Why Add Massage to Your Healthcare Regimen and What Kind of Massage Should You Try?

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There’s no denying the power of massage. Regardless of the adjectives we assign to it (therapy, pampering) or the reasons we seek it out (stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen. Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress-related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch – which can range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units.

Ayurvedic massage Ayurveda is a natural health care system originating in India that incorporates massage, meditation and herbal remedies. Ayurvedic massage, also known as Abhyanga is usually performed by one or two therapists using a heated blend of herbal oils based on the ayurvedic system of humors. Ayurveda teaches us that everyone needs massage on a regular basis. In just the same way as a machine needs lubrication, the body loves to be oiled to protect it against the ravages of life and time. Regular Abhyanga massage promotes healing and restoration by eliminating toxins from the body so that rejuvenating energies of the body may flow more freely. A session will stimulate the subtle nerves (nadis) and energy centers (chakras) of the body and mind.

Bowen Massage Bowen technique involves a rolling movement over fascia, muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints. It is said not to involve deep or prolonged contact with muscle tissues as in most kinds of massage, but claims to relieve muscle tensions and strains and to restore normal lymphatic flow. It is based on practices developed by Australian Tom Bowen. The Bowen technique consists of a series of specific light moves across tendons, muscles and fascia throughout the body. The therapist uses thumbs and fingers to make the moves and applies what is sometimes termed “eyeball pressure.” This term means merely that the pressure used with the hands is no more than would be comfortable when applied to the eyeball. These very light movements on the skin are not invasive or heavy, but are said to have the same healing effects on the body as many techniques that are. The goal of the Bowen technique is to begin the body’s natural healing process and let the body heal itself.

Reflexology Reflexology is a holistic healing method that involves pressure and massage of the reflex points on the feet and hands. It teaches that life force or energy moves throughout the body vie nerve and meridian (energy) pathways and that, if this is blocked, it can cause imbalance. These blockages can be detected via the reflex points and dissipated by pressure and massage techniques which encourage healing. Reflexology can help alleviate pain and anxiety, low mood, hot flashes, nausea, vomiting and fatigue, as well as help tissue healing.

Shiatsu Shiatsu (“shi” meaning finger and “atsu” meaning pressure.) is an eastern (oriental) born therapy that uses pressure applied with thumbs, fingers and palms to the same energy meridians as acupressure and incorporates stretching. Shiatsu is a deeply relaxing and yet energizing treatment and can be used to help with fatigue, stress, anxiety, worry, muscular tension, insomnia, hot flashes, and side effects of drugs such as indigestion and constipation.

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Source by Crystal Herbelin

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