National Massage Therapy Awareness Week October 20-26, 2013

By Terry Orr

Let us all join in celebrating the 17^th National Massage Therapy Week by doing something special for someone and ourselves by getting an appointment for a well deserved massage!

Last October, we provided a quick guide to the most popular types of massage therapy to help you figure out which massage therapy style is right for you (http://kisbyto.blogspot.com/ 2012/10/national-massage-therapy-week.html).

What are the benefits of massage therapy?  Let us explore some of the benefits of a good massage.

BENEFITS OF REGULAR MASSAGES

Physical Benefits:

• Relaxes the body;
• Reduces tension headaches;
• Lowers blood pressure;
• Increases and promotes joint flexibility;
• Relieves tired and aching muscles;
• Increases circulation;
• Reduce spasms and cramping; and
• Improves posture and balance and so much more.

Mental Benefits:

• Reduces mental stress;
• Promotes quality sleep;
• Improves mood, intellectual reasoning and productivity;
• Induces mental relaxation; and
• Improved concentration.

Emotional Benefits:

• Reduces anxiety;
• Enhances self-image;
• Provides a feeling of well being; and
• Nurtures and stimulates emotional growth.

REFERENCES AND LINKS:

http://balancedbeingtherapies.com

http://www.massageenvy.com/benefits-of-massage-therapy.aspx

http://www.massagetherapy.com/learnmore/benefits.php

MASSAGE WEEK

Ahhhhhhh

By Terry Orr

Everybody Deserves a Massage Week, July 14-20, 2013

Every year massage therapists and body workers nationwide lend their hearts and hands to raise awareness of the benefits of massage, bodywork, and somatic therapies.

There are various types of massage techniques and each has its own identified benefits of addressing stress, pain or it just simply enhance general well being. There are around 80 Massage therapy styles. Out of these 80, here under are the considered Top Ten Massage Techniques:

1. Swedish Massage - Swedish Massage or popularly known as classic massage is usually done using the hands, elbows and forearms to manipulate the superficial layers of the muscles. This kind of therapy can shorten recovery from muscular strain by eliminating uric acid, lactic acid and other metabolic waste by increasing the level of oxygen in the blood.

2. Sports Massage therapy - This is the ideal and famous massage therapy for athletes but is accordingly suitable for anyone who is undergoing chronic injury or pain or range of motion problems. It is a good or right choice if one has a specific problem sustained through sport – because this massage can improve circulation of lymph and blood fluids that allows optimum metabolic exchange.

3. Deep Tissue Massage – This kind of massage therapy style directly targets the deeper layers of connective and muscle tissue. The therapist usually employs slower frictions techniques or strokes to ease in and out of the muscle. It is required that before employing the therapy, muscles must be relaxed in order to effectively perform deep tissue massage.

4. Indian Head Massage – This is a type of Massage technique is popular in India and is said to be good at relieving insomnia, headaches, migraine, tension, sinusitis and stress. The treatment includes the use of deep kneading and compression movements over the head and other related parts of the head.

5. Reflexology Massage – This is otherwise known as zone therapy which is based on the concept that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands that corresponds to specific glands, specific organs, and other parts of the body. This massage therapy involves the manipulation of specific reflex areas in the hands, foot and ears that correspond to other parts of the body. Pressure is usually being applied to the so called reflex zones to stimulate body organs and relieve areas of congestion.

6. Shiatsu – This massage technique was developed and originated in Japan. It is accomplished by utilizing finger pressure technique on a particular traditional acupuncture points. It works similarly with acupressure by unblocking the flow of life energy and rejuvenates balance in the organs and meridians in order to ensure self-healing.

7. Hot Stone Massage –This type of massage therapy is accomplished by placing smooth stones on certain point of the body to warm, loosen tight muscles and balance the energy centers in the body. Hot stone massage is a good choice for people who have muscle tension but prefers light massage.

8. Neuromuscular Massage – This kind of massage therapy works to reduce muscle pain by stimulating circulation of blood that goes to the nervous system. This kind of treatment involves using static pressure on a particular area called a trigger point but it does not involve the massage of the whole body.

9. Pregnancy Massage – This kind of muscle technique works similarly with Swedish massage but is usually carried out with the mother on her side using pillows to position her body at her most comfortable position. It is employed to ease some of the discomforts that are associated with pregnancy such as swelling of muscles, legs and joint aches or reduced normal circulation of blood.

10. Aromatherapy Massage – The muscle therapy is accomplished by using essential oils (extracted from flowers, herbs, woods, resin and roots) in the body and in the skin. Each of this oil has unique benefits and features. The oils are use for therapeutic reasons and not just for fragrance. Scented oils are applied directly to the body depending on the need.

[http://massagetissue.hubpages.com/hub/The-top-10-Massage-Therapy-Styles-and-its-Benefits ]

So do yourself a favor a get a nice massage this week and every week!!

http://balancedbeingtherapies.com

[Photos from Google] 

National Massage Therapy Week

(Google Image) 

By Terry Orr

Do you feel like you carry the weight of the world on your shoulders? This expression embodies how the stress of life can literally lead to physical pain. And while your honey may give you a quick shoulder squeeze to ease off a rough day, sometimes you need to turn to the hands of a pro.  Every other Wednesday – I spend a grateful hour with Vivian who works out all those trouble spots on my body. Life is good!

(Google Image) 

In a recent article Talli van Sunder wrote, “We all know the benefits that can come with a good massage. If we’re feeling stressed, a massage can help us relax and ease that pressure. If we’re sore from a race or a long week at the gym, a massage can loosen our muscles and get rid of those knots. And if we’re feeling pain, a successful session of massage therapy may be able to target that spot and make the discomfort go away.”

“But there are reasons to get a massage that go beyond these more “superficial” benefits. While a massage is certainly valuable from the perspective of stress and feel, it can also help you battle everything from colds to cancer by boosting your body’s immune system.”

(Google Image) 

Tense muscles and stress can aggravate migraine headaches. Visiting a massage therapist for a massage while a migraine is in progress can reduce muscle pain and tension. This alone may not eliminate your headache, but it can lessen the intensity and increase relaxation. These massages should focus on the neck, shoulders and upper back.

(Google Image) 

Here is a quick guide to the most popular types of massage therapy to help you figure out which massage therapy style is right for you.

Swedish Massage Therapy

• This is the most common type of massage therapy in the United States. It is also known as Swedish massage or simply massage therapy.
• Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil.
• Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing. If you've never had massage before, this is a good one to try first.

Aromatherapy Massage

• Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs.
• The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, and balancing, etc. One of the most common essential oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender.
• Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.

Hot Stone Massage

• Heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body.
• The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth is comforting. Hot stone massage is good for people who have muscle tension but prefer lighter massage.

Deep Tissue Massage

• Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle.
• Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage.

Shiatsu

• Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. 

Each point is held for two to eight seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance.
• People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards.

Thai Massage

• Like shiatsu, Thai massage aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Thai massage also includes compression's and stretches.
• You don't just lie there--the therapist moves and stretches you into a sequence of postures. It's like yoga without doing any work. Thai massage is more energizing than other forms of massage. It is also reduces stress and improves flexibility and range of motion. 

Pregnancy Massage

• Also called prenatal massage, pregnancy massage is becoming increasingly popular with expectant mothers. Massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage know the proper way to position and support the woman's body during the massage, and how to modify techniques.
• Pregnancy massage is used to reduce stress, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pains, and reduce anxiety and depression. The massage is customized to a woman's individual needs. 

Reflexology

• Although reflexology is sometimes called foot massage, it is more than simple foot massage. Reflexology involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet.

Sports Massage

• Sports massage is specifically designed for people who are involved in physical activity. But you don't have to be a professional athlete to have one-it's also used by people who are active and work out often. The focus isn't on relaxation but on preventing and treating injury and enhancing athletic performance.
• A combination of techniques are used. The strokes are generally faster than Swedish massage. Facilitated stretching is a common technique. It helps to loosen muscles and increase flexibility.

Back Massage

• Some massage clinics and spas offer 30-minute back massages. If a back massage is not expressly advertised, you can also book a 30- or 40-minute massage and ask that the massage therapist to focus on your back. Massage for Neck and Back Pain?

Sometimes helps those nasty Migraines
(Google Image) 

References and Links:

• http://www.spaweekblog.com/2012/03/27/massage-therapy-the-best-job-on-earth/
• http://balancedbeingtherapies.com/
• http://www.beinghealthy.tv/archives/massage-therapy-boost-immune-system/
• http://www.spaweekblog.com/2012/04/03/massaging-away-migraines/

National Relaxation Day

(Google Image) 

By Diane Forrest

I read recently that women are having as many heart attacks as men these days, and that heart attacks are more frequent at a younger age.  Lifestyle and heredity account for most of this, but included in the lifestyle is the amount of stress in our lives. Though stress is normal, too much of this feeling can be harmful to your physical and mental health.

(Google Image) 

For those us with a hectic lifestyle, Relaxation Day is a day to look forward to. It provides a break from the madness of your busy work and personal schedule. Today is the day to enjoy either doing absolutely nothing, or partaking in your favorite relaxation activity.

According to holidayinsights.com here are some of the Top Ten ideas to enjoy on Relaxation Day:

1. Do nothing today
2. Go to a Spa
3. Go fishing
4. Play a round of golf (caution: not always relaxing)
5. Lounge around in a hammock
6. Take a bubble bath
7. Spend the day at the beach
8. Go to the movies
9. Do a little gardening (no heavy duty work, though)
10. Have a picnic in the park

(Google Image) 

I recently had a friend who had an abnormally high blood pressure.  Some of the relaxation techniques I gave him were to lie down with his eyes closed, take slow deep breaths, think of something calming, such as ocean waves, or a waterfall.  Then dangle his arms, relax his fingers and move to each part of his body, concentrating on relaxing his muscles.   Light some scented candles, such as lavender to help relax the senses, and take the phone off the hook and take some time for yourself.    These techniques are also effective if you are experiencing pain, and are trying to ease the pain with another method  instead of pain medication.

(Google Image) 

Today is National Relaxation Day.  So kick back, take your shoes off, put your feet up and rest your body and your mind.

STRESS- the word itself conjures up ...

Stress Awareness Day - 4.16.2011

Notes and tips by Vivian Takafuji, CMT, MQT, PhD

STRESS- the word itself conjures up not-so-pleasant images and thoughts for each of us as we read it, especially at this time of year during tax time…it's not likely a word that we need to be more aware of that it's there in our busy lives.

What probably does need further 'awareness' in this modern age is how we process the stressors in our lives and not let them overwhelm us and influence our thinking and emotions. Let's be realistic - we cannot eliminate all the stress in our lives but we can find ways to reduce our negative responses to them.

A certain amount of stress is actually necessary: our bodies need a degree of physiological stress and movement on our bones and joints for optimal conditioning, especially as we age. We need certain environmental stresses to keep our immune systems challenged and healthy. And yes, a certain amount of financial stress is necessary for our survival and to keep us propelling forward in our goals and endeavors.

If we work to change our mindset about how we view our stressors, maybe we can find ways to ultimately use them to transform our lives. What we need to learn and practice are some ideas on how exactly to make that happen; however, what 'works' will be different for all of us and needs to be adjusted for each situation as it presents, so keep trying! Here are some tips that have worked in the past for this writer:

1. Pause and prioritize. Take a moment’s pause in the heat of it all – can anything wait until another time? One main item getting crossed off the list in a day instead of all ten might be enough to keep progressing in-time for your goals.
2. Breathe from your abdomen. The "count to ten" adage really does have some merit- take the time for some deep breaths, focusing on the exhale, blowing out your mouth with pursed lips, trying to making them twice as long as your inhalation. You'll notice after a couple of breaths your physiology calming and the extreme emotions beginning to stabilize.
3. Exercise. Our bodies are designed to move, being sedentary at our desks for 8 hours is contradictory to our very nature and design. However, intense cardiovascular exercise may not be necessary for everyone to adjust stress levels (and might be more detrimental than helpful to some) - just getting up to remove yourself from the stressful environment, person, etc can oftentimes be enough to help. Ideally, a walk outside with nature can be immensely therapeutic.
4. Meditate. A large factor in our responses to stress is the build-up of mental "clutter" and the negative emotions- worry, anxiety, depression, etc. that we attach to the stress. By learning how to clear the mind, new possibilities are free to enter and who knows, long-awaited solutions may just come to us. A gentle movement therapy such as a Qigong or Tai Chi class is a great way to incorporate mind-body techniques.
5. Get a massage. The benefits of a good therapeutic massage are endless. From this massage therapist's point of view, many shifts in the physical, emotional, and even spiritual aspects of the body are possible and very likely. For many, just knowing an appointment for a massage is on the calendar is an important psychological reinforcement to do something "good" for yourself and enough to break-up your stressful week. (To schedule your massage, visit www.viviantakafuji.com)
6. Smile and laugh. Even if you need to force it, a smile can immediately shift your biochemistry and release the "feel-good" endorphins that are the natural painkillers in your body. Even better, if you can find a way to laugh- listen to a joke, watch a funny sitcom, etc, verbally expressing your state of mind can be stress-relieving.
7. Find a support group. It doesn't need to be a formal group, even friends and family can be enough to lean on in tough times. Reaching out for help is never a weakness or cope-out! In turn, being a support for someone else can be therapeutic by taking ourselves out of our own stress-filled worlds and feeling good about helping another person.

We're not going to be able to make our life 'stress-free', but we can certainly try to make it 'stress-less'. The tough reality about stress is that it's always going to exist. Even If we can find a way to relieve our stress today, tomorrow will surely bring about an entirely new set of stressors. The best we can do is find ways to manage it in the present moment by continually practicing these tips (and other similar ideas). With positive reinforcement, we can work to improve our stress-levels, just like any other skill.

"When we change the way that we look at things, the things we look at change"-- Dr. Wayne Dyer