not sure about the science behind that, but you can probably look it up for yourself online or as your massage therapist.

When you're pregnant, you're supposed to be happy and glowing. But let's be honest: it's hard to be that way when you can't see your feet and you have to wear flip flops every day because your shoes don't fit any more. Pregnancy massage can help you work your frustrations out, and treating yourself to one is a good idea.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=178552&ca=Womens+Interest

Massage & Massage Rollers

When lower back pain hits you, a massage and massage rollers can be very effective in relaxing the tensed muscles. Massage is an ancient pain relieving technique and provides you relief from day-to-day stress, muscle cramps, while easing the back pain and headaches, by increasing blood circulation. A massage also flushes out toxins and wastes from your body, thus lending a healthy shine to the skin.


Effective Massage through Massage Rollers


These days, an alternative way to providing your body with the much needed massage is through massage rollers. If you don’t have the time to go to a massage parlor or if you are staying alone, you can use a massage roller to give yourself instant relief. There are various types of massage rollers available in the market today:


The Omni Massage roller –


It provides pressure and has the necessary mobility for a great massage. It has a directional massage ball, with an easy to grip handle. You can use it anywhere and carry it in your purse or bag. You can massage your lower back, neck or even forehead, if you have a headache.


You can begin by applying pressure on the roller and then gently roll the ball in circular motions around the lower back. While moving it in circular motion, you can apply the necessary pressure. Once you are able to identify the spot from where the pain is originating, you can continue to massage the affected area for 10-20 minutes. The massage roller will, thus, provide you relief as it soothes and loosens the muscle tissue or ligaments. It will also gradually increase your blood circulation, leading to the healing of the affected area and elimination of the back pain.


You can also find a Knuckle baller sports massager in markets. This massager fit into your hand near the knuckles and has four directional massage balls to provide you with four times the comfort. A Knuckle baller sports massager is small, so, you can carry it to a theater, park or your office. Massage anytime and feel relaxed!


Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=44398&ca=Medicines+and+Remed

Warm Up With Your Massage Stones Before a Massage

Can a massage with massage stones be a workout? Well, not in the sense that you get the same cardiovascular workout as running around on a sports field, or peddling for half an hour on an exercise bicycle. There is no heavy lifting. There is no heavy pushing or pulling. In fact, the most movement you will engage in during a massage, is moving from your back, to your stomach--and then vice-versa. So are warm-up and cool-down periods necessary before and after your massage? Conventional wisdom says that since a massage is not a typical cardiovascular workout, no need exists to prepare your body for it, or slowly return to your body’s normal mode. But is that correct?

More than muscles
Before determining whether a warm-up and cool-down period is needed after a massage with hot stones, we should examine some of the benefits of such massages. They include:

• Relaxed muscles
• Improved range of motion
• Lower heart rate
• Decreased blood pressure
• Better blood circulation
• Increased endorphins (improving medical treatment)

Can a therapeutic massage build muscle, as weightlifting does? No, but massages can excite muscles that have been weak and unused. This is beneficial for people who have been inactive for a while, after suffering from an injury, for example.

So while getting a massage with massage stones will not make you winded or exhausted per se, the kneading of the muscles and the use of hot stones, gives your body a “light workout.” In fact, you could think of it as a warm-up stretching exercise before a cardiovascular workout—without the cardiovascular workout.

The low-down on warm-ups (and cool-downs)

A warm-up exercise is used before a workout, to start stretching the muscles, and increasing your heart rate. It is a slow transition from normal mode to exercise mode. Similarly, a cool-down activity will shift you back to normal mode. Before performing strenuous exercising, warm-ups and cool-downs are vital for preparing the body for a workout, and can even be effective in preventing injuries.

Workout without motion

Is a warm-up and cool-down activity necessary before or after your massage with hot rocks? Yes, and no. Stretching before the massage is not necessary, as the massage itself serves as a type of stretching. Similarly, there is no need to jog around the building after your massage, to allow your heart rate to drop to its normal value.

However, before your massage with massage stones, it is important for you to gradually move your mind and body into a relaxing mode. Incense, peaceful music and soft lighting are some ways to prepare you well for the massage. These elements will help to make the massage experience with hot stones, a holistic one that involves senses other than the sense of touch involved in the massage itself.

Likewise, after the massage is over, your mind and body will need to gradually return to their pre-massage state. Again, this process will be less drastic than the ones needed before and after a cardiovascular workout. Nonetheless, you will still need to “recover” from the massage. Some of the most common methods are drinking a hot cup of green tea, or sleeping. With sleeping, you cool down into somewhat of a frozen state. But even if you do not catch a catnap, resting alone will serve as an excellent cool-down.

Like a computer that needs to be booted up and shut down, your body needs a gradual transition from normal mode to massage mode—and then back again. A “warm-up” and “cool-down” period will help to make this transition smoother whenever you enjoy a massage with hot stones. Make sure that the temperature range of your body coincides with the range of the massage stone. Warm-up while the stone does!

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=269450&ca=Medicines+and+Remedies