What is Therapeutic Massage?
Therapeutic Massage is the systematic manual manipulation of the soft tissues of the body for the purpose of promoting circulation of the blood and lymph, relaxing the muscles, relief from pain, and the restoration of metabolic balance. Any one, or combination of several techniques can be used.
What Are The Benefits Of Therapeutic Massage/ Bodywork?
Therapeutic massage and bodywork can improve circulation, help to loosen contracted muscles and stimulate weak muscles. Therapeutic massage and bodywork can also aid relaxation, help to reduce stress, help to prevent and relieve pain from injuries and muscle spasm, and improve flexibility. It promotes deeper and easier breathing, improves posture and strengthens the immune system. Therapeutic massage and bodywork also fosters a peace of mind and a feeling of well-being, promotes mental alertness, improves the ability to monitor stress signals and respond appropriately, and enhances one’s ability to calm thinking and creativity. It also increases the awareness of mind-body connection
Are There Times When I Should NOT Receive Massage/Bodywork
There are specific situations where massage/bodywork should not be performed. These include, but are not limited to: broken bones, recent surgery, inflammation of the skin,vericose veins, open woulds, acute infectious diseases, acute pain, fever, and blod clots to name a few. You should also never receive massge when under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. It is important that the client inform the practitioner of their current health status. There will aslo be cases where the practitioner will require a release from a physician prior to treatment, as with prenatal massage.
What Will The Massage Or Bodywork Feel Like?
It depends of the type of work or technique used. In a basic Swedish massage, your session may start with broad flowing strokes to help calm and relax exterior muscle tension. As you become relaxed, pressure may be gradually increased to relieve specific areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil, or lotion may be used to prevent excessive friction to the skin. You should communicate immediately if you feel any pain or discomfort to your practitioner so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when the body is not resisting.
Must I Be completely Undressed?
Absolutely NOT! While most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed, it is however, completely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session.
Will The Practitioner Be Present When I Disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, giving you adequate time to undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel.
Will I Be Covered During The Session?
You will be properly draped and covered at all times to help keep you warm and comfortable. Only the areas being worked on will be exposed.
What Parts Of My Body Will Be Massaged?
You and your practitioner will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body will require massage. A typical full body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. You will NOT be touched on or near your genitals (male and female) or your breasts (female).
