DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

Here I am with yet another type of massage-therapy and it's benefits
So let us begin :)


What is deep tissue massage?
Deep tissue massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as stiff necks, low back tightness, and sore shoulders.Some of the same strokes are used as classic massage therapy, but the movement is slower and the pressure is deeper and concentrated on areas of tension and pain.

How does deep tissue massage work?
When there is chronic muscle tension or injury, there are usually adhesions (bands of painful, rigid tissue) in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Adhesions can block circulation and cause pain, limited movement, and inflammation. Deep tissue massage works by physically breaking down these adhesions to relieve pain and restore normal movement. To do this, the massage therapist often uses direct deep pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles.

Will deep tissue massage hurt?
At certain points during the massage, most people find there is usually some discomfort and pain.It is important to tell the massage therapist when things hurt and if any soreness or pain you experience is outside your comfort range.There is usually some stiffness or pain after a deep tissue massage, but it should subside within a day or so. The massage therapist may recommend applying ice to the area after the massage.

What conditions is deep tissue massage used for?
Unlike classic massage therapy, which is used for relaxation, deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem, such as:
· Chronic pain
· Limited mobility
· Recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls, sports injury)
· Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
· Postural problems
· Osteoarthritis pain
· Fibromyalgia
· Muscle tension or spasm
According to the August 2005 issue of Consumer Reports magazine, 34,000 people ranked deep tissue massage more effective in relieving osteoarthritis pain than physical therapy, exercise, prescription medications, chiropractic, acupuncture, diet, glucosamine and over-the-counter drugs. Deep tissue massage also received a top ranking for fibromyalgia pain.People often notice improved range of motion immediately after a deep tissue massage.

What can I expect during my visit?
Massage therapists may use fingertips, knuckles, hands, elbows, and forearms during the deep tissue massage.You may be asked to breathe deeply as the massage therapist works on certain tense areas. It is important to drink plenty of water as you can after the massage to flush metabolic waste from the tissues.

Ok so now some things to be kept in mind.
Massage is not recommended for certain people:
· Infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds
· Immediately after surgery
· Immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor
· People with osteoporosis should consult their doctor before getting a massage
· Prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage
· Pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Massage in pregnant women should be done by massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage.
· Massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

And last but not the least -

· Don’t eat a heavy meal before the massage
· If it's your first time at the clinic or spa, arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete the necessary forms. Otherwise, arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes to rest and relax before starting the massage.

ACUPUNCTURE : THE NEEDLE THERAPY

ACUPUNCTURE is the ancient Chinese medicinal art. Acupuncture has an important place in alternative healing even today. It is also called Oriental medicine. Acupuncture scientific name is paradigm.

WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE :
Each meridian corresponds to one organ, or group of organs, that governs particular bodily functions. Acupuncture is thought to restore health by removing energy imbalances and blockages in the body. Acupuncture is the practice of inserting thin needles into specific body points to improve health and well-being. Acupuncture originated in China more than 2,000 years ago

The proponents of acupuncture rave about the benefits and efficacy of receiving acupuncture treatment sessions. There are also many studies that have substantiated some of the positive effects of acupuncture treatments on patients.
Acupuncture involves positioning long, thin needles on various points on the body. There are different techniques to the insertion of the needles, including care for the angles at which they are inserted, different types of needles (there are nine, but most practitioners only use six types of the needles), and various ways to twirl or vibrate the needles.

The needles are placed on the body depending upon the ailment of the patient. Acupuncturists believe that the body has different energy channels that help in the efficient and proper functioning of the body. Precise placement of the needles draws energy to the needed areas and makes way for positive energy flow. This is what adherents profess gives the health benefits.

HEALTH BENEFITS :
Those who practice and those who receive acupuncture point to a variety of positive health benefits associated with the expert placement of the needles. When placed in the proper places, acupuncture needles are said to help cure nearly any ailment from chronic pain to diabetes to cellulite. Cancer patients report that acupuncture helps them deal with their disease by helping them achieve calm and by helping they feel more energetic after cancer treatments. Additionally, relief of the pain associated with the progression of the cancer is felt. Similar results are said to be felt by HIV/AIDS patients.

For people without specific diseases, however, there are other health benefits. Acupuncture adds energy to the day. It can also reduce anxiety and stress. People who use this treatment claim that they feel calmer, and that they feel happier. Additionally, many of them report less worry and anxiety. They feel more alert mentally and more stable emotionally.

Acupuncture is also said to help prevent diseases. Because regular treatments keep the body in proper working order, and because the positive energy is uninhibited through its channels, the body is said to be less prone to sickness.

You can maintain your health and sense of well being by choosing acupuncture. There is researched evidence of the positive effects of acupuncture on the health of patients. However, most physicians and scientists recommend the use of more traditional methods of medicine for treating illnesses.
So the next time you get a chance to enjoy Acupunture don't miss it!!!!

STONE THERAPY

HOT STONE THERAPY

Go to any spa these days for a bit of ‘Me Time’ and you can be sure that stone therapy will be one of the therapies utilised on you.

History of Hot Stone Therapy :
Hot Stone Therapy has been used by healers as far back as recorded history. The deeply radiant heating effect of the stones was discovered to be very soothing and calming, allowing the body to utilize the energy from the stones to assist in healing itself. It has roots from ancient Rome, India, Polynesia, as well as the early South, Central, and North American Native Civilizations.


What is it?
Hot Stone Therapy is, as the name implies, massage using basalt lava stones which have been heated in a temperature controlled and monitored hot water bath. Basalt lava stones are preferred because of their superior heat retention and smooth texture. Although the specific techniques vary from therapist to therapist, a treatment will generally consist of a combination of stones being placed in various positions on the body in conjunction with alternating Classic Swedish techniques, utilizing both the hands, and the stones as an extension of the hands.


A Hot Stone Massage has many benefits, such as:
· Increasing blood circulation.
· Allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs.
· Dissolves aches and pains attributed to stress.
· Relaxes you and relieves tension, calms the nervous system.Relieves insomnia, depression, and pain.

Hot stone massage therapy is sought by people you have:
· Cold feet
· Muscle tension
· Back pain and aches
· Poor circulation
· Osteoarthritis and arthritis pain
· Stress, anxiety and tension
· Insomnia
· Depression

Hot stone therapy is a wonderful treat for the body. It is very rewarding with lots of benefits. Hot stone massages can be found at almost every medical spa around the globe. This therapy is also offered at regular day spas and at vacation destination spa resorts. Everyone needs a break from time to time. Taking the time to get a hot stone massage is worth both the time and money. You will be able to relax, release, and rejuvenate. Reconnecting with you is priceless.