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Massage Therapy is the manipulation of the body’s soft tissue (muscles, skin, tendons, etc.) that includes holding, causing movement, applying pressure and a wide variety of other techniques in order to relax areas of the body and promote better health.
What are the key benefits of massage therapy?
Physical – Massage therapy is designed to stretch and loosen muscles, improve blood flow and the movement of lymph throughout the body, facilitate the removal of metabolic wastes resulting from exercise or inactivity, and increase the flow of oxygen and nutrients to cells and tissue. In addition, massage stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, into the brain and nervous system.
Mental – Massage therapy provides a relaxed state of alertness, reduces mental stress and enhances capacity for calm thinking and creativity.
Emotional – Massage therapy satisfies the need for caring and nurturing touch, creates a feeling of well-being and reduces anxiety levels.
Who can benefit from massage therapy?
People throughout the life cycle – from very young to very old and those in between, all find that a professional massage therapy session can have special applications suited for their needs.
No. This is a perception that is rapidly changing as massage becomes increasingly accepted as a natural part of a healthy lifestyle. In fact, according to one media characterization, massage is to the human body what a tune-up is to a car. It provides a physical boost to the weary, sore and stressed.
An increasing body of clinical research confirms that massage reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, increases blood circulation and lymph flow, relaxes muscles, improves range of motion, boosts the immune system, and increases endorphins.
What credentials should a massage therapist have?
Registered Massage Therapists (RMT’s) must complete extensive training at a recognized school and must pass provincial board exams provided by the College of Massage Therapists. The College of Massage Therapists of Ontario examines and licenses all therapists and acts as the profession’s regulatory body, ensuring the public receives safe and ethical care. RMT’s must abide by a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice set out by the College.
When might massage therapy be inappropriate?If you suffer from certain circulatory ailments (such as phlebitis), infectious diseases, certain forms of cancer, cardiac problems, certain skin conditions, or any inflamed tissues, be sure to consult your physician before initiating any massage program. A trained and experienced massage therapist will also be able to tell you when massage is not indicated.
What should consumers expect when they receive a massage for the first time?
At first contact, the massage therapist should ask about your reasons for getting a massage, current physical condition, medical history, lifestyle and stress level, and specific areas of pain. If necessary, undressing takes place in private and a sheet, towel or gown is provided for draping during the massage. The therapist will undrape only the part of the body being massaged, ensuring that modesty is respected at all times. The massage takes place on a comfortable padded surface
Does the consumer have any responsibilities during the massage?
A person receiving a massage should give the therapist accurate health information and always report discomfort of any kind, whether it’s from the massage itself or due to room temperature, volume of music, or other distractions.
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Massage
for Dummies - everything you need to know about
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