” I only get a massage once a year as a birthday splurge .” ~ Anonymous
” I don’t indulge in this type of luxury often” ~ Anonymous
” I can’t afford it, or I would get one every month” ~ Anonymous
I hear you loud and clear! But let’s consider this from another angle, shall we?
When I hear the term treat, I think of it as something that is a reward. When I hear the term splurge, I think of something that was not necessary. It was an impulsive purchase.
Yes, massage can feel like a pampering treat most of the time. However, those moments when you feel like you’re having a treatment fit for a queen or king with warm oils massaged into your skin or heated stones melting your stress away, consider that you are hitting the pause button on your stressors. It’s like freezing time and hitting the reset button. Don’t you believe you deserve that?
Yes, you deserve that one hour or ninety minutes to put all your worries on hold until your mind clears and your anxiety with it all dissolves. I’ve had clients who could gain some clarity with work or family stressors while getting a massage.
Yes, massage can seem like a treat, that does not mean it’s any less therapeutic. It also Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
What Conditions Can Massage Therapy Help?
- There is a multiple of physical and mental health benefits massage therapy provides.
- Anxiety and depression
- Fibromyalgia
- Carpel tunnel syndrome (repetitive strain injuries)
- Headaches and migraines
- Sports injuries
- Tendinitis and bursitis
- Cancer pain
- Arthritis
- Sciatic nerve pain
- Muscle tension and spasms
- Insomnia or chronic fatigue
- Stress-related conditions
- Strains and sprains
Which Massage Is Best?
There are over twenty different types of massages from which you can choose. However, there are two main branches of massage.
1. Structural massage: this type is meant to address musculoskeletal pain through myofascial, neuromuscular, and various soft-tissue techniques.
2. Relaxation massage (similar to Swedish massage): is intended to assist with relaxation through techniques, such as long strokes, kneading, deep, circular movements, or vibration.
If you are getting a massage post-surgery or recovering from a significant injury, make sure to let the massage therapist know. Choose a more gentle or passive massage on recently strained or injured tissues.
If you still aren’t sure, my best advice is to call the therapist you intend to schedule with, and she/he will be happy to recommend what is best for you. Or refer you to a massage therapist specializing in the type of massage necessary for your body.
My suggestion to ALL of my clients is to schedule well care regimens massages weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. This will help keep muscles pliable, tension-free and go a long way in preventing postural problems that often result in neck pain, low back pain, headaches, and an overall feeling of tightness.
Ok, now let’s look at those statements again. If you only get a massage for your birthday, then try telling about three people you would like a massage gift certificate. Most likely will get 3 or more massages from your loved ones. If cost is a factor, consider getting a 30 minutes massage. This option costs less and works for people who like to maximize their time daily. Yes, it’s shorter, but it is still very effective and powerful.
The Takeaway
Even though massage may seem like a treat for some, it is definitely a Complementary and Alternative Medicine TREATment for others.
Are you searching for a Licensed Massage Therapist who knows the ins and outs of stress and how to relieve it? Look no further! I’m Ellie Dukes, LMT -specializing in prenatal and oncology massage therapy for 12 years. However, I offer an array of massage services that can help combat stress. Visit me at Trinity Massage Haven in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia. Call to Schedule your appointment today at 267-584-3015 or Book online now.