Though massage is certainly a great way to pamper yourself, its original intent has always been to help heal certain physical conditions. Many illnesses and symptoms can be at least temporarily alleviated through various forms of massage. Before starting massage therapy, consult your doctor to make sure it's recommended for your condition. Massage is often effective for problems associated with stress, PMS, menstruation and menopause.
Defining Massage
Massage is the manual manipulation of the soft tissue of the body. When properly applied, it helps balance the body, assist with posture, relieve aches and pains and increase the flow of oxygen and other nutrients to the blood and bones. Massage techniques range from a basic working of tight muscles for relaxation and stress reduction to extensive treatments (some that don't even involve physical touch) to alter and affect the body's energy. There is a wide range of massage techniques, so you'll need to decide which one best addresses your needs. Whether you just need help with a back spasm a couple of times a year or want to incorporate the tenets of massage into your daily life, there's a technique that's right for you.
How to Dress for a Massage
Though bodywork is usually most effective with the friction of skin on skin, massage can be done while you are clothed. You should do whatever makes you most comfortable -- relaxation is of primary importance. If you opt to undress, keep in mind that you'll be partially covered at all times; the only exposed part of your body is the portion the massage therapist is working on. He or she will usually leave the room while you disrobe (be sure to remove all jewelry before a session begins -- it can get in the way of bodywork and interrupt your relaxation). Then, depending on what kind of work you're having done, the therapist will ask you to lie on the massage table on your front or back and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel.
Preparing for a Massage
Preparing for a massage is easy: Most importantly, get yourself in a relaxed state of mind. Talk to your massage therapist about what kind of work you want done and mention any specific areas you'd like to target. Though some people suggest drinking water before a massage -- a vigorous massage moves around the toxins and water flushes them from the body -- save your water intake for after the session and drink several glasses.
What to Expect Post-Massage
Depending on the kind of massage you've received, your body will feel a variety of different ways after a session. You might feel completely relaxed from a traditional Swedish massage, or you could feel utterly spent after a Rolfing session. It's a good idea to drink water after a massage, because a successful session will loosen many toxins in your body and water can help eliminate them. And if you've had deep-tissue work or had a particular part of the body worked on extensively, you may want to take a mild pain reliever in order to prevent inflammation and soreness that can accompany a vigorous muscle workout.
