The Wonders of Massage

Massage therapy has been around for thousands of years and makes an excellent addition to anyone’s list of self care activities. They say that one hour of massage is about the same as getting 7–8 hours of sleep.  Relaxation is one of the most common reasons people get massages, but benefits go well beyond that.
 
Massage therapy helps stimulate lymphatic flow, which improves immunity. It increases the flow of oxygen and nutrients to areas being worked on, which promotes tissue regeneration and a reduction in scar tissue. Tight muscles are loosened, joint mobility increases and spasms and cramping are reduced. All that with the knowledgeable touch of a trained massage therapist.
 
Choosing a specific type of massage is highly individual. With over 80 different kinds, there is no shortage of styles to pick from. Some of the most popular types include Swedish or Thai, Hot Stone or Aromatherapy, Shiatsu or Deep Tissue.
My personal favourite is deep tissue massage, which as the name suggests, involves manipulating the deeper layers of muscle and soft tissue.
 
In today’s technological society, so many of us sit slumped at computers or stoop to read our smart phones. This can result in a variety of musculoskeletal issues that can cause significant aches and pains. (Doctors have even pegged it as the “Smart Phone Slump) Deep tissue massage and practicing better ergonomics can minimize these injuries so they don’t become chronic conditions. 
 
The late actor/comedian Bob Hope lived to be 100 years old.  He remained independent, living in good health with his wife in their own home in California until a few weeks before he died.
His secret?
Daily massages.