What Is Massage Therapy?
According to the (Massage Therapy Act, 1991) “The practice of massage therapy is the assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain. ”
Benefits of Massage Therapy Include:
Peer-reviewed medical research has shown that the benefits of massage therapy include; pain relief, relaxation, increase in mobility and range of motion and reduced trait anxiety and depression. In addition to the physical benefits of massage therapy, people can greatly benefit from the touch of another human being.
Other types of Massages:
Prenatal Massage
Prenatal massages are performed prone (lying on your stomach) during the first two trimesters of pregnancy and side-lying or seated during the final trimester. A pregnant mother has many aches and pains and a prenatal massage has been shown to reduce pregnancy discomforts including; sciatica, swelling, back and neck pain, and upset stomach while enhancing the physiological and emotional well-being of both mother and fetus.
Post Pregnancy Massage
A Post pregnancy has a physiological effect on a new mother; it can help to ease postpartum depression and encourage a mothers bond with her new baby. After the birth of a child a new moms daily routine can cause physical imbalances in her neck, shoulders and low back. A post pregnancy massage can help correct these imabalnces as well as helping to improve muscle tone and skin elasticity.
Seated (workplace) Massage
A seated or workplace Massage, is usually performed at ones desk or in a massage chair. It is is usally 10-15 minutes in duration and is performed through your clothes. Recent studies show that a weekly workplace massage can reduce an employees stress and tension; while increasing employee concentration. Ultimately reducing repetitive stress and work related injuries.
