Massage Therapy

By: Dan Orton

Massage therapy has been proven to be very beneficial to those who take it on a regular basis. Manipulation of the muscle tissues can reform health and have a great therapeutic result on the systems of the body, including the circulatory, muscular, immune, and nervous systems. According to numerous online sites devoted to the science of massage therapy, when performed regularly can ameliorate chronic and acute pain, diminish stress, and help in a sense of overall well being, in addition to relaxing tight tense muscles.

There are numerous different massage techniques which employ different types of manipulation for various results. My favorite is aromatherapy massage. I prefer an essential oil that the massage therapist uses to either relax or exhilarate me, depending on what I choose. Oils are made up of plant essences and are used to diminish stress, treat anxiety or insomnia, relax, or energize, and simply add a pleasurable aromatic element to the massage. Lavender water is very fine and relaxing, as is eucalyptus tree, which also can clear your sinuses if you are feeling a little stuffy. Another favorite of mine is tangierine. I feel relaxed yet invigorated afterward. Just ask the massage therapist what he or she recommends and enjoy!

Some popular types of massage are deep muscle therapy and deep connective tissue massage, which I suppose is where the adage “hurts so good” comes from. If you have ever had this type of massage therapy, then you know what I mean. When we get stressed, our muscles tense up creating what feels like a lump under our skin. When massaged, the tissue is disentangled relaxing the surrounding muscle tissue. It may be a little intense, but believe me, it is well worth the pain. It’s especially beneficial to people that have chronic muscle tension. You will feel amend afterward, have greater range of movement, and look at the world in a complete new light!

There are various other types of massage therapy as well, including prenatal and postpartum massage, sports massage, and acupressure; just too too many to examine here. Do you own investigation and find which type of massage you like most, and experience all the benefits that massage therapy has to offer. There are many a licensed massage therapists around the country, and probably quite a few in your area. Many of them will even come to your dwelling for your convenience. Prices range from $30-35 for a half hour, and $60-75 for a full hour. Go on and pamper yourself, you won’t be disappointed!