Some massage therapy modalities, like Ayurvedic Abhyanga massage, dates back thousands of years to India, and is administered by one or paired therapists. This particular body treatment integrates heated herbal oils, with gentle kneading and pressure techniques. Sometimes, the feet are used for the therapy, like the Hawaiian massage technique of Lomi Lomi.
Craniosacral therapy, sometimes used as part of an osteopathic doctor's health treatment, is commonly referred to as a unique form of massage therapy. A hands-on treatment involving light touch to assist hydraulic forces within the natural cranial sacral system, craniosacral therapy is known to free tension from the spinal cord, and optimizes spinal fluid flow.
Deep tissue technique is one of the more common forms of massage therapy, and is typically taught in most somatic education programs. This specific massage modality involves a deeper pressure application using the fingers, knuckles, or elbow.
Reflexology is an energy-based massage therapy that is most commonly administered to the soles of the feet; however, it is also administered to the hands, ears, and body. Facilitating pressure points on the soles of the feet, reflexology is a therapy with the belief that specific pressure points of the feet correspond to parts of the body that can aid in relieving pain and stress to these parts.
Chinese medical , also known as Tuina, is similar to acupressure; and is administered through kneading, pushing, and stretching techniques at the sites of these acupressure points of the body. Also based on energy healing, Tuina is based on the philosophy that these acupressure points correlate to organ systems and parts of the body; and is believed to help promote self-healing mechanisms.
Of course there are several other massage therapy modalities available today. To find out which massage technique is best for you, you should check with your local certified massage therapist who can explain the different techniques that she uses in her practice. As with most practitioners, must meet state educational requirements and/or licensure prior to practicing the healing art. While there are many massage therapists, it is important to note that no two massage practitioners are alike. Where one may be certified in Swedish massage, deep tissue and sports massage; more advanced therapists may offer additional services in acupressure/Shiatsu, hot stone massage, neuromuscular therapy, and myofascial release, among others.
If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding educational programs in massage therapy, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massotherapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore programs near you.
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Massage Therapy: Benefits A good massage not only stimulates and relaxes the body but also tones it by acting on the soft tissues (muscles, tendons, and ligaments). Massage largely affects muscles that are just beneath the skin. However, if done regularly under proper conditions and in the right manner, its benefits extend to the deeper layers of muscles and even the organs. Thus, it strengthens the entire body and reduces its vulnerability to strains and injuries that occur because of excessive tension and structural weakness of the body.
Massage therapy also stimulates blood circulation and improves the lymphatic system (runs parallel to the circulatory system); lymphatic system is responsible for eliminating the waste material from the body. Massage therapy also calms the nervous system, reduces fatigue, and replenishes energy of an individual.
Massage Therapy: How to Do? To begin with, choose the right equipment for effective massage therapy. You will need a firm and padded surface such as a massage table or simply a foam mattress spread on the floor to work on. You may use additional cushions and pads to support the body on the massage surface. You can choose from oils such as mineral, soya, peach and apricot kernel, grape seed, sunflower, almond, olive, and peanut, depending on which suits your body best. Additionally, keep blankets and towels handy to cover the portions of the body that are not being worked upon.
To benefit optimally from massage therapy it is important to set the right environment for massage. One must use soft lighting and music to create soothing effect during the therapy. Warm the room where you intend to massage and select a time when there are least chances of an interruption. Get your client or partner wear loose clothes, ensure that his/ her body is bare (without any jewelry or other accessories) and eyes shut, and tie the hair if it is long. Massage with clean hands and nails cut short; do not massage with wrist watch, bracelet, or fingerings on your hand. Continue to massage in upward movement for one to one-and-a quarter hour.
At its best, massage has the potential to restore an individual physically, mentally, and spiritually.
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