How Often Should You Get A Massage?

Everyone loves a good massage and the positive glow that remains long after it is over. But how often should you get a massage? Is getting too many massages bad for you? To answer the second question first, there is no medical or scientific evidence that it is possible to have too many massages. However, health conditions may require that the number of massages is limited. As for how often you should get a massage, it depends on you, your overall health and your lifestyle. There are no set rules – the frequency at which you can get a massage done varies from individual to individual. That being said, these are the generally accepted frequencies.

For General Health and Relaxation

Those in generally good health, who live under moderately stressful conditions and have a sedentary lifestyle, should have a massage 1 or 2 times a month. This will tone the muscles, tendons and ligaments and boost the metabolic system. This amount of massage will also help in controlling moderate stress levels.

For Stress Management

Stress can have many causes. It could be work related, brought on by lifestyle, caused by frequent travel, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and other such factors. Obviously reducing or controlling the causes will reduce the stress levels. If that is not possible or the stress levels remain high, massage is known to be extremely effective in stress reduction. Those who are under high stress will normally benefit from a weekly massage. A regular schedule is very important. As stress levels build up between massages, the knowledge that there is another one to look forward to can help to bring the levels under control.

For Pain Reduction

Massage is a great way to reduce/control/manage pain. Depending on the nature of the injury or medical condition, a Certified Massage Therapist, doctor or other trained professional will decide on the frequency. It could be as much as every alternate day in the initial phase. As the pain reduces and comes under control, the frequency will also reduce as decided by the therapist or doctor.

For Athletes

For athletes, the frequency of receiving massages will depend on a number of factors. These include:

• The nature of the sporting activity
• The age and overall fitness of the athlete
• The training schedule
• Whether the massage is to help with injury recovery
• Whether the athlete is prone to specific recurring injuries
• Whether the sport is a seasonal one – off season massage frequency may differ from that followed in season
• Environmental factors that could affect performance levels.

Who Decides?

If you are under medical treatment and are getting massages as advised by a medical professional, the doctor will decide what type of massage you should get, how often and for what duration. The doctor may also consult a massage therapist on this matter. If you are an athlete, your coach, trainer or sports medicine specialist will decide on the massage parameters. However, if your main objective is just to relax and feel good, consult a Therapeutic Massage professional who will advise you on what is best for you.

A good massage, tones you up physically and mentally. It is not a luxury – it is an essential way of coping with the pressures of modern life.

What Is Reflexology?

Reflexology works on the principle that specific parts of the feet (along with the hands and ears) correspond and are connected to different organs and systems in the body. Applying controlled pressure to the various parts of the feet has a beneficial effect on the organs and systems they are connected to. Although reflexology is not a diagnostic science or a system of healing health disorders, it  is used all over the world as a compliment to other forms of treatments, given for a wide range of health disorders, ranging from cardiovascular issues, cancer, kidney function, asthma, diabetes sinusitis and many more. It is also widely accepted as a good solution to reduce stress and to tone up the overall functioning of the body.

The History

It is thought that the use of reflexology dates back to pre-history. The first recorded use is found in an ancient Egyptian tomb dating back to about 2330 BCE. Old statues of the Buddha found in India and China appear to have reflexology symbols on the feet and a Chinese treatise on medicine from 1000 BCE has a chapter on “Examining the Foot.” A book on reflexology was published in Europe in the late 16th century and the science was introduced to America in1917 by Dr. William H. Fitzgerald. In the 1930s Eunice Ingram, a noted physiotherapist created a reflexology chart which is still in use today. Reflexology is now used globally to improve metabolic functioning, relieve stress and support healing and recovery.

How It Works

Each foot is connected to one side of the body – the left foot is connected to all the organs, muscles, nerves etc. from the head downwards and likewise, the right foot is connected to the organs, muscles, nerves, etc, on the right side. For example, since the liver is on the right side of the body, pressure applied to specific parts of the right foot can improve liver functioning and help in treating liver problems. Depending on the treatment required, a reflexologist may provide a general reflexology session that will tone up overall body functioning or she may focus on using pressure points to treat specific metabolic problems. At times reflexologists may use tools such as wooden sticks, rubber balls and bands and so on to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. Whether or not tools are used, the basic aim is to provide a relaxing, comfortable experience that will leave a person in a better physical and mental state.

The Benefits

Reflexology offers a wide range of benefits which include:

• Improving the quality of sleep.
• Better blood circulation.
• Increased relaxation without the need for medication.
• Alleviating feelings of depression.
• Reduction in bodily aches and pains.
• Healthier feet that are able to better cope with long hours of standing or walking.
• Reduction in the intensity of the symptoms of PMS and menopause.
• Reduction in the effects of edema which is the collection of fluid in the feet and ankles. This is a common problem during pregnancy.
• Reduction in blood pressure levels.
• Relief from the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

Reflexology is a specialized science and treatments should be done only by a qualified reflexologist to ensure that the most beneficial results are achieved.

What a Thai Head - Neck - Shoulder - Face Massage Does For You

Tension and stress are an integral part of modern life. These do not affect just the mind – they place a burden on the body too. Whether it is from being hunched over a keyboard for hours or the physical stress of intense concentration for extended periods of time, the result is usually the same – tightness in the shoulders and neck, tired facial muscles and often headaches. The best way to return the body to a healthy relaxed state is by having a Thai head – neck – shoulder - face massage. A relaxed body aids, in mental relaxation, too.

The tension in the mind flows down the spinal cord and then spreads over the rest of the body. The aim of this type of massage is to open up the energy flow from the brain to remove the blockages caused by the tension and induce a feeling of well being and lightness. This massage can be either a standalone treatment or combined with another type of Thai massage.

How it’s Done?

Firm yet gentle pressure is used to remove blockages and to bring back balance and alignment to the body. With this massage,tension is relieved. The treatment will often begin with a head and scalp massage that is designed to boost blood circulation and by doing so, induce relaxation. The face massage comes next. This is done more gently and slowly. Pressure points and energy lines are stimulated to enhance oxygen and blood circulation. This revitalizes the muscles and nerves of the face and results in the removal of tension. After this, the massage moves on to the neck and shoulder area. Deeper and stronger strokes are now applied in keeping with the increased muscles mass and tone of this area. The long deep strokes causes the pressure points to be stimulated, which looseness the kinks ad knots in the muscles and eases the tensions and stress.

The Benefits

A Thai head – neck – shoulder - face massage offers many benefits. Among them are:

• Relief from shoulder and neck stiffness
• Removal of tension headaches
• Improved concentration
• A greater feeling of alertness combined with calmness and relaxation
• Better sleep
• Reduction in eyestrain and easing of sinus conditions
• Improved oxygen blood circulation to the scalp, head and face resulting in a reduction in lines and wrinkles and an improved complexion
• Easing of feeling of depression and mental stress

The benefits of the massage are both immediate and also long lasting. In most cases once people feel the difference, regular massages become part of their routine.

To get the best results from a Thai head – neck – shoulder - face massage, go to a certified massage therapist. She will have been properly trained and will often be specialized in various massage therapies. Ask about the therapist’s experience and have a look at the testimonials. It’s important to feel comfortable with and confident about the abilities of the therapist. That puts you in the mood to get the best results.

Thai Massage for Children

The benefits of Thai massage for adults have been known for almost 2,500 years, from the time of the Buddha, when it first came into existence. The stresses, pressures and unhealthy aspects of modern life have combined to make it one of the most effective and popular forms of relaxation, healing and rejuvenation.

What many parents do not realize is that massage is equally beneficial for their children. A great deal of research as reported in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics and the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine to name a few highly reputed publications, say that massage therapy for children offers a number of physiological and also psychological benefits. The technique, intensity and duration of a Thai massage for children differs from that given to an adult. A qualified therapist will know what needs to be done and how to do it.

The Appropriate Age Group

Because of its gentle nature, Thai massage is especially good for children. Generally speaking, any child between the ages of 5 to 15 can get a Thai child massage. Growing up today is a stressful experience and school, homework, peer pressure, relationships and unstable hormones all contribute to stress. Thai massage provides a calming and soothing touch that reduces anxiety and increases relaxation. Because their bodies are still developing, the treatment of strains and injuries in children requires special care. Here too, Thai massage can help in the healing process.

The Benefits

The obvious benefit is that the child will feel calm relaxed and destressed after the massage. Besides this, it can also help in treating:

• Hyperactivity
• Fatigue and inability to pay attention
• Uneasy or troubled sleep
• Developmental delays

It can also:

• Lower anxiety
• Enhance self esteem
• Increase flexibility
• Improve muscle tone
• Reduce pain

Maintaining hormonal balance is important for all ages, but especially so for teenagers who suffer from imbalances that result in mood swings and other troubling and difficult behavior. It can also affect them physically. Thai massage can help these children to regain a healthy hormonal balance.

If you are a parent who would like your children to enjoy the all-round benefits of a Thai massage, there is no need to hesitate. The only thing you need to ensure is that you take the children to a professionally managed spa or massage center that is staffed and run by qualified personnel. Ideally there should be a Certified Massage Therapist. While the benefits are many and the children will certainly enjoy the experience, you should only entrust your child to a therapist with certification from National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Body Work (NCBTMB). After all, you want only the best for them, right?

Thai Deep Tissue Chair Massage

Deep tissue is a particular form of massage therapy that focusses on the inner, deeper layers of muscle in the body. Deep finger pressure and slow firm movements are used to provide a proven and effective method, to relieve pain and stress,and in the process, provides many other medical benefits. With the chair massage therapy, the patient normally remains fully clothed and sits in a specially designed massage chair. The massage focuses on the back, neck, shoulders, arms, hands and head. Sessions are generally short and range from 15 minutes to 1 hour, making this massage a convenient option during a lunch break or at any other free time during the day. The procedure offers a quick release from stress, reduces soreness, unlocks energy, clears away tiredness and leaves the patient feeling refreshed and revitalized.

The Many Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

Many studies conducted over the years have proven the efficacy of deep tissue massage in relieving various types of medical conditions.

• A research conducted by the University of Maryland Medical Center, surmises that the deep tissue massage therapy significantly helps drop blood pressure in the system, because of the way it reduces stress and tension in the body.
• The same university also opines that deep tissue massage is more efficacious in alleviating chronic pain than traditional medications. This is because the massage escalates the blood flow through the body and by doing so it decreases the inflammation, the latter being the major reason for the pain. Muscle tension, which is another cause for pain, is also remedied, with this type of massage.
• It helps in the repair and recovery of injured muscles. The massage also assists the movement of toxins away from any injuries and so speeds up healing. The resulting reduction in pain is a major reason why this type of massage is used to treat sports injuries.
• Over time the accumulation of scar tissue in the body can cause extended periods of muscle pain and stiffness. Deep tissue Thai massage improves the functioning of the lymphatic system which causes the scar tissue to break up and eventually be flushed out of the body resulting in a significant reduction of pain and stiffness.
• Stress and tension are common factors in modern life. A Thai deep tissue chair massage which focusses on the head, neck and shoulders will loosen the muscles and relieve the tension and stress quickly and tangibly.

How effective a massage is depends on both the type of massage and the skill of the person giving it. Because of its effectiveness Thai massage has grown in popularity over the years and the number of spas offering this service are booming. However, not all have the required training and certification to offer a real Thai massage experience – the kind that offers true benefits to the body, mind and spirit. The best Thai massages, whether the chair type or something else, can only be given by a therapist certified by the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Body Work (NCBTMB) with special training in  Thai Massage and the related areas of Reflexology, Facial Massage, Herbal Compress, Tok-sen and Hot Stone Massage.

Thai Herbal and Tok-Sen Massage Therapy

Ever found yourself sore all over, after a stressful day at work? Even that long soak in the tub did not help rejuvenate your tired, overworked and hurting muscles! To offset, the stress and strain on your hurting muscles, come experience the elixir of Thai Herbal and Tok-Sen Massage, with its healing and rejuvenating powers.

This art was originally brought to Thailand by ancient Buddhist monks and perfected over thousands of years. Thai Massage comprises a set of soothing and healing massage styles that can instantly relieve pain from hurting muscles. Although many different styles exist and there are various schools within those styles, one of the most sought after types of Thai Massage, is the famed Northern Style or the ITM (International Thai Massage). This style of massage originates from ChiangMaiin Northern Thailand and is arguably the most authentic of all Thai Massage styles. It is known for its deeper, slower massage style with lots of stretching involved. The Thai Herbal and Tok-Sen Massage is a combination of both the traditional Thai Massage and the Tok-Sen therapy.

Thai Herbal Massage

In Thai Herbal Massage, the practitioner uses a poultice as a hot compress. The poultice is most often made up of a variety of herbs, native to Thailand, held together in a muslin wrap. The poultice is steamed with the herbs in it,till it turns into a wonderfully warm and comforting compress. The practitioner massages sore areas and specific spots of muscle aches with this poultice to deliver soothing relief from pain. During the massage, the steamed herbs in the poultice release alkaloids that are beneficial and help in healing. This massage is ideal if you have muscle aches and sprains or if you are simply looking for relief from stress and to relax. There are also specific Thai Herbal massage techniques aimed at skin maintenance, soothing migraines, stress, anxiety, back pain and arthritis.

Thai Tok-Sen Massage

The Tok-Sen Massage is reputed to be the finest type of massage in the Northern Style. Originating in ChiangMai, Tok-Sen literally means tap the meridians. The massage involves the use of two pieces of tamarind wood, designed much like a blunt chisel and hammer, which are used to tap specific nerve points along the meridian lines that run through the body. The massage is intense, but not painful. It is very relaxing and relieves deep tissue aches and sprains. Tok-Sen is a rare style of Thai Massage and its only practitioners come from the northern style. It is much more effective at addressing pain that is deep within the inner tissues, which cannot be reached by other kinds of massage. Comprehensively, the Tok-Sen Massage, relaxes the body and alleviates pain.

A combination of Thai Herbal and Tok-Sen Massage is often suggested for people with chronic pain or pain in muscles deep within the body. The herbal massage warms up, loosens muscles and prepares your body, so that the Tok-Sen massage can be more effective. This combination is very specific to the northern style and requires specialized knowledge of various techniques. Hence why only a few spas exist that can offer you these services, Boulder Nuad Thai Massage and Spa, being one such.

The Marvels of a Thai Aroma Oil Massage

If you’ve read our earlier blogs, you should be familiar with the basic purpose and philosophy of a Thai massage and its many forms. Due to its calming effects, the treatment is used for curing a range of health issues. One such popular form of spa treatment is known as the Thai aroma oil massage.

Aroma Oil therapy can have a magical effect on our spirit, when done correctly. Its effects are seen and felt quickly. If you delve into the science behind the treatment, you will find a very meaningful connection. Our nostrils are attached to the limbic system of the brain. The limbic system influences the hormones and nervous system and controls emotions. When you breathe in the molecules of essential oils, messages are communicated to your limbic system, affecting stress level, heart rate, blood pressure, memory, breathing, immune system and digestion.

The Essential Oils used in Thai aroma Massage:

The essential oils used during an aroma therapy session may be suggested by the therapist. They are selected therapeutically to treat your physical and emotional disorders. Every essential oil has different healing properties. Some may offer calmness while the others may energize you. To choose a Thai spa treatment and massage that will suite you the best, we recommend you acquaint yourself with the healing properties of popular essential oils.

Jasmine

Jasmine works as an antiseptic and antidepressant. Apart from this, it is also used as an aphrodisiac. Jasmine oil helps sooth nerves, offer a sense of optimism and confidence and helps in recovering lost vitality and energy. It relieves stiff and sprained limbs, and muscle pain.

Lemon Grass essential oil

Lemon grass is the second most popular essential oil used during Thai aroma oil treatments. It has antiseptic, antidepressant and antimicrobial properties. Ingredients and flavor soothe nerves. Therapists often recommend Lemon grass for the recovery of mental and physical stress, and headaches.

Papaya oil

Papaya oil is rich in omega 9 fatty acids. It has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties. Regular use can make the skin supple and soft. In olden days, Indian healers used mashed papaya for treating skin problems and rashes.

Coconut

Coconut oil is quite versatile and can be utilized in countless cases. It nourishes skin and hair, and is one of the main ingredients in creams for body and face, shampoos and hair masks.

The Benefits of a Thai Aroma oil massage:

The effects of Thai aroma oil massage are uniquely energizing and relaxing. As the therapist presses their feet, knuckles, hands, fingers and thumbs into specific points while holding you in a stretch position, you will see your body regaining flexibility while the quiet meditative atmosphere will promote a sense of calm alertness. Your body will gently release toxicity and tensions from the joints, connective tissue and muscles.

Thai aroma oil massage will open the flow of energy throughout your body. You will feel it regaining flexibility and ease of movement. The therapy also helps to adjust your skeletal structure, relieve muscular and joint tension, and stimulate the internal organs. Massage helps your joints, muscles, fascia and ligaments by relaxing muscle tension, improving motion and relieving the spasm. The combination of yoga like stretches and pressure on specific points loosens out stiffness.

Another benefit of Thai aroma oil massage is on your nervous system. The stimulation of sensory nerves causes the central nervous system to respond better. Thai massage helps in preventing fibrosis and improves sleep. Boosted immunity is also a benefit. By releasing toxins through improved circulation, your body can fight disease more efficiently.

If you are looking for a therapy that takes a holistic approach to bodywork, Thai aroma oil massage makes for an excellent choice. However, you must make sure your therapist is trained and skilled in performing the treatment effectively.