about therapeutic massage
With so many different types of massage out there, how do you know if Therapeutic is the right treatment for you?
It may be that you haven't experienced Therapeutic Massage before but have had remedial types of massage, such as Deep Tissue or Sports massage, for a specific injury or area of pain. These other types of massage are extremely effective and have a very important place in the world of wellness. As a Therapeutic Bodyworker, I would be the first to recommend these practices if certain pain persists for my clients.
Therapeutic massage however, isn't necessarily as deep or targeted as other types of massage, and is influenced by Swedish techniques, with long strokes and a slow pace, encouraging every system within the body to find its balance. It creates a deep level of calm and relaxation, so that each system can start to heal and function better. Although we are mainly working with soft tissue and muscles during treatment, (very much relieving tension and soreness), the effects can reach much further than this. As an example, I have picked just a few systems within the body to show how they can respond;
Circulatory System
Therapeutic Massage can lower blood pressure and heart rate. It can also increase blood flow, which in turn relieves muscular and joint pain and brings nutrients to different parts of the body.
Skeletal system
By warming areas around our joints, such as our knees, elbows and even knuckles, we stimulate Synovial Fluid, which can protect the joints, acting as a lubricant, and bring nutrients to these harder to reach places. Therapeutic massage can also help by decreasing any inflammation around joints and relieving stiffness in the body.
Respiratory System
Therapeutic Massage can promote deeper breathing.
Lymphatic System
By giving this system the opportunity to cleanse, it can boost our immune system and help us recover from illness more quickly.
Muscular System
Therapeutic massage can break down tight and 'knotty' muscle tissue, allowing for more mobility and less pain. It can also help us recover from muscle injury more quickly.
Nervous System
This responds incredibly well to Therapeutic Massage. Allowing us to enter our 'parasympathetic nervous state', (sometimes referred to as our 'rest and digest state'), and opening up space for a peaceful state of mind. Therapeutic Massage can reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression, help us regain clarity of mind and improve our sense of self worth. It can also improve our sleep quality and generally promote better mental and emotional wellbeing.
Lets Summarise
The body is extremely complex and connected in so many ways. By reminding it that it's ok to relax regularly, and allowing it the time to renew and heal, we can increase awareness of our own minds and bodies. Therapeutic Massage can have a significant effect on our body's ability to regulate and help us prioritise good health.
If any of these benefits speak to you, or you would like to see how Therapeutic Massage can support your wellness journey, please reach out, or find and book your ideal treatment.