Massage therapy and yoga are forms of complementary and alternative medicine practiced for well-being. Massage therapy is a touch therapy involving structured movements for manipulating soft tissues. Yoga is a mind-body practice which typically combines body postures, breathing exercises and meditation. There are different types of massage therapy and yoga, each performed to provide a variety of fitness and health benefits. Because research studies on massage therapy and yoga are limited, conclusions cannot be drawn about how the practices affect specific health conditions. Discuss massage therapy and yoga with your health care provider.
Types of Massage
There are many styles of massage therapy. Swedish massage, trigger point therapy and sports massage are a few common examples of massage forms. Swedish massage is one of the most popular massage techniques and involves stimulating strokes--such as gliding, kneading and tapping--always flowing toward the heart, notes massagetherapy.com. Conversely, during trigger point therapy, the therapist uses steady, focused pressure on knots in the muscle tissue called myofascial trigger points. Sports massage combines Swedish massage and trigger point therapy techniques to support athletic performance.
Benefits of Massage
According to MassageTherapy.com, benefits of massage include alleviating pain, increasing range of motion, exercising tight muscles, boosting immunity, lessening depression and improving circulation. In addition, the Mayo Clinic website cites blood pressure control and cancer treatment as uses for massage. Although studies are limited, one analysis suggests that "a single session of massage therapy can reduce state anxiety, blood pressure and heart rate, and that multiple sessions can reduce trait anxiety, depression and pain," reports the Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Types of Yoga
Hatha yoga is the physical part of the yoga lifestyle and involves a series of specific poses. Ashtanga yoga, Bikram yoga and Kundalini yoga are among the forms of hatha yoga. During Ashtanga yoga, you move quickly through poses while focusing on deep breathing. Bikram yoga, also known as hot yoga, takes place in a room with a temperature above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Meditation and chanting combine with poses and breathing techniques in Kundalini yoga.
Benefits of Yoga
Hatha yoga is a cardiovascular and a strength training exercise program. "People use yoga for a variety of conditions and to achieve fitness and relaxation," says the Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. KidsHealth.org reports that connecting with your spirituality by training your mind, body and breath is the goal of the yoga lifestyle. Additionally, building flexibility, strength, concentration and stamina are among benefits of yoga listed by KidsHealth.org. Further scientific research is necessary to demonstrate the medical benefits of yoga practices.
Medical Considerations
See your physician before receiving massage therapy or beginning a yoga exercise program, especially if you have health concerns. MayoClinic.com advises, "discuss massage therapy with your doctor first in cases of: unexplained pains, burns or open wounds, cancer, blood clots, fractures, rheumatoid arthritis, severe osteoporosis and pregnancy." Side effects of massage therapy include temporary pain or discomfort, bruising, swelling and sensitivity to massage oils, according to the Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Member Comments