The Benefits of Regular Massage
When I tell people that I am a massage therapist, it usually brings a longing, blissful smile to their face. We all seem to identify with the wonderful things massage and bodywork bring to us.
Researchers at the Touch Institute at the University of Miami say the benefits of massage are doubly powerful if taken in regular “doses”. The effects are cumulative, like compounding interest on investments!
Massage Frequency
Inevitably, the question of how often comes up. How often you receive massage is a function of physical need, time and budget. If you are experiencing chronic pain, high levels of stress or recovering from an injury, you may need to set aside more time and come in weekly for the first few sessions. Once we have things stabilized, we can decrease the frequency of visits and then move onto a maintenance schedule. I encourage you to listen to your body; it will suggest it’s own interval of regularity. Consider how you feel before the session, how you feel after, and be aware of how long you maintained that improved state.
My goal is to extend that pain free, functional time, so that we can establish a frequency pattern that works with your needs, your time and your budget. Most clients seem to settle on a 2-4 week cycle. Throughout the years, my observation has been that a 7-8 week interval is too long to sustain the benefits that massage contributes, especially with chronic issues.
Maintenance
Your maintenance massage program will keep your body clear and pain free throughout your daily activities. Here are few things you can do to help extend the post massage benefits:
- Hydrate - in general but specifically after a massage treatment.
- Stretch - to maintain joint mobility; I often suggest stretches specific to your needs after a session.
- Exercise – If you’re ready to move, do it! I don’t suggest vigorous activity right after a session, but movement can keep you limber between treatments.
- Body Awareness - Tune in to how your body feels; if it wants to rest, do so. Get enough sleep, be aware of the effects the massage has had on your body. Discuss it with me when you come in for your next session.
Invest in Yourself
Make self-care a part of your health regimen by scheduling regular massage sessions. It plays a huge part in sustaining a healthy, active lifestyle, which, in turn, promotes a general sense of well-being and graceful aging. Invest in your health and reap the cumulative returns from regular massage therapy.
originally posted April 25, 2009, by Maria Rossi, CMT, on http://www.massagetherapy-center.com/ of Scotts Valley, CA.
Other articles on massage therapy on this website that you might enjoy:
Massage Therapy . . . Relax Your Way to Relief!
