In our high-stress, fast-paced society, one way to chill out is to pamper yourself with a relaxation massage treatment. Massage therapy comes in many different forms and not all treatments are designed solely for relaxation purposes. A relaxation massage uses gentle to medium pressure and will not address the deeper muscle layers in the body. All the senses may be addressed to induce a state of calm, using things like low lighting, aromatherapy and mood music.
History
Although the holistic healing approach of massage may date back thousands of years as a medical treatment in India, the first written documentation appeared in Egypt and China at approximately 2500 B.C. The ancient practice spread to Japan, then to Greece and finally to Rome in about 100 B.C. Massage techniques were rediscovered in the United States in the early part of the 20th century. Modern-day massage techniques originate from the ancient methods and share the consistent goal of healing through touch.
Features
According to Massage Therapy 101, a comprehensive massage website, relaxation massage is a smooth, gentle style of massage therapy that covers a broad range of areas on the body, including the back, legs, arms and neck. Most likely, your therapist will apply oils to your skin to provide a slippery surface before she begins kneading and rubbing the outer layers of your body's tissue. Some therapists like to use scented oils when they are giving a relaxation massage, which can heighten the experience. If you are particularly sensitive to smells, communicate your preferences before the massage begins.
Benefits
According to Mayo Clinic, massage therapy can help you unwind and may provide many other healthful benefits. Although the primary purpose of relaxation massage is to help you de-stress your life, you may receive other healthful benefits. Health experts at Mayo Clinic state, while there has not been extensive research on the effects of massage therapy, some studies have shown that people who receive regular massage treatments find help for blood-pressure control, pain, stiffness, anxiety and depression management, as well as other issues.
Types
Although you may feel relaxed after any form of massage therapy, not all types of the treatment are designed for that purpose alone. Deep-tissue massage, for example, uses deeper, more forceful pressure and is often used to treat muscle damage or injuries. Trigger massage focuses on specific points on the body to help release tension in the muscles. Swedish massage could be considered a type of relaxation massage, which uses gentle long strokes and kneading motion to help you relax and feel energized.
Health Considerations
Massage therapy is not recommended for certain medical conditions. If you suffer from phlebitis, edema--chronic water retention--thrombosis or have varicose veins, massage may not be advisable. In addition, if you suffer from severe and chronic back pain, massage may be ill-advised. According to the American Pregnancy Association, because of the increased statistics of miscarriage, women may be refused massage treatment at many establishments during the first trimester of pregnancy.
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