The techniques used in massage therapy vary widely, and most massage therapists are trained in several modalities.  Massage therapy, a combination of pressing, kneading and stroking various areas of the body, does much more than relieve stress --- the most obvious and most immediate of all of the benefits. Stress relief is just the tip of the iceberg of the health benefits.  As doctors have come to realize this fact, they are incorporating massage therapy as a part of the overall health care programs for their patients. 

Massage therapy stimulates circulatory, respiratory and lymphatic systems, thus improving blood flow and the effective removal of wastes from the body.  Massage also affects soft tissues, which include tendons, ligaments and muscles, thus easing pain, lessening stiffness and increasing range-of-motion.  The ability to move with more ease paves the way to a healthier life, since sore muscles and joints will no longer prevent you from getting the exercise necessary to stay healthy and fit.  Muscle recovery time for athletes in training is minimized by adding regular massage to their programs.

Research studies continue to provide proof that massage not only affects the circulation and soft tissues, but has dramatic positive affects on the nervous and endocrine systems that regulate the bodily functions.  The various studies have shown these positive effects on people of all ages.

For optimal results, massage should be routine.  While one certainly feels relaxed and de-stressed after a massage, it must be realized that one isolated massage is not enough for its benefits to strengthen into long term effects.  Regular massage sessions with a professional massage therapist provide cumulative effects that are necessary for the body to keep operating at an optimum, healthy level.  The frequency of the visits to the massage therapist will vary from person to person, and can be easily established between the client and therapist.

Massage techniques vary, and specific techniques are utilized for specific ailments, but all share in common the benefits of massage, including relaxation, release of stress and pain on soft tissues, and improved circulation, among others.  In the long term, massage provides benefits that are realistic, healthy bonuses in addition to the immediate benefits.  The age-old wisdom of massage found in Eastern medicine is dawning on the new and modern medical techniques of today and is being embraced as worthy and useful ally in patient healthcare.

Through the different techniques, countless benefits are derived, such as relaxation, stress relief, pain relief in muscles, and improved circulation.  In the great game of life, all decisions need to be weighed for their risks and benefits.  Massage is one of those rare activities that you can choose to participate in that provides a multitude of benefits that can dramatically improve your life with very minimal risks.  

HERE IS THE BOTTOM LINE:

Therapeutic massages at regular intervals should be part of your wellness program.  Massages can help you develop and maintain a state of general good health by:

~Minimizing the effects of stress

~Providing the path for needed rest and recuperation

~Promoting a healthier lifestyle

~Increasing energy through whole-body/mind systemic balance

~Stronger body systems that minimize susceptibility to colds and illnesses

~Improved concentration and mental focus

The human body is considered to be the ultimate machine.  From this viewpoint:

~Regular medical checkups are necessary to detect and treat illnesses.

~Therapeutic massages at regular intervals are the tune-ups necessary to keep the machine operating at peak efficiency.

By being pro-active in maintaining our health and having a feeling of wellness, all other activities in our lives are more enjoyable and meaningful.