by Kathryn Merrow, the Pain Relief Coach
Ever lose yourself in a good book? You can also lose yourself in a good massage. There are all types of massages, from very subtle, light touch to very, deep corrective touch. A good massage is soothing, relaxing and a great stress reliever. There is nothing else like it.
The best way to find a good massage therapist is by word of mouth. If your friend was happy, you will probably be happy too. The next best way is by credentials. Ask the massage therapist you are considering whether she or he graduated from a state-accredited school, whether they belong to a professional organization such as the American Massage Therapy Association, and whether they have taken the National Certification Board Exam for massage therapists.
When you meet with the person you have chosen, she or he will most likely ask you questions about your health. Feel free to ask him or her questions that you have. Remember, this is your massage and you are in charge. If you are cold or too warm, if the room is too bright or dark for your comfort, if the touch is too light or too deep, you are responsible for your comfort. Tell the massage therapist. Do not be shy about your comfort! You will not hurt her or his feelings. Most therapists are glad for feedback; it helps them to do their best job. If they neglect to ask for your feed back or preferences, tell them anyway. It is your body. You get to be the boss of your experience.
A good massage is better than any optional thing I can think of. And I don’t think it should be optional. Imagine being totally comfortable, modestly covered, completely safe in the hands of your therapist. Almost floating as skilled hands pull tension and stress, aches and pains, far away from your body. Soft music playing. Being touched with care, respect and love.
Imagine your immune system becoming stronger. It is. Nature’s feel-good hormones, those lovely endorphins, are being released during your massage. Research shows that massage helps a wide range of medical conditions. A psychoneuroimmunologist, formerly with the National Institutes of Health, believes that if everyone received a massage each week, there would be ninety percent fewer illnesses!
After your massage, you feel lighter, looser, more comfortable. It was definitely a good thing, and one which you will do again.
You’ll find Kathryn Merrow, The Pain Relief Coach, at http://www.SimpleStrengthening.com and http://www.CarpalTunnelPainRelief.com “Because You Deserve to Feel Better!”
Elizabeth Eckert can help you explore how simple everyday choices create health — or undermine even the best of intentions. With a background that ranges from energy medicine to structural bodywork to developmental psychology, this "Stick-To-It Coach" has the experience to support you in creating the healthiest possible expression of — you!
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Comments (1)
A qualified massage therapist should have their certificates to hand, better still on display, so check them out. Recommendation is always the best way to find a good therapist... enjoy :o)
Posted by Newbury full body massage | March 19, 2009 5:00 PM
Posted on March 19, 2009 17:00