Considering a session with a massage therapist? Let us help convince you…

It feels good!

Human touch releases endorphins, the ‘feel-good’ neuro-transmittors that promote wellbeing.
Massage therapy can stress relief (cortisol reduction) and relaxation, which is especially important in our busy modern lives.

It can also reduce stress hormones (adrenalin, cortisol, norepinephrine). This will leave you feeling calm and relaxed. Aaaaah!

After a big exercise session

Massage is a proven therapy to decrease pain and regulate inflammation post exercise. This is why massage often plays such a big role in the recovery and performance of athletes. It may also help those suffering with chronic pain, by modulating neuroplastic changes in the brain.

To improve circulation

Improved circulation promotes invigorating blood flow to muscle, fascia, ligaments, fat, skin and other tissues. The flow on effect supports lymphatic drainage. The lymph system transports waste products away from our internal organs, helping in the body’s detoxification process.

But, which type of massage is right for me?

Vic Government’s Better Health Channel lists the main forms of massage you may come across:

• remedial – is the objective assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of the signs, symptoms and causes of biomechanical dysfunction or injury, using specific mobilisation techniques, in order to restore normal health and function
• therapeutic – also known as ‘Western’ or ‘Swedish’ massage. One of the most popular forms of massage in Australia, this technique is designed to promote relaxation and improve blood circulation
• lymphatic drainage – a gentle whole body treatment which relaxes the nervous system and aids the body’s immune system. Used as a treatment for women who suffer lymphedema.
• aromatherapy – essential oils made from selected flowers and plants are added to the massage oil for their particular therapeutic properties. For example, the scent of sandalwood is thought to reduce nervous tension
• baby massage – can help to treat constipation, colic and sleeping problems. Studies have found that regular massage helps premature babies to gain weight at a faster rate
• reflexology – based on the principle that certain parts of the body reflect the whole. Reflex points, which relate to all parts of the body, can be found in the feet, hands, face and ears. These points respond to pressure, stimulating the body’s own natural healing process
• shiatsu – an oriental massage technique that aims to improve energy flow by working certain points on the body similar to acupuncture.
• sports – this is an application of massage, not a particular massage technique. The type of technique or treatment applied is dependent on the nature of the stage of training or competition, sports injury or condition and the assessment of the remedial massage therapist. Sport massage is a blend of techniques that aim to enhance performance and help overworked muscles to recover quickly.

If you are interested in booking a massage with Leap Health, please give us a call to see how we can help you!