For those with a cancer diagnosis, the healing touch of massage can make a world of difference.  Massage not only provides them with a safe and comforting source of human contact, which is vital for everyone to have in order to thrive, but it can also have medical benefits as well.  Massage can help improve blood circulation and equalize blood pressure in the body.  It also promotes relaxation, can help with pain, fatigue and even nausea.  On an emotional level, massage can be very nurturing.  Rather than the fearful reaction a cancer patient might get in other social situations, a massage therapist offers acceptance of the physical body and it's limitations while helping their clients to experience a more pleasant physical reality.

There are obviously certain limitations and contraindications to massage when it comes to cancer, such as in the case of radiated tissue which will have increased sensitivity for a period of time after the radiation.  In such cases, as well as across the board, a reflexology-focused foot or hand massage can be extremely beneficial.  These can both be used safely on hospitalized patients as well as during treatments such as chemotherapy to relieve some of the side effects.  Through reflexology, trigger points in the hands and feet can be used to nourish and encourage homeostasis in organ systems throughout the body.

Massage can go a long way in complimenting traditional cancer treatments.  On a physical level, massage can work to relieve pain and promote healing in the body.  On a emotional and spiritual level, massage can be used to help people release emotions they are holding in, as well as give a comfortable emotional and social space for that person to experience therapeutic touch.

The use of massage to enhance sports training, performance, or to help the body recover from exertion is growing in popularity.  Sports massage is classically performed using deep tissue massage techniques.  Manipulating the soft tissue of the body involves more pressure than a Swedish massage, for example.  While at times potentially uncomfortable, at no point in time should a sports massage be painful.

In order to be in peak physical condition, an athlete must work their body extremely hard.  Tissue damage, injury, and imbalances in the body are all potential problems that may arise.  Through the use of massage, athletes can prevent injuries, release tension being held in the body, and gain flexibility.  Massage can be used prior to, during or after, all three times having their own advantages.

Sports massage also acts to improve circulation and encourage the removal of waste products from the body's tissues.  By that same token, it also helps bring essential nutrients to tissues which promotes faster healing.  This is beneficial after a hard workout or an injury, both of which may require the body to rebuild muscle tissues.  Sports massage has also been shown to help reduce fatigue and improve performance. 

While sports massage can be very helpful after an injury to support the healing process, prevent loss of mobility, or regain mobility in an injured joint, there are some conditions for which massage is contraindicated.  These include muscle ruptures, tendon ruptures, thrombosis, broken bones, bursitis, contusions (bruises), and soft tissue infections.  In order to determine whether or not a  sports massage is appropriate for an injury, consult a qualified massage therapist.

This holiday season, gifting those you care about with a massage gift certificate is one of the very best gifts you can give.  No matter how much you love the season, the holidays are stressful and busy.  Massage can relieve the body's stresses and relax the mind, creating better total well-being.  When it comes to gifting someone with a massage this holiday season, you have a few options.  You can book them with the massage therapist of your choice, or give them a gift certificate to a spa where they will be able to choose from the massage therapists on staff.

If you know that the person you're giving the gift certificate to really enjoys hot stone massage or Swedish massage, look for a good match in a massage therapist.  If your intended recipient has never had a massage before, you might choose to select a type of massage for them, or let them find their own way.  If you do not live in the area, research online to find reviews of spas or individual massage therapists before purchasing a gift certificate.

Of course, a massage can also be the very best gift you could give yourself.  Set aside a few hours during your busiest holiday rush to pamper yourself.  Treating yourself to a massage will not only help you get through the holidays, it can enhance your enjoyment of them.  If you're in a better mood, you'll bring more cheer to those around you, so really, you could think of getting yourself that massage as your gift to everyone!
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Self Massage Techniques for the Neck

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Calming/Relaxing Aromatherapy Blend

from:www.aromaweb.com

Ingredients:

-1 ounce carrier oil such as sweet almond

-10 drops Roman Chamomile

- 5 drops Lavender

Directions: Mix the oils well and add to a clean, air-tight dark glass container. Massage gently into the feet of the individual who requires increased calm. Giving yourself a foot massage with this relaxing oil is also delightful. Roman Chamomile has a strong sedative effect, so do not plan to drive or concentrate after using this blend.

If you prefer to make a diffuser blend, make a blend with a ratio of 2 drops Roman Chamomile to 1 drop Lavender and add to your diffuser.

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