Why you should self-massage in between professional sessions

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Therapists recommend getting a massage at least once a month to keep the muscles pliant and to maintain overall well-being. This advice, however, is usually taken for granted. People tend to visit their local massage therapy center only during moments of acute physical pain. Professional therapists can only address these problems as well as they could but some conditions require a few more sessions before the body returns to normal.

In order to facilitate better recovery, many massage therapists highly recommend self-massaging in between professional sessions. These exercises should neither be demanding nor time-consuming. A minimum of 10 minutes is required every day or in periods of extreme physical stress.

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Most people know when they have exerted enormous amount of pressure on their body. During exercise or other physically demanding activities, one is often told to stretch before and after the workout to prevent muscle strain or injury. These stretches can be supplemented by a 10-minute self-massage to maximize efficacy. The practice is incredibly simple. One just has to rub pressure on the affected area, drawing lines back and forth. The use of oil is optional. The movement should be repeated until the tension is lessened or eliminated. This, coupled with stretching, significantly reduces the propensity for injury.

Patients are still recommended to visit their massage therapy center every so often to ensure proper alignment of their body parts. When combined with self-massaging techniques, these regular massage sessions could be all the more relaxing and enjoyable.

Massage Envy is a recognized therapy center, boasting a superior portfolio of quality massages. To learn more, follow this blog.

Three simple ways to protect your spine

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The most common complaint among adults is back pain. This typically involves a series of muscle strains around the spine. While not detrimental, back pain is inconvenient. But it is easily preventable. There are three simple ways the spine can be protected.

Sleep flat: Today’s work environment is not conducive to spine health. Many adults sit in front of a computer for most of the day. The spine easily becomes fatigued and over time, can develop pain. A simple way to prevent this is to lie flat while sleeping. This allows the spine to relax and heal efficiently. Some people like an additional pillow or mattress to support their back. It is a personal preference. What is most important is that the spine should be properly supported. If a hand can go in between the curve of the back and the mattress, the mattress is too hard. If there is no space at all between the body and the bed, then the mattress is too soft.

Get regular massages: Massage serves more functions than just a general stress-reliever. Massage therapies also encourage blood flow, which speeds healing. Trained masseurs can also pinpoint specific muscles that are cramped or strained. With the use of the correct pressure, these muscles are allowed to heal faster.

Wear the correct shoes: One thing people forget is that there is a direct impact to one’s footwear to spinal health. Regardless of the activity, shoes support the lower back. Good shoes help the spine keep itself aligned.

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Those with mild to moderate cases of back pain should consider getting a massage. This is the simplest and fastest way to alleviate pain. However, those with severe cases of back pain should consult with their physician. This may be a sign of another underlying condition.

Massage Envy Spa helps clients relieve themselves from back pain or any muscle tension. Learn more by liking this Facebook page.

Improving mental health: Massage therapies for mental wellness

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Most people know that massage therapy is a useful way to get rid of muscle soreness and certain sport injuries. However, less people know about its mental health benefits.

During a massage, mood-enhancing chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin are stimulated because the nerve cell receptors underneath the skin are pushed. In addition, massage encourages the release of endorphins, which give the body a feeling of tranquility.

A study published in Support Care Cancer Science a couple of years ago shows how receiving massage therapy can help in the treatment of depression. The study reported that participants in the study, who are breast cancer patients, experienced reduction in depression and anxiety after receiving half an hour of massage therapies weekly for five consecutive weeks.

Moreover, Taiwanese researchers have conducted a meta-analysis of 17 studies that shows how massage therapy alleviates symptoms of depression. Science shows the link between depression and low levels of serotonin. Since massage stimulates serotonin production, it helps in treating patients with depression. Although there is no definite cure for depression, massage therapies can aid people’s coping mechanisms.

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Massage also improves the sleep quality of people suffering from insomnia. The participants in a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine reported experiencing an improved quality of sleep after a massage therapy.

Other studies suggest that receiving massage also helps in treating addictions, extreme negative feelings, and obsessions. After a great massage session, an individual should expect feeling of bliss, clarity of mind, reduced stress level, and increased energy and rational thinking.

Massage Envy Spa provides a wide variety of massage and spa services that include maximum therapeutic relief. It has over 900 clinics throughout the U.S. For more information on the benefits of massage therapy, follow this Facebook page.

Sun-blocked: What sun exposure can do to the skin

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A lot of people like going out to catch some sun. They make sure they have time to get a tan at the beach or have a nice walk in the park. But what most people don’t know is that too much sun exposure can cause wrinkles, age spots, or even skin cancer. This is the reason a 25- year-old lady can have the skin of a 40-year-old.

People associate glowing skin with good health, but this is not always the case. Going to the tanning salon or sunbathing for hours can speed up the skin’s aging process and expose one to developing skin cancer. UV rays damage the skin’s elastin. This causes the skin to sag and lose its ability to go back to its original form after being stretched.

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The skin is as important as the other parts of the body. Spas like Massage Envy offer facial treatments that are rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants help reverse the results of the skin’s exposure to pollution, sunlight, smog, and stress.

Meanwhile, treatments like Massage Envy’s Murad Infusion Technology Environmental Shield® Vitamin C Facial help restore the firmness and elasticity of the skin. Such facials also reduce the appearance of wrinkles, unwanted pigmentation, and spots and repairs and prevents future damage.

Massage Envy Spa offers affordable massage and spa services. It has over 900 clinics across 49 states. Learn more about its facial and spa treatments by visiting this blog.

True or false: Using massage therapy to treat scoliosis

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What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition characterized by a curvature of the spine. The severity of scoliosis depends on the degree of the curve: mild to moderate cases report a 5 to 20-degree angle; while those higher than 30 or 35 may indicate severe cases. The curve of the spine often causes back pain, arthritis and sometimes difficulty in breathing.

There are two types of scoliosis: structural and functional. Structural scoliosis is usually present at birth and is caused by the irregular development of the spine. The latter is also known as "fixed" or "secondary" scoliosis and can be identified when bending or rotational movements improve the curve of the spine. Functional scoliosis may worsen over time, which makes it harder to treat.

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While there aren't any sure ways to cure scoliosis, there are two mainstream treatments for moderate and severe cases. The first is to wear an orthopedic brace, which does not improve or correct the curve but rather prevents it from getting any worse. The second is bone-fusion surgery, usually done for the most severe cases. The surgery is risky, but it can almost straighten up the spine.

Another option to consider for treating the effects of scoliosis is deep tissue massage. It may not straighten the spine, but it can relieve the pain and decrease the stress and tension in the problem area. It also improves blood circulation, increases flexibility, and strengthens the muscles of your back. It's not a cure, but it is an effective option for pain management and the overall reduction of scoliosis-related problems.

Massage Envy Spa offers a multitude of options for rest and relaxation. Check out the website for a full list of services and find a branch near you.

Getting rid of adult acne

Acne can be a pesky problem whether you are 13 or 30. If you think your skin will naturally clear up as you age, you are mistaken. According to studies, more and more women are suffering from adult acne. The culprits? Stress, diet, and hormones. To end the battle against adult acne once and for all, here are some tips on how to achieve your perfect, acne-free skin:

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Eat healthier

A poor diet can cause troubles for your skin. Avoid sugar and highly-processed foods and instead, load up on antioxidant-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants protect your skin by fighting cellular damage caused by free radicals.

Use the right products

When choosing your facial cleanser, look for ingredients like salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin and unclogs pores. Topical retinoids are also highly effective adult acne treatments as they not only fight acne but also aging with their collagen-building properties. Make sure, however, not to wash the face too frequently or intensely as doing so might dry the skin.

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Avoid stress

When you are stressed, your body produces a stress hormone called “cortisol,” which increases oil production. Keeping your stress levels at bay will help you prevent breakouts. Make sure you get enough sleep daily and don’t forget to exercise. Even 30 minutes of low-intensity workout every day will do wonders for your skin. Lastly, do not forget to pamper yourself. Always set aside time for leisure and relaxation so your body can properly rest and rejuvenate.

MassageEnvy offers quality and affordable therapeutic massage and spa services in over a thousand spa clinics across 49 states. Visit its website to learn more about the company.

Start from the toes: How reflexology improves health

Feet are usually the most abused part of the body. Endless walking and moving brings so much stress to tired toes and ankles. Rarely do people, however, pay attention to their tired feet. The ancient Chinese massage technique called reflexology focuses on the feet, as these are believed to be the gateway to the body’s energy channel. This energy channel called Qi is where the source of wellness flows. When its flow is blocked, the negative energies flow through the body, causing pain and discomfort.

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There is a corresponding system or body part for each point on the foot. Reflexologists use their thumb and forefinger to target good circulation for these parts through a massage. People who are uncomfortable with foot massages can instead opt for hand massages, which have almost the same points. However, reflexing the foot also gives it the necessary therapy. Therapists believe that wellness flows when the foot is relieved of the stress. A relaxed body leads to a relaxed mind. On the road to wellness, it’s best to start from the toes.

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With thousands of nerve endings, the foot whose circulation is increased indeed leads to the wellness of other body parts. The body is a whole system with interconnected functions. If one part is not well, the others are also unwell. Easing the burden on a single part paves the way for healing. With reflexology, the body’s harmony is restored, promoting relaxation and wellness.

A leader in providing therapeutic massage and spa services in the U.S., Massage Envy Spa is one of the pioneers of affordable services in the country. To date, it has over 900 clinics in 49 states and serves more than 1.5 million members and guests. Find out more about its their personal services through its

The benefits of using massage oil

Most massage therapies use massage oil to make the experience more enjoyable and for the individual to obtain maximum benefits based on the chosen therapy. Massage oil is used to facilitate the relaxation process and to alleviate any form of muscle tension. There are many benefits of using massage oil but the two most important are described below:

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Inflammation alleviation: Typically sweet almond or olive oil is used in massage therapies. This is because either type has been studied to relieve muscle pains, spasms, inflamed joins, or sprains caused by overexertion or inactivity. Olive oil, in particular, is ideal when applied warm. The motion of the massage, along with the nourishing benefits of massage oil, significantly reduces muscle stress and promotes relaxation. For optimum results, massage therapists recommend combining frequent therapies with yoga exercises.

Stress reduction: The oil helps increase blood circulation while keeping the skin soft and supple. The oil, combined with the circular motion of the massage therapy, is easily absorbed into the body and provides the specific nutrients needed by the body. This helps reduce stress, both physically and mentally, as many massage oil also smell good.

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Additionally, oil can soothe dry or chapped skin and is a recommended alternative for sunburns. If a person has a sunburn and wishes for a massage, he or she should immediately inform their massage therapist so that proper pressure could be applied.

Massage oils are considered an essential part of the therapy. This is why many centers focus on acquiring only the best grade of oils available. Patients could ask for a specific type of oil according to their preference.

Relax and unwind with the therapies offered by Massage Envy Spa. Learn more about its services by following this Twitter account.

Ancient therapeutic methods for modern muscles

Though these days it is all about living in a modern, electronic, and fast-paced world, when it comes to our therapies, many people still like to depend on centuries-old techniques in relaxing tight muscles and soothing tired bodies. Probably because when it comes to techniques for comfort and relief, many still think "if it ain't broke, don't fix it." Here are some of the more famous of these ancient therapeutic methods.

1) Hot stone massage: This technique was supposedly first used more than 2,000 years ago in China, but other sources say that placing heated stones, typically basalt, on the body to relax muscles was an ancient Native American practice.

Hot stone massage, also sometimes referred to as river rock massage or LaStone therapy, the latter after Mary Nelson who popularized the massage method in the modern world) offers benefits such as soothing painful conditions like arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome, relieving tension, and lubricating joints for mobility.

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2) Cupping therapy: This treatment, which traces its roots to several places, namely ancient Egypt, China, and Greece, has two main methods: dry cupping and wet cupping. Both types have therapists apply suction cups to the skin thus allowing the blood to flow and heal the body.

With the dry version, the cups only suction to mobilize the blood's flow while wet cupping practitioners will first suction the skin the make small incisions to draw out blood to clean the body of toxins. This is generally recommended to those suffering from anemia, arthritis, and migraines, among other conditions.

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3) Ayurvedic therapy: This comes by way of centuries-old Indian medical traditions. This holistic wellness philosophy believes that health is hinged on a balance between the mind, body, and soul. Thus, in practice, Ayurvedic therapy involves a nutritious diet, exercise, oiled massages, and even music.

Adherents believe that Ayurvedic therapy can purge the body of toxins, revitalize the body, restore balance, improve immunity, offer stress relief and rejuvenate a person.

These therapeutic traditions may be old, and it may be tempting to think them antiquated or obsolete. Still, even modern healthcare professionals see the merit in the continued practice of these therapeutic arts for improving peoples' well-being. No doubt, hot stone massage, Ayurvedic therapy, and cupping therapy aren't going to disappear anytime soon.

Massage Envy Spa is a nationally-recognized name in high-quality yet affordable massage therapy and spa services. Follow this Twitter account for updates on the company's services and offerings.

Bodybuilders improve results with regular deep tissue massages

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Serious weightlifters understand the importance of deep tissue massage in their training programs. It is untrue that bodybuilding only involves strenuous activity. Medical research has shown that the recovery process in a weightlifter’s program is just as important as the exercise. There are many options for soft-tissue treatment, but massage therapy is the most favored method. These procedures are used to speed up the recovery of torn muscles and ligaments following heavy single workouts, high-intensity cycles, or competitions.

Remember that bodybuilding or any form of exercise is inherently the damaging of muscles, with the body renewing itself so that when faced with the same stimuli (e.g. the same weight or form of exertion), the person will not experience pain or fall short of the challenge. This is why many exercise programs are particular about resting in between intense workouts. The body must be allowed to heal. Deep tissue massages hasten this process. It also plays a significant role in the prevention of injury – particularly those that might arise from overuse or overload. Massages increase the health of body’s internal tissues by improving the circulation of nutrients and blood while simultaneously flushing out toxins. Deep tissue massages also help release tension and pressure buildup in the muscles, which allow the muscles to stretch lengthwise and sideways for a more natural flow of circulation.

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The frequency of massages should be dependent on how often the bodybuilder exercises, but typically should be done one every two weeks at the very least. This, of course, varies per individual and should be discussed with a personal trainer or medical professional for better and more optimized results.

Massage therapies extend to more than just recreational purposes. There are medical benefits that can be found as well. Find out more by following this Massage Envy Twitter account.

Herbs for the skin: Nature’s best herbal remedies

Herbs are good for almost everything—including your skin. Many herbal plants contain high levels of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and nutrients that make the skin look smooth, fresh, and glowing.

The following is list of some of nature’s best herbal remedies for maintaining a healthy skin:

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Chamomile. According to Jessica Wu, a clinical associate professor of dermatology at the University of Southern California medical school, chamomile contains natural anti-inflammatory substances that help reduce redness, itchiness, and swelling.

Oats. Studies show that oats can be used externally to help clear up and relieve the pain and itching of skin conditions like dryness and eczema. One effective way to reap its medical benefits is by taking an oatmeal bath for 15 to 20 minutes to calm itchy skin.

Cinnamon. Cinnamon contains antioxidants and other substances that fight skin damage. Keri Glassman, nutritionist and author of “The O2 Diet,” suggests that the herb has more antioxidant value than half a cup of blueberries.

Burdock. Eat them raw can help treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The plant contains anti-bacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties that help heal some of the worst chronic skin diseases.

Calendula. Often used for hair rinses, this herb can also serve as an alternative medicine for curing irritations such as rashes, insect bites, and sunburns.

Since skin conditions vary from person to person, it is best for you to consult your dermatologist before trying out any of these herbs.

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Get more tips on skin care by visiting this Massage Envy Spa Google+ page.

A business of beauty and wellness: The profitability of spa services

Spas, which serve as a sanctuary for wellness and relaxation, have boomed worldwide, earning billions of dollars from an assortment of services they offer. Unlike other types of businesses, spas are considered among the most flexible with the ability to gain profits, catering to low, mid-range, and high-end clientele.

Case in point is the steady growth of the massage-and-facial franchise chain, Massage Envy. Over the past decade, the spa has transformed into an empire using an affordable membership model that has propelled the business to grow to more than 1,000 locations in 49 states in U.S. To date, the spa is considered the country’s largest employer of massage therapists with impressive annual system-wide sales that average up to $1.2 million.

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Attesting to the spa’s success is Rick Davis, a former tech executive who helped raise millions of dollars in venture capital. Davis ventured into the spa industry when he decided to invest in a franchise chain of Massage Envy. A former owner of a fast-food chain, Davis reasoned that maintaining a spa is less more rigid than his previous venture due to its steady revenue, which is often sourced from its one-year memberships that costs $59.99 to $79.99 a month.

Today, Davis is the owner of five Massage Envy clinics in the Seattle area. He revealed that 70 percent of his revenue came from those membership fees. He professed: “I’ve raised big money in Silicon Valley, but this is the most successful and fun business venture I’ve ever been in.”

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For people like Davis, the spa industry has proven profitable with the right choice of franchise and business and business model. It is a capital-intensive business venture that provides promising returns to investors.

Massage Envy Spa is the pioneer and national leader of affordable massage and spa services. To learn more about the company, visit this website.

Nasty knots: How massages treat the most common source of back and neck discomfort

Painful, uncomfortable, and all-too-common, knots sometimes develop in muscle tissue over time, usually through excess strain that could come from either strenuous physical activity or prolonged bad posture.

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Knots, which are also known as myofascial trigger points, get their name from their tactile consistency when felt with fingers, which is an apt description of their nature as knotted up muscle fibers. They are formed where certain small points in a muscle, when contracted, do not release, causing inflammation and immense soreness as a result.

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The pain they cause can either be caused in a localized region and only when placed under pressure or, if they form near a nerve, cause pain to travel to a location some distance from the knot itself.

Getting rid of the pain involves a number of methods, among them non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and massaging. Massages are the most common way of dealing with knots and involves ample pressure to the bunched up fibers and causing them (and the muscle) to gradually relax.

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Knots that form in some parts of the body can be gently massaged over time by the persons themselves, so long as they are reachable. More isolated (and numerous) knots such as in regions of the back may require assistance from a masseur to reach adequately. Massages for these knots bring almost an instantaneous relief, but only after the masseur applies an immense amount of pressure.  

Massage Envy Spa's innovative new pathway to accessible professional massage therapy and spa services has built it a distinct niche in the wellness industry. Visit this website for more on the spa and its services.

Scented and soothing: The most commonly used massage oils

Oils are an essential part of any spa or massage therapy. The scent, the texture, and the feel all contribute to the massage’s overall quality. These oils, which vary in grades and calming effects, can address almost every type of wellness need. Essential oils and massage drive a healthy circulatory system, facilitate detoxification, and improve lymphatic drainage, among other benefits. Below are four of the most commonly used oils in well-established massage centers:

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1. Sweet almond oil. Not only is it the most ubiquitous, essential oil in spa clinics but sweet almond oil is also among the friendliest on the skin. It is rich in vitamins A, B, and E, which are excellent for skin health. In fact, most skin care and cosmetic products have these vitamins mixed in them.

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2. Apricot kernel oil. Unlike most oils that leave greasy residue on the surface of the skin, apricot kernel oil is easily absorbed, offering optimum comfort for the user. Its moisturizing effects are particularly sought after by customers with sensitive skin.

3. Fractionated coconut oil. Considered as the healthiest of all oils, coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides, which make it very chemically stable and sustain long shelf life. Often, coconut oil is used as a carrier oil, which is mixed with other oils to produce a high-quality therapeutic substance.

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4. Sunflower oil. This oil contains significant amounts of essential fatty acids and vitamin E. Its relative affordability also makes it ideal as the base oil for other essential oils.  

MassageEnvy Spa uses only premium-quality essential oils to provide its clients with absolute comfort and wellness. Locate the nearest center from your home or office website. Tags: massage, massage oil, spa, Sweet Almond Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Jojoba Oil, Fractionated Coconut Oil, Sunflower Oil

Want faster recovery and improved athletic performance? Get a massage

Many athletes, from recreational runners to elite powerlifters, consider sports massage as an important part of their training and recovery regimen. Sports massage is more than just a way for athletes to relax after a strenuous bout of exercise. It provides numerous physical and psychological benefits. The following are some examples:  

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Reduces swelling and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)

When a person exercises, it creates microscopic tears in the muscles involved, causing pain, swelling, and even joint stiffness that develop 12 to 24 hours after physical activity. This phenomenon is called delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS.) A study published in the Journal of Athletic Training concluded that post-exercise massage is effective in alleviating DOMS by approximately 30 percent and reducing swelling.  

Increases range of motion

Sports massage therapists incorporate stretches and other massage techniques to relieve muscle tension and connective tissue restrictions. This helps restore an athlete's natural range of motion and improve flexibility.  

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Improves athletic performance

Increased range of motion and flexibility, coupled with faster recovery times, leads to improved better performance. Some studies support this. One study had participants (a group of children with cardiovascular disease and a control group of healthy children) perform two exercise tests: one with a pre-exercise massage, and one without. Both groups of children had higher peak heart rates, peak VO2, and peak minute ventilation when they received a massage prior to the exercise test.

Relieves stress and anxiety

Athletes who feel anxious before a sports event can find relief in sports massage. While massage is considered alternative or secondary medicine, many hospitals prescribe massage sessions to complement traditional interventions to soothe anxiety and relieve stress.

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The stress hormone cortisol can increase blood sugar, drive up sugar levels, and suppress the immune system. A series of studies found that individuals with stress or depression problems experienced decreased cortisol levels of up to 35 percent and increased dopamine and serotonin, the “happy-making chemicals,” immediately after a massage session.

Massage is beneficial both as preventative maintenance and as a recovery tool. To get the most benefit out of a sports massage session, make sure to get a qualified and certified therapist with experience in delivering massage to athletes.  

Follow this Massage Envy Spa Twitter account for more discussions on massage therapy.

The smell of cure: How aromatherapy soothes your senses

Aromatherapy is built around the idea that scents can strongly influence thoughts, actions, and behavior through the olfactory potency of essential oils. Essential oils from the flowers, stems, barks, leaves, and roots of plants are extracted and distilled into its purest for use as a stress reliever, mood booster, odor remediation, and antiseptic. As a natural medicine, essential oils promote mind and body wellness when inhaled, applied topically, diffused, or combined with lotion and other essential oils during a massage. The health benefits of aromatherapy are endless, as there are many different types of aromatics that have healing properties. Some of these are:

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• Lavender – Provides relief from headache, insomnia, nervous tension, and stress
• Lemon - Contains antibacterial properties and helps relieve sore throat and colds
• Chamomile - Reduces inflammation, relieves restlessness, and heals rashes, wounds, and burns
• Oregano – Good for people with carpal tunnel syndrome, fungal infection, weak immune system, intestinal parasites, and muscle pain
• Rose oil – Contains aphrodisiac, antidepressant, anti-phlogistic, anti-spasmodic, and anti-viral properties.

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The strongest of the senses, smell, bears a powerful connection to people’s emotions and plays a vital role in a host of physiological functions. Studies show that odor receptors are not just found in the nose but also throughout the body, particularly in skin cells where it’s said to induce healing and cell regeneration when exposed to a certain type of odorant. Scientists suggest that chemical stimuli like odorants alight with the matching receptor to set off a chain of biochemical reactions that help to inhibit mechanisms that can lead to health problems. This insight underlines the importance of olfactory receptors in the essential aspect of biochemical processes at the cellular level. It’s in this function that aromatherapy can support a person’s physical and emotional well-being and provide additional supplementation as a natural medicine to specific types of conventional treatment options.
  

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Aromatherapy is an expertise of Massage Envy Spa, a recognized leader in affordable wellness services with over 1,000 branches nationwide. Click here to learn how you can benefit from a personalized aromatherapy massage offered by the spa service.

Choosing the right massage for you: Types and techniques

Going for a massage is an easy decision for most people, but this may not be true for others, who may have difficulty choosing the type of massage that will best suit their needs. With a vast list of services available in spas and an array of unfamiliar (sometimes foreign) massage techniques, it's perfectly understandable for customers to be slightly confused. Below is a list of the most common massage types and techniques for first-time spa visitors.

 

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Swedish massage

When people think of massages, the first that comes to mind is Swedish massage. This massage is characterized by long, sweeping strokes (effleurage), kneading and rolling (petrissage), and rhythmic tapping, which aims to relax the entire body. Aside from relaxation, Swedish massage also helps improve blood circulation and muscle flexibility.

Deep tissue massage

This type of massage is very similar to the Swedish massage. The difference between the two is that the deep tissue massage requires more pressure in order to focus on the deepest layers of muscle tissues, tendons, and fascia. This massage is beneficial for people suffering from chronic muscle tension.

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Trigger point therapy

Trigger point therapy targets tight areas in the muscle tissue that cause pain in other parts of the body (also called referral pain). The massage is designed to ease the pain through localized pressure and release at certain trigger points.

Hot stone massage

Hot stone therapy utilizes warmed basalt stone and hot oils to release tension, alleviate tightness in muscles and improve circulation and metabolism. It is considered as one of the most relaxing massages because of the combined heat and pressure from the stones.

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Find more articles on massage therapy techniques and other related discussions by following this Massage Envy Spa blog.

REPOST: What to Expect From A Four-Handed Massage

Massage has been used all over the world to relieve stress and move a person immediately into a deep state of relaxation. But how does it feel to have two massage therapists working on your body? This article from Yahoo shares the positive health benefits of four-handed massage.

What makes the difference between a two-handed and four-handed massage? | Image Source: yahoo.com

Up high on the list of luxurious beauty treatments is a decadent massage—second only to an extravagant facial. But with luxury comes a hefty price tag that often requires some convincing to give into. Let us do the persuading.

If you’re in high school, prom plans may already be driving you up the wall with a laundry list of decisions to make. What color will you wear? Whose limo will you ride in? Where will you head for the after-party? And so on.

And if you’re a college student, not so fast! Sure, prom is so last season for you and we hate to burst your Spring Break bubble, but before you know it, finals week is going to encroach upon you sending your stress level through the roof.

At every age, there are daily stressors that can take a toll on your mind and body and quite frankly, we all deserve a little T.L.C. as often as possible. So stop into that spa you’ve been eyeling lately, and splurge on an indulgent massage that will get any kinks out of your pressure points.

This year, it’s all about the four-handed massage! “Think of it as a normal full-body massage times two,” says Jill Haidler, director of The Waldorf Astoria Spa New Orleans. What’s that even mean, you ask? The four-handed massages features a synchronized massage by way of two trained therapists. Yes, it’s as relaxing as it sounds. See below for everything you can expect from your first four-handed massage, then get to booking!

You will be more relaxed than any other massage service.
If the goal of a massage is to calm your body and clear your mind, you should not be wondering when the therapist is going to make their way to the other half of your body. With the four-handed massage you won’t. “With the four-handed massage, everything is being stimulated at once,” says Annie Cantrell, lead massage therapist at The Waldorf Astoria Spa New Orleans. “It’s kind of amazing how your brain is capturing that.”

You’re more than likely to fall asleep.
The point of any massage is to draw you into your most relaxed state, so falling asleep is totally acceptable and even encouraged! “I personally always fall asleep during the four-handed massage and when I wake up, I feel amazing!” says Haidler.

You should not be in pain.
“It’s important to be completely honest with your therapists because they’re not mind-readers,” says Cantrell. “It’s your hour, your experience, so communicate every feeling you’re having, whether you’re cold, in pain, or even ticklish. Whatever you’re feeling, speak up!” Deep tissue massages can tend to be painful, but Cantrell and Haidler agree that anyone under 25 should generally stay away from such structural integration massages.

You must drink water after the massage.
Water is a must after any massage. “Because you’re moving blood and toxins that are stored in your body around during the service, it’s important to flush your system as soon as your session wraps,” says Cantrell.

You may feel light-headed afterwards.
Don’t panic if you find yourself getting dizzy after your massage. “It’s a very common response,” says Haidler. “At the end of the massage, there are pressure points at the bottom of the feet that your therapists will probably target to center you before you stand up,” Cantrell chimes in. “If you’re still feeling a little off balance, that cup of water post-massage should help.”

You should book another in a month.
That’s right, if you can, enjoy a four-handed massage on a monthly basis to keep things on an even keel. And if you’re an athlete, double-up! “If you’re involved in something very active or repetitive like sports, frequent massages really do help the muscles, so consider upping it to twice a month.”

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Five reasons to go to the spa right now

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Many still make the mistake of thinking regular visits to the spa is a luxury that people with busy lives either can't afford or don't have time for. However, that isn't necessarily true. A visit to the spa will do wonders for you. Here are five reasons to rethink your opinion on spas:

To relieve stress

The top reason for visiting the spa is to de-stress. The spa is a place where you can break free from your stressful routine of waking up early and going to work. Spa treatments will help you relax and give you more energy to face life.

To detoxify

The environment is full of toxins that affect the body negatively both physically and mentally. Some spas offer massages and facials that help break down these toxins, which (if not removed from the body) may cause energy loss, bloating, and constipation.

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To boost health

Many services offered by spas are not just for beauty and pampering. They are also good for your health. Treatments including heat therapy, massage therapy among others help improve blood circulation and lower blood pressure. Some spas also help in losing weight by designing a diet that is both healthy and effective in reducing fat.

To manage pain

It's a good idea to visit a spa if you have ailments like arthritis, muscle pain, headaches, and other body aches. Massages can help reduce tension in the muscles and decrease and alleviate pain.

To pamper yourself

Spas can help you feel better about yourself. While beauty is subjective and not everyone agrees on its standards, a visit to the spa can help you feel beautiful. Some days it's just good to feel pampered and have someone else doing what you don't have time to do for yourself like getting a facial or a manicure and pedicure.

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A touch to the heart: Massages to ease loneliness

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It is very easy to get lost in the month of love. Inundated with countless heart cutouts, love reminders, flower merchants, and what have you, singletons around the world are reminded of their relationship status. February becomes especially hard among older adults and the elderly who might have already lost their life partners.

This separation often leads to negative psychological effects, which can eventually manifest into physical symptoms. It is not surprising depressed individuals often complain of back or chest pain. Scientists have extensively studied the relationship between the brain and physical wellness, and have seen that these two are constantly and continually affecting one another. Those who are healthier often report feeling happier and are usually well-adjusted and balanced individuals. On the same note, those who complain about their physical well-being generally score low in happiness scales.

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The relationship between the two has pushed many alternative health practitioners to suggest massage as a means to alleviate symptoms of loneliness. Massage, or touch therapy, stimulates certain pressure points that have a cumulative relaxing effect on the muscles. This alternative form of therapy is often used to alleviate pain caused by strenuous activity or locked joints. However, it is now being considered for its psychological effects as well.

Many studies have researched the mental benefits of touch therapy. Data suggest that a simple touch can have several small yet positive effects on a person’s well-being. Applicable for a wide range of psychological conditions, including loneliness, massages negate any ill feeling and often leave a person feeling more relaxed and well-conditioned.

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