Introduction
Getting a massage may be one of the most relaxing treats for your fatigued body and is presumably the top activity that one seeks after a long week at work or on a vacation. Massages can be solely for relaxation purposes, or they can be carried out by a massage therapist to treat medical conditions. While massages as a form of treatment may be required more frequently, there is no hard and fast rule stating that leisure massages should occur less often. Without further ado, let us dive into the facts that you need to know about massages and whether or not you are overdoing your weekly massage appointments.
What is ideal?
The frequency of massages required typically depends on the type of massage you are getting and the area that you are targeting. Massages that tackle pain or injury like Brisbane remedial massage are usually more effective when they are done more often, though every situation may differ from patient to patient. As for leisure massages, though they are not mandatory, they can be highly effective in reducing tension in muscle groups. However, they can be pricey especially if you plan on arranging for regular sessions. If you do not have the financial capability to do so, consider prolonging the duration between each session to maximize the benefits of each massage session, as well as learn massage techniques from your local massage therapist or masseuse.
Types of Massages
Lymphatic drainage massage
Extremely effective for draining lymph nodes that have been injured due to a medical condition or a recent surgery, the lymphatic drainage massage aims to regulate the flow of the fluid in the lymph nodes and reduce the fluid accumulated there. As this massage is meant for patients who have been injured or undergone surgery, this massage is typically effective when it is done every day in the beginning and can be reduced to about two or three times a week after the initial phase. Though this should only be done by certified massage therapists, you can learn some techniques that you can do yourself at home to speed up the recovery process.
Deep tissue massage
Usually done for patients who have injured various muscle groups, this massage aims to strengthen muscles by using forceful strokes to reach the deeper layers of connective tissue and muscles to facilitate recovery. Depending on each individual’s needs, this type of massage can be done from once a day to a few times a month, according to the severity of the injury. Individuals should seek a professional to accurately recommend the duration and frequency for their own condition.
Scalp massage
Scalp massages are usually for relaxation purposes, as it is not only extremely soothing, but it can also reduce heart rate and blood pressure, resulting in lower tension and a decrease in stress levels. Regular scalp massages can be useful to maintain your overall mood and make you feel calm, and the frequency of such massages typically depends on your financial capability and amount of free time. The recommended frequency is about twice a week lasting for about 15 to 25 minutes.
Full-body massage
A general favorite for tourists who frequent places like Thailand and Malaysia, full-body massages are extremely relaxing and effective in reducing tension in all areas of your body. It calms your mind and helps you curb stress levels, though they should only be done occasionally, about once every few weeks or a month.
Massage chair
A more accessible type of massage, many individuals may choose to invest in a massage chair for their homes for temporary relief of tight or aching muscles. Typically lasting for about 10 to 30 minutes, massage chairs do have a host of positive benefits including a reduction in stress levels and more relaxed muscle groups.
Conditions
Back and neck pain
Pains in the back and neck will benefit from regular massage sessions, as these sessions focus on reducing tension and aches by opening up the muscles and using forceful strokes to curb the pain. These massages can usually be done every week or every two weeks until the tension and pain are fully eradicated.
Stress
Massages can induce lower stress levels and cause individuals to feel calmer and more relaxed. Individuals who suffer from chronic stress may find it useful to get a massage targeted at relieving stress once or twice a month for maximized results. Studies have shown that a 60-minute massage for relaxation has been proven to reduce cortisol levels by 30 percent and induce serotonin levels to increase by 28 percent, leading to a better overall mood and well-being.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy may come with a ton of discomforts, such as the more frequent leg and back pain. Professionals recommend getting a regular and light massage to reduce these aches and improve the mental state of the pregnant person. These massages can usually be done every week for 20 minutes either by a trained professional or by someone at home and are effective in curbing stress and relieving physical symptoms of pregnancy like pain and aches. Furthermore, massages during labor have also been found to be beneficial in reducing the time spent in labor and the medication required during labor.
Cautions
Though massages reap a host of benefits, there are certain conditions that may deem you unsafe for a massage session. These include broken or fractured bones, a bleeding disorder, osteoporosis, cancer, open wounds as well as other serious conditions. On top of that, pregnant individuals should also be advised against getting a massage in the first trimester and should get it done at their own discretion.
Conclusion
Massages are great for a whole list of benefits, including relieving pain, eradicating bodily aches, and even reducing stress levels. If you require regular massages to treat your injury, it is best to consult a doctor on the frequency and duration of each session that you need to effectively help you heal. If you are just seeking massages as a form of relaxation, they are usually best if you do them once a few weeks or a month. Depending on your situation, massages can be extremely useful in improving your overall well-being and making you feel more relaxed on a daily basis.
