Massage Therapy: Healing for the Mind, Body & Soul
By: Jackie King, COTA/L, LMT, NCTMB
Touch! A very powerful word! What is it about this one little word that causes such a mixture of feelings? Why do we so instinctively ‘touch’ that painful area of our body? Or, why do we hug our love ones when they are hurting emotionally? Why do we pat our friend on the back for a job well done? Touch is so powerful; and human touch is critical for our survival. Without it, we would not be able to demonstrate the love, understanding, and the vast array of other emotions that are contained in it.
Our bodies are equipped with the tools they need to maintain a sense of balance, or homeostasis. All too often, however, that balance is altered due to a work related injury, emotions that are held onto, or a high level of stress, which over the course of time, leads to tight muscles and a weakened immune system which is the beginning of the disease process.
Taking care of our bodies has never been more important, and with the variety of alternative therapies and approaches to wellness, it has never been easier. Whether you choose massage therapy, yoga, meditation, eating an organic diet or working out at the gym, choosing an approach to decrease stress is critical for good health and wellness.
Massage Therapy has been around for thousands of years, and has been scientifically proven to be a powerful healing tool for people of all ages, rich and poor, and in all stages of life. Infants, who are massaged by their caregiver on a regular basis, are able to relax more, have improved digestion and elimination, improved neuro-motor development and sleep better. The bond between infant and caregiver is strengthened, as well. Massage is also beneficial to people now on hospice. It helps the body to relax and decrease the pain, making the transition into the next stage of life more comfortable.
Massage Therapy has the power to, in a very personal, non-invasive manner: Reduce high levels of stress, reduce pain and muscle fatigue, reduce edema due to surgery or poor circulation, reduce muscle spasms, tightness or cramping and break up scar tissue. Massage can increase range of motion and joint flexibility, increase lymph circulation, thereby improving your body’s ability to fight illness, improve blood circulation and skin quality and increase the level of endorphins, the “feel good neuro-transmitters”.
With so many benefits of massage therapy, why not enjoy the “pampering” as well as the healing? Whether you choose Swedish, Hot Stone, Myofascial, Pre-Natal or Infant Massage, or a more subtle, yet powerful energy work such as Jin Shin or Reiki, explore and find the perfect style for you. Massage Therapy also makes a wonderful gift for a birthday or anniversary, wedding or baby shower.
To make massage therapy part of your regular routine or to learn more about how massage therapy can benefit you call Massage Therapy by Jackie King, LMT at 636-327-3261.
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