Filed under: Senior Massage
Are you over 65 years old, and want to relieve some of those aches, pains and stiffness? Massage therapy may be for you. While most people enjoy the relaxation of a good massage, senior citizens may derive even more benefits than the average adult.
Probably the most important benefit of massage is the pleasure of human touch, and the companionship provided during massage therapy sessions. This provides a relaxation which alone may relieve some of the loneliness, depression and fears that many seniors suffer from. A recent study found that all senior citizens who were receiving regular massages showed a dramatic improvement in their moods and their attitudes toward life in general. Nearly 50% of the same group tested also showed additional health benefits: a reduction in their rates of breathing, an increase in their range of motion, an improvement of their postures, development of more body awareness, their skin took on healthier colors and their muscle tones were enhanced.
In addition to these general life improvements, some health conditions that may respond positively to regular massage include:
- inflammations in the joints;
- arthritis;
- skin discoloration and other dermatological conditions;
- deteriorating muscles and bones;
- reduced appetite and therefore weight loss,
- poor blood circulation;
- sleep disorders;
- weakened mental capacity,
- tendonitis;
- bursitis;
- asthma;
- emphysema;
- high blood pressures;
- diminished functions of the internal vital organs such as the heart, the liver, the brain, the thyroid, the stomach and the intestines;
Before you make your appointment, make sure you take care of safety first:
- Find a massage therapist that is properly trained.
- Limit your appointments to 30-45 minutes at a time: the elderly appear to respond better to shorter, more frequent sessions.
- Be careful when positioning yourself on the massage table: ask for help or request a chair massage.
- Tell your massage therapist if it is your first massage: request a gentle relaxation massage. Your bones may be thinner and your joints stiffer than other patients; ease into it. Over time you may request a deeper tissue massage if it feels comfortable for you.
- Tell your massage therapist if you’re not comfortable being touched in some areas: Many elderly prefer head, hands and feet massages. Even massaging these body parts alone will greatly benefit you.
- Request use of lotions or oils, or bring in your own favorite lotions: senior citizens’ skin tends to be thinner and less pliable, and using oils will help avoid cracking or damaging of your skin. Lotions will also soften and moisturize your skin, making it healthier and more pliable.
Relax and enjoy your massage! With the above precautions massages are perfectly safe regardless of your age. Most importantly, massages help you relax and improve your outlook on life. That alone may alleviate other aches and pains.
So contact a qualified massage therapist today, and make the appointment that will help you relax and enjoy some TLC, you deserve it!
Filed under: Pregnancy Massage
Are you pregnant? Are you stressed, cramped up or sleep-deprived? A pregnancy massage may be what you need. While almost everyone enjoys the relaxation of a good massage, during pregnancy the benefits are even greater.
Before you make your appointment, make sure you take care of safety first:
Precautions:
* Find a massage therapist that is specially trained and certified in pregnancy massage. They will be aware of all the following safety factors, but you should know them as well:
* If you are at risk of preterm labor, or have a blood clotting disorder, then do not attempt massage without first consulting your doctor. Some therapists may require doctor approval from all pregnant clients.
* Avoid massages during the first trimester of your pregnancy: The increased blood circulation during this time may cause to become dizzy, and may increase morning sickness.
* Make sure you are placed in a semi-reclining position, or lie on your side with lots of pillows for support.
* Do not allow excessive pressure on your ankles or the webbing between your thumb and index finger: these areas can induce early labor when sustained pressure is applied to them.
Once all the safety issues are taken care of, relax and enjoy! Most pregnancy massages are perfectly safe and will benefit both yourself and the growing child. Most importantly, they help you relax and will lower your stress level. That alone may alleviate many other discomforts. They may also:
Benefits:
* increase blood circulation,
* lower your heart rate,
* relieve muscle cramps and spasms,
* reduce lower back and neck pain,
* reduce swelling in hands and ankles
* provide a less painful and easier delivery!
When you go to your appointment, consider taking your partner with you. By learning what comforts you, they can help you relax via massage throughout your pregnancy and during labour. Make sure the therapist highlights all safety concerns to your partner and teaches them safe massage techniques.
So contact a qualified massage therapist today, and make that appointment that will help you relax and better enjoy this wonderful time of your life.
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