Asian Massage Therapy

The different types of asian massages are mentioned.

There are many forms of Asian massage therapy. These are ancient healing rituals being practiced for many centuries in India and the Far East. Thai massage, Asian massage and shiatsu has an increasing popularity in the west as the public is becoming more interested in yoga, pilates and other holistic forms of meditation and exercise.

Types of asian massage
Thai massage began in India. This type of massage uses guided stretching and Meridian pressure point therapy combined with an ancient breathing method called "pranayama". In this breathing methods are used to relax and cleanse the body and simultaneously strengthen the nervous system. The end of the sessions is the ritualized final relaxation that provides intense rest. The focus is on two things – sen that are the energy channels of the body and the different body muscles. Different yoga elements make the massage flexible and very enjoyable. This helps in focusing concentration and more efficient oxidation of the blood. Pranayama breathing technique is useful for cleansing the body and strengthening the nervous system. It boosts the immune system and assists in focusing, concentration and better oxidation of the blood.

Chinese acupressure or "tui na" includes applying pressure to the body at certain points. This is a rather tough massage therapy technique. The acupressure therapist enables the body to activate the self-healing abilities. This method has been developed since 5000 years to treat back pain, migraines, headaches, anxiety and stress. It provides intense relief and has the added benefit of weight management.

In Japanese shiatsu, there is energy rebalance and physical well-being using the palms, thumbs and fingers so that pressure is applied to certain parts of the body. It is from the Japanese words shi meaning finger and atsu meaning pressure. This is very effective in handling the emotional and psychological issues than the actual physical ones. There is rebalancing of the bone system, maintaining balance of the nervous system, enhanced circulatory function and greater skin and muscle flexibility. The roots of this technique are in Japanese philosophy, however usually the Chinese practiced it. This method focuses on the "hara" which is the energy center of the body. It is tried to treat the entire body using this technique. Pressure application, joint rotations and stretches are the usual practices in Shiatsu massage.

Acupressure is similar to acupuncture, but hands are used instead of needles. Using the hands, pressure is applied on various energy centers or meridians. Due to this different symptoms concerning different body parts related to various meridians are relieved. Due to this the blood circulation in different body parts are are also affected.

In Indonesian massage, special oils are used for the massage. The elements of the traditional Thai massage are executed. However, the span of the massage is shorter than the Thai massage. Spinal twists and some other techniques are utilized. Different problems concerning abdomen like indigestion, heartburn bloating, constipation and irritable bowel syndrome can be treated.

Massage therapy
This is the systematic manipulation of soft tissues to normalize them. Different physical methods are used to apply fixed or movable pressure and holding or causing movement to the body. Therapists generally use their hands for therapy. However, they may also use the feet, elbows or forearms. The main aim of massage therapy is to assist the body to heal itself and enhance the health and well-being. Touch is the important aspect of this therapy. The sense of touch is used to determine the correct amount of pressure to apply to different persons and find out areas of tension and different soft-tissue problems. When muscles are overworked, waste products like lactic acid collect in the muscle and cause soreness, muscle spasm and stiffness. Massage enhances the circulation due to which blood flow may be increased and fresh oxygen can be brought to the body tissues. Therapeutic massage boosts the circulatory system and immune system so that the blood pressure, muscle tone, circulation, digestion and skin tone can be benefited.

Swedish Massage Therapy

Nope, the Swedes have nothing to do with Swedish Massage… Here’s what this massage therapy is really about.

Despite its name, Swedish Massage does not have its origins in Sweden, nor was a Swede its creator. In fact, there is no such thing as "Swedish Massage" in Sweden, and in Europe, this system of massage is known as Classic Massage. However, in America, Swedish Massage is thought to be the most basic and classic forms of massage techniques, while the term Classic Massage is hardly ever used. As a matter of fact, in the United States, Swedish Massage, also known as Massage Therapy, is the most popular form of massage that people opt for.

While some sources credit Per Henrik Ling, a Swedish gymnastics instructor and fencing master, for founding the techniques of Swedish massage in 1812, other sources refute this assertion. This is because Swedish massage did not form a part of the curriculum of the Royal Central Gymnastic Institute that Henrik Ling founded nor was it in evidence in his Swedish Gymnastic Movements. It is thought that it was because Ling called his gymnastic movements ‘Swedish Gymnastic Movements’ that these were somehow misunderstood to be the Swedish Massage System.

In fact, according to researchers who have studied the origins of both gymnastics and massage, it was Johan Georg Mezger, a Dutch, who lived between 1838-1909, who adopted the French names to describe the basic strokes, which he systemized into the Swedish Massage System that is known today.

Swedish Massage Technique

In Swedish Massage, long and flowing strokes are used, which are designed to relax tense muscles, limber up joints, and improve circulation. There are five basic massaging strokes that are used in the traditional form of Swedish Massage, they are:

Effleurage: This method involves using gliding strokes, especially on the limbs. The thumb pads and hands are used to apply pressure, which increases blood circulation. It is also used from the shoulders to the tips of the fingers, and neck to the spinal cord.

Petrissage: In this compression and kneading strokes are used, especially on the joints and bony structures. It helps to remove accumulated toxins in the bones and joints, which are the root cause of ailments.

Friction: This involves using the thumb pads and finger tips to apply deep circular pressure. This helps to relieve the knots that form in nerves and muscles, making them flexible and free.

Tapotement: In this method, the body is tapped in a rhythmic manner with the fingers, or the sides of the hands used to make rapid pounding movements.

Vibration: As is evident by the term, fine and quick vibrating movements are used in this.

The massage therapist, formerly known as masseur or masseuse, usually uses massage lotion or massage oil during the process. The client is usually covered with a sheet of cloth, and as the therapist systematically moves from one part of the body to another, the part of the body that is done is covered up.

When a full body massage is given, it usually starts on the back, and then moves down to the legs. Then the client will be asked to turn around and lie face up. Then the front of the arms, neck, abdomen and legs are massaged. A session usually lasts for 40-90 minutes.

Benefits of Swedish Massage

Swedish Massage improves the circulation resulting in encouraging nutrients and oxygen going to the various tissues of the body.

It helps to relieve pain and tension, increases mobility and flexibility, and gets rid of waste matter like accumulated lactic acid, thus reducing stiffness and pain in the joints and muscles.

Swedish Massage also relieves stress by helping the body to deal with stress by decreasing the levels of stress hormones like cortisol. It is also thought to boost the immune system.

Massage Therapy - Its Physical and Mental Benefits

Massage Therapy - Its Physical and Mental Benefits

The benefits to getting a simple massage.

Everyone enjoys a massage from time to time. Professional massages might cost a little money, but they are well worth every penny. They make us feel good both inside and out. Our muscles and minds relax during a massage, giving us a pure feeling of euphoria. Of course, we all know that a massage feels good from personal experience, but recent research is beginning to show that massage therapy has numerous medicinal benefits, too.

To put it into words, a massage is the manipulation of the soft tissues. You can massage your back, legs, arms, and even head and jaw. This manipulation relieves stress and relaxes the body. This might sound great, but what could it possibly do for a person's overall health?

One of the most important benefits to a massage is that it lowers a person's blood pressure. If you suffer from high blood pressure, getting a professional massage could be helpful. You'll not only relax your body, but your heart will slow down as well. High blood pressure can lead to numerous health problems such as heart attack or stroke. If you'd like to prevent these serious health conditions, an occasional massage might be one thing you can try.

Massages are good for a person's mental health, too. Many psychiatrists recommend massage therapy to their patients who suffer from anxiety, depression, and various mental conditions. The fact that massage lowers the blood pressure is all the more proof that it physically relaxes the body, which in turn relaxes the mind. Professional massage is often accompanied by relaxation music which can make the experience all the more soothing.

There are a number of other benefits to massage therapy. Pain reduction is a great reason to get a massage. Whether you have back pain, head pain, or even knee pain, massage therapy can help to reduce the amount of pain you feel.

If you've been injured, a massage is a great way to make you feel better faster. Not only does it ease the pain you feel but it also increases blood flow. This increased blood flow will help your body to heal faster from that injury. It's a two-for-one fix!

There are many more ways massage therapy can be beneficial. It can help reduce the affects of osteoporosis, assist preterm infants in development, increase pulmonary function in asthma sufferers, improve immune functions in HIV patients, and even decrease levels of glucose in people with diabetes.

So, with all these benefits, why NOT get a massage? It's not a cure-all for the above-mentioned ailments, but it sure can help and it's relatively safe. Check your local business listings for the massage therapist nearest to you and get a little work done today!

Oriental Massage

The culture of the orient is full of various manifestations of the power of touch. The popular massage therapy, now catching up world wide, is one such manifestation. The power of touch to heal!

Oriental massage therapy is probably the oldest and simplest form of healing. This home medical care approach has been observed within all the great civilizations of the past that have been unearthed. The exquisite paintings of the famous Egyptian tombs show royalty and the commoners being massaged. In many cultures of the Orient, massage therapy has been practiced and part of healing since ancient times. The practitioners from the Orient recommend breathing exercises, exclusive massage of affected body parts and exercises of the hands and the feet. The Eastern gurus actually declare these as the appropriate treatment for complete or partial paralysis, and fever.

Oriental massage therapy has also been extensively used as the principal method of relieving pain resulting from neuralgia. In fact, the Orient acknowledges the masseur as a ‘physician’ experienced in ‘rubbing to bind a joint that is too loose or to loosen one that is rigid’. The traditional Indian massage therapy system of massage emphasizes on the power of massage with aromatic oils and even certain spices. These specialty massages have now become very popular the world over and are practiced extensively as part of spa and medical treatment. The massage is an overall approach that is a ‘whole’ made up of various components like the massage table or chair, the massage oil, the massage wraps and the experience and expertise of the masseur.

The Oriental massage therapy was successfully used as a treatment for various ailments, especially during World War I, for patients suffering from nerve injury or shell shock. The application of this healing approach has also witnessed breakthroughs in medical technology and pharmacology. This resulted in a momentary lapse in the demand for manual methods of stimulating the muscles and tissues and a greater demand for electrical instruments specially designed. However, authentic practitioners and genuine clientele realized the power of the pressure and rubbing action delivered manually and sadly, the oriental massage lost some of its prestige due to the unsavory image that was generated by certain ‘massage parlors’.

However, the awareness towards the therapeutic properties of the oriental massage continued to grow and today, it is flourishing once more as a treatment adopted within many medically recognized rostrums for effective application. Oriental massage therapy is even used in intensive care units, for children and elderly people and even babies in incubators. The therapy is also effective in treating and de-stressing patients with cancer, AIDS and cardiac problems. The Oriental massage therapy or ‘body-work therapy’ is also offered by various health care centers, drug rehab and treatment clinics. The various massage techniques now incorporated within the art include aromatherapy, reflexology and osteopathy. Rolfing and Heller-work are also being applied in various massage therapy spas and special clinics.

The ‘relaxation’ massage is a smooth and easy flowing style that helps the person to generally relax and greatly improves blood circulation. This type of massage is applied to increase range of movement and relieve muscular and tissue tension. The ‘remedial’ massage is part of paramedical treatment. It helps in the restoration of the function of injured muscles, tendons and ligaments and is aimed at assisting quick recovery. The popular ‘sports’ massage is a very effective combination of different massage techniques. The overall aim of this massage is to enhance the sportsman’s performance on the field and recoup from muscular tension.

Aromatherapy Massage is a very effective part of Oriental massage therapy and uses the combination of the therapeutic properties of essential oils found naturally and specific massage techniques. The aim of this type of massage is to promote good health and well-being. Reflexology is yet another form of massage that involves the extensive use of the thumb and finger pressure on the reflex points under the feet. Practitioners of the art believe that these reflex points correspond to all individual body parts and organs. This massage helps in achieving balance within the body and curing various aches and pains.

Myofascial Release Techniques

Myofascial release techniques are basically of two types - direct and indirect. In direct myofascial release therapy, direct pressure is applied to the restricted fascia, whereas in case of indirect approach, a very low force is applied to the fascia and allows it to unwind on its own.

Myofascial release is basically a type of massage therapy techniques, which involves stretching and releasing of the soft tissues in order to balance the body muscles. The term myofascia is derived from the Latin words for muscle (myo) and band (fascia). Fascia is the soft tissue portion that surrounds every part of the body. It plays a major role in maintaining normal metabolic process and providing the structural integrity of the body. It also protects the body cells from the invading pathogens.

The main objective of myofascial release therapy is to manipulate the fascia for combating muscle pain, healing injury, managing stress, increasing flexibility and improving body posture. It mainly focuses on treating the trigger points that are located in the muscles. Hence, myofascial therapy is also known as myofascial trigger point therapy. There are various myofascial release techniques, each of which is intended for restoring the health of fascia.

Techniques for Myofascial Release Therapy

The main approach of every myofascial release technique is more or less similar. A physical therapist locates the restricted fascia portion and applies light stretch to the area. Pressure application is repeated for several times, until the restricted fascia can be stretched properly. The same procedure is followed for the treatment of other sore and restricted spots. Based on the therapy approach, there are two myofascial release techniques, namely direct and indirect therapy.

Direct Myofascial Release: According to the direct myofascial release technique, the functionality of the restricted fascia is improved by using low force directly on the affected spots. For stretching the trigger points, the physical therapist may apply pressure of a few kilogram by using elbows, forearm, knuckles or other therapy tools. This direct technique involves the manipulation of deep tissues by pressure application. Under this method, the physician first locates the barrier within the soft tissue, holds it with pressure for 50-60 seconds and release it gently. As per the patient's medical problem, direct myofascial release may be conducted on the face, head, neck, trunk, cervical portion, pelvis, thigh and feet.

Indirect Myofascial Release: In indirect myofascial release technique, a very low pressure of about a few grams is applied to the fascia. The objective of this method is to increase the heat and blood circulation in the restricted fascia. Following this, the body's natural ability allows the fascia to relax and stretch on its own. For performing the indirect myofascial release technique, the therapist uses fingers to lightly press on the restricted fascia for about 4 minutes, after which the pressure is released slowly. This way, the built up of muscle tension is balanced. Very often, therapeutic pulse is observed during the procedure of indirect therapy.

In recent times, myofascial release techniques by using fitness accessories like foam rollers, flexible bags and therapy balls. Overall, myofascial release therapy is a gentle and safe procedure for body relaxation. As more people are engaged into this therapy, certain self performing myofascial release techniques are suggested to carry out at home. However, prior to doing any self myofascial release techniques, one should always consult a therapist regarding the positions, activities and their effects.

Top Acne Scar Home Remedies

In spite of handling pimples you might still have to struggle with the damage this skin problem left behind. These top acne scars home remedies will provide you with some of the most efficient and gentle homemade skin care treatments to experiment with. Give these tricks a try and see whether your complexion will become spotless and more revitalized.

It seems that problems don't disappear as soon as you treated your mild or more server acne. Indeed due to the trauma it caused to our complexion pimples might leave behind their mark. Acne scars are some of the most unpleasant spots that could ruin our look especially if we neglect them. There's no need to start with the cosmetic or more radical treatments, instead why not experiment with these top acne scars home remedies that would definitely offer you a skin-friendly method on how to banish these scars. Use the most accessible ingredients to create soothing and nutritive facials that would help you handle this delicate skin problem. These are some of the most efficient and fail-safe recipes to use for your acne scars.

Lavender Oil

It was already demonstrated that essential oils can be used as some of the most efficient acne remedies if you wish to take a green turn in your skin care routine. Acne scars can be also treated with these, therefore use lavender oil mixed with a few drops of pure water and apply it to a cotton ball then place it on the affected area. There's no need to rinse it off, you can lave it on overnight. Repeat the same ritual at lest twice a day for a week to see the amazing result.

Honey

Treat pimples with some of the most fabulous and natural homemade facials. However you can use honey also as a secret weapon to cleanse your complexion from acne scars and give a silky soft condition to it. Apply honey to acne scars with the help of a cotton swab.

Leave it on for at least 10-15 minutes then wash it off with tepid water. Indeed natural remedies might need more time to exercise their effect, as a consequence it is highly recommended to repeat the ritual at least once a day for a week.

Green Tea

Natural remedies will help you reduce the contamination of the skin with harsh chemicals. This time you can use green tea as a natural anti-oxidant to restore the spotless condition of your complexion and get rid of those stubborn scars. All you have to do is make a hot green tea leave it cool down, then soak a cotton ball into it and wipe the affected area with it. Thanks to the skin-friendly effect of this ingredient you won't have to rinse it off and you can leave it overnight too.

Cucumber Juice

Cucumber facials are some of the most widely used home treatments for the different skin problems. Treat acne, prevent wrinkles as well as other affections with this healthy vegetable. Acne scars can be also handled with it, however this time you have to use the fresh cucumber juice to make these spots vanish. Apply the juice to the scars and leave it on for at least 15-20 minutes. Finally you should rinse it off with cold water to close the pores. Embed this pro trick into your daily skin care routine to avoid the deterioration of your skin condition due to the various harmful factors.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Therapy

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is a gentle deep massage that assists the equal distribution of lymph fluid. In doing this, lymphatic drainage treatment helps alleviate numerous other problems...

The lymphatic system is a network of organs, lymph nodes, lymph ducts, and lymph vessels that produce and transport lymph from tissues to the bloodstream. Lymph is a clear-to-white fluid made of white blood cells and a fluid from the intestines called chyle, which contains proteins and fats. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped, soft nodules. They are located in clusters in various parts of the body, such as the neck, armpit, groin, and inside the center of the chest and abdomen. The condition termed Lymphedema, also referred to as lymphatic obstruction, is defined by localized fluid retention and tissue swelling, caused by a compromised lymphatic system.

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy?

Manual lymphatic drainage therapy is a kind of massage that assists in lymphatic drainage. One method was invented in the early 1930s by massage therapists Dr. Emil and Mrs. Estrid Vodder. The other was the outcome of MD Bruno Chikly's award-winning research on the lymphatic system. Manual lymph drainage can be performed by massage therapists who are specially trained to administer it. The Vodder method uses gentle massage strokes to stimulate the lymphatic system to eliminate metabolic waste products, excess fluid and bacteria. In the other method, therapists first discern the existing overall circulation of the lymph flow anywhere in the body. They then use a lymphatic drainage massage technique employing flat hands, and using all the fingers to simulate body-fluid stagnation down alternate pathways for draining.

Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage

The lymphatic system is an important part of the body’s immune system. It carries nutrients to cells and eliminates metabolic wastes, toxins and excess fluids from the body. There is little difference in both methods and they produce similar effects. Among the many benefits of manual lymphatic drainage therapy are detoxification of the body, plus stimulation of the immune defenses. It is a double-edged sword that can correct some conditions, as well assist in preventative health maintenance. It encourages fluid circulation and cell regeneration. Some of the other significant benefits are:

• It helps in reducing oedema
• It may provide ulceration relief
• It encourages tissue regeneration (e.g., from burns, wounds, stretch marks, and pre & post surgical scarring)
• It is an effective component of control and
  
• It improves radiotherapy skin damage
• It provides deep relaxation that can aid insomnia, depression, stress
• It also helps in reducing the symptoms of and
  
• It can relieve chronic pain, sprains and strains (sports injuries)
• It may provide relief of numerous chronic and sub-acute inflammations such as sinusitis, bronchitis, hay-fever and rhinitis.
• It can aids venous insufficiency
• It assists in the alleviation of adiposis and cellulite tissue.

If you feel that manual lymphatic drainage therapy will ease any condition you suffer from, first consult your doctor, especially if you have chronic high blood pressure, heart problems or other infections. With your doctors approval, you can find a certified manual lymph drainage (MLD) practitioner. Steps you can take before going in, include avoid using lotions or other skin lubricants to enable maximum friction. Once there, discuss your condition with the therapist who will then decide the frequency of your sessions. These will reduce as your condition improves. After MLD, you may have one of many reactions, so don't be alarmed. Some people may need to pass urine often within a few hours after MLD, due to increase in fluids moved from tissues to the kidneys. Ensure you replenish this lost water. A few others experience nausea or deep aching.

Between sessions, to optimize the effect of the treatment, self-massage is advised. It involves gently rubbing lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, groin and behind the knees. Some also suggest keeping ones legs elevated for fifteen minutes after self-massage to increase lymph flow. Other suggestions include a little bit of light exercise between sessions, not wearing underwire bras, keeping warm and avoiding sugars and alcohol.