Herbs and essential oils for massage!

Are you a little nervous about having a massage? You're not alone. Many people are concerned about what happens during a massage. Questions like, What herbs do you use, will I have to undress, do I have to talk, what if I feel uncomfortable, and other questions are common. Here are some answers and suggestions for making your first massage a wonderful experience.

WHAT WILL I BE ASKED?

The massage therapist is likely to ask you about your health; what problems you are looking to treat as well as any conditions that may make certain techniques unsuitable or even unsafe.

Along with health related questions you will also be asked about your preference for comfort. The massage should not make you feel over exposed or uncomfortable. Your massage therapist may also ask you about your preference for scented oils, herbs, or other options.

While questioning you about your health the massage therapist should also explain the procedure he or she will be using. They should ask you about your sensitivity to determine how deep the massage should be. If you are treating a sore area you may find the massage slightly uncomfortable but otherwise you should not feel pain or discomfort during the massage.

The masseuse will also decide now what essential oils to use on you, as each person will have a requirement to use a different oil depending on what your particular malady is.

WILL I HAVE TO UNDRESS?

Exposing the area of your body that is being treated will help the therapist to work more efficiently, however, it is not mandatory to undress. While it is preferable to drape the areas not requiring exposure with a sheet it is possible for the therapist to work on you while you are fully dressed. If you do not feel comfortable without clothing be sure to opt for clothing that is not tight or restrictive as it will interfere with the treatment.

Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress and provide you sheet or towel to drape over you, both for warmth and privacy. Only the areas worked on will be exposed.

WHAT WILL I HAVE TO DO?

For a typical Swedish massage you will be asked to lie down on a special massage table. This padded table may also have various bolsters to make your position more comfortable. The therapist may ask you to move into a new position for better accessibility to the treated area.

If you are uncomfortable at any time you should tell your massage therapist so you can shift your position or use bolsters to make your position more comfortable.

WHAT WILL THE MASSAGE THERAPIST DO?

Depending on where the massage is being performed and the amount of time available the therapist may dim the lights, play soft music and even light candles.

Oil is often applied to reduce the friction of the massage and you may be asked for your preference of scent. The massage therapist should help you remove the oil before putting your clothes back on so they do not stain.

If you prefer not to talk during your massage you should mention that to the therapist. They will still need to ask you to shift from time to time or ask if the procedure is comfortable but you do not have to converse if you prefer not to.

A good massage therapist should make you feel comfortable enough to ask any questions you have about the procedure and respect your privacy and level of comfort while treating you. Ask for recommendations and meet with the therapist to discuss their methods before booking your appointment.

A good massage can be exhausting for you, so the therapist may ask you to rest for 10 to 15 minutes after the massage, to recover your strength.

Massage has been used as a therapy to ease human aches and pains and create relaxation for thousands of years. The instinct to rub and stroke muscles that are tense and tired has been refined and studied so that massage therapy performed by a professionally trained practitioner can promote health and well being, relieve stress and help heal injured areas of your body.

WHAT IS MASSAGE THERAPY GOOD FOR?

Have you thought about seeking massage therapy for healing or relaxation? There are many techniques of massage therapy to choose from. Some therapies, such as those used for athletes, are focused on healing injured tissue by increasing circulation and preventing injury that can be caused by tense muscles.

Other therapies combine massage with soft music, dim lighting and soothing aromatherapy oils to relieve stress and enhance feelings of well being. Massage therapy can also provide relief from many common ailments from morning sickness to migraines.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MASSAGE THERAPY?

Massage helps with the circulation of blood and the release of toxins. Massage increases the circulation of oxygen through the body, helping to heal muscles and reduce tension. The increased circulation can also increase lymphatic drainage helping to rid the body of excess fluids and waste.

The physical manipulation of muscles can break down any scar material, thickening or inflammation of the tissues which can increase mobility and reduce stiffness. The additional mobility and toning can help prevent injury, especially for athletes who use massage therapy as part of their regular training.

Proper techniques of massage therapy can also help relieve constipation and gas and encourage proper digestion.

Relaxation of the physical body can also reduce the effects of stress physiologically. After a session of massage therapy you may feel relaxed, refreshed and feel greater self-esteem.

EASTERN AND WESTERN MASSAGE

The type of therapy you choose will be based on your personal preference or the purpose of the therapy. One of the most common forms of massage is based on Swedish massage which involves the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body with the masseuse's's hands. Swedish massage is often used for general relaxation and increasing mobility of the joints but can also be adapted to target specific problems.

The other common form of massage has Eastern origins. These techniques are performed by putting pressure on specific areas of the body with fingers or other blunt objects (acupressure) or needles (acupuncture). These techniques are used to relieve ailments such as: headaches, nausea, depression, pain, digestive disorders as well as stress and other ailments.

There are many variations on these techniques and what appeals to one person may be very different for someone else. Feeling comfortable with the technique as well as the practitioner is important in experiencing the full benefits of the massage. Whatever method you choose you are wise to take time to find the right person for you; determine if the practitioner is trained, qualified, insured and has recommendations before starting treatment and feel comfortable with the setting you will be receiving your massage in.

Essential oils are used in massage to soothe aches and pains. Before use they are diluted with a carrier oil because they can irritate the skin. Essential oils deteriorate rapidly after mixing, ao only mix a small amount at time.5 to 10 drops of essential oil is mixed with one tablespoon of carrier oil, such as almond oil, and gently rubbed into the skin.

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