When was the last time you actually slowed down enough to detox from overwhelm or simply relax? If you lead a busy life, have a health condition or have trouble winding down, it’s time you get a massage!
When it comes to well-being and health, massage therapy is a favorite. Sure it can be relaxing, but it also aids the body’s often taxed detoxification process. Being the loving person you are, why not support your body?
All legit reasons to set an appointment soon NOW.
Did you know there are over 200 modalities of massage therapy? Don’t let this overwhelm you, I’ll offer highlights on four styles, and you choose one.
Lymphatic Drainage
A gentle yet powerful therapy for aiding the lymphatic system is Lymphatic Drainage. Some folks say this isn’t really a “massage” at all because with lymphatic drainage a variety of nuerolymphatic reflex points are repeatedly pumped and gently kneaded to clear toxins and other unwanted substances from the body while increasing the flow of the lymph. It definitely doesn’t fit the bill of what we normally believe to be a massage, yet it serves a very important place.
Excuse me while I nerd out a bit. You see our lymphatic system is one of the main elimination systems that plays an integral part in the body’s detox process. It carries valuable hormones, proteins, and fat to the cells while eliminating all sorts of toxins from emotional residue, electromagnetic pollution, chemicals and stagnant flow. The lymphatic system carries responsibility for absorbing nutrients and regulating the waste disposal system in our body. Therefore a therapy supporting this incredible process is indeed a winner!
Swedish
Swedish massage is the most popular in the Western Hemisphere. The Swedish technique is meant to enhance our immune system and strengthen the muscles and connective tissue. If our muscles are relaxed, then our body is far more likely to detoxify, cleanse and feel rejuvenated.
The Swedish modality can simultaneously increase oxygen levels, while helping with relaxation. It logically reduces stress on our organs– including the digestive system and gastrointestinal tract. Therefore encouraging better body performance.
Chinese
Traditional Chinese massage can be likened to a detox massage. It’s closely related to acupuncture which focuses on channels or energy points intended to effectively transport and guide blood and energy throughout the body. The aim of the Chinese modality is to achieve balance to protect our bodies against different types of infection and maintain the optimum function of all organs.
When the channels are partially obstructed or blocked, we experience pain and are prone to health problems. In Chinese massage, the intention is to identify which pathways are impeded or blocked and require pressure to reintroduce flow back to our body and its systems. Often reflexology is included in the repertoire. The style is definitely therapeutic in nature and for some, the pressure is extremely firm.
Thai
Thai massage works our entire body. It’s a more invigorating than most as the therapist deliberately manipulates the body, moving it into yoga-like stretches. A Thai massage therapist uses every part of his or her body—hands, knees, legs, and feet—to not only stretch you but also apply pressure on your muscles and loosen your joints. Some even get walked on!
New to massage?
If you are new to massage or it has been a long time, begin with Lymphatic Drainage or Swedish. In the hands of a professional great strides toward wellness can happen. If you’re not clear where to go, ask among friends for referrals. Find out who they go to and what kind of massage it is. Also, you may find online reviews. Although I know some of us secretly wonder if only two positive reviews exist, they must be written by the therapist’s mother and best friend. If this is you, you really do NEED a massage. (Wink, wink.) And of course, if in doubt, get a referral from a friend or someone you respect.
Know there can be some shady, unlicensed practitioners. If I am reading my audience correctly, you want a bonafide massage therapist, not a masseuse. Below is a picture of a sign I came across in search of a great massage. While it made me chuckle, I also cringed knowing that this profession isn’t always respected as it should be. Therapeutic massage is serious business, not monkey business. Meanwhile, laugh, love and live– and don’t forget to book yourself a massage for optimal health!
Chime In!
Will you take the challenge and book a massage? OR Have you already benefited from taking the challenge? If so, what is your favorite kind? Share in the comments below.
Want to read a little more on the subject? Here are some resources that I used in writing this article.
Miracle Touch: A Complete Guide to Hands-On Therapies That Have the Amazing Ability to Heal. (2003). Debra Fulghum Bruce. Three Rivers Press. New York.
Energy Medicine: Balancing Your Body’s Energies for Optimal Health, Joy and Vitality. (2008) Donna Eden. Penguin Group. New York.
Want to go for some more healing therapies? Take a peek at Earthing!
