One of my favorite ways to relax is through a deep tissue or a Swedish massage. Whenever I get a professional massage, I feel my stress melt away and this relaxing feeling stays with me for an extended time. I always recommend massages to individuals who face chronic stress and are open to the experience.

If you’re curious regarding ways massage may help you, let’s start with the different types of massages available.

–Swedish massage. This is a gentle form of massage that uses long strokes, kneading, deep circular movements, vibration and tapping. It helps you feel relaxed and energized.

–Deep massage. This massage technique uses slower, more-forceful strokes to target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. It’s commonly used to help with muscle damage from injuries.

–Sports massage. This is similar to Swedish massage, but it’s geared toward people involved in sport activities to help prevent or treat injuries.

–Trigger point massage. This massage focuses on areas of tight muscle fibers that can form in your muscles after injuries or overuse. (Source:  Mayo Clinic)

While more research needs to be done, the following lists examples of massage benefits:

–Reducing stress and increasing relaxation

–Reducing pain and muscle soreness and tension

–Improving circulation, energy and alertness

–Lowering heart rate and blood pressure

–Improving immune function

Some have said that massages have helped them with:

–Fighting headaches

–Reduced anxiety

–Improved digestion

–Healing sports injuries or pain points

–Reduced back or neck pain

While massages cannot replace medical treatment, they can be a beneficial addition to your wellness routine. To help you have a positive massage experience, I created a free guide on how to have your best massage every – you may access it via www.decreasestresswithmassage.com.

Relax Well!

Dr. Deitrick