What is massage therapy?

Massage is one of the oldest and simplest forms of therapy. It is a system of stroking, pressing, and kneading different areas of the body to relieve pain, relax, stimulate, and tone the body. Massage does that and so much more; it works on the soft tissues, muscles, tendons, and ligaments to improve muscle tone. Massage also stimulates blood circulation and assists the lymphatic system, improving the elimination of waste throughout the body.

What Can Massage Do For You?

Once your massage is underway, a whole range of beneficial reactions are set in motion. Massage can:

• Relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety
• Strengthen the immune system
• Increase muscle and joint flexibility
• Lower blood pressure and heart rate
• Increase the nourishing blood supply to tissues
• Improve energy and alertness
• Reduce chronic pain
• Improve concentration
• Promote deeper and more relaxed sleep
• Aid in recovery from pulled muscles and sprained ligaments
• Increase sense of well-being
• Ease aches and stiffness pain from arthritis
• Ease many uncomfortable stresses including backaches, muscle spasms, and headaches

There are some instances when the use of massage might not be appropriate. I will be able to advise you when a massage is not recommended. I encourage you to be sure to consult your physician before initiating any massage program.