In today’s fast-paced world, many of us are under stress more than ever. This pressure can take a toll on our bodies, minds and spirits. As a result, many of us are turning to massage therapy as a natural remedy to help us relax and stress less.
So, what benefits can massage therapy have for you?
Let’s take a look at the science and see.
What is Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy is the use of touch (or other forms of therapy that affect the skin) to treat illness or improve general health. While there are various types of massage therapy, they all have one thing in common – they all involve the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body using massage therapy tools.
Why Take Advantage of Massage Therapy?
There are many benefits to massage therapy, including the fact that it reduces stress and allows the body to relax. When we are stressed our body releases chemicals called “stress hormones” that can negatively impact our health. Massage therapy can help to reduce stress levels, allowing your body to return to a state of balance.
Where to Get Massage Therapy?
Your local hospital or medical office may offer massage therapy as an option for you or your loved ones. If not, there are many massage therapy schools that offer specialized training in the therapeutic use of massage.
Or, you can always look for a massage therapist in your area on any of the professional massage therapy websites.
How to Find a Good Massage Therapist
As with any profession, you will want to make sure that the person giving you messages is licensed and insured. This is especially important if you are receiving treatments on a regular basis.
You can also ask around to see if any of your friends or family members are good massage therapists. While there are many excellent massage therapists, there are also plenty of bad ones. So, if you know of someone who gives good massages, ask them for a referral.
How Often to Get a Massage
The general rule of thumb is to give your body at least two to three massages a week. The frequency of each massage will depend on a number of factors, including your physical condition, your state of stress and your massage therapist’s techniques.
Generally speaking, it is best to space out your messages so that you give your muscles enough time to recover between treatments.
A Word of Caution Before We Dive in
Before you schedule your first massage, there are a few things you should be aware of.
First, although there are many health benefits of massage therapy, some people may be sensitive to certain massage oils and so on. If this is the case for you, you may want to avoid massage therapy until you figure out what triggers your allergies.
Second, although many medical professionals recommend massage therapy as a way to reduce stress, some people may experience anxiety or even panic attacks when they receive massage. If this is the case for you, please speak to your doctor about receiving mental health therapy instead.
Woodbridge Full Function Rehab & Wellness is your one-stop shop for all types of massages, including deep tissue, Swedish, trigger point, etc. Give us a call right now to book an appointment!
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