Massage SPA Plus

Shiatsu Massage Therapy

2010-08-05T07:15:00.000-07:00

Massage spa - No matter how much the beauty and magic of Hawaii can relax or rejuvenate some people, mostly tourists and foreigners, there really are some ailments that no amount of relaxation or stunning surroundings can cure. This is where natural healing methods, such as shiatsu massages come in.

Sure, people with headaches, arthritis, high blood pressure, and even insomnia can purchase medicine that would help cure those illnesses. But medicine sometimes does not work, has side effects, or are costly. Shiatsu massage, however, involves only the use of hands to heal or cure some ailments or maintain the harmony or balance of the body. It is a cheaper, healthier, and more enjoyable alternative to dozens of pills. That's why more and more people are going the natural way by having shiatsu massages. Because of its popularity, a Maui massage school will be making a big mistake if they do not include shiatsu in their curriculum because there are many people who are eager to learn the Japanese massage.

Shiatsu, which means "finger pressure," is definitely one of the more popular massage therapy techniques. Why not, when famous names such as Marilyn Monroe and Muhammad Ali, received shiatsu massages during the time and became fans of it? Until now, local Hawaiian people, tourists, and foreigners alike look for the relief and rejuvenation that a shiatsu massage can give them. If you want to make the most out of this, check any Maui massage school and you will find that most offer shiatsu courses. This is because they recognize the popularity and the demand for shiatsu masseurs.

Learning shiatsu massage does not only translate to income for you. It can also be a way for you to help ailing family members or friends. Shiatsu massage has been proven to help in the treatment of depression, anxiety, digestive problems, stress related issues, menstrual problems, and even physical injuries, aside from the illnesses already mentioned above.

If you know someone who suffers from any of the above, then learning shiatsu can be very beneficial for you and that person. Knowledge in shiatsu is always a win-win situation for you. You can either use your knowledge for personal reasons, or you can use it for financial reasons. So, don't hesitate and visit a Maui massage school and learn the details on how you can enroll for a shiatsu course. The sooner you do this, the more people you can help or the more income you can generate. Not a bad deal, isn't it?

Massage in Austin

2009-05-30T12:09:00.000-07:00

Have you ever visited Austin, Texas? No? Austin, the Capitol of the State of Texas, is a great place to visit and it is one of the best places in the United States to receive a massage. Austin is well known in the alternative health and massage communities due to a large number of massage schools and massage therapists. Austin also has some of the most beautiful natural scenery that the Texas Hill Country can provide. So, when you go to Austin for a business trip, a truly enjoyable family vacation, or a complete household relocation it will be worth your time to receive massage therapy. Massage in Austin is widely available from independent Licensed Massage Therapists, Licensed Massage Establishments, and a growing number of Day Spas.

Receiving a massage in Austin is something that is memorable and enjoyable and something you'll want to repeat over and over. Whether your goal is to completely relax with a slow, soothing massage, relieve muscular pain and chronic tension, have a more comfortable pregnancy, or improve your sports performance Massage Therapists in Austin can help you achieve your goals. In fact there are several types of Massage in Austin. The most commonly offered massage techniques in Austin are:

Swedish Massage - a very relaxing massage using gliding strokes, kneading, friction, and striking strokes along with gentle stretching and rocking. This is probably the most common type of massage available.

Deep Tissue Massage - massage of the deeper musculature and connective tissue to release chronic tension and pain. It's often a firmer massage that is appreciated by experienced clients.

Sports Massage - massage to assist the athlete in preparing for and recovering from sports events. Sports massage has variations that may be performed immediately prior to sports events, between events, and immediately following events. However, Sports massage is also done in the days, weeks, and months before and after events.

Hot Stone Massage - perhaps the most relaxing and luxurious massages you can get. Heated stones seemingly melt away stress and tension. Hot Stone Massage provides the benefits of a Swedish or Deep Tissue Massage along with localized heat treatments from the stones.

Aromatherapy Massage - a very relaxing and therapeutic massage incorporating the benefits of both massage and essential oils for an incredible effect you're going to love.

Pregnancy Massage - massage for the mother-to-be helping her to decrease pain and discomfort throughout the pregnancy.

Neuromuscular Therapy - advanced pain relief targeting specific trigger points in muscles, tendons, and attachment sites. Neuromuscular Therapy is a primary technique for finding and relieving referred pain.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage - specifically used for decreasing swelling and edema as well as improving the circulation of the body's lymph. It's detoxifying and some think it improves the immune system too.

However, in addition to the more commonly practiced massage techniques your Austin Massage Therapist might also practice some other well known massage therapy techniques:

Zero Balancing
Myofascial Release
Medical Massage
Acupressure
Zen Shiatsu
Trigger Point Therapy

You might even want to try a special treat when you get a massage in Austin like Couples Massage where a couple can receive their massage together in the same massage room with two massage therapists. During the couples massage each member of the couple can choose to receive a different massage from that of their partner. Or, for the true massage therapy enthusiast some Licensed Massage Establishments and Day Spas offer Four Hand Massage, or Tandem Massage, where you can be massaged by two massage therapists at the same time.

Massage in Austin is also very convenient to receive. Massage in Austin is available on an incall basis at a Massage Therapist's office, salon, or clinic, in a Massage Establishment, or in one of many conveniently located Day Spas. Massage in Austin is also available on an outcall basis in your Austin area home, office, or hotel. No matter where you are in this beautiful city a great massage is just minutes away.

So what's stopping you from receiving the benefits of massage? Massage in Austin, Texas is relaxing, stress reducing, pain relieving, and performance improving so get one today.

Relaxing Swedish Massage

2009-05-26T12:18:00.000-07:00

What is massage? Do you know that benefits of it? Massage is the manipulation of soft tissue and muscles with various strokes. There are many therapeutic benefits of massage to your body. The most common type of massage is the Swedish massage.

Swedish massage has different techniques and it was design to help you relax your tired muscles and improve blood circulation. The techniques involve different strokes and application of force to the muscles and bones. The lymph system as well as veins don’t rely that much in heart pump but the muscle action. The place that offers the best Swedish massage is Massage Envy-South Tampa. Restore peace and balance within yourself! Visit Massage Envy-South Tampa today!

Each strokes and techniques of the Swedish massage have their corresponding curative effects. The main reason Swedish massage was developed is to improve our blood circulation. Swedish massage also helps relax tired muscles and promote well being. Rest assured that our experienced and friendly therapist here at Massage Envy-South Tampa will pamper you.

Be healthy and stay healthy! Soothe your mind and leave those worries, have a relaxing time with us at Massage Envy-South Tampa and flush out those pesky toxins in your body. Do you know that build up of metabolic waste can do great harm in to your body?

Aside from medical and remedial therapy, Swedish massage can greatly reduce stress and anxiety and often included in stress management programs. Don’t you think that you need a little time for yourself to relax? After all life is not about just work. After a long week of work spoil yourself a bit, have a relaxing weekend at Massage Envy-South Tampa.

Maybe you are thinking what you should be expecting when you visit Massage Envy South Tampa? Expect friendly and accommodating staffs and cozy environment that will make you forget all your worries. If you are planning to have Swedish massage these are the things that you should know: basically, there are five main strokes of Swedish massage. These strokes are effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement, and vibration. Effleurage involves stroking that encourages venous and lymphatic return. Petrissage is a massage that applies pressure to the muscles. Tapotement is the type of massage done using the tips of the fingers or the edge of the palm. Massage Envy-South Tampa has certified massage therapists that can customize the massage that your body needs.

The first step in Swedish massage is the assessment of the therapist. Get assessed by our expert at Massage Envy-South Tampa. You don’t have to worry if it is your first time to get a massage. You will be covered by blanket and only the part to be massaged will be exposed. Our experts might suggest some breathing exercises to make the massage more effective. I’m sure after this massage session at Massage Envy-South Tampa, you’ll be looking for more. You don’t have to worry about busy schedule because we are open even on weekends (schedule of different clinics varies). We also have reasonably priced membership that you and your family can enjoy!

Here at Massage Envy South Tampa, we offer wide variety of massages that you can choose from. You can also bond with your family and friends when you visit Massage Envy-South Tampa. Let our famous massage here at Massage Envy-South Tampa restore your inner peace. It’s not too late to start a healthy life. All you have to do is visit us! So what are you waiting for? Visit us at 3830 W. Neptune St. C-2 Establishment # MM16263 Tampa, FL 33629 or call at 813) 251-3300 This will be the first step to a healthy, youthful life!

Massage In Thailand

2009-05-26T12:17:00.000-07:00

When you come to Thailand do yourself a favor and treat yourself to a massage.

There are different types of massages to choose from. Before I explain the different types I would like to stress that anyone having muscle injuries, problems such as thrombosis, varicose veins, arteriosclerosis, skin disease, heart conditions, cancer, wounds, cuts, ulcers, diabetes or arthritis should consult with their physician first before getting a massage. Once you get the physicians blessing and you have decided on the practioner you should let them know of any conditions which you may have which they should be aware of. You don't want someone pulling on your fingers if you suffer from arthritis. Some of the more established massage salons will have you fill out a form before your massage so that they will know more about you and how best to massage your body.

Also before the massage remove body rings, watch, bracelets, or other items which might interfere with massage or restrict the circulation and movements. And the best time for the massage is when you are in a good frame of mind.

There are many types of massages but rather than detail each and every one we will concentrate on the more more popular types.

1) Swedish Massage:

Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, after applying massage lotion or oil on your body.

2) Aromatherapy Massage:
Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs.

The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc. One of the most common oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender. Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.

3) Deep Tissue Massage:
Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage.

4) Shiatsu:
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. Each point is held for for 2 to 8 seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance.

People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards.

5) Reflexology:

Although reflexology is sometimes called foot massage, it is more than simple foot massage. This type of massage works the internal organs of the body through manipulation of pressure points on the soles of your feet, applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet.

6) Thai Massage:
You will have to decide between Thai traditional massage or Thai oil massage. The Thai traditional massge will likly be a little bit more strenuous with stretches, and utilizing the fingers, thumbs, knees, elbows and feet of the person giving the massage. This type of massage may be performed on a mattress on the floor to give the masseur or masseuse the ability to move around your body to apply pressure where required. Note that when I have received this type of massage the pressure has been firm but not excessive. I suffer from bad circulation in my legs and after a long flight my legs are particularly sore and in need of exercise or massage. The Thai oil massage may be performed on a table and be a bit more gentle.

Massage can be done for the purpose of relaxation or for relieving the symptoms of certain ailments. So first of all decide if it is your body or the mind that needs the massage the most. If it is the body then your best choices are deep tissue, shiatsu, relexology or Thai traditional massage. If it is the mind that needs the massage then go with Swedish, aromatherapy or Thai oil massage. Then decide if you want all or a part of your body massaged. It is possible to obtain a masssge for just the feet, or neck, shoulders and back, or a facial massage

For full body massage and where lotions of oils are applied it is best to shower before and after the massage. Otherwise your clothes will have the scent of the oil or lotion.

Should you come across a massage table where there is a whole at one end of the table then that is the end for your head. Yes your head fits into the hole.

There are also what some term as "dirty massages". This is a massage salon which may offer more than a massage. Attendants may be selected from behind glass partitions and one of the offerings may be that of a "soapie massage". Here the masseuse gives you a bath first followed by a massage. These types of massages are often found in what are called men's clubs, or called health clubs. The premises may be considerably larger than that of a traditional Thai massage and much more decorative. The establishment may offer snooker, dining facilities, and karaoke besides massage services. You should understand that even though these establishments exist they should not be confused with the establishments which offer traditional Thai massage. For every large establishment that offers soapie massages there are probably another fifty that offer Thai traditional massage, oil massage, facial or foot massage.

The costs here in Thailand and downright cheap compared to most parts of the world. The hotel where you are staying may charge 50% to 200% of what the massage salon next door will charge. The surroundings may be a bit more opulent but other than that the massage may be identical. If you were here in Chiang Mai you could get a 2 hr. Thai traditional massage for only 400 baht or $10 US. So I would highly recommend that when you visit Thailand to find a good massage salon and treat yourself to a relaxing, comforting experience. The massage is very affordable, and the skills of the masseuses/masseurs is second to none.

Be sure to leave a tip for the person giving the massage if it met your expectations. The wages these people earn are very low and a decent tip can make someone's day. If you want to save a buck or two on your vacation do it by booking cheaper accommodations rather than not tipping someone who deserves it.

In reality there are many legitimate massage facilities in many countries around the world where the masseurs or masseuses are required to have adequate training and, in some cases, even licenses before they can practice. Thailand is no different. Many of the staff performing massage in Thailand have completed massage school where they have undergone the training required for this specialized field of endeavour. After your massage you should experience either relaxation throughout the body or tranquillity of the mind, depending on which type of massage you selected. Tensions and concerns will evaporate, tight muscles will relax, and sometimes you may even fall asleep during the massage. With relaxed muscles, the blood circulation is improved. The body will receive more oxygen and nutrients and the immune system will be more efficient in fending off disease agents, thus lessening the chances of becoming ill. Pleasant surroundings are crucial. The most important factors are cleanliness, privacy, minimum noise level, a comfortable temperature, and good ventilation.

When the massage has been completed you should not get up immediately and get involved in strenuous or serious activities, but rather rest quietly for a few minutes in order to fully absorb the effects of the massage and appreciate the feeling of well-being and tranquillity.

You only live once so as I said earlier, treat yourself to a relaxing experience, you deserve it.

Open daily 10 a.m to 10 p.m. and if you Telephone 053-895571
you can get one of the lovely ladies to pick you up and bring you to the spa by car "for Free".

Only a 5-7 min. walk from Central Mall (Huay Kaew Rd. location), 4 minute walk from H.S. Condotel 4 and 3 minute walk from Amari Rincome. So a great Spa and in a convenient location.

Included as part of our Chiang Mai Retirement services is a complimentary 1 1/2 hour massage at Doi View Massage & Spa. We want our clients whether they are male or female or couples to be relaxed after their long journey to Chiang Mai and how better to relax than with a soothing message

We selected Doi View Massage & Spa for three reasons.

1. The spa is set on the sixth and seventh floors in esquisite surroundings with a fantastic view.

2. For those people wanting entertainment or a meal before or after the spa there is a restaurant on the main floor and also the roofop Loft Pub & Restaurant which features fine dining with a panoramic inner city scene and the spectacular view of Doi Suthep at one glance.

3. And most importantly because of the attentive masseuses.

So if you visit beautiful Chiang Mai, Thailand and you are tired from your flight to Thailand call Doi View and book an appointment. Just say George sent me and get a 20% discount on your 1st Massage/Spa treatment. You deserve it.

For advice or assistance, accommodations or more view our website :
http://www.retire-on-550-month.com

We help people vacation in and retire to Chiang Mai, Thailand, a city that is unknown to many in North America but yet home to thousands of foreigners who liked it so much they moved here.

Career in Massage Therapy

2009-04-25T23:16:00.000-07:00

Every day, a person must deal with the pressure of his job, family, children, traffic, mortgage or rent. The world can be extremely stressful. Because of this, many people are plagued with back tension, tight shoulders, exhausted lower backs and sore necks.

Massage therapists work to help a person get rid of pain and tension, recover from illness or injuries and reduce stress. The modern field of massage therapy is now dramatically expanding.

As a Massage Therapist, you can help others overcome chronic pain, recover from injuries and illness, reduce stress, and just plain help them feel better. Massage therapists can obtain employment almost anywhere – spas, physician’s offices, health clubs, even vacation resorts.

1. Would You Enjoy a Career in Massage Therapy?

* Do you enjoy working with people?
* Do you love helping and caring for others?
* Can you socialize with others, while also knowing when to remain silent in the presence of certain clients?
* Can you work independently?
* Are you empathetic?
* Do you possess strong communication skills?

2. How to Obtain an Education in Massage Therapy

Massage therapists are trained in the basics of massage. They become familiar with trigger point therapy, deep tissue massage and Swedish massage. Today, there are many new emerging areas of massage therapy. Examples of these are Myofascial, pregnancy massage, animal massage and medical massage.

Many schools now offer massage therapy programs. One can choose to attend a certificate degree, which may only take two years. Students can also pursue a four year education degree. To find the college, vocational school or training center that best suits you, look in your local phonebook or do some research on the Internet. Many online courses can teach you the basics of your field and then allow you to visit the school periodically for hands-on training. Most education centers offer weekend and evening classes for parents who have children or for those who already possess a full-time job.

It is important that you do not apply to the first school that offers a massage therapy training program. Look at several different schools or colleges, their individual class schedules, course curriculum, instructor credentials and hands-on training. You should also ensure that the training classes or school meets the basic standards for employment in the massage therapy industry.

3. Gain Some Experience

Once you begin to engage in massage therapy education, it is essential that you obtain some practice. You can volunteer your services on a one-time basis to clients. You can also give free massages to friends and families or offer your services to community organizations in your city or town. You can begin to build a client base even before you finish your schooling.

4. Seek Employment

The massage therapy industry is continuously looking for new therapists. Health care clinics, spas and medical offices are ideal places to begin looking for a permanent position. Some training centers also offer career placement immediately after graduation.

Obtain Holistic Massage

2009-04-19T00:10:00.000-07:00

One of the most interesting career paths of all times is being a massage therapist. If you venture into this field, you will be able to help sick and injured individuals cope with their condition. This type of occupation provides a sense of justification and satisfaction which is common in other jobs that deal with people. You will earn success with this career when you obtain your knowledge and training from top massage schools within your state or city. If you are searching for massage schools in San Diego, one of your options is Body Mind College. Other than this school, you should consider institutions which are accredited by national and state organizations affiliated with massage therapy.

When looking into massage schools, take time to check out the curriculum or program of that certain school. Make sure that your education is not limited to learning basic knowledge regarding massage techniques. It should also not be restricted to memorizing principles. Your massage school should be able to provide you with training or hands-on application of the techniques that you have learned. This is very important especially if you want to pass the licensure examinations for massage therapists. If your school can’t offer you this, it will be difficult for you to cope with the demands of the real world. When choosing among massage schools in San Diego, make Body Mind College your option. This institution guarantees that you learn both principles and proper skills of holistic therapeutic massage.

Body Mind College is just one of the massage schools in San Diego which limit the size of its class. The purpose for this is to let each of the students learn more through personalized attention. When you study at Body Mind College, the instruction of your curriculum is divided into small sequences. These sequences are solid and monitored, to make learning more effective. These are taught along with current educational and training strategies. Massage schools like Body Mind College make learning more fruitful for students.

Quality massage schools must make it a priority to provide the students with practical training. Like Body Mind College, its classes offer you practical experience. While applying what you have learned, you are supervised by your teachers. They will provide you with objective feedback with regards to your progress and development. When compared to other massage schools in San Diego, Body Mind College is considered as unique and exemplary. It sees to it that you are ready to face the challenges the moment you venture out into the field of massage therapy.

If you want to opt for good massage schools in San Diego, the best alternative is Body Mind College. Through the learning strategies of the school, you are taught how to assist the processes of your own therapeutic healing. This is one of the practical experiences that the institution teaches you. Before you start dealing with the condition of other individuals, you must learn to heal yourself first. This method of teaching is something which you seldom find in other massage schools. This makes it all the reason to study at Body Mind College.

Massage Therapy Courses

2009-04-13T10:33:00.000-07:00

Recognized as one of the best methods of healing, massage therapy means different things to different people. A recently published journal article identified over 80 types of massage, most of which have only been developed over the past 30 years. But let us start with the basics:

manual massage therapy. Manual massage involves the manipulation of soft tissues such as the muscle. The pressure on the body will help relax, rejuvenate, ease pain, or break up scar tissues. Using measured movement with varying speed (fast to slow), distances (amplitude), and force (forceful to gentle) can bring the desired results. Over the years, massage therapy has become a very popular course as more people become aware of its benefits. Enrolling in massage therapy courses will ensure a bright spot in your future. Many consumers are now investing on their health and well-being. They seek alternative and natural therapies such as the massage to ensure that they will enjoy overall good health.

If you are interested in enrolling in massage therapy courses, the Australian College of Natural Therapy has a variety of curriculums that are highly in-demand today. Among the massage therapy courses you can expect include Diploma for Integrated Body Therapies, Remedial Massage and Spa Therapy, Remedial Massage. The Certificate IV in Aromatherapy, Certificate IV in Massage Therapy Practice, and Diploma in Reflexology is also offered. Below is an overview of what you can expect from these courses:

Diploma of Integrated Body Therapies Encompassing a varied range of therapy that involves soft tissue manipulation and the energy flow in the body, the integrated massage therapy courses lets you know about special therapies such as reflexology, trigger points therapy, remedial massage, shiatsu, and exercise therapy. This is the most complete massage therapy course offered in Australia. Students will take a lot of subjects related to massage therapies and the musculoskeletal system.

Diploma of Remedial Massage and Spa Therapy This is one of the most exciting massage therapy courses in Australia because it prepares students for a career in the huge spa therapy industry. The full curriculum is combined with the college’s Postgraduate Advanced Certificate in Spa and Stone Therapy is integrated together in this course.

Certificate IV in Massage Therapy Practice As part of the nationally-recognized Health Training Package, this course provides a curriculum related to anatomy and physiology, diagnosis, pathology, and symptomatology. The aim of this study is to increase the overall health and wellbeing of a person.

Diploma of Aromatherapy Enrolling in this massage therapy course allows you to understand the properties and uses of different types of essential oils for the body. Essential oils are prized for their restorative effects and fragrance for millenniums. By getting a diploma from this course, you can apply essential oils during the aromatherapy massage to promote better health.

Certificate IV in Aromatherapy This course offers a broader base of knowledge in aromatherapy. As a student of this course, you will know the principles, science, and applications of aromatherapy. In addition, the pharmacology of oils will also be taught so you can know how it acts and reacts. Potential contradictions can be avoided since you become knowledgeable about its components.

massage can effectively fight stress

2009-04-07T22:17:00.000-07:00

Our everyday encounter with work, family activities and other personal affairs inevitably drag us to the pit of stress. You normally wake up to morning headlines on the fluctuating economy, AIDS, corruption, war, and so on. As you sip your favorite coffee, your boisterous neighbor’s bickering about lost puppies frazzle you throughout the day. As if these things at home are not enough to drain your energy, you come to work and are greeted by piles of paperwork, an appointment at three o’clock, frustrating reports and an annoying boss. Even your Sunday that should be reserved for rest, is now merely spent on all-day shopping, errands and more work!

There is no denying the rapid rate of change brought about by continuous technology enhancement, which has altered the course of our lifestyle and jolted it to more stress and complication. Stress is part of everyday life and the imbalance of our priorities. Everyone suffers the repercussions of stress, but if we allow it to overpower our physical, emotional and mental wellbeing then this can result in serious implications.

Stress can be defined in many different ways depending on the current state of the person experiencing it. Stress is often defined as the inability to move or think properly due to tremendous mental or physical strain resulting from certain events that affect us emotionally, physically and mentally. In addition, health experts relate stress produces detrimental effects to the body.

The factors that lead to stress are irrevocable but the secrets to stress management are achievable. There are numerous ways to fight stress but one of the most popular ways is through a massage therapy in Brampton. After a tiring day in the office, wouldn’t it be great to visit a holistic wellness clinic and get a relaxing massage therapy in Ontario? A Brampton Ontario massage will activate the nerve endings in our body and endorphins are released. A two-hour massage therapy can reduce the occurrence of anxiety, muscle tension, chronic pain, digestive, and sleeping problems. Another notable advantage of a massage is that it could help patients in a state of depression or trauma recover from their painful experiences through healing touch. Since the ancient times, massage has been used to treat different ailments and relieve pain on the joints of the body. Different massage styles have been developed through the years to conform to each patient’s individual needs. Each massage style’s main purpose is to provide relaxation, relieve stress and enhance the individual’s total wellbeing.

One popular massage is reflexology. This technique uses controlled pressure to lessen the pain in the hands, feet, back, and head. It is also effective in promoting good health and preventing illness.

Aromatherapy Brampton is another breakthrough in alternative medicine. Probably, the most invigorating treatment for stress and pain. The use of essential oils and fragrant scents of rose, lemon, lavender, and peppermint enliven the senses. Once the oils are inhaled, it can boost one’s mood, alleviate fatigue, reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and stimulate the brain.

Shiatsu massage, which originated in Japan, is a method of utilizing finger and palm pressure on the body's acupuncture meridians and energy channels. This technique helps free obstructions and stimulates the flow of energy.

A hot stone massage therapy combines Swedish massage and hot massage rock on specific points of the body. It utilizes basalt stones which are ideal in absorbing heat and retaining it for a long period of time. These stones are placed on chakra points that help balance the mind, body and spirit. It is also a form of pain management for people experiencing arthritis or back pains.

Back Massage

2009-04-06T04:33:00.000-07:00

Back pain is one of the most common ailments for which people turn to massage therapists to alleviate. There are even a number of massage therapies that pay special attention to the back. You do not have to set an appointment with a massage therapist, however, to get a simple but relaxing back massage. A back massage is something you and your partner can learn for yourselves and give to each other whenever you feel that it is needed.

Enumerated below is a step-by-step routine on how to massage your partner's back. But before you proceed to work on your partner, make sure that the atmosphere in the room where you will be doing the massage is conducive to relaxation.

A clean room is a relaxing room, so make sure that the room is clean.
Toss a CD of relaxing instrumentals into your player and, for added effect, light some scented candles.
Also, take a shower and warm your hands before giving a massage; you need to be in a relaxed state yourself in order to be able to give an effective massage.

The back massage routine listed below makes use of effleurage, which is a massage stroke that is long and sweeping. It is meant to loosen and relax the muscles and to make each part of the body feel connected to each other.

# Since this is a back massage, make your partner lay on his or her stomach. If you have a massage table at home, that would be awesome, but the bed or the couch will do as long as it is firm and your partner would be comfortable laying there.

# Rub some massage oil in your hands to warm them up. Then, using both hands, apply massage oil to your partner's back and make firm strokes from the lower back up to the neck. Trace a circular path on your partner's back with your hands when you return your hands to the lower back.

# Press the heels of your hands to the lower back of your partner, one at each side of the spine, and move them in a circle starting from the lower back, coming upward to the center of the back and then outward until you get your hands back to your starting position. Slowly move your strokes upward until you reach the shoulders.

# With your fingertips, and with one hand lying on top of the other, press against the muscles of the back on the side opposite where you are standing. This means that if you are standing to the right of your partner, press to the left side of his back. Gradually move from the lower back to the shoulders, and then repeat on the other side.

# Using firm and deliberate pressure, let your thumbs travel the length of both sides of the spine, moving towards the shoulders, then returning to the lower back. Find the knots and the bunched up spots on the area being covered.

# Using your forearms this time, apply pressure to the lower back, and then rub your arm that is closer to your partner’s head towards the lower end of the shoulder blades.

# While performing the massage thus far, you may have noticed some knots and bunched up spots on your partner’s back, or he/she may have told you about particularly painful areas on his/her back. Press your thumb on each painful spot until the pain lessens or disappears.

# Repeat steps 2 to 4, and then lightly tap your fingertips along your partner's back. Afterwards, give your partner a glass of water or two and then leave him or her to rest and relax.

Thai Massage

2009-04-06T04:28:00.000-07:00

Thai massage is one of the oldest massage techniques in existence today. Dating back 2,500 years, Thai massage is said to have been developed by Buddhist monks right at the time when Gautama Buddha himself was still alive. These monks handed what they know to their students, who then passed them on to their own students until it spread throughout the east.

Thai massage incorporates the philosophies surrounding the Chinese concept of acupuncture and combines these philosophies with the stretching exercises done by yogis in India. The ultimate aim of Thai massage is for the receiver to attain spiritual enlightenment and harmony. On a base level, Thai massage is supposed to activate the capacity of the body to heal itself and to promote better health and well-being.

Just like in most eastern healing practices, Thai massage makes use of pressure points, which are called sen in Thailand. Practitioners of Thai massage claim that there are 72,000 sen in the body, of which ten are on the highest priority when it comes to doing the massage. Applying pressure to these sen points unblocks the flow of energy and restores balance to the body. In the terms of conventional western medicine, Thai massage is supposed to increase the circulation of blood within the body and completely eliminate the toxins that cause pain and illness to the body.

Thai massage is done with both the giver and the receiver of the massage fully clothed. The massage therapist does not use any tools – only her fingers, hands, knees, legs and feet. She also uses body weight to apply force and pressure to the receiver’s body. The treatment is done with the receiver lying down on her back on a padded massage mat instead of a table.

There are four basic stretches that are employed in Thai massage. The first one is aimed towards warming up the body and making it more receptive to the manipulation of the therapist. It involves extending the hamstrings on the leg and pressing the back of the thighs on points along the energy lines of the leg.

The second stretch is called the plough stretch. What is done here is that the therapist pulls at the client’s legs and, with the client’s knees straight, pushes them forward and inward towards the patient’s face, compressing the abdomen. The aim here is to elongate the spine.

The third stretch is also meant to lengthen the spine. Here, the client is made to lie face down on the mat. With her knees bent and her feet up and her hands gripping the therapist’s thighs, the client is pulled upward by the shoulders to stretch her back.

The fourth stretch is another exercise that is supposed to lengthen the spine, as well as to release the tension on the shoulders and back. The client once again lies down on her back with her feet propped up against the therapist’s thighs. The therapist then pulls her up by the arms.

To a casual observer, Thai massage appears to be painful and strenuous. If properly done, however, the receiver of a Thai massage treatment would not feel any pain afterwards. In fact, the treatment should leave him or her calm, relaxed, more centered and more alert.