The benefits of massage therapy

Athletes are not the only ones who may benefit from massage therapy. Massage therapy has the potential to benefit anyone who is feeling stressed and worn-down, as it aims to relax, revive and heal the body. So, what can massage therapy do for you? Lekan from Relax the Moment shares his knowledge!

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Types of massage therapy

There are many forms of massage therapy. Here are a few of the most popular ones:

Swedish massage therapy

Originally from Sweden, as the name suggests, this commonly offered massage technique is often called the “classic” massage. Its main goal is to loosen up tight muscles, relieving tension and making you more relaxed.

Swedish massage is a full-body massage where therapists will use a variety of techniques, including kneading, passive joint movements, long strokes and deep circular movements. It is ideal for people who are new to massage therapy and / or are sensitive to touch.

Deep tissue massage therapy

Deep tissue massage is a massage technique which uses more pressure to relieve tight muscles. This type of massage therapy is a good option for you if you have chronic muscle problems, such as muscle soreness and imbalance. People with fibromyalgia often benefit from deep tissue massage.

While deep tissue massage therapists use the same kind of massage techniques as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage can sometimes be painful as far more pressure is used.

The main benefits of deep tissue massage are:

• Increases blood circulation and lymph flow, joint range of motion (ROM), flexibility, elimination of exercise-related waste products (lactic acid) and sense of well-being.
• Reduces heart rate and blood pressure.
• Decreases muscle tension, neurological excitability, chances of injury and recovery time between workouts.

Thai massage therapy

Thai massage is a more active form of massage therapy. In addition to providing classic massage techniques, the massage therapist will stretch your body as well. A full session can last around two hours. No oils or lotions are used during a traditional Thai massage, and you remain fully clothed during the treatment. It is suggested to wear loose, comfortable clothing during a treatment.

The main benefits of Thai massage therapy are:

• Increases blood circulation and lymph flow, joint range of motion (ROM), flexibility, elimination of exercise-related waste products (lactic acid), sense of well-being.
• Reduces heart rate and blood pressure.
• Decreases muscle tension, neurological excitability, chances of injury and recovery time between workouts.

Chair massage therapy

Chair massage therapy became popular in California in the 80s. During a chair massage therapy session, you are seated in a special massage chair. During this treatment, you remain fully clothed. If you are short on time, this type of massage is a great choice.

A chair massage mainly focuses on your neck, shoulders and back. A chair massage therapy session usually lasts between 10 to 20 minutes. It’s not uncommon for businesses to hire chair massage therapists. The main benefits of chair massage therapy are:

• Relieves stress, back pain, headache
• Eases a stiff neck and frozen shoulders
• Relaxes hands and arms
• Can help to improve vision
• Increases mental alertness
• Promotes general well-being

When should you consider getting massage therapy?

You should consider getting massage therapy when you are stressed, have difficulties sleeping, when you have shoulder and back pains, muscle tensions and / or headaches. How often you should get massage therapy depends on the issues you are experiencing.

Usually, your massage therapist will ask you questions to make sure the session meets your goals and needs. If you don’t know how to find a suitable massage therapist, you can always ask your doctor, your family and friends for a recommendation. 

Relax the Moment offers deep tissue massage; Thai chair, table and yoga massage; corporate chair massage and foot reflexology at the comfort of your home, at events, companies and hotels or any other location of your choice. Can't go to Relax the Moment? No worries, they will come to you! Rates available here or via +31629145490.