Mental Benefits of Massage

Massage therapy has been used as a therapeutic measure for generations, and across cultures around the world. Although different types of massage techniques are designed to target specific areas, dysfunctions, and promote natural healing processes, there are some distinctive benefits that can be received from regular massage. Physical benefits range from improved circulation, lower stress levels, and increased flexibility in tense muscles. Mental benefits include a calm mind, increased awareness, better focus and concentration, and increased alertness. Here are the top ten physical and mental health benefits of massage.

1. Promotes deeper breathing

-deep breathing is vital to ensure that oxygen circulates easily throughout your body, and encourages healing and growth in the process. Decreased oxygen circulation results in headaches, tension aches, and random muscle pain that can accumulate into a significant problem over time. By enhancing your oxygen intake, you will naturally promote the release of toxins and negative energy within the body.

2. Improves posture

-although massage should never be used as a replacement for a chiropractic diagnosis, posture can slowly and naturally improve as the spine and muscles around the spine become more flexible and supple. Improved posture also aids in breathing and less tension throughout the body.

3. Improves circulation
-an improvement in both blood and lymph circulation helps your body gain strength and maximizes your energy level. Especially during the winter months when circulation and metabolisms may be slower, massage can help in removing toxins in the blood and encouraging fresh energy to circulate easily. Efficient circulation also helps in muscle recovery, growth, and promotes the natural healing process.

4. Enhances skin tone and skin health

-when using high-quality oils and creams, massage therapists can significantly improve the tone and health of your skin after just a few massage sessions. Skin cells are revitalized, moisturized, and replenished naturally. Choose Vitamin E and natural grapeseed oil bases for maximum benefits.

5. Increases and promotes joint flexibility

-repetitive stress or overused joints can stunt growth and create problems later. Massage helps to relieve stored tension and encourages flexibility of the joints after rest. Any soreness experienced after a massage can be indication that these are tension spots for you, and focusing on these areas on your next massage will increase joint recovery. There are even some special oil formulations to target joints, so do check with your massage therapist beforehand to discuss options.

6. Enhances a calm mind

-encouraging a calm mind creates an avenue for creativity; it is during these times that our minds are most conducive to creative thinking, developing plans, organizing thoughts, and reducing stressful thoughts. Massage can encourage this state of mind by relaxing the entire body.

7. Reduces anxiety

-as a natural deep relaxant, a successful massage can significantly reduce anxiety. Usually, anxiety is stored in some key areas of the body; the lower back, shoulders, abdomen, and neck. By relieving these areas of tension, the mind can ‘let go’ of anxiety and experience a light, almost freeing sensation.

8. Increases self-awareness

-the mind-body connection is often overlooked in today’s fast-paced society. From the minute you wake up, to the moment you go to bed, it is easy to slip into ‘mind-only’ mode. When you re-establish the connection with your body, you will experience greater ease of movement, a more centered feeling, and an enhanced feeling of well-being.

9. Promotes mental alertness

-although a massage can bring you into a state of deep relaxation, this is also a state of heightened mental alertness. Your mind is relaxed and calm, but acutely aware and in this state, capable of solving even the toughest problems!

10. Increases peace of mind

-with your ability to feel relaxed and naturally aware, peace of mind becomes a necessary result. Peace of mind can be defined as a sense of calm well-being and just feeling good naturally.

11. Satisfies need for human touch

-as human beings, we all need to feel the touch of another human being. This can range from a simple hug, handshake, or a nurturing touch. A massage encourages this type of connection and increases your appreciation for this human need.

These are just the top ten benefits of regular massage. Check with your local spa or individual massage therapist to define what you need, and what your body will most benefit from. During different times, or stages of your life, you may need a specific treatment or an individual recommendation.

Posted by: Freedert is a massage spa enthusiast who is looking for Massage Spa Quezon City and Massage Spa Makati City.

Article of: Voices Yahoo[dot]com

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The newest cure-all may be an ancient one: simple touch. The Chinese have been using massage for all kinds of medical conditions for centuries. Now, Western research is confirming that massage isn’t just for muscle pain. One of the most surprising findings: massage may help premature babies gain weight. When Tiffany Field, a professor of pediatrics, became a new mother, she massaged her premature infant daughter and was so impressed with the results she later founded the Touch Research Institute (TRI) at the University of Miami School of Medicine. Massage, it turns out, may boost immunity and help people with a range of conditions from premenstrual syndrome to high blood pressure. It also seems to help soothe pain from arthritis, burns and even surgery. Here are five surprising facts about massage from the research findings at TRI and elsewhere that you can put to use:

1. Pick Your Spot: You don’t have to massage the part of the body that hurts most. If you’re shy about letting a friend touch your aching lower back, for instance, she could help by massaging your shoulders instead. This is because massage creates chemical changes that reduce pain and stress throughout the body. One way it does this is by reducing a brain chemical called substance P that is related to pain. In a TRI study, for example, individuals with a form of muscle pain called fibromyalgia showed less substance P in their saliva (and they reported reduced pain) after a month of twice-weekly massages.

2. De-Stress, Stay Healthy. Massage may boost immunity. Several studies have measured the stress hormone called cortisol in subjects’ saliva before and after massage sessions, and found dramatic decreases. Cortisol, which is produced when you are stressed, kills cells important for immunity, so when massage reduces your stress levels and hence the cortisol in your body, it may help you avoid getting a cold or another illness while under stress.

3. Blood Pressure Benefits: Massage reduces hypertension, suggests a good deal of research. This may be because it stimulates pressure receptors that prompt action from the vagus nerve, one of the nerves that emerges from the brain. The vagus nerve regulates blood pressure, as well as other functions. In a 2005 study at the University of South Florida, hypertension patients who received 10 massages of 10 minutes each over three weeks showed significant improvements in blood pressure compared to a control group who simply rested in the same environment without any massage.

4. Technique Tactics: There’s little evidence to support one kind of massage over another, says Field, so don’t worry about whether your therapist is schooled in Shiatsu, Swedish or some other technique. The key is pressure firm enough to make a temporary indentation in the skin. If you try massage with a partner, use massage oil, which you can find in a health-food store or pharmacist, but test a little on your skin first to make sure you are not allergic.

5. Self Help. You can massage yourself. Although you don’t have to massage the part of the body that hurts to relieve pain, targeting that area does tend to help more. One example is massaging the arms. If you’re in danger of developing inflamed nerves in your hands or arms from repetitive movements (like typing on a keyboard, or even gripping a steering wheel for hours at a time) try massaging your arms for 15 minutes a day. Stroke from the wrist to the elbow and back down on both sides of the forehand.

Posted by: Freedert

Article of: The Daily Beast

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Massage Treats The Whole Body And Mind

Many of today’s health problems can benefit from massage therapy because the manipulation of soft tissues affects so many of our bodily systems.

The benefits of massage are extensive. Massage therapy treatments will have a therapeutic affect and improve health by acting directly on the muscular, nervous, circulatory and lymphatic (immune) systems.

Massage treatments aim to:

• Develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function – Massage therapy has become a staple of many professional athletes’ training regimens. But not just athletes. Lifestyle factors, such as long work hours or physically taxing tasks, lead many members of the workforce to seek the assistance of a massage therapist. A seemingly minor injury can have a profound impact on a person’s ability to stay physically active, participate fully in life, or even make a living if it becomes chronic. Massage therapy can be one of the ways of preventing that kind of outcome.

• Relieve or prevent physical dysfunction and pain – Some massage therapy techniques are specifically recommended for sore muscle tissues. An overly sore muscle cannot function properly. By alleviating or preventing pain, dysfunction can be combated.
• Relax tight and tense muscles – Many people don’t realize how much a tight muscle impacts on vital things such as posture. A tense muscle can throw off your body’s balance. Before long, muscles that were not initially tight begin to tense as they compensate for other parts of the body. It becomes a chain reaction that can spread far from the initial problem spot. A talented massage therapist can identify the source of the problem and start working to alleviate the problem where it started.
• Improve circulation, recovery time and immune system function – The movements of massage cause blood to flush in and out of muscles and joints. This flushing process – enhancing circulation in the affected areas – can, in some cases, aid recovery time from injuries.
• Reduce overall stress - We’re all becoming more aware of the role stress plays in health. People who are stressed, all other things being equal, are less healthy than people who are relaxed. Stress, for example, increases the risk of heart disease. Massage therapy is an effective and enjoyable way to reduce stress.

Massage therapy is also effective in the control of pain, chronic or acute, in stress reduction, and in creating a sense of relaxation and well-being. A licensed, skilled practitioner can become an important and integral part of your health care team.

See Amistad Spa Swedish Massage

Posted by: Freedert

Article of: massagetherapy101

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• Are you irritable or moody, edgy, easily frustrated, forgetful?

• Do you have back pain or grind your teeth?

• Do you feel tightness in your shoulders, neck, or hips?

• More than Just Pampering

Massages are more than just a pampering experience, they are a body healing and emotional stress-relieving tool. Doctors know the therapeutic benefits of massage and recommend them to patients who are experiencing pain and/or anxiety.

Tension Relief

Muscles are manipulated during a massage, which relieves muscle tension. Daily emotional stress can cause tension in the neck and the back making the neck and back feel stiff and sore. The discomfort of tight muscles increases stress. Sometimes a person does not even realize that he has muscle tension until the tension is relieved through massage.

In some circumstances a tight neck and shoulders can be the cause of stress. Activities like sitting at a desk all day or playing sports can cause muscle tightness, which in turn can cause stress.

Reduced Heart Rate and Blood Pressure

People who are experiencing anxiety can have an increased heart rate and increased blood pressure while under stress. A massage lowers a person’s heart rate and reduces blood pressure. A lower heart rate and lower blood pressure induce a calm feeling and give the person a sense that stress is melting away.

Pain Reduction

Massages reduce pain by reducing muscle tension and stimulating blood flow and increasing oxygen supplies to the blood stream. Oxygen is carried through the blood stream to the muscles, inducing healing of injuries and sore muscles. Pain and soreness add to a patient’s emotional stress. The reduction of pain helps to relieve stress.

Human Touch

The feeling of human touch provides comfort and the feeling of acceptance. The intimate caress of a massage lends to a feeling of acceptance and can increase self-esteem. Increased self-esteem and the comfort provided by closeness with another human help to relieve stress.

Lasting Benefits

Massage is a useful tool to aid stress relief and pain relief. Reduction in stress and pain can last for days, weeks or even months after a massage, depending on the individual and circumstances.

Massage Tips

Most health insurance providers pay for massages that are prescribed by a physician. If you are experiencing pain or stress, consult with a physician to determine if massage would benefit you. If the physician determines that a massage would be beneficial, ask for a prescription so that the costs can be covered by health insurance.

Always use a licensed massage therapist to ensure optimum results. A licensed massage therapist is trained in the proper methods of massage for various conditions. A massage from an unlicensed individual could result in soreness or injury.

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See Amistad Spa Massage and Wellness Center PROMO that runs on March 16 to April 15, 2012.

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Posted by: Freedert

Article of: Life Spring Healing Arts

Disclaimer: Amistad Spa and Wellness Center respects the intellectual property of others. Articles from other sources were linked to the original article to give full credit to the writer and publisher. In the event that there is a problem or error with copyrighted material, the break of the copyright is unintentional and noncommercial and the material will be removed immediately upon proof. If you are the owner of material that appears on this site please send proof to us and the material will be removed promptly. However, if you are the owner and would rather credit be given for the material, instead of removal, we will gratefully give the appropriate credit desired.

The following questionnaire is to help you understand if you could benefit from receiving massage, and to increase your self-awareness and your understanding of massage and therapeutic bodywork.

Are you feeling stressed?

• Are you irritable or moody, edgy, easily frustrated, forgetful?
• Do you have back pain or grind your teeth?
• Do you feel tightness in your shoulders, neck, or hips?

Did you ever have an auto accident, injury, surgery, or fall?

• Are there areas where range of motion is restricted, such as shoulders, hips or knees?
• Would you like a more complete recovery?

Do you use a computer?

• Do you have stiff and painful shoulders, neck or back?
• Do you ever experience numbness or tingling in your hands or wrists?
• Do you suffer loss of grip strength in your hands?
• Do you have pain in your hands or wrists?
• Do you have carpal tunnel syndrome?

Do you ever have headaches?

• Do you feel areas of tension in your neck or shoulders?
• Are the headaches in the back or sides of the head?

Are you pregnant?

• Do you experience lower back pain or discomfort?

Are you an athlete?

• Would you like to improve your performance?
• Do you have areas of tightness or restriction?

• Do you have a pulled or strained muscle or ligament?

Have you ever suffered from trauma or abuse?

• Are you uncomfortable when someone touches you?
• Do you feel distressed in your body?
• Would you like to experience a decrease in tension and increased feeling of safety and relaxation?

Do you have a chronic illness?

• Do you have arthritis, asthma, hypertension, chronic or acute pain, gastrointestinal problems, immune function disorders, chronic fatigue, circulatory problems, insomnia, or TMJ dysfunction?
• Would you like to increase your feeling of overall well-being?
• Would you like to try an alternative to drugs or surgery?

Are you over 55?

• Do you lack exercise?
• Would you like to have a greater feeling of comfort and well-being?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be benefited by massage therapy or bodywork.
Posted by: Freedert

Article of: Life Spring Healing Arts

Disclaimer: Amistad Spa and Wellness Center respects the intellectual property of others. Articles from other sources were linked to the original article to give full credit to the writer and publisher. In the event that there is a problem or error with copyrighted material, the break of the copyright is unintentional and noncommercial and the material will be removed immediately upon proof. If you are the owner of material that appears on this site please send proof to us and the material will be removed promptly. However, if you are the owner and would rather credit be given for the material, instead of removal, we will gratefully give the appropriate credit desired.

Other popular spa treatments include facials and body treatments like salt glows and body wraps.

Most spas have a nail salon offering spa manicures and spa pedicures . Spas with salons offer hair cutting and styling services.

Once you’ve tried the basic spa treatments, you might want to branch out to different types of massage like Thai massage , hot stone massage or reflexology. You should talk to your esthetician about what facial services or body treatments would be most appropriate for your skin type.

Remember, the most important thing you can do to enjoy your trip to the spa is arrive at least 15 minutes before your treatment is scheduled to begin. That way you can check in, change into your robe, and start to relax. If the spa has facilities like a sauna, steam bath, or hot tub, arrive even earlier.

Heard about the benefits of massage but not sure if it’s for you? Rachel Browne demystifies the most popular massage styles.

SHIATSU

How it works

Shiatsu originated in China almost 8000 years ago before spreading to other parts of Asia and then the Western world.

According to Chinese medical practice, our bodies contain chi, or energy, which travels through specific pathways called meridians.

Shiatsu practitioners manipulate the chi through defined acupuncture points to maintain balance in the body.

Who it helps

Shiatsu is regarded as a therapeutic massage and can be used to assist in a variety of conditions from back pain to mood disorders.

”It can be used when you are well,” says Anne McDermott, who has practiced shiatsu for 25 years.

”Many people use shiatsu to maintain health and balance in their lives, both physically and emotionally.”

Most commonly, however, it is used to relieve musculoskeletal stiffness such as back pain and sciatica, headaches and pain resulting from injury or surgery.

SWEDISH

How it works

Sweden gave us Abba and Ikea but cannot claim Swedish massage.

It actually started in Holland before being formally developed in Sweden about 200 years ago.

A full body massage used primarily for reducing stress, Swedish (or ”relaxation”) massage uses a combination of long strokes, kneading, circular strokes and what looks like a karate chopping movement to ease muscular tension.

”Swedish massage is a soothing massage to promote relaxation,” says Sydney practitioner Catherine Boller, who also teaches and practices a number of other styles of massage.

Who it helps

Swedish massage can assist anyone who is feeling stressed or tense, which is just about all of us at some stage.

”A lot of people will do it purely for indulgence,” Boller says.

”You can add some essential oils for an extra level of relaxation. The massage can go for up to an hour and a half and it’s a great way for people to simply switch off for that period. It’s perfect for people who are feeling stressed or tired, who have trouble relaxing.”

REMEDIAL

How it works

A specific treatment for tense muscles and stiff joints, remedial massage can assist with parts of the body that have suffered from over-use, trauma, poor posture or too much stress.

It targets joints and deeper muscles, alleviating symptoms and addressing the underlying cause of the problem.

Depending on the nature of the condition, remedial massage can be gentle or strong.

Who it helps

According to Boller, one of her busiest times of the year is straight after The Sun-Herald City2Surf run when athletes come in to have their legs treated.

”I do see a lot of athletes but I also see many sedentary people who sit at desks all day on computers and develop back problems from that,” she says.

”Towards the end of every year I get HSC students who have been swotting over their books and they have neck and shoulder problems.”

Remedial massage can also be used in conjunction with physiotherapy or osteopathy to relieve pain following trauma such as a car accident.

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE

How it works

This massage is used to treat fluid retention in the lymphatic system.

A light-touch, non-invasive therapy, lymphatic drainage targets a specific area of fluid and helps shift it from the swollen site.

No oils or lotions are used in the process, which involves slow, repetitive movements on the affected area.

Who it helps

Boller sees a number of patients with lymph blockages following surgery as well as pregnant women who have swelling in their legs and ankles.

However, she says lymphatic drainage can be applied to a number of conditions such as sinus and acne.

”You can just about use it for anything, anywhere where you have fluid or inflammation in the body,” she says.

REFLEXOLOGY

How it works

Reflexology uses pressure to the hands, feet and ears to assist in relieving problems elsewhere in the body. Reflexologists divide the body into 10 zones, which have corresponding areas on the feet, ears and hands.

”As you are doing a reflexology technique with your thumb, which is called thumb walking, it stimulates that organ or tissue in the corresponding part of the body,” Sydney reflexologist Lucy Campbell says.

Who it helps

Campbell sees clients with a range of health problems from immune deficiency to insomnia.

”It’s good for people who are immune deficient, such as people with HIV/AIDS or cancer,” she says. ”It will help give them better quality of life. Some people come in for relaxation because they are stressed and not sleeping well.”

Reflexology is also an option for people who are uncomfortable about the idea of removing their clothes for a body massage.

AYURVEDIC

How it works

Ayurveda is the traditional medicine of India with ”ayur” meaning life and ”veda” meaning knowledge.

Central to the tradition is ayurvedic massage in which large amounts of warm herb-infused oil are rubbed into the body by up to four practitioners.

Different oils are used to suit the constitution of the patient. Ayurveda recognises 107 marma points, or points of vital energy, which are stimulated in various ways to promote the flow of energy around the body.

Who it helps

A GP and ayurveda specialist, Dr Shaun Matthews, says many people use the massage to complement an overall good-health plan.

”I see a lot of people who are very sick as well as people who are healthy but they just want to improve on what they have,” he says.

”You can have the treatment for general rejuvenation.”

Ayurvedic massage can assist people with low energy levels, poor sleep quality, high blood pressure or weight problems.

SPORTS MASSAGE

How it works

Don’t book a sports massage thinking you are going to get a relaxing rub down. Sports massage is specifically tailored to injuries and strains and can be strong, even painful at times.

It works by relieving the stress and tension that can build up on soft tissues and muscles during physical activity. Sports massage techniques aim to improve a person’s performance and endurance and minimise the chance of injury.

The massage is designed to alleviate and prevent conditions that result from exercise – from swelling and muscle tension to shin splints and strains. It can be carried out before, during or after exercise.

Who it helps

Anyone who is physically active can benefit from sports massage.

Of course, professional athletes are regulars but sports massage can also help people who engage in any regular exercise from touch footballers to weekend golfers.

Posted by: Freedert

Article of: Rachel Browne

Disclaimer: Amistad Spa and Wellness Center respects the intellectual property of others. Articles from other sources were linked to the original article to give full credit to the writer and publisher. In the event that there is a problem or error with copyrighted material, the break of the copyright is unintentional and noncommercial and the material will be removed immediately upon proof. If you are the owner of material that appears on this site please send proof to us and the material will be removed promptly. However, if you are the owner and would rather credit be given for the material, instead of removal, we will gratefully give the appropriate credit desired.

1.) Am I supposed to tip my massage therapist?

If you get a massage at a spa or hotel, a 15% to 20% tip is standard if you were pleased with the services.

On the other hand, there are no real ground rules or norms when it comes to massage in a medical setting. Some massage therapists and massage associations I asked said tipping isn’t appropriate in a medical or clinical setting.

If you’re not sure, don’t be afraid to ask if tipping is customary. You can call ahead to ask if you don’t want to do it face to face.

If tipping isn’t the norm, you can always show your appreciation by referring friends, family and co-workers to the massage therapist.

2.) Am I supposed to take off my underwear when I get a massage?

Many people prefer to keep their panties or briefs on during a massage, while others prefer to be completely nude. It’s up to you.

If your problem areas are your lower back, hips, buttocks, or groin, tight-fitting underwear can sometimes get in the way of massage work, but a thong for women or briefs for men should do the trick.

In some spa or massage center, if you do remove your underwear, licensed massage therapists must ensure that you are always properly covered by a sheet or towel. Only the area being massaged will be uncovered.

3.) What if I realize I’ve drooled during the massage?

Many people fall into a peaceful slumber during the massage but when they wake up, they notice a pool of drool on the pillow or massage table. This is very common. It often happens when people are being massaged while lying face down on the massage table.

4.) Will the massage therapist be there when I undress?

In some spa and massage center, the massage therapist will leave the room so that you can remove your clothing and lie on the massage table (usually face down) under the top sheet.

Don’t rush or worry that the massage therapist will walk in on you — the massage therapist always knocks and asks if you are ready before entering the massage room.

5) Should I talk to the massage therapist during the massage?

Although some people prefer to talk throughout the massage, don’t feel like you have to make conversation with the massage therapist. After all, you’re having a treatment, you’re not at a cocktail party!

Feel free to close your eyes and relax, which is what most people do.

Deep tissue massage and sports massage are just some of the types of massage that require more feedback. The massage therapist often works on deeper layers of muscle and will want to ensure that the pressure is not uncomfortable.

Be sure to speak up if:

• the room is too hot or too cold
• you experience pain
• you have any questions related to the massage
• there’s anything you forgot to mention during the consultation

6.) What if I get an erection during the massage?

Some men don’t get massage therapy because they worry that they’ll get an erection. Or they get the massage, but are unable to relax during the massage because of this fear.

But there is no reason to be embarrassed. It’s perfectly normal for men to get an erection during a non-sexual, therapeutic massage.

Gentle touch administered to any area of the body can activate the parasympathetic nervous system and cause a partial or full erection. Your massage therapist (male or female) understands this and will generally ignore it.

If you are still worried, you may wish to wear a men’s bikini bathing suit during the massage, which provides more support than boxers.

7.) How do I know if it’s a legitimate massage clinic?

Although you might think massage parlors that offer sensual or erotic massage may look obviously seedy, it can be sometimes be difficult to spot these places.

If you’re trying a new clinic or spa, it’s a good idea to call first and ask these questions:

• Do you offer therapeutic massage?
• Is the massage therapist certified or licensed?
• Do you require a health questionnaire of your clients?

A licensed massage therapist will not come into contact with your genitals or nipples during the massage.

8.) The pressure isn’t deep enough, but I don’t want to insult the massage therapist’s technique. What should I do?

Communicate openly with the massage therapist. Keep in mind however that it’s a myth that massage therapy has to hurt to be effective.

Some of the most effective types of massage therapy are gentle and do not involve deep pressure or pain. In fact, too much pressure can cause muscles to seize up.

Here is a good rule of thumb — on a scale of one to 10 where one is no pain and 10 is extremely painful, the pressure should always be less than seven.

9.) I’m self-conscious about a certain part of my body and don’t want the massage therapist to see me. What can I do?

People are self-conscious for various reasons. Some of the more common concerns are:

• I’m overweight.
• I have excessive hair growth on my body.
• I’ve got acne on my face or back.
• My feet are ugly.
• I have scars.

Being self-conscious should never keep you from seeking health care, whether it’s visiting your doctor or seeing a massage therapist.

If you’re self-conscious about a certain part of your body, you can ask the massage therapist to avoid that area.

Or, you can opt for a therapy that is done through clothing, such as shiatsu or Thai massage. Because no massage oil or lotion is used, you remain fully clothed during the session.

You can even bring your own comfortable clothes to wear.

Just remember to provide complete and accurate information on your health history form, so that the massage therapist is aware of any precautions or contraindications.

10.) I’d rather see a female massage therapist. Should I request this?

Some men don’t feel comfortable having a massage by a male massage therapist. It may be due to outdated social and media stereotypes of the profession or the fear of getting an erection during the massage.

Erection is a common physiological response that happens when the parasympathetic nervous system is activated by touch anywhere on the body.)

Some women also prefer a female massage therapist because they say they feel more comfortable.

This doesn’t just apply to massage therapy. A University of Michigan study found that 43 percent of women preferred a female doctor for a colonoscopy. Of these women, 87 percent said they would be willing to wait more than 30 days to get an appointment with a female colonoscopist, and 14 percent would be willing to pay more for one.

Unfortunately, men who choose to become massage therapists are often unprepared for the discrimination they face. When clients request female over male therapists, spas stop hiring them, however skilled they are.

That’s why I believe it’s important to challenge your preconceptions. Here are some tips to help you:

• If you see other practitioners in the clinic or spa, ask if you could meet the massage therapist before you book the appointment.
• Try booking a massage at a health club or a clinic, where there’s usually a higher percentage of male clientele and staff.
• You may wish to start with an active form of massage, such as deep tissue or sports massage or a type of massage that is done fully clothed, such as shiatsu or Thai massage.

Posted by: Freedert

Article of: Cathy Wong

Disclaimer: Amistad Spa and Wellness Center respects the intellectual property of others. Articles from other sources were linked to the original article to give full credit to the writer and publisher. In the event that there is a problem or error with copyrighted material, the break of the copyright is unintentional and noncommercial and the material will be removed immediately upon proof. If you are the owner of material that appears on this site please send proof to us and the material will be removed promptly. However, if you are the owner and would rather credit be given for the material, instead of removal, we will gratefully give the appropriate credit desired.

General resources for relaxation techniques

You Really Need to Relax: Effective Methods (PDF) – Includes progressive muscle relaxation and relaxation through visual imagery. (University of Michigan Health Center)

Body Scan Meditation – How body scan meditation can help you achieve a clearer mind and improve your concentration. (ABC-of-Yoga.com)

Audio exercises to guide you through relaxation techniques

Guided Body Scan Meditation – Free 10-minute body scan meditation that can also be downloaded for use on an MP3 player. (MeditationCoach.com)

Audio Relaxation Tracks – A selection of audio relaxation exercises from the University of Texas Counseling and Mental Health Center. Download the tracks at the bottom of the page or access the individual exercises here:

• Deep Breathing Exercise – Free sampling of a 7-minute deep breathing audio meditation exercise. (UT Counseling and Mental Health Center)
• Muscle Relaxation Exercise – 18-minute progressive muscle relaxation audio exercise. (UT Counseling and Mental Health Center)
• Forest Imagery Visualization Exercise – 19-minute visualization audio exercise that guides you through forest imagery. (UT Counseling and Mental Health Center)
• Cruise Imagery Visualization Exercise – 12-minute visualization audio exercise that guides you through the imagery of a relaxing cruise. (UT Counseling and Mental Health Center)

Mindful Meditation Audio Exercises – Offers free mindful meditations available to play online or as an mp3 download. Depending on your browser, these may be easy or challenging to access. (UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center)

Yoga and Tai Chi for stress relief

Yoga – Introduction to the different types of yoga and how to begin practicing it. (Nemours Foundation)

Tai Chi 24 Forms Video Clip – Watch a video clip illustrating the practice of tai chi. (Youtube.com)

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