Massage Therapist
We often overlook this health benefit as a self indulgent pleasure and It is both. Just because you enjoy it does not negate the benefit to your health.
Massage Therapy not only provides a necessary relaxation benefit, as tension is worked out through your muscles and joints, the lymph system is drained of toxins that may be keeping you in pain. Massage therapy involves the pressing, rubbing, and manipulating of muscles and other soft tissues of the body by a massage therapist. Massage therapy can be used to improve both physical and emotional well-being, and is commonly referred to as “bodywork” when used in alternative medicine. There are various massage techniques available, including Swedish massage, sports massage, deep tissue massage, and trigger massage. Other types of massage may be administered to specific parts of the body. For instance, an Indian head massage focuses on alleviating stress from the head and neck region, and a prenatal massage helps relax sore spots which may result from pregnancy. I prefer deep tissue, however, you should talk to your massage therapist and discuss exactly what you want to get out of the massage. You may want to start with something small and work into a deeper method. Some Doctors will prescribe this therapy and even have a massage therapist on staff. While we would all like to have them weekly, once a month is ideal as part of your healing plan.
Reflexology
Reflexology, also known as Zone Therapy, is a treatment based on the principle that there are pressure points on different areas of the body that correspond to every part, gland, and organ. A practitioner performs specific manipulations, mainly using the thumb, to unblock the energy channels. The idea is that with proper energy flow, the body has the ability to heal itself, physically and emotionally.
The body is divided into ten equal vertical zones, and the different areas of your feet, hands, and ears provide a map of the corresponding body organs. Applying pressure to these reflex points allows movement of energy, blood, and nutrients to flow along the nerve channels to stimulate and restore balance in the body. The zones are similar to the meridians used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and many consider reflexology to be a needleless form of acupuncture. Reflexology sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes depending on an individual’s needs.
Some things to consider while choosing your professional.
- Make sure this is a professional who has become certified and understands the anatomy and Your needs
- You won’t want a “talker” this is a time for silence and healing
- This is about you. If you are most comfortable with a woman, that is who you should hire.
- Consider the investment- ask for gift cards from family for gift ideas, ask Doctor for a referral
- Location