Back in the day, people only got massages when they were on vacation or when they took an annual visit to a luxury spa. Nowadays, after much research supporting the benefits of massage, these 30 to 75-minute sessions are becoming more popular and for good reason. Not only does massage therapy work by relieving tight muscles, but studies have shown that it is linked to treating anxiety, digestive disorders, headaches, sports injuries, myofascial pain syndrome, stress-related insomnia, soft tissue strains or injuries, and fibromyalgia.
In addition to helping with these physical conditions, massages are known to create feelings of care, comfort and connection, which can naturally lift a person’s mood. From fitness facilities to the privacy of your own home, massage appointments can be booked anywhere and anytime. The only question left is deciding which type of massage is suitable for you. While all massage therapists use pressing, rubbing and manipulation techniques, there is a wide spectrum of pressure levels. The most common massage types offered are:
Sports massage. This is geared toward people who are active and involved in sport activities and one of the main reasons for this type of massage is to prevent or treat injury. A therapist will use trigger point therapy, kneading, and myofascial releases to loosen any restrictions on their motion, while also decreasing pain after a particularly active sports session. Another technique used in sports massage is known as longitudinal gliding. Longitudinal gliding an effective technique administered in the blood flow direction. This allows for a restoration of mobility as well as maintenance of active muscles.
Trigger point massage. This type of massage has a direct purpose and focuses on tight muscle fibers located in the body. When these fibers aren’t tended to, they can result in injury or overuse.
Swedish massage. Known as the gentlest form of massage, Swedish massage is administered in long strokes and deep circular motions. Therapists in this specialty will use vibration techniques and tapping which naturally energize you. This type of massage is the most common, for good reason. It is a whole-body massage designed to relax muscles and joints and it can be beneficial for all ages and body types.
Deep tissue massage. This technique uses slower, more aggressive strokes to target the muscle layers and connective tissues that are deeper. This is often used to treat muscle damage caused by injuries.
Try one of the above massages today and let us know what you prefer and why in the comments!
*Dr. Restivo discourages massage during phase 2 of the diet for several reasons. Creams and lotions usually contain oils and fats which can affect phase II of your fast weight loss, and petrissage or pinching can have a bruising effect with some lasting lumping of the tissue. Dr. Restivo recommends Epsom salt baths to relax the muscles. Read Pounds and Inches by Dr. Simeon, this is discussed.
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