Swedish, deep tissue, sports, reflexology and hot stone are all types of massage therapies that I have received over the years to combat high levels of stress, migraines, and a recurring lower back problem. They've become a necessity. I'll sacrifice a meal in order to squeeze in a session no matter what's going on in my world. Tough to do when you're on the move but thankfully, massages are easily accessible with mobile spas, neighborhood beauty salons and even shopping malls getting on the feel good bandwagon. To find the right kind of massage for you I would suggest you first check in with your doctor for a medical perspective. Finding the right masseuse, one that creates a warm and comforting environment, understands that not every one has the same needs or intensity level desires may be more elusive.
MassageEnvy.com succinctly says "Therapeutic massage is the manipulation of the muscles and tissues of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, discomfort, and stress" but I can't help but feel while the physical benefits are obvious, the longest lasting benefit of a good massage is the positive emotional state one can leave you in. Now herein lies the "rub". I've found that not all massage therapists care about how you actually feel. As the timer begins on what you hope will be a 60-90 minute slice of heaven, things can go terribly wrong. Any masseuse that doesn't take the time to ask even the most basic customer care questions, like "are you comfortable?", "do you have any medical conditions or injuries that I should be aware of?" or "how much pressure do you like?" has never seen my back on their table again. There must be a certain sensitivity given to a person splayed vulnerably on thick white sheets. The perfunctory rubs we get from our significant others are not meant to be any more than expressions of love but when you're aching, fried and opening your wallet to watch anywhere from $60.00 - $200.00 fly out, you should have certain expectations. Incredibly high expectations.
MassageEnvy.com succinctly says "Therapeutic massage is the manipulation of the muscles and tissues of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, discomfort, and stress" but I can't help but feel while the physical benefits are obvious, the longest lasting benefit of a good massage is the positive emotional state one can leave you in. Now herein lies the "rub". I've found that not all massage therapists care about how you actually feel. As the timer begins on what you hope will be a 60-90 minute slice of heaven, things can go terribly wrong. Any masseuse that doesn't take the time to ask even the most basic customer care questions, like "are you comfortable?", "do you have any medical conditions or injuries that I should be aware of?" or "how much pressure do you like?" has never seen my back on their table again. There must be a certain sensitivity given to a person splayed vulnerably on thick white sheets. The perfunctory rubs we get from our significant others are not meant to be any more than expressions of love but when you're aching, fried and opening your wallet to watch anywhere from $60.00 - $200.00 fly out, you should have certain expectations. Incredibly high expectations.