body massage
what is body massage?
Massage as we know it today has evolved from age-old practices in Eastern and Western traditions. It is the manipulation of the body's soft tissue through touch, pressure and flowing movements, for therapeutic purposes to promote health and enhance well-being.
what are the benefits of body massage?
Benefits of body massage include:
- Reduces stress and aids relaxation
- Improved circulation
- Improved skin elasticity and suppleness and can help break down scar tissue
- Removal of toxins and waste products through the lymphatic system, which can also help reduce oedema (fluid retention in the tissue)
- Can stimulate or soothe
- Promote positive body image and create a feeling of enhanced self-esteem. Massage can trigger the release of endorphins or "feel-good" chemicals produced by the body
- Relieves stiffness, restrictions and tightness in muscle tissue and stress on bones and joints
what is involved in body massage?
Prior to the therapy you will be asked to undress to your level of comfort (underwear can be left on). You will be asked to lie on the therapy couch and you will be covered with towels. During the massage the therapist will only uncover the part of the body which is being massaged at that time. The therapist will apply a suitable massage oil for the treatment. In a full body massage the therapist will work on different parts at a time covering the whole body to completely relax you. During a half-body massage, the therapist will concentrate the treatment on any areas giving discomfort or aches.
what do I need to do before my body massage?
Avoid alcohol or a heavy meal before a massage. Make sure you allow time for your massage so you don't feel rushed and stressed. This enables your body to gain the most from your treatment.
what do I need to do after my body massage?
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and heavy food for 24 hours. As with all therapies involving massage, you may experience slight tiredness or mild flu-like symptoms for up to 24 hours afterwards due to the toxin release from your body.
when can't I have a body massage?
You will need to tell your therapist if you suffer from any of the following:
- Fever, swelling, infection or inflammation
- Contagious or infectious diseases
- If you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Cancer
The therapist can massage you but not over any areas affected by local skin conditions e.g.skin diseases, undiagnosed lumps or bumps, varicose veins, cuts, bruises, abrasions, inflammation, scar tissue or sunburn.
If you have any of the following you may need your doctor's approval before massage can be undertaken - pregnancy, thrombosis, phlebitis, high or low blood pressure or oedema. In addition, you will not be able to have a massage prior to or after surgery.
