Massage is one of the oldest forms of therapy and to date, it has proven to be extremely efficient. Although there are several perspectives of massage being a luxurious venture for the wealthy or an activity relating to illegal dealings, this is not the case.
Massages is a therapeutic practice and it is available for all to access. In this article, we’ll briefly what massage is about, its types and most importantly, its importance to you.
What is Massage?
Massage is the skilful application of pressure, strokes and manipulations to the body\’s soft tissues primarily to ease and relieve tension and pain. It involves the strategic use of hands, elbows, forearms, knees, or even devices to apply pressure to specific points on the body.
Various techniques are used for massages based on its focus and purpose and as time goes by, it continues to evolve with modern techniques and technology.
Types of Massage
Massages are grouped into several categories based on the technique used and the aim of the massage. Some of them include:
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is the most common type of massage and is known for its gentle technique. It is usually focused on relaxation and promoting the overall well-being of the body. The Swedish massage technique is characterized by long, gliding strokes and kneading of the muscles applied with pressure to improve blood flow and encourage relaxation.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage is a targeted approach to massage therapy. It is designed to tackle chronic muscle tension and pain. Unlike the Swedish massage, it uses greater pressure and slow focused strokes to target specific areas of tension and knots.
Hot stone Massage
Hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy where smooth, heated stones are placed on specific parts of your body. It is beneficial for people who have muscle tension or chronic pain and can also help reduce stress and anxiety.
Sports Massage
This type of massage is designed specifically for athletes and those with continuously active lifestyles. Athletes recovering from injury or those who want to prevent injuries employ sports massage therapists to help them overcome their injuries or improve their resistance to injuries.
Thai massage
A typical massage takes place on a table where you are told to lie down for the therapist to do his job. In the case of Thai massages, you lie on a mat on the floor. It is a deep body massage that comprises the use of techniques like acupressure(application of pressure to specific points on your body\’s energy lines), stretching and other techniques. It aims to improve body flexibility, relieve muscle tension, and boost the overall well-being of the body.
7 Importance of Massage You Should Know
Stress and Tension Relief and Relaxation
Massage is usually associated with relaxation and is well-known for getting rid of stress. The technique of moving in different stroke levels and applying pressure does the work of relief on the body and muscles. Massage promotes relaxation through its calming environment creating a sense of peace and well-being.
Pain Management
Massage can be a powerful tool to manage chronic pain conditions like back and muscle pains. It also helps improve circulation and muscle movement by tackling pain and stiffness.
Better Quality of Sleep
Massage also has an impact on other parts of the body aside from the muscles and tendons. It is a natural remedy to improve the quality of your sleep. While you undergo massage therapy, your body stays relaxed allowing you to fall asleep faster and deeper.
Enhanced Circulation
Massage techniques stimulate blood flow throughout the body. This increased circulation can deliver more oxygen and nutrients to your tissues, promoting healing and improving overall health.
Increased Flexibility and Range of Motion
Tight muscles can limit your range of motion and ability to do certain things. Massage helps to loosen your muscles to improve flexibility and allow easier movement. It is particularly beneficial for athletes, desk job workers, or anyone looking to move with greater ease.
Boosts Blood Circulation During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, a woman\’s body undergoes significant changes, including an increase in blood volume. When pregnant women undergo pregnancy massage, blood circulation increases thereby multiplying everything the baby needs for development and healthy living.
Reduced Headaches
A common trigger for headaches in the human body is muscle tension. Massage helps to relieve the small lumps and muscle knots in your neck and shoulders to reduce headaches. Also, the overall sense of relaxation massage provides could physiologically improve the body system and loosen up tensions.
Keen to Get a Massage Session? Read This
Massage is one of the oldest natural ways of promoting overall health for humans. People of all ages and fitness levels can benefit tremendously from massages. However, an effective massage session is dependent on the massage therapist, environment and techniques used during the session.
At Beth Beauty MedSpa, we boast of having one of the best massage spas in Lagos and Nigeria. Our seasoned professionals are readily available to help you attain your wellness goals easily and also guarantee a wonderful experience of relaxation and improved body performance. Book a session with us today to enjoy these benefits and more!
