Massage therapy: Today’s hectic pace of life means that more people feel stressed and worn out than ever before. As well as affecting our general sense of happiness, being run-down and tired can lead to health problems. However, massage therapy can help you recharge and feel fantastic.

Massage therapy is a healing and sensuous practice that dates back thousands of years. One of the most popular forms of complementary treatment, massage therapy can help treat a variety of conditions, from joint and muscle pain to circulation problems. Of course, a massage is also one of the very best ways to defeat stress and fatigue – leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalised.

We can help you find an expert massage therapy practitioner in your area. If you’re interested in learning more about the principles of massage therapy, we can even connect you with an online course tutor. Contact us to find out more.

How does massage therapy work?

Massage therapy is any of several types of specialist massage that target your muscles and tissue. By gently manipulating your body, a trained massage therapist can help you relax, heal and even detect emotional issues built up in the tension of your muscles.

So, what can massage therapy help you avoid? Massage therapy is an excellent way to prevent the contraction of stress-related conditions, such as:

• Headaches and migraines
• Backache
• Muscle fatigue
• Pain in the joints and ligaments
• Depression
• General fatigue
• Rashes
• Insomnia
• Ulcers
• Stomach problems
• Circulation problems

There is even some evidence that massage therapy can help reduce your blood pressure, helping you avoid heart conditions and even diabetes.

Types of massage therapy

There are several different types of massage therapy, each offering unique benefits and techniques. Many forms of massage therapy date back thousands of years. Three of the most healing and effective massage therapy methods are:

• Thai massage therapy - one of the most complete massage therapies – targeting your entire skeleton, every muscle and your inner energy. It can leave you in a state of total relaxation
• Pilates – although not strictly a massage therapy, this exercise technique focuses on motion, breathing and a state of relaxation.
• Abhyanga – a massage therapy that uses special aromatic oils infused with different herbs. The oil hydrates and nourishes the skin, as well as making abhyanga one of the most relaxing and sensuous massage therapies.

Find a massage therapist in your area

We can help you find an expert massage therapist in your area. If you’re interested in learning more about the principles of massage therapy, we can even connect you with an online course tutor. Contact us to find out more.