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Reflexology and your health

Reflexology and your health

by | Jul 29, 2015 | Health

​Reflexology: What Is It, and How Does It Work?

Reflexology is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the soles of the feet and sometimes the palms of the hands. The “zone therapy” theory behind reflexology was first introduced in 1915 by an ear, nose and throat doctor named William Fitzgerald. It was later developed into modern reflexology by American physiotherapist Eunice Ingram. Practitioners believe that certain regions on the hands and feet correspond to other parts of the body, including internal organs and glands, and applying pressure to these points can encourage health in the corresponding areas through natural energy pathways. Although reflexology is not proven to directly affect the course of disease, many who receive it report relief of physical symptoms.

How Does Reflexology Work?

One way reflexology may work is by relaxing the body and relieving stress, which encourages natural healing and regeneration. Another theory is that it works with the central nervous system, taking advantage of the connections between peripheral nerves, skin and internal organs. The application of pressure to specific points sends a message to peripheral nerves to adjust the corresponding areas tension level, improve circulation, stimulate immune function and boost waste removal.

Examples of reflex areas and corresponding parts of the body include the following:

1.Tips of the toes correspond to the head.

2.Chest and heart respond to stimulation of the ball of the foot.

3.The pancreas, liver and kidney reflect the arch of the foot.

What Conditions Can Reflexology Help?

1. Hormone imbalance

2. Stress and anxiety

3. Tension headache

4. Indigestion or nausea

5. Surgical recovery

6. Indigestion or nausea

7. Palliative care

8. Sports injuries

9. Insomnia

10. Constipation

11. Back Pain

 

What Does It Feel Like?

 

 

 

A reflexology treatment usually lasts 45 to 60 minutes. It begins with the reflexologist obtaining a medical history and a few details about your lifestyle and current symptoms. Next, you’ll remove your socks and shoes and recline on a massage table or in a comfortable chair. The reflexologist will examine and evaluate your feet. He or she will stimulate various points on the sole of each foot; this will help identify areas of tenderness and muscle tension.

To warm your feet up, brisk movements and moderate pressure are applied from the toes to the heel. Specific areas that need work then receive more intense treatment. Reflexology of the hand is conducted in a similar fashion. Treatments should not be painful. If you experience pain, alert your therapist immediately.

Is Reflexology Right for Everyone?

 

Most people can safely enjoy the benefits of reflexology. However, if you are pregnant or have foot sores, blood vessel disease, diabetes and other chronic conditions, you should consult your doctor before having a reflexology treatment.

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Autism and the Power of Touch

Autism and the Power of Touch

by | Jul 23, 2015 | Health

Massage and Autism: A New Link to the Power of Touch

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by communication difficulties, social interaction problems and stereotypical repetitive behaviors. It often becomes apparent at a young age. When you have a child with autism, your daily life can become a challenge. Learning ways to communicate effectively and help your child live a full and happy life involves a lot of education, experimentation and patience. Small triumphs over negative behaviors are welcome rays of sunshine.

One frustrating autism symptom you may face is an aversion to touch. As a loving parent, it can be difficult to comprehend. Autistic children may react strongly to certain textures and completely fail to respond to physical affection. Although it may seem counterintuitive at first, massage therapy has been proven as an effective way to combat the symptoms of autism and break through the barrier that keeps autistic children from enjoying the benefits of touch that all humans need.

Autism Symptoms Reduced Through Massage Therapy

Several studies have revealed a link between massage and improvement of autism symptoms. According to the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, a group of 20 autistic children who received 15 minutes of massage therapy every night before bedtime displayed fewer stereotypical behaviors during observation. They also demonstrated increased social interaction and improved sleep patterns when compared to a control group. Other studies found that massage decreased touch aversion and increased attention span. Although every child reacts differently, symptoms potentially improved by massage therapy include the following.

• Repetitive actions or motions

• Tactile hypersensitivity)

• Resistance to teachers

• Sensory overload

• Poor focus

• Anxiety

​Massage Therapy: Opening New Doors for Your Autistic Child

Learning simple massage techniques may be a way to reach your autistic child and help connect him or her to the world. It’s never too early to introduce massage to an autistic child. Response can occur at all ages including infancy. The process should begin slowly; you must take great care not to startle or agitate your child because this could produce an association between massage and fear or discomfort. Professional massage therapists who have experience working with autistic children can be a great resource. In-home massage sessions can ensure a familiar and relaxed atmosphere for both learning and receiving massage. Ask your child’s doctor, therapist or autism specialist about incorporating massage therapy into your child’s care program.

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

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Is Massage really a luxury?

Is Massage really a luxury?

by | Jul 15, 2015 | Health

You’ve had a rough day at work. Your shoulders burn, your neck aches, and your head feels like it will explode at any second. Sitting all day has left your lower back in knots, and all you can think about is how wonderful a nice massage would feel. But that, of course, is a luxury, or is it? Today’s stressful lifestyle leaves many people struggling with physical and mental symptoms that massage therapy can effectively eliminate. Should we really continue to view it as a luxury for the indulgent few?

​What is luxury?

Society seems to be redefining the concept of luxury. A luxury was once considered something frivolous, unnecessary and reserved for those who had money to burn. A life of luxury often consisted of a collection of material things. People hungered for bigger houses, faster cars, more expensive clothing and five-star hotel visits. Now, luxury seems to more about living life to its fullest, and doing that doesn’t necessarily require a lot of money or a lofty status. We’re starting to value experiences instead of things. Living luxuriously now means seeking the best life has to offer.

​If you see your doctor for a painful infection, you’ll probably leave with prescriptions for antibiotics and pain medicine. Are either of these medications considered a luxury? They alleviate your symptoms, reduce your suffering and make you whole again. When you develop painful muscle spasms or adhesions due to stress or other triggers, professional massage therapy is one of the most effective ways to relieve your pain and improve your mobility.

 

In fact, it can even improve your general health by boosting circulation and enhancing cardiovascular and immune function. Why should anything so medically valuable be considered a luxury? With so many people suffering the effects of a hectic life, massage should really be considered a necessity; it removes barriers that prevent you from living normally and fully. Perhaps it is difficult for some to view massage as a practical form of healthcare because it is so enjoyable. You’ll never get the same blissful relaxation and relief from a visit to your general practitioner. Additionally, when you consider the cost of some common medical procedures, massage doesn’t seem so unattainable or luxurious from a financial perspective.

If you’ve been putting off a much-needed massage because you thought it was a selfish or gratuitous treat, maybe it’s time to reevaluate your definition of luxury. Schedule a home massage today. You’ll quickly realize that the real luxury is not massage itself, but rather how it enables you to enjoy life more than ever.

STRESS RELIEF SPECIAL OFFER
Burnout and massage therapy

Burnout and massage therapy

by | Jul 8, 2015 | Health

Everyone has days when it seems like nothing is worth the effort, but when every day feels like hopeless drudgery, you may be on the road to burnout. Fortunately, recovery is possible, and massage therapy can help.

​Recognizing Burnout

Burnout is a state of physical, mental and emotional exhaustion caused by a prolonged period of constant, unrelenting stress. You may face burnout when you become overwhelmed with too many responsibilities or feel unable to meet demands. As your stress increases, you lose your motivation and interest. You may feel that nothing you do is ever enough or that you are simply spinning your wheels while no one notices or appreciates your efforts. While burnout is commonly associated with work, it can also occur at home when relationships become strained or family roles change.

Burnout is a state of physical, mental and emotional exhaustion caused by a prolonged period of constant, unrelenting stress. You may face burnout when you become overwhelmed with too many responsibilities or feel unable to meet demands. As your stress increases, you lose your motivation and interest. You may feel that nothing you do is ever enough or that you are simply spinning your wheels while no one notices or appreciates your efforts. While burnout is commonly associated with work, it can also occur at home when relationships become strained or family roles change.

What Does Burnout Feel Like?

1. You’ve become short-tempered or impatient in situations that would not normally cause this behavior

2. You suffer unusual, vague aches and pains or other unexplained symptom

3 Your daily tasks seem either boring or overwhelming.

4. You feel physically or mentally tired despite adequate rest.

5. You’ve lost interest in a job or relationship you once cherished.

6. Your eating habits have become unhealthy, or you’ve lost your appetite.

7. Days seem identical or predictable.

Mechanical and Chemical Burnout Symptoms

 

 

 

Like stress from other causes, the long-term stress that leads to burnout has both physical and biochemical components. Muscle tension leads to burning pain in the shoulders, neck and back. Migraines, digestive problems, poor sleep quality and inadequate circulation are common. The excessive release of stress hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine has far-reaching negative effects on your health.

How Massage Therapy Aids in Burnout Recovery

 

Professional massage therapy combats burnout in several ways. It breaks the cycle of monotony with a soothing, relaxing experience that includes both skillful tissue manipulation for pain relief and the power of human touch to help ease emotional discomfort. An experienced massage therapist can loosen tight bands of connective tissue and work out knots or adhesions that cause chronic pain. Massage also improves circulation, heart rate and blood pressure. It’s been proven to improve sleep quality.

Massage can even counteract the effects of stress hormones and flood the body with the feel-good chemical serotonin, which eliminates stress and produces a profound feeling of calmness and satisfaction. Relieving physical pain and emotional distress can help the burnout victim feel re-energized and ready to take on their old role with renewed stamina. If your job, family role or other circumstances have left you feeling like there’s just no end in sight, don’t worry; there is.

 

Schedule a home massage today!

 

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE
The Power of Touch

The Power of Touch

by | Jun 8, 2015 | Health

While professional massage is known for providing pain relief and improved mobility by relaxing tight, knotted muscles and increasing blood flow, a lesser known benefit is the simple act of human touch. If you’re not receiving enough touch through personal relationships and social interaction, massage can help bridge the gap by supporting not only the body but also the mind and spirit.

T​he Importance of Touch to Physical and Mental Health

According to research, if you’re not getting daily hugs and comforting cuddles, your health could suffer. Touch is an integral part of human health and well-being, and a lack of it has dramatic physical and psychological effects on people of all ages. For example, when there weren’t enough caregivers to oversee Romanian orphanages after Ceausescu’s fall, the children were hardly ever touched during the day. As a result, they developed emotional and cognitive problems, mental illness and a wide range of physical ailments.

Experiments conducted by the University of Miami’s Touch Research Institute found that touch reduced pain, improved growth rates in children, lowered blood sugar and improved immune and pulmonary function. Despite its importance, many people simply do not get the amount of human touch that is required for optimal health. By the time children reach their teen years, they receive only half as much touch as they did as small children. Adults touch even less. Sadly, the elderly are often the least likely to receive touch, and studies have shown that cognitive and physical decline can be slowed when seniors are given more physical affection.

Home Massage Provides Healing Touch Throughout Life

 

​You can gain healthy benefits through massage at any age and during any part of your life, and sometimes you may need them more than others. When you’re in pain, a massage offers symptom relief while providing physical touch that soothes and relaxes you and connects you to another person’s empathy and compassion. During pregnancy, massage eases discomfort and gives you emotional support and nurturing to help you maintain balance. When you’re finally entering your golden years, massage provides much-needed physical touch to keep your body healthy, your mind sharp and your emotions connected to the world around you. If you enjoy your massages at home, you’re even more at ease and able to respond to healing touch.

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Essential oils Self Care Tips

Essential oils Self Care Tips

by | Jun 3, 2015 | Health

​Essential Oil Self-Care Tips

A massage therapist knows the value of essential oils and uses them regularly to enhance the physical and emotional effects of treatment. Pure, high-quality essential oils retain the pure fragrances and the healing properties of the plants from which they originate. Rosemary and lavender oils provide a soothing, relaxing ambiance that calms your nerves and makes you feel pampered.

The oils also have both anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, which can help to loosen up tight muscles, and encourage cell regeneration to heal overworked or injured tissues. When you book a home massage, you can request the addition of essential oil therapy to make your experience even more enjoyable and beneficial. Your therapist enjoys the benefits too; the healing oils are great for tired, sore hands and wrists caused by repetitive use.

Beyond Massage: Using Essential Oils for Self-Care

 

Essential oils can be used in a number of other ways to enhance your health and well-being. They can be applied to the skin when carefully mixed with neutral oils or other mediums. For aromatherapy purposes, you can place the oils in a fragrance diffuser, add them to potpourri, or simply put a few drops on a tissue, and keep it stored in an airtight container. Open the container, and breathe deeply to enjoy the scent when needed. Here are a few more essential oil self-care tips you may find helpful.

1. To combat painful inflammation, mix a few drops of anti-inflammatory essential oils with a neutral carrier oil such as grape seed or olive oil, and apply the mixture to affected areas. Oils that flight inflammation include peppermint, lavender, chamomile, rosemary and oregano.

2. To reduce asthma symptoms, use wintergreen, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon and radiate. If you have asthma, do not inhale the scent directly; instead, place a few drops of oil on the soles of your feet.

3. Lavender, clary sage, rosemary, chamomile and peppermint can help increase your energy levels and provide stress relief.

4. Use tea tree oil as an aromatic antiseptic for cuts and burns. It’s also great for athlete’s foot and dandruff.

5. When you’re feeling agitated, or you have trouble focusing, oakmoss and frankincense can help calm your nerves.

6. To ease nausea, try inhaling the fragrance of patchouli, peppermint and ginger.

 

For more essential oil tips, ask your massage therapist or natural medicine practitioner.

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Concentration and massage therapy

Concentration and massage therapy

by | May 25, 2015 | Health

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Think Clearer and Regain Your Confidence with Massage Therapy

Life is busy and complicated, and it’s hard to stay focused when tight muscles, tension or migraine headaches and other stress-related symptoms are a constant and miserable source of distraction. Chronic shoulder, neck or back pain caused by prolonged sitting or standing makes it difficult or even impossible to give anything else your full attention. If your symptoms are allowed to progress, you’ll find it increasingly difficult to concentrate, and this can lead to poor decision-making and subsequent lack of confidence. Fortunately, massage therapy can break the cycle of stress and pain; it can restore your focus and your self-esteem.

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Massage Boosts Confidence and Focus

​Massage enables you to reach a state of total physical and mental relaxation, and being relaxed, grounded and free from pain has a huge impact on your decision-making abilities and the way you process information. In fact, studies have demonstrated a clear link between regular massage therapy and increased concentration. Here’s how massage can help.

Pain relief is the most obvious benefit. Massage gently releases built-up muscle tension, spasms and painful adhesion. Without pain, you can better concentrate on your job, family or education. Pain-related depression or anxiety are also linked to poor concentration. Massage releases endorphins such as dopamine and serotonin, which produce a feeling of well-being and combat negative emotions. Massage increases blood flow to the brain. With more oxygen and essential nutrients, your brain operates more efficiently, and your mental clarity and ability to focus is increased. Poor sleep quality leads to mental fog, poor memory and diminished alertness during the day. Massage has been proven to produce better quality sleep.

Enjoy Long-Term Benefits of Massage

 

When you obtain regular massage treatments, their benefits are cumulative. Massage therapy prompts chemical changes in your brain and body that have lasting effects. You don’t have to worry about losing them an hour after your therapy is finished. If you have a massage in the evening, you’ll sleep better and be more relaxed and alert at work the next day. With regular treatment, you’ll remain calmer and healthier, reduce your blood pressure, and enjoy freedom from nagging muscle and joint pain. Driving to a spa or clinic isn’t necessary. You can experience all the benefits of professional massage in the comfort of your own home. For sharper thinking and an instant confidence boost, schedule a home massage today.

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Pills vs Massage

Pills vs Massage

by | May 23, 2015 | Health

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Pain Relief Shouldn’t Harm Your Health

Does your neck feel like it’s trapped in a vice after you spend eight hours at work? You’re not alone. Muscle pain is a misery everyone has experienced. Injury, overuse and fatigue can leave your tissues tense and in torturous pain. If the problem pain occurs frequently, it can rob you of your ability to enjoy life. For many, the quick and simple solution is to grab a bottle of over-the-counter pain medicine for quick relief. Unfortunately, the relief you get from pain pills comes with a price. Natural, safe and effective massage therapy can relieve your pain and stiffness without unwanted consequences.

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Side Effects and Broader Consequences of Using Pain Relievers

Two main categories of pain relievers dominate the market: acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Both can reduce pain, but only the NSAID class of drugs decreases inflammation. Acetaminophen is commonly known by the brand name Tylenol; common branded NSAIDS include Advil (ibuprofen) and Aleve (naproxen sodium). Because these drugs are readily available without a prescription, they may seem to be without risk. In reality, both can cause serious side effects. NSAIDS are associated with heart disease risk, kidney damage, ulcers and gastric bleeding. Long-term acetaminophen use is also linked to heart and kidney problems, and according to researchers at Ohio State University, it can even reduce your ability to experience emotions. The findings suggest that the drug may produce broader effects than previously thought.

How Massage Eliminates Pain Without Side Effects

 

Massage therapy can relieve your nagging back pain, your tense shoulders, and even your headaches without risking your long-term health. It works by tapping into your body’s own natural pain-fighting ability. Endorphins called enkephalins and dynorphins are the body’s own naturally produced, pain-relieving opiates; these substances are released into your system during massage. Therapeutic massage also reduces stress, lowers blood pressure and improves blood circulation and cell oxygenation, so regular massage therapy offers benefits far beyond pain relief. The next time your muscles hurt, reach for the phone or your computer instead of a pill bottle. Book a professional home massage, and enjoy blissful, worry-free pain relief in the comfort of familiar surroundings.

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Do you get enough sleep?

Do you get enough sleep?

by | May 13, 2015 | Health

Could Massage Be Your Cure for Sleep Problems?

Not allowing enough time for a good night’s rest is a terribly unhealthy habit. However, there may be times you simply can’t fall asleep regardless of how physically and mentally exhausted you feel. Perhaps you lie awake with a million thoughts running through your mind, or maybe stinging muscle tension in your shoulders and neck or gnawing back pain won’t allow you to relax. Your body is desperately craving sleep, but it just doesn’t happen. In the morning, you’ll feel sore, listless, groggy and miserable, and you won’t be able to concentrate during the day.

Sleep: It Affects Your Health More than You Think

The amount of sleep needed for optimal health varies based on age and other factors, but one thing is certain, if you don’t get enough sleep, it can have devastating medical consequences over time. It’s during sleep that your body heals itself. Inadequate sleep is associated with many chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression and even obesity. For people who already have chronic health conditions, a lack of sleep can make them difficult to manage or cause them to progress faster.

Massage Is a Proven Therapy for Sleep Disturbances

 

 

 

Massage improves your sleep quality in several ways. The most obvious one is the deep sense of relaxation and calm it produces. Insomnia has been linked with a lack of the neurochemical serotonin. Massage increases serotonin levels in the bloodstream, so it actually helps your brain regulate sleep patterns. If you have chronic pain or muscle tightness, massage directly relieves the nagging problem that keeps you awake.

A recent study demonstrated that massage can improve sleep disturbances associated with lower back pain. Participants receiving massage therapy reported less pain, anxiety and problems sleeping, and their range of motion and flexibility improved. A 2010 study evaluated the effects of massage on sleep quality in patients who recently had heart surgery and found similarly encouraging results.

Home Massage Sends You to Dreamland

 

Having a massage during the day and driving home afterwards is certainly beneficial, but imagine how much more effective massage can be when you don’t have to go anywhere after the session is over. When you can relax quietly at home after your massage, you’re less likely to regain alertness or muscle tension before bedtime. After your treatment, you can play soft music, read a book and relax in the comfort of familiar surroundings until it’s time to sleep. Call your massage therapist today, and make home massage an important element in your sleep hygiene program.

 

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