Therapeutic/Relaxation Massage

A weekly massage may seem an indulgence, but new research suggests it can have major health benefits.

What is a relaxation massage?

Most massage treatments will relax you, among other things. With a relaxation massage, relaxing you is the only aim. For this reason, it is one of the most complete and indulgent massages you can have.

Definitions vary, a relaxation massage is usually a full-body treatment involving soft music, soft lighting and aromatherapy oils. You will have a long, luxurious massage which will use all kinds of techniques including long strokes, gentle kneading and rolling of skin and muscle, and perhaps some rhythmic rocking from side to side.

Relaxation massage is a passive treatment. You just lie there and take it. This is the massage to choose if you just want to chill out, and be pampered and spoiled.

What is relaxation massage good for?

The clue to relaxation massage is in the title. A good relaxation massage relieves stress and tension in your muscles and will leave you oozing with a sense of well-being.

Relaxation massage achieves this because of the general benefits of massage:

It improves your circulation, so your organs and skin get more oxygen;

It moves fluid through your lymphatic system.

A relaxation massage encourages your body to digest its food, and get rid of its toxins.

It will help you to sleep better.

A massage will also help un-knot any muscles, soothe aches and sprains and encourage the skin to heal minor abrasions.

It is a natural instinct to rub or cuddle someone to give them comfort;

A relaxation massage takes that instinct and runs with it, or rather "meanders" with it.

Precautions

Before any massage treatment, avoid large meals or alcohol. Drink plenty of water, which will help your body to flush the toxins out of your body. It's also a good idea to give yourself plenty of time either side of the massage, so that you don't feel rushed.

You should always tell your therapist in advance if you:

* are, or think you might be, pregnant

* have any medical conditions or are receiving any treatment or medication

* have recently had an injury or operation

* are allergic to anything, particularly skin allergies

* have any broken skin or sores on your scalp as this may affect the kind of

oil and treatment you receive.

What to expect from a relaxation massage

As relaxation massage is a whole-body treatment, you will probably be given towels or a robe to wrap yourself in. During the massage, you will lie on a cushioned massage or treatment table and the massage therapist will employ skilfully-positioned towels to protect your dignities. The important thing here is that you feel comfortable. If you're very self-conscious or want to keep some of your clothes on, do. It's your massage and you need to feel comfortable if you're going to feel more relaxed!

A good massage therapist will work with whatever suits you. The room should be quiet, private and warm. Unlike other treatments, relaxation massage does not usually entail much discussion beforehand. However, you should let your therapist know if you have any particular physical problems, or are receiving any other medical treatments.

Full Body Relaxation Massage is generally a one-hour treatment using Swedish massage movements to provide relaxation and stress reduction, lower blood pressure, cleanse muscles, and many other added benefits. Full Body Relaxation Massage addresses the stress of daily living as well as being a great step to any wellness program.