There’s no denying the power of bodywork. Regardless of the adjectives we assign to it (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic) or the reasons we seek it out (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen.

Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. This translates into:

• Decreased anxiety.
• Enhanced sleep quality.
• Greater energy.
• Improved concentration.
• Increased circulation.
• Reduced fatigue.
• Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.
• Profound Effects
• In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body, with profound effects. Research shows that with massage:
• Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and less stiffness and pain.
• Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow.
• Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching, and anxiety.
• High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety, and stress hormones.
• Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping.
• Premature infants have improved weight gain.

Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch — which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat post-surgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process.

Even as massage steadily becomes more accepted as a common part of our contemporary cultural experience, many people do not get the most out of massage through lack of knowing a few simple concepts.

The recipient’s only job is to relax as completely as possible. You may start this process by simply closing your eyes- Closing your eyes during the massage experience tends to bring your center of energy out of your head and into your body. Allow your body to become as limp as you can manage. The therapist may need to move your limbs during the treatment. Allow he/she to do so. Your therapist is trained professionally and knows how to move your body with care. Try not to be helpful; rather let yourself be taken care of. Breathe deeply as the therapist’s hands locate areas of tension, consciously trying to let go and relax the areas. Talk for the most part, is unnecessary. Feel free to give feedback if you would like something done differently or longer. The therapist may also ask you for feedback regarding your comfort.

Here are a few guidelines to help you feeling more at ease and to gain the greatest benefit from your massage session.

• Be sure to point out any areas of your body, which are injured, tense or sore. A medical history form will be asked to fill out to customize your treatment.
• Please take off all jewelry you are comfortable removing.
• Many of the massage techniques I use involve the application of oil, gel or cream. Some of these products may get in your hair and around the neck. If this is a problem let, me know before we start. All oil will be wiped off the body when the massage is completed, unless you prefer otherwise. Please let the therapist know.
• The best way to receive a massage is with the body completely unclothed. The therapist is sensitive to the need for privacy and will keep your body covered with a sheet, except the areas being massaged. However, you may undress to your level of comfort.
• Some people may fall asleep during a massage, an indication that the body and mind are releasing stress and tension. If this should occur, you will be gently awakened when it is time to turn over or end the massage.
• Finally, when the massage is over you need not get up immediately. Lie still with your eyes closed, and let yourself absorb whatever you are feeling a few minutes longer.
• Enjoy the massage session!

After your massage you may notice profound changes in your body and mind. Here are some things that have helped many people get the most form their massage.

1. Drink extra water. During a massage circulation is improved, which helps flush irritating waste products from stressed muscles and other tissues. Drinking water aids the functioning of the whole body including the circulation and the kidneys, which are both involved with relieving the body of waste products. Drinking extra water also seems to help reduce soreness and fatigue after a massage.
2. Schedule time to take it easy after your massage. Rest if you feel the need. If you can, take a nap or get in bed early. If you haven’t been sleeping well, receiving massage may relax you enough that you will want to turn in and catch up.
3. If the focus of your massage is on a particular injury or body part, remember to stretch, ice, or apply heat to that area with the advice of your massage therapist, Or, you may want to do some gentle movement, such as walking, sometime in the hours after your massage to mildly encourage your muscles to work in a balanced and efficient way.
4. People sometimes experience some soreness for 24 hours or so after a massage. If you do feel sore or think that you might, stretch gently in a hot shower or take a warm bath with Epsom salts. And remember to tell your massage therapist about your experience so it can be taken into consideration in your next session.