The Art Of Massage Done Right Helps Reduce Stress, Pain And Accumulated Toxins

The art of massage has been around since time immemorial,
widely practiced since hundreds of years by the Chinese, Indians
and the Greeks. Though massage started off as a pain-relieving
technique, medial practitioners now recognize that it also
improves blood circulation by stimulating the lymphatic
response; it is also well known that massage helps the body in
throwing out accumulated toxins.

Massage is an ancient "bodywork" technique that is used to iron
out muscle stress and also to provide relief from pain by
applying pressure at sensitive points of the body.

Massage is beneficial for the many variables present in the
body. It can strengthen the skin, relieve muscular and joint
pains, and can also help in adding that element of robustness in
ligaments, tendons and connective tissues. It also has the
propensity to fortify the gastrointestinal system and the
reproductive organs.

Only a professional massage therapist who has received adequate
training can deliver a beneficial massage treatment. Though
traditional massage involves administering pressure using hands
and feet, nowadays the massage market is swamped with many
mechanical aids that help in providing more depth and variety to
the practice of massage.

One interesting device is the Massage Chair that comes equipped
with all kinds of bells and whistles such as a motor and various
mechanical protrusions that imitate the actions of a massage
therapist. These massage chairs are computerized and can be
adjusted according to the weight, height and the back contours
of the person. These massage chairs give an all-round massage
covering the back, neck, shoulders, hips, thighs, legs and even
the feet.

All types of medical practitioners ranging from the common
physician to the highly specialized sports trainer nowadays
prescribe massage for pain/stress relief and recovery. Massage
is helpful not only in providing physical relief, it also works
on the mind, freeing it from routine problems such as
depression, stress and mental fatigue.

Apart from mental and physical relief, massage is also used as
a sense-stimulator during the course of making love. Massage
connects with both the body and the mind, and rejuvenates the
entire being while calming the senses at the same time. As such,
just about everyone and anyone benefits from massage – right
from someone who is suffering from unbearable arthritic pains to
the robust rugby player who is plagued by injuries, to someone
who wants to get a sense of extraordinary stimulation during
lovemaking.

Massage is always received in a professional setting, wherein
the client has to remove his clothing and cover his body with
sheets or towels. The massage therapist needs the massage
receiver to be unclothed in order to get easy access to the body
parts that need massage. The sheets and towel that drape the
body provide the necessary warmth, comfort, and, of course, the
privacy.

The client has to lie down on a table that may be warmed or
sheeted so that it is comfortable to the body. A typical massage
setting will also have other elements that soothe the senses
such as enchanting music, aromatic candles and the like. It is
important that the client is fully relaxed before the massage
begins in order to receive the key benefits of massage therapy.

The massage session typically begins with the massage receiver
lying face upward, a position also known as the "supine"
position. During the second half of the massage, the receiver
has to roll over – this position is referred to as the "prone"
position.

If the massage has to be effective, then communication between
the therapist and the client has to be excellent. The client
must keep communicating to the therapist if he feels the
pressure being applied is too much or too less. Such feedback
can help the therapist take corrective action. The client must
always discuss his medical history and his current ailments with
the massage therapist before partaking the massage.

Some of the well-known and prominent massage techniques are:
The very popular Swedish Massage, Ayurvedic Abhyanga, Barefoot
Deep Tissue Massage, Chair Massage, Chinese Tui Na, Chinese Zhi
Ya, CranioSacral, Deep Muscle & Deep Tissue Massage, Effleurage,
The Hawaiian Lomilomi, Roman Massage and Reiki.

As a side note, massage therapy rocks as a career choice. Great
money, flexible hours and a growing interest and marketability
help make this profession a hightly sought after massage therapy
career choice.

About The Author: Alex Hanson is an expert author for Health,
Nutrition, Medicine & Medical articles and promotes a popular
website http://health-nutrition-medicine-medical.info offering
quick tips and advice.

Please use the HTML version of this article at:
http://www.isnare.com/html.php?aid=168930

Las Vegas Massage Therapy - Don't Miss Out

Las Vegas is the city that has the most to offer it visitors
and residents. From gambling casinos to restaurants, to taking
in a show, Las Vegas is one of the most visited cities in the
world today. Every year, millions of people travel from all over
the world to visit this amazing city. Las Vegas is a twenty-four
hour a day, seven days a week city. There is something for
everyone all day and all night.

Among the many attractions in Las Vegas, many establishments
offer a place to go to for Las Vegas massage therapy. Many find
it an exhilarating experience. A Las Vegas massage is unlike any
other you may receive anywhere else. It is done by a person who
is nationally certified which means that they are uniquely
qualified in the procedure.

What Happens

A Las Vegas massage therapy session lasts about one hour.
However, at the end of the hour, you will have received an
incredible massage. The techniques used in a Las Vegas massage
have been time tested and used for over a hundred years. A Las
Vegas massage is an experience that you will remember for a
lifetime. Many people return to Las Vegas with the anticipation
of receiving a massage.

The difference that you feel will astound you and have you
returning for a Las Vegas massage again and again. Among the
benefits, you will find that you have better muscle definition;
flexibility and you will get a more restful sleep. You will find
that your stress level has been reduced and that you are better
able to cope with different situations.

Training Therapists

A Las Vegas massage therapy professional usually trains for
years to become highly trained. They gain the skills that they
need to perform the best massage that you can get. Among their
course studies is healthy living, including diet and nutrition,
which they pass on to their clients during the massage.

Every year, millions of people flock to Las Vegas for vacation
or just a weekend get away. With all there is to do in Las
Vegas, many of the visitors will not leave until they have
received their Las Vegas massage. Those who have had a Las Vegas
massage will get one upon arrival to their hotel. They believe
that it will rejuvenate them and give them more stamina to take
in shows, dine in the finest restaurants, and to gamble for
longer periods of time.

About The Author: Christopher Jay has much more information
available at http://www.typesofmassage.com Las Vegas Massage
Therapy is a great way to improve your health. Visit
http://www.typesofmassage.com today.

Please use the HTML version of this article at:
http://www.isnare.com/html.php?aid=168658

What is Pediatric Massage?

To a child who has been hospitalized, or diagnosed with a
debilitating medical condition, their symptoms are often
accompanied by pain, anxiety, loneliness and fear. So it
only makes sense that healthcare staff and medical
facilities are looking to pediatric massage as treatment
for some of these symptoms.

Research has shown that massage therapy can ease both
physical symptoms as well as, emotional discomforts
associated with pediatric medical conditions. Studies
conducted by the Touch Research Institutes at the
University of Miami School of Medicine show that massage
can alleviate pain, anxiety and depression in pediatric
clients. This healing touch therapy also provides comfort,
relaxation, reduction of stress hormones and relief from
chronic conditions such as asthma, nausea, constipation and
muscle aches.

Immediately after receiving massage, children with mild to
moderate juvenile rheumatoid arthritis notice decreased
anxiety and stress hormone (cortisol) levels. For young
patients with Autism their aversion to touch decreases with
massage, while their ability to focus increases. Pediatric
patients with cystic fibrosis report feeling less anxious,
and their ability to breathe and pulmonary functions
improved.

For the massage therapist or healthcare professional
considering pediatric massage, there are many
considerations to prepare for providing age specific and
development appropriate therapy. Further training in
pediatric massage is required to feel fully confident
working with children within medical institutions.

As you consider pursuing pediatric massage, some initial
adaptations in your practice will become helpful. The
following five "P's" are the keys to successful therapeutic
massage sessions for both pediatric patient and
practitioner.

Permission:

Permission should always be obtained from the child.
Within the confines of hospital walls, it is not always
possible for a child to agree to or refuse treatment.
Empowering the child to have a voice in their medical care
is possible through the use of massage therapy.

Before any touch therapy session with a pediatric patient,
you must receive approval from their attending physician to
ensure the child's safety. Never perform massage therapy
for a pediatric patient prior to receiving medical consent
to do so. Some medical conditions carry contraindications
to touch therapy. It is always best to receive medical
advisement prior to each and every session, in case of any
medical changes.

Pace:

Keep in mind that therapeutic touch sessions with children
are often much shorter than those with adult clients. Even
healthy well children have shorter attention spans and
tolerance to nurturing touch. As a therapist performing
this type of treatment, you may only provide therapy for
15-20 minutes for younger patients. You may find that with
some diagnosis, massage therapy may be recommended more
than one time per day.

Pressure:

Pediatric massage is adapted for each individual client on
a specific case by case basis. With each child it is
important to build a rapport and trust in your professional
relationship. Allow children to know they can direct the
amount of pressure used during the massage. And also be
prepared for the child to test out the control they have in
directing the amount of pressure used during the session.
It is important that the child knows they can trust you,
and that you will listen to their requests. Once they
trust you, they can relax and just feel the many benefits
of the massage.

The very experience of having some control over their
bodies becomes more important for children who are
chronically ill or hospitalized. For these children, their
day-to-day existent in the hospital is full of experiences
of adults doing things to them, sometimes painful and
uncomfortable, without their permission. It is very
empowering for a child to have the ability to direct their
therapeutic session, and at times even refuse it.

Positioning:

Some chronically ill children are confined to their
hospital bed, while others may be in a wheelchair or have
the ability to move from their bed with ease. It is
important to be able to adapt to a variety of scenarios.
Practice different positions including supported side
lying, supine, and semi-reclined. These three positions
seem to work very well, as you can keep eye contact and
notice any facial gestures your young client may make which
would alert you of any discomfort. Of course, it is always
possible to provide massage in other positions as well,
such as sitting in a wheelchair, standing, or lying in
another position that is more comfortable for them. The
important key is placing your hands on the child in a way
that they feel most comfortable. This will increase the
therapeutic and relaxing benefits or your time together.

Parents:

To many pediatric patients and their families, pediatric
massage is often seen as the medicine they need to heal, so
it becomes more important to consider including parents in
your sessions. You can't provide therapy for the child
everyday, so teaching the parents some techniques will be
helpful in encouraging this healthy bond between parent and
child. Additionally, many parents feel helpless within the
medical system. Passing along something they can use will
help them to feel calm and relaxed as well, which will
translate to the young client.

At the beginning of the session remind the parent that your
focus will be on the child and that you will be happy to
discuss the session or answer any questions at the end of
the treatment. Show parents some simple techniques to help
them relax, such as taking some deep breaths or rolling
their shoulders. Explain the importance of relaxing prior
to touching their child. Then show them some simple
techniques they can use without harming their child.

----------------------------------------------------
Looking for expert advice, tips and tools to help improve
your child's health? Find answers to all your questions
about infant massage instruction training, children's and
pediatric massage at http://www.liddlekidz.com . Infant
Massage Instructor Trainer, Tina Allen, founder of leading
children's health and nurturing touch organization Liddle
KidzT, shares over ten years of expertise working with
children and families.

Benefits and Risks of Therapeutic Massage

There are few people who don't like to have a massage. I'm sure that if you are reading this article, you are among the many who enjoys a good massage. Many like massage to relax, and to ease sore and stiff muscles. But massage has many other therapeutic uses.

People use massage therapy to improve circulation and improve the function of the lymph nodes, which carry toxic materials out of the body. Some massages are used to strengthen and relax the muscles, making it easier to move. Therapeutic massage therapy can also help you to reduce fatigue and ease minor aches and pains.

Another benefit of massage therapy is the glow it can give your skin. A good massage can stimulate the skin keep it cool and moisturized. A skin that glows makes a body look and feel healthy. A massage may also boost the immune system and help you stay healthier.

There are some risks involved in having therapeutic massage. For example, you should not have a massage if you have blood vessel diseases. Check with your primary care doctor before having a massage if there is a clot in a vein. Massage could dislodge the clot and free it into the bloodstream to block the heart or the lungs. If you have any cardiovascular diseases involving swollen blood vessels or heart disease you should check with your doctor before having a massage.

Another risk involved in a therapeutic massage is if you have a burn, open cuts, swelling, infected skin, or herpes or cold sores - all can be contraindications that you should wait until you heal. If you have back pain, you should ask your doctor before having a massage. You should also not visit a massage therapist if you have a high fever or chills. This could be the sign of a serious illness.

Massage therapy should be avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy. The risk of miscarriage is the highest in the first three months and your abdomen, feet and legs should not be massaged. A therapist trained in massage during pregnancy will be able to provide the right technique for massaging the feet and lower legs. Always check with your doctor before getting a massage when you are pregnant.

Breaking bones that did not heal should not be massaged. Anyone with weak bones or with osteoporosis should avoid any form of massage. You should check with your doctor if you have a mild case of osteoporosis before having massage therapy.

Before getting a therapeutic massage, you should know that massage therapy is normally not covered by most health insurance plans. A massage may be covered by insurance if a doctor prescribes it.

Choosing a massage therapist is an important part of your therapy. Make sure your therapist is licensed and accredited through your state. They should have gone through a massage training program and you should choose if you would be more comfortable with a male or female therapist.

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for http://www.ItsEntirelyNatural.com, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site.

Massage & Massage Therapy: No Longer a Guilty Pleasure

Pick a lifestyle any lifestyle, go ahead, I won't peek!
Without knowing who you are or where you live and without
knowing another single fact about you, I'm prepared to
wager that for you, there just aren't enough hours in the
day, whatever your circumstances are.

Again, I'll wager that you have too much to do and not
nearly enough time to do it in. OK, it doesn't take a
rocket scientist to work that one out because I know I've
chosen a very popular theme, one that affects, well. almost
everyone.

Between work commitments and family commitments, it's
incredibly easy to lose yourself and your own identity in
the pursuit of looking after others.

Allow yourself to imagine, just for a minute, that you pay
the same attention to your own needs that you do for
others. If you really gave this a go, you would quickly see
a brighter picture. You may not be immediately aware of the
benefits, but trust me, setting aside a little time for
yourself has benefits you just wouldn't believe.

No excuse is needed to take care of YOU, the most important
person in your life. The change doesn't have to be radical,
start small and begin with something as simple as setting
aside some time just for you. If your life has been one
long exercise in looking after everyone else's needs, then
even spending some quiet time alone will carry some guilt,
but stay focused and remember, all you are trying to do is
redress the balance.

Consider something totally new, consider a manicure or a
pedicure, or do yourself a huge favour and consider having
a massage. Whatever you decide, just turn a little
attention back to you. If having a massage seems too much
of a luxury, think again. Massage and massage therapy is no
longer an activity reserved for the wealthy and the
benefits of massage go way beyond the physical.

If the thought of a full body massage scares the life out
of you, start with the most uplifting and rewarding massage
of all, a facial. A facial massage if something you could
do for yourself, with your own hands in the comfort and
privacy of your own home, and as a taste of what is
possible, it shouldn't be too difficult to justify. (to
yourself!)

Your hands are a masterpiece of design and they're an
evolutionary triumph. It would be a shame not to use them.
Your own hands have an intimate knowledge of the face that
you display to the world.

For most of us, putting ourselves first is an unthinkable
luxury which is an idea that is quickly discarded. My
advice is not to be too hasty. Don't beat yourself for
putting yourself first. It'll put you in a much better
position to help and coach others.

Have a good think about massage though because if you look
great there's more than a good chance that you'll feel
great too and from there, the possibilities are endless.

In the meantime I wish you continued outstanding health.

----------------------------------------------------
Take control of the aging process once and for all with
your own hands in the comfort and privacy of your own home,
with the most comprehensive Home Study Massage Program
available.
Click here ==> http://www.holistic-facial-massage.com

Why Would You Need a Therapeutic Massage?

Do you feel that a massage is a luxury and something you should only have as a treat to yourself? Therapeutic massage is certainly a luxury you can enjoy, but it is also a great way of relieving pain and promoting range of motion. This article will help you understand what therapeutic massage is, the benefits and the risks of receiving a massage.

More than half of the body is made of muscle whose main role is to keep the body moving. Muscles give the body shape and help to protect internal organs. The tendons are attached to the muscles and the muscles are connected to the brain with nerves. The brain sends the message to the muscles to move. When the muscle moves it causes the muscle to contract and that motion pulls the tendon.

Massage therapy is manipulation of the soft tissue of the body including muscles, connective tissue, the skin and tendons. Connective tissue is the soft tissues that surround, separate, and connect the different organs and parts of the body.

What can cause muscles and the connecting tissue to become stiff and sore? There are many things that can do that: repetitive motions, too much pull on a specific muscle, stress, bad posture, surgery, injuries, and even doing nothing at all and relaxing on the couch can make your muscles sore and tender. Manipulating soft tissue, muscles, and other connective tissues are massaged by applying pressure to parts of the body.

Researchers and scientists are not sure why massage therapy works for some people but not for others. There is a good deal of evidence that massage has beneficial effects in three ways: physically, physiologically, and psychologically. Physically the pressure of the massage on the skin can loosen stiff muscles. Physiologically it can improve the functioning of the organs. Psychologically it can release endorphins and develop an overall feeling of well-being.

Therapeutic massage can stimulate the body to release certain chemicals that help improve your mood, improve circulation and help your body expel toxic substances that build up in the muscles. Psychologically a massage can feel pampered and taken care of. It gives a person a feeling of self-worth and helps the client connect with another human. The touch and the contact are important ingredients to the psychology of a person's health and welfare.

There are many types of therapeutic massage based on different techniques and focusing on areas of the body that heightens relaxation and relieves stress. Many people use massage therapy as a way to relieve stress and relax stiff and sore muscles. It can help improve the function of the lymph system helping to move waste products out of the body. Massage strengthens muscles and allows the joints to move more freely. Range of motion is improved and therapy promotes recovery from injuries, fatigue and minor pain.

Massage therapy may increase blood circulation and help boost the immune system. It also is great for stimulating the skin and giving it a fresh healthy glow.

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for http://www.ItsEntirelyNatural.com, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site.

Get a Massage for Relaxation

If you have already had a massage, you know how relaxed and good it makes you feel when you are done. If you are relaxed before you come it will help your therapist loosen your muscles more quickly. A steam bath, sauna, or time in a hot tub will help you relax and soften your muscles and make your massage more effective. Turn off your cell phone and try not to let worries or concerns enter your mind. Do not eat before a massage.

When you start the massage experience, you will be taken into a quiet darkened room, there will be candles burning and a sweet aroma in the air. You will be asked to undress while the therapist leaves the room. There will be a table specifically made for massage with an opening to place your face. The therapist will knock on the door to be sure you are undressed and covered with a sheet. Any jewelry that might interfere with the massage should be taken off.

You should be properly covered with a sheet during your massage. Your therapist will only uncover the portion of your body they are working on. It's your choice whether you want to be completely undressed or leave on your underwear or panties. A massage therapist should never touch your breast or genital area. They will knock before entering the room to be sure you are undressed and covered properly.

The therapist will normally begin with the back area. Take deep breaths while you are being massaged. It's all right to talk to your therapist, but its fine if you want to just be quiet and relax. Try to keep your mind clear.

Your therapists will give you simple commands such as "turn, lift your leg, or take a deep breath." If you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask your therapist. Tell them what you like or don't like. If the pressure is too strong, let them know. They have no way to tell if their massage pressure is too much. A massage should be relaxing and not cause you pain.

Deep breathing techniques will help you relax during your massage and make it more effective. Only the parts of your body the therapist is working on will be exposed. The therapist may use oil, lotion, or powder. If you know you are allergic to a certain product, tell your therapist. They may ask you which oil or lotion you prefer and will not react to. Your therapist will advise you to relax and enjoy your massage. Focus only on your massage; try to keep worries and concerns out of your mind.

Normally a therapist will tell you which area they are going to work on next. If you have any sensitivity to that area, tell your therapist. It may mean they will change their technique or skip that area. A massage also includes a scalp massage, but if you don't want your hair messed up you should tell the therapist so they will skip the scalp massage.

The therapist will leave the room to allow you to dress in privacy. Take your time and get up slowly. You should rest for at least 30 seconds before you try to stand.

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for http://www.ItsEntirelyNatural.com, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site.