Today was my lucky day. I had the good fortune of exchanging services with a talented massage therapist. She took the kinks and tightness out of my hips and shoulders and imparted an overall sense of well-being into my body. I think I might have benefited most from the arrangement. I gave her 45 minutes of Pilates Reformer exercises and then enjoyed a massage on the kitchen table--(don't tell my dinner guests.) Actually with my extra thick Pilates mat and a few beach towels the "massage" table and setting was ideal.
I am one of those that erroneously considers massage a luxury or pampering. The reality is that just because massage feels like a luxurious treat doesn't mean it is any less therapeutic. In fact, in this case, because it feels good, it is good! Massage can decrease low-back pain, improve joint range of motion; improve circulation; lessen anxiety; release endorphins; and relax injured, tired, and overused muscles. In addition there is research that shows the benefits of therapeutic touch in treating chronic diseases, injuries, and simply reducing the tensions of modern lifestyles.
Any activity done repeatedly can result in tight, shortened muscles. I for one enjoy running however it can contribute to significant hip tightness--actually to a degree that I am not even aware--until I had the massage. Between the massage and my next Pilates client I was practicing some exercises on the reformer and found my ease of movement patterns and range of motion significantly enhanced. It was almost as if neural pathways from my brain to my body had been cleared by this deep pressure massage. My therapist also knew some excellent sports conditioning "releases" and was able to apply these techniques to my overused glutes and piriformis.
At our local Y, I note members routinely attending massage appointments, often even weekly. After this experience today, I better understand the importance and value of bodywork. Budgeting time and money for massage would likely improve my athletic performance, general focus, and muscle balance. The cost of a massage locally is nearly equivalent to a haircut. If I have to schedule a dreaded dental appointment twice a year I might as well do my body a favor and schedule a massage too. It's definitely a personality type who can relax enough to enjoy a massage. In my case it will take some practice, however I am willing to learn.
Thanks for reading!
I am one of those that erroneously considers massage a luxury or pampering. The reality is that just because massage feels like a luxurious treat doesn't mean it is any less therapeutic. In fact, in this case, because it feels good, it is good! Massage can decrease low-back pain, improve joint range of motion; improve circulation; lessen anxiety; release endorphins; and relax injured, tired, and overused muscles. In addition there is research that shows the benefits of therapeutic touch in treating chronic diseases, injuries, and simply reducing the tensions of modern lifestyles.
Any activity done repeatedly can result in tight, shortened muscles. I for one enjoy running however it can contribute to significant hip tightness--actually to a degree that I am not even aware--until I had the massage. Between the massage and my next Pilates client I was practicing some exercises on the reformer and found my ease of movement patterns and range of motion significantly enhanced. It was almost as if neural pathways from my brain to my body had been cleared by this deep pressure massage. My therapist also knew some excellent sports conditioning "releases" and was able to apply these techniques to my overused glutes and piriformis.
At our local Y, I note members routinely attending massage appointments, often even weekly. After this experience today, I better understand the importance and value of bodywork. Budgeting time and money for massage would likely improve my athletic performance, general focus, and muscle balance. The cost of a massage locally is nearly equivalent to a haircut. If I have to schedule a dreaded dental appointment twice a year I might as well do my body a favor and schedule a massage too. It's definitely a personality type who can relax enough to enjoy a massage. In my case it will take some practice, however I am willing to learn.
Thanks for reading!