Massages available
For lower-back pain: Shiatsu or Trigger Point Therapy
This Japanese form uses finger pressure on trigger points to ease tension and release endorphins, our body's built-in pain relievers. Significant reduction in lower-back pain was reported after four 50- to 60-minute sessions, a study from Drake University shows. Experts say it stimulates our parasympathetic nervous system, helping us recuperate from the effects of stress.
For Relaxation or postworkout pain: Swedish massage
Whether you're running a 5K or training for a triathlon, this method can soothe soreness and swelling, research from the West Virginia University School of Medicine finds. Long gliding strokes, kneading and friction aid in dilating blood vessels to lessen muscle pain that occurs after exercise or from every-day stresses. Deep-tissue massage is also a favorite of athletes to spur healing and improve flexibility.
For sleep troubles: Myofascial massage
Gentle, sliding pressure loosens fascia, the connective tissue that covers your muscle fibers. Forty-five minutes twice a week may alleviate symptoms of restless legs syndrome, according to the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies. (Nineteen percent of women experience symptoms of RLS, which often disrupts sleep, a few times weekly.) Swedish massage can also help prevent insomnia. The moves stimulate a general relaxation response, which can translate to better zzz's. Lights out!
For period pains: Abdomen massage
Abdomen massage is very effective in reducing or reversing pain associated with menstral cramping & pain. When the uterus contracts during menstruation, it restricts blood flow and oxygen to the muscles, causing cramps. To quell spasms, your therapist will use slow, smooth strokes across the abdomen to unwind tense muscles.
Massage For Pregnancy Many women suffer from aches and pains, stiffness and tension during pregnancy. Gentle massage can often help to relieve problems such as backache, sleeplessness, swelling, headaches, and other minor complaints.
Back pain is extremely common in pregnancy (as well as during the period of breastfeeding, or having to carry small children).It can be relieved by massage to the whole of the back area, the neck, legs, and feet, and by gentle stroking of the abdomen.Poor circulation also affects many pregnant women, and can be helped by a general body massage, which stimulates and improves the blood flow throughout the body.Leg massage, stroking from the ankles up toward the thighs, can help relax the body, relieve pain and reduce swelling in the leg. For women who develop problems sleeping, the soothing effects of massage can help relax and calm.Some pregnant women claim that lightly massaging the abdomen can even help to send the fetus to sleep. As well as relaxing and soothing away physical symptoms during pregnancy, regular massages may also shorten the length of labor.
Pregnant women should check with their physician before having a massage.In cases where the physician recommends that the lower back and abdomen area should be avoided, massage the face, hands, arms, and feet to assist in relaxation.