MASSAGE
Touch is a very important part of human contact. It helps us feel connected and loved by those around us.
Massage uses touch through rubbing or kneading of parts of the body to aid circulation, relax the muscles, or provide sensual stimulation.
Massage is one of the oldest, simplest forms of therapy.
The basic goal of massage therapy is to help the body heal itself and to increase health and well-being.
Here are some fast facts on what benefits we can get from massage.
Massage helps remove the feeling of pain in the body by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are the body’s feel-good hormones. Because massage relieves pain regardless of cause, it also lessens the body’s need for pain-killing medication.
Another type of hormones that massage helps to release is called cortisol, which is responsible for lowering the stress levels of the body. With lowered stress levels, the body becomes more capable of healing itself. It also lowers blood pressure, allows the body to breathe more properly and lessens feelings of anxiety.
Manipulation of the muscles through massage aids in loosening and relaxing stiffened muscles. Inflammatory afflictions such as arthritis and tendinitis can also be treated using massage.
The circulation of blood in the body is enhanced through massage. Improved circulation means improved supply of nutrients to individual cells of the body, not to mention improved transport of wastes from these cells.
Improved circulation also leads to clearer, softer and healthier skin, as the skin cells become more nourished with oxygen and nutrients.
It is said that massage helps break down accumulated fat underneath the skin, thus aiding weight loss.
Massage also aids in the stimulation of the lymphatic system, boosting the body’s immunity and natural defense mechanisms. A healthy lymphatic system means less susceptibility to various illnesses and the body’s heightened ability to heal itself.
Regular massage improves the flexibility of the joints and makes the body more capable of a wider range of movements. Fluidity of movement brought about by regular massage also reduces the probability of getting muscle injuries. It also improves posture.
Massage fulfills the body’s need for touch. Regular massage improves emotional well-being by allowing the person to feel cared for and nurtured. Such not only lowers stress levels but also reduces a person’s tendency to feel anxious and sink into depression.
With massage, the mind is made to feel calm and relaxed. Such a state of the mind is good for enhancing focus and improving concentration, thereby making the mind more creative and productive. Massage also makes the mind aware of the body, allowing it to recognize more quickly its needs and possible afflictions.
Prior to any treatment, a quick and confidential medical consultation will be carried out. Here are some things to consider when booking an appointment
Contra-indications to Massage
Massage is non-invasive, relaxing and natural. It is therefore generally considered a safe treatment for most people. However, there are three types of contraindication:
TOTAL, when massage should not be performed at all.
LOCAL, when massage can be performed but not over the contraindicated areas.
MEDICAL, when massage can only be performed once medical permission has been granted.
The following restrictions are in place to protect your health and well-being. Thank you for taking them as seriously as we do.
Total Contraindications:
When you have any of these conditions, please do not book a massage:
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Fever
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Contagious or infectious diseases, including colds and flu.
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Under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including perscription pain medication.
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Recent operations or acute injuries.
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Neuritis.
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Skin diseases.
Local Contra-indications:
The therapist can massage but not over any areas affected by:
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Varicose veins.
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Undiagnosed lumps or bumps.
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Pregnancy.
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Bruising.
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Cuts or abrasions.
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Sunburn.
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Undiagnosed pain.
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Inflammation, including arthiritis.
Medical Contra-indications:
If you suffer from any of the following conditions, massage can only take place once it has been approved before your session in writing by your Physician.
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Cardio-vascular conditions (thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension, heart conditions).
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Any condition already being treated by a medical practitioner.
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Oedema.
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Psoriasis or eczema.
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High blood pressure.
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Osteoporosis.
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Cancer.
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Nervous or psychotic conditions.
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Heart problems, angina, those with pacemakers.
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Epilepsy.
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Diabetes.
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Bell’s palsy, trapped or pinched nerves.
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Gynecological infections.
Does a contraindication mean that treatment cannot take place?
Not always. In fact, massage can be very therapeutic for many medical conditions. However, in the above cases it is best to have advice from your physician. Massage therapists, unless they are also qualified doctors, may not, under law, attempt to diagnose a condition.
Information taken from: www.massagenow.com/contraindications
Massage is non-invasive, relaxing and natural. It is therefore generally considered a safe treatment for most people. However, there are three types of contraindication:
The following restrictions are in place to protect your health and well-being. Thank you for taking them as seriously as we do.
Total Contraindications:
When you have any of these conditions, please do not book a massage:
Local Contra-indications: The therapist can massage but not over any areas affected by:
Medical Contra-indications:
Information taken from: www.massagenow.com/contraindications
If you suffer from any of the following conditions, massage can only take place once it has been approved before your session in writing by your Physician.
Does a contraindication mean that treatment cannot take place?
Not always. In fact, massage can be very therapeutic for many medical conditions. However, in the above cases it is best to have advice from your physician. Massage therapists, unless they are also qualified doctors, may not, under law, attempt to diagnose a condition.
