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Massage, which falls under the category of bodywork, involves the manipulation of muscles and other soft tissues. It is beneficial in treating a wide range of conditions, including muscle spasms and pain, soreness from injury, and headaches. Massage works to relieve pain in a number of ways: by promoting muscle relaxation; by increasing lymphatic circulation, and thereby reducing inflammation; by breaking up scar tissue and adhesions; by promoting blood circulation through the muscles; and by promoting drainage of the sinus fluids.
Massage is not advisable for everyone. Those with a history of phlebitis, high blood pressure, or any other vascular disorder should not receive any type of deep muscle massage performed with strong pressure. Always check with a health care provider before receiving deep muscle massage. Massage should not be performed on inflamed areas or on individuals with malignant or infectious conditions.
MASSAGE METHODS
One of the oldest forms of healing therapy for the body uses touch. From this sense, numerous specific methods of treatment have been developed and practiced in most cultures. Thousands of years ago, many symptoms were alleviated by the laying on of hands as well as with massage. The first written evidence citing the use of therapeutic massage comes from China, in documents said to be more than 4 millennia old. Sanskrit writings from 1800 B.C. cite massage as a treatment for insomnia, tension and fatigue. In both ancient and modern use, massage is considered to be a holistic therapy. Though practiced upon the body, it addresses the whole person, and it affects body, mind and spirit. Massage techniques are designed to activate the body's own powers of self-healing to revitalize and rebalance body functions. As muscles are loosened up and mind and body relax, the brain releases endorphins, hormones that act as natural pain killers to reduce pain sensations. Massage has both a calming effect and an energizing effect on the nervous system. It increases local overall blood and lymph circulation, so nutrients are better distributed and waste products are more quickly removed. Massage also relieves muscle pain, loosens joints and stretches ligaments. It can also be an effective supplement to therapy for constipation.
THE TREATMENT
As a rule, massage is performed by specially trained personnel, usually in a series of treatments. Thorough warming of the body - with warm-up exercises, for instance - is recommended before a massage. The therapists feels for tensions and disturbances in the body and applies appropriate techniques, geared to the individual. Depending on your symptoms, the therapist may massage your entire body or only specific areas. Health insurance may cover massage that is prescribed by a health care provider.
A variety of massage therapies are currently in use. Each is based on a different theory and utilizes specific techniques. The following bodywork systems represent some of those most widely used:
- Deep Tissue Massage: Used to release chronic muscular tension, deep tissue massage is applied with greater pressure and on deeper muscles than classic Swedish massage. It generally focuses on a specific problem area.
- Esalen Massage: This massage technique attempts to bring about a sense of well-being through deep and beneficial states of consciousness. Esalen massage focuses on the mind and body as a whole. It is a hypnotic method that uses slow, rhythmic movements to bring about a general state of relaxation.
- The Feldenkrais Method: The idea of "self-image" is central to the theory and technique of this method. Through exercise and "touch", the therapist helps eliminate negative muscle patterns and the feeling and thoughts associated with them. This method uses two approaches:
- Awareness through Movement employs a group approach in which the participants are guided through a slow, gentle sequence designed to replace old movement patterns with new ones.
- Functional Integration is an individualized approach that uses hands-on touch and movement.
The Feldenkrais Method differs from most other types of massage in that there is no attempt to alter the body's structure. Rather, it is through touch that the practitioner attempts to communicate a sense of improved self-image and movement.
- Neuromuscular Massage: This form of deep tissue massage concentrates on a specific muscle. Through the use of concentrated finger pressure, sensitive "trigger points" are released and blood flow is increased.
- Rolfing or Structural Integration: This method is based on the belief that function is improved when body parts are properly aligned. Through manipulation of connective tissue linking muscles to bones, the therapist attempts to restore fuller movement, resulting in a more balanced body.
- Shiatsu: Literally meaning "finger pressure" in Japanese, this Oriental massage technique focuses on acupressure points to restore and maintain health. Through firm, rhythmic pressures applied to specific points for 3 to 10 seconds each, the Shiatsu therapist attempts to unblock the energy that flows through the acupuncture meridians.
- Sports Massage: A combination of kneading, passive stretching, and range of deep-tissue motions, sports massage is designed to ease muscle strain and promotes flexibility. It is most effective when applied before or after exercising.
- Swedish Massage This technique, developed by Perer Hendricks Ling in the early 1800s, uses kneading, stoking, tapping, and shaking to induce the body to relax. Swedish massage can also relieve soreness and swelling, as well as promote rehabilitation after an injury.
So numerous are your massage choices that before making a decision, you might wish to visit your local library or do an online search for information. Either way, you will need to familiarize yourself with what is available and help you either learn techniques of self-massage, or choose the type of massage therapist who can best provide the help you need.
For further information about massage therapy, you can contact the following organizations:
- The American Massage Therapy Association
820 Davis Street, Suite 100
Evanston, IL 60201
Phone: (847) 864-0123
Website: www.amtamassage.org
- Esalen Institute
Highway 1
Big Sur, CA 93920-9616
Phone: (831) 667-3000
Email: info@esalen.org
Website: www.esalen.com or www.esalen.org
- Feldenkrais Guild of North America
3611 SW Hood Ave., Suite 100
Portland, OR 97201
Toll Free: (800) 775-2118
Phone: (508) 221-6612
Fax: (508) 221-6616
Website: www.feldenkrais.com
- International Rolf Institute
205 Canyon Blvd.
Boulder, CO 80302
Toll Free: (800) 530-8875
Phone: (303) 449-5903
Fax: (303) 449-5978
Website: www.rolf.org
SIMPLE MASSAGE TECHNIQUES
Massage has proven effective for relieving muscle tension, back and joint pain or stiffness, chronic pain, metabolic disorders, nervousness, tension, anxiety, sleep disturbances and digestive disorders.
Massage therapists have a number of techniques at their disposal that can be varied according to individual needs. These methods are commonly used, often with sweet-almond oil or avocado oil:
- Stroking: Often used at the beginning and the conclusion of a massage; it has a calming effect on the body.
- Kneading: This type of massage stimulates circulation, reduces tension and relieves muscle inflammation.
- Rolling: Loosens muscle tension.
- Drumming: Stimulates circulation and removal of waste from the tissue; loosens hardened muscle tissue.
- Circling: Stimulates the nerves.
- Rubbing: This promotes dispersal of fluid through skin tissue; it also loosens muscular tension.
- Tapping: Increases circulation; firms muscle and tissue tone.
- Clapping: Refreshes body and mind.
- Gentle Shaking: Loosens blockages in the neural pathways.
- Vibrating: Promotes fluid dispersal through skin tissue, reduces tension and balances the nervous system.
MASSAGE OIL
Massage oil allows the hands to glide across skin smoothly. The use of the oil intensifies skin contact as well. Soy, sweet-almond and avocado oils are the most commonly used base oils. Essential oils added to the base oil will heighten a massage's effects. For example, chamomile essential oil is calming, rosemary oil invigorates and eucalyptus oil increases blood flow.
Mountain Rose Herbs: Carrier & Bulk Oils
Mountain Rose Herbs: Aromatherapy Essential Oils
Extra Tip - A gentle head massage is effective for easing headaches and insomnia and relaxing after taxing work: Slightly spread your fingers and knead your scalp with a circular motion. First massage from the top of the head to the nape of the neck, then from the top of the head to the ears.
SELF-MASSAGE
Most people who instinctively rub their neck or shoulders when their muscles are sore or tense probably have no idea that they are employing a venerable holistic healing method called self-massage. And they are also probably unaware that self-massage can do more that alleviate aches and pains. If you are in good health, the use of self-massage on a routine basis is an excellent way to prevent disease. If you are sick, self-massage can initiate and sustain the healing process. A primary benefit of this technique is that it can be combined with other healing methods to enhance their effectiveness. Performed slowly and carefully, self-massage relaxes the body, improves circulation and helps reduce swelling. Performed quickly, it lessens fatigue and revitalizes the body. Use your hands or a massage belt or glove to give yourself a massage.
AN INVIGORATING SELF-MASSAGE
Self-massage is a proven remedy for fatigue, insomnia, muscle tension, muscle weakness, joint pain, circulatory disorders and skin problems.
Massage can be stimulating as well as relaxing. Massage stimulates blood flow, thereby relaxing tense muscles and relieving pain. It may help heal an injury, such as a sprain, by bringing fresh oxygen to the affected tissues. Depending on the technique applied, self-massage can relax or stimulate the body, harmonize the nervous system and instill a greater sense of overall well-being.
To help reduce fatigue, try a self-massage using a loofah mitt or other glove made from natural fibers. Relax and lie down, or sit in a comfortable chair that provides you with back and neck support. Massage one body area at a time. Begin with your legs and gently brush your skin in a circular motion. Work upward and in toward your heart. This massage should be performed first thing in the morning in a well-ventilated room or near an open window.
THE SELF-MASSAGE TECHNIQUES
Rubbing: To stimulate circulation and release muscle tension, rub your muscles in circular motions with your hands and fingers.
Kneading: Using a little warm natural vegetable oil as a lubricant, knead your muscles as if you were working with bread dough.
Vibrating: Use rhythmic knocking or light slapping, preferably with flat hands, to improve blood circulation and relax muscles.
Final Stroking: End every massage with gentle strokes, slowly moving outward.
Take Care! - Look carefully at your skin before beginning to massage. In areas where the skin is red or painful, massage outward, being careful not to apply too much pressure. Pale areas should be stimulated with energetic massage.
Begin each massage by gently stroking the skin. Then, either using one or both hands, start rubbing your muscles. When using 2 hands, move them together or alternate between them. In general, work with strokes toward the heart. Allow 20 minutes for the massage. When using a massage belt, start at the upper body and work downward.
A FACIAL MASSAGE
1. Using the pads of your fingers, apply massage oil to the areas of you face in the following order:Forehead.
Start from the center of each area and slowly move outward.
Temples.
Nose.
Cheeks.
Chin.
And Ears.
2. Place your middle and index fingers between your nose and upper lip; move in circular motions around your mouth.
3. Place the tips of your index, middle and ring fingers close together on your forehead and rub outward toward your temples, making circular motions and applying gentle pressure.
4. Next, move in circular motions from your nose area, across your cheekbones toward your ears. Move down to the hinge of your jaw, then to your lower jaw.
5. To finish the massage, lightly tap your entire face with your index and middle fingers of both hands, moving from the center of your face outward.
MASSAGE PRODUCTS & TOOLS
HerbalRemedies: Omni Massage Systems - Massage Tools
The Mini Omni Massage Roller can provide the pressure and mobility necessary for a deep, thorough massage. The Omni Massage Roller is the most effective and versatile massage tool on the market today. Its unique design and ease of use, appeals to both the professional and personal user. The PowerGlide Convertible massage cane can be used to effectively reach any part our your body. Knuckle-Baller is an outstanding aid in the application of many techniques including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports Massage, Trigger Point, Reflexology and Cellulite Reduction.
HerbalRemedies: Foot & Body Massager, Foot Fantasy, 1 Each, Colors Vary
Through the application of pressure using the Omni Foot Massager to the body's reflex points, tension is relieved thereby promoting better circulation and function to the organs.
HerbalRemedies: Comforting Massage Oil, NOW Foods, 16 oz.
NOW® Comforting Massage Oil unites a serene blend of oils to help you relax and unwind after even the busiest of days. In addition to the softening and emollient properties of Almond Oil, this lavish formula contains 100% Pure & Natural essential oil extracts from Lavender, Chamomile, Patchouli and others. Used as a daily moisturizing oil, it leaves skin feeling silky soft, nourished, and rejuvenated.
HerbalRemedies: Patchouli Oil, 100% Organic Essential Oil, 2 fl. oz.
Using Patchouli in inhalation, baths, and massage has an uplifting effect on depression and anxiety, and can help alleviate fluid retention.
HerbalRemedies: Sweet Almond Oil, NOW Foods, 100% Pure Essential Oil, 16 fl. oz.
Sweet Almond Oil, pure essential oil, from NOW Foods is often used to relieve skin itch and dryness. Sweet Almond Oil is odorless and is derived from pressed almonds.
HerbalRemedies: Apricot Kernel Oil, Refined, Cold Pressed, NOW Foods, 16 fl. oz.
Apricot Kernel Oil is smooth and high in Vitamin A and minerals. Often used as a cosmetic oil, Apricot Kernel Oil softens and moisturizes skin.
HerbalRemedies: Organic Lavender Almond Body Message Oil, NOW Personal Care, 16 fl. oz.
NOW lavender almond massage oil utilizes the soothing relaxing properties of one of the best known combinations of natural and organic oils.
HerbalRemedies: Arnica Warming Relief Massage Oil, NOW Foods, 8 oz.
NOW Arnica Warming Relief Massage Oil captures the soothing essence of Arnica to provide immediate warmth and relief to tired, overworked muscles.
HerbalRemedies: Relaxing Baby Massage Wellness Oil, 2 fl. oz.
The benefits of Baby Massage are numerous including the relief of discomfort and it releases both oxytocin and endorphins and therefore can assist in relieving discomfort from teething, congestion, colic and emotional stress.
HerbalRemedies: Guduchi Massage Oil, 8 fl. oz.
Guduchi oil is excellent to pacify Vata and Pitta conditions such as excess perspiration burning sensations, headaches, etc.
HerbalRemedies: Sensual Massage Wellness Oil, 2 fl. oz.
Bring a little life back into your relationship with this all Sensual Massage Wellness Oil containing cardamom, ylang-ylang, jasmine, neroli and sandalwood all profound, natural products.
HerbalRemedies: Olbas Sport Massage Oil & Skin Care Oil, 8 fl. oz.
Olbas Sport massage oil is an extraordinary massage skin care oil that penetrates rapidly to protect, soften and soothe. It also helps tone and condition muscles before and after sports or strenuous activity.
HerbalRemedies: Essential Oil Blend, Olbas, 100% Natural, Swiss Made, 25 ml
Olbas Essential Oil Blend is a synergistic combination of six essential oils provides amazing relief on multiple levels.
HerbalRemedies: Teething Wellness Oil, Teething Remedy, 2 fl. oz.
Massage a small amount of Teething Wellness Oil, Teething Remedy onto the outside area of babies cheeks. Actually works whether you believe it or not.
HerbalRemedies: Massage Lotion With Emu Oil, 16 fl. oz. Bottle
This massage lotion combines the unique properties of Emu Oil and Aloe Vera, giving you a luxurious, moisturizing lotion as well as the smooth glide needed for an excellent massage.
HerbalRemedies: Orange Massage Cream (Vata), Kaya Ayurvedic Skin Care, 1.5 fl. oz.
Orange Massage Cream from Kaya Ayurvedic Skin Care lightens fine lines & wrinkles while toning and moisturizing the skin.
HerbalRemedies: Chamomile Moisturizing Natural Facial Cleanser, CamoCare, 4 oz.
CamoCare Chamomile Moisturizing Natural Facial Cleanser removes dirt, makeup, sebum and environmental pollutants known to clog pores and make skin look older.
HerbalRemedies: Peppermint Foot Lotion, Burt's Bees, 3.38 oz.
This wonderfully natural formula combines pure Peppermint oil, Parsley Leaf oil, and Menthol to soothe and calm tired feet. Sunflower, Wheat germ, and Coconut oils soften, while emollient Beeswax and Vitamin E protect feet against rough calluses and heels. It's the perfect pampering spa treatment for the feet.
Hot Stone Massage (Mini Kits)
Using this fun, safe mini kit is an affordable way to experience a popular spa-style foot treatment at home.
Burt's Bees Foot Care Kit, 1 each w/ Foot Creme, Pumice Stone & Sock (Contents May Vary)
Burt's Bee's Foot Care Kit contains all you need to treat your feet. The kit contains Coconut Foot Creme, exfoliating Pumice Stone, and Burt's Bees Socks, Treat yourself or someone else.
Body & Soul Massage Gift Basket
Great for a Man or Woman, the Body and Soul Massage Gift Basket can be customized to enable anyone to begin practicing and enjoying the art of massage on yourself or loved ones. A great gift for anyone you care about.
Relief / Kali Spice Gift Bag, 1 Massage Bar & 1 Soap
Relief / Kali Spice gift bag - All tied up in knot? Give a Relief massage bar to release those sore muscles. The Kali Spice soap will invigorate and waken any one up to a new day.
Bliss Lavender Gift Bag, 1 Massage Bar & 1 Soap
The Bliss Lavender gift bag is a relaxing combination of a Bliss massage bar and a Lavender soap that will calm anyone's stressful life.
Desire Wild Rose Gift Bag, 1 Massage Bar & 1 Soap
Desire Wild Rose gift bag for passion. Try giving this red bag filled with a Desire massage bar and Wild Rose soap.
Massage Bar, Bliss, 1 Bar
Handcrafted silky smooth natural moisturizing bars made with cocoa butter, shea butter, and essential oils. Rub the bars on your skin to release its natural scent and oils.
Massage Jar Holster Belt With Jar, Core Products
The Massage Jar Holster Belt gives you convenient accessibility to the treatment balms you use in your practice.
Massage Oil & Lotion Holsters With 2 Bottles, Core Products
The Massage Oil and Lotion Holsters give you convenient accessibility to the massage oils and lotions you use in your practice.
Massage Oil & Lotion Holsters With 1 Bottle, Core Products
The Massage Oil and Lotion Holsters give you convenient accessibility to the massage oils and lotions you use in your practice.
Jeanie Rub, Foot & Leg Massager, Core Products
Jeanie Rub Foot and Leg Massager helps relieve swelling, reduce muscle spasm, and hasten the elimination of harmful, built-up toxins, and increase and improved flexibility by increasing blood circulation to the lower extremities.
Jeanie Rub Massager, Sheepskin Pad Cover, Core Products
Jeanie Rub Massager Sheepskin Pad Cover is made out of luxurious genuine Australian sheepskin. This Sheepskin Pad Cover is the ultimate in comfort as well as added protection for the Jeanie Rub Massager's vinyl pad.
Jeanie Rub Fleece Pad Cover, Core Products
Jeanie Rub Fleece Pad Cover protects and prolongs the life of your massager's vinyl pad. If you enjoy your massage with the aid of oils or lotions, use this washable, snug-fitting fleece pad cover.
Jeanie Rub Massager Accessory Kit, Core Products
Use Jeanie Rub Massager Accessory Kit professional attachments for a more targeted trigger-point massage.
Jeanie Rub Massager Professional Package, Core Products
Jeanie Rub Massager Professional Package is the ultimate starter kit for a successful massage. Jeanie Rub Massager relieves muscle tension, aches and pain while enhancing overall good health.
Jeanie Rub Massager - Single Speed, Core Products
Jeanie Rub Massager relieves muscle tension, aches and pain while enhancing overall good health. Jeanie Rub delivers a consistent, soothing and invigorating massage every time.
Jeanie Rub Massager, Variable Speed With Accessory Posts, Core Products
Jeanie Rub Massager relieves muscle tension, aches and pain while enhancing overall good health.
Jeanie Rub Massager, Variable-Speed, Core Products
Jeanie Rub Massager relieves muscle tension, aches and pain while enhancing overall good health. Jeanie Rub delivers a consistent, soothing and invigorating massage every time.
Secrets of Ayurvedic Massage By Atreya
VIEWPOINT OF MAINSTREAM MEDICINE
Health care providers recognize massage as an effective natural healing procedure with minimal side effects, as long as the massage is performed by a trained professional.
TAKE CARE! Massage therapy is not recommended when there is acute pain, especially in the throat region and the back of the neck. Use with caution if you have ulcers, skin or vascular diseases, an acute illness or if you have had a heart attack. Always go to a qualified practitioner for treatment.
MOONDRAGON'S PAIN CONTROL LINKS
MoonDragon's Health Therapy: Pain Control
HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
This is only a small sample of educational materials and products available through Amazon.com. Use the search box provided below to search for a particular item.
HERBS, OILS, & SUPPLIES
MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Manufacturers & Distributors
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
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