One of the first questions I get asked about holistic massage is “What does holistic mean?” Holistic means ‘whole’ (it has Greek origins for those interested in the Etymology!). So this form of massage deals with you as a ‘whole’. Like other treatments, it is not just appearing to treat the symptoms, but to create the cause, whether it be internal or outside. The intention is to rebalance the body so it reaches homeostasis or equilibrium. The training for the therapist is quite extensive, as it not only covers massage, but also anatomy and physiology, nutrition and general well-being.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Massage Therapy
Massage benefits are both body and mind. It’s rare that we take an hour to lie down, close our eyes and simply ‘be’. An hour’s peace and quiet away from ringing telephones and demanding kids has a certain restorative effect.
For the body, the massage helps tight muscles learn to relax and this, combined with strokes to aid lymphatic drainage, helps to release toxins. The gains can be felt by all ages, backgrounds and lifestyles. According to the Massage Association, research has verified that office workers massaged regularly were more alert, performed better and were less distressed than those who weren’t massaged. It’s not merely office workers who benefit. Stress affects different people in a multitude of ways, physically and emotionally. Stiffness and soreness in muscles can be a result of a wide range of physical factors from an exceedingly lively session in the fitness center or taking too large an amount of shopping home, to bad position through being seated at a desk all day or excessive time behind the steering wheel. The causes aren’t always physical however. Mental anxiety and the daily stresses that life throws at us can show in head aches due to a stiff neck and shoulders and the body generally tensing up in response to stress, particularly if there isn’t the chance to release. Massage can help folks to cope with psychological issues for example despair and melancholy.
Older individuals benefit too. For the aged it can be difficult to get around, resulting in lack of exercise and muscle atrophy. Massage will stimulate blood flow and help the release of those feel-good endorphins that make us feel smiley inside.
Are There Any Reasons I’d Not Be Able To Have A Massage
There are several variables which preclude massage, for example if the you are ill and/or has a temperature. You’re also advised not to drink alcohol or take drugs (unless by prescription!) in the 24 hours before and after the massage. This could change the liver and kidneys as in addition to the toxins released by the massage they will additionally be trying to contend with toxins from the drug. Folks with some conditions (for example cancer) may be treated only with approval from their GP. Your therapist will advise you, as the list is rather extensive.
