It is generally accepted that massage is indicated for all people and can only bring benefits. Opponents of this theory argue the opposite, considering massage a useless or even dangerous procedure. Which side is closest to the truth? To understand this complex issue, it is necessary to carefully consider the main myths associated with massage, based on the opinions of experts and scientific research.
Myth 1: Massage will not help from a serious ailment
Many skeptics claim that massage is a waste of time in serious illnesses. However, modern medicine proves the opposite. Massage is an excellent means of restoring the body’s motor functions after surgeries and various kinds of impacts. In combination with physiotherapeutic procedures, massage helps to restore the strength and functions of the body lost due to injury or disease.
It is especially effective in rehabilitation after strokes, fractures, and neurosurgical interventions. Naturally, the benefit will be from such a massage only if it is performed by professionals who have undergone specialized training, such as masters in prestigious salons like Armonia SPA, where you will provide the most comfortable service and care.
Myth 2: Massage is not necessary for a healthy person
In fact, massage, aimed at strengthening the whole body, is useful for anyone, regardless of health status. It not only helps to keep your muscles toned but is also an excellent means of relieving general tension and fatigue accumulated during the working day.
Regular massage helps to improve blood circulation, normalize blood pressure, and strengthen the immune system. Just three or four massage courses a year, each including about ten sessions, will quickly lead to a good mood and improved body tone. Massage is especially important for people who lead a sedentary lifestyle or work at a computer.
Myth 3: Massage is only necessary for the sore spot
Patients often insist on focusing solely on the problem area, assuming that this is the core of the issue. However, only a professional massage therapist can decide which part of the body needs to be massaged.
As a rule, it is recommended to massage not only the sore point but also the neighboring areas, as the body is a unified system. For example, neck problems often require work on the shoulder girdle and upper back.
Myth 4: Massage can be done in a sauna or bathhouse
Do not take so lightly the choice of a place and a specialist for this procedure. Many people believe that massage in a sauna is a universal solution that does not require special conditions or a professional approach. However, it is effortless to fall into the hands of a non-professional, who with his actions will not only not benefit the body but may even harm it. It is especially dangerous to carry out a massage in conditions of high temperature, as it can lead to overheating of the body, deterioration of blood circulation, or even heat stroke.
In the matter of choosing a competent master of massage, it will be useful in all ways, from the presence of his diploma to the recommendations of familiar people. Professional massage should be carried out in a specially equipped room, taking into account all sanitary norms.
Myth 5: Longer massages are preferable
The duration of massage manipulations depends not at all on the qualifications of the master, but on the technique in which the massage is carried out (if the classical massage will last an hour, then the Thai massage – about two and a half hours) and the weight of the patient (the more it is, the more time the master will spend on kneading all zones).
However, it is important to remember that duration is not an indicator of effectiveness. Occasionally a short but intense session can be more beneficial than a long and monotonous process. Experts advise following your intuition: if you experience fatigue or discomfort during the treatment, it’s crucial to communicate this to the practitioner. The optimal duration of massage for most people is 30-60 minutes.
Myth 6: Massage is never unpleasant
Massage usually causes slight pain and fatigue, especially in the first sessions, as the body’s muscles must adjust to the effects. Anti-cellulite massage can be especially unpleasant and painful because it works through stagnant areas. Only a strong and deep impact on these areas will bring tangible results.
However, it is important to distinguish between tolerable pain, which indicates the work of muscles and tissues, and acute pain, which may indicate an incorrect technique of the master. If you experience severe discomfort, be sure to inform the specialist. It is also worth considering that with regular sessions, massage becomes less painful as the muscles adapt to the strain.
Myth 7: Massage allows you to lose excess weight
Without dietary restrictions and appropriate physical activity, it is impossible to lose weight with the help of massage alone. Massage can slightly improve the appearance of the skin and tighten muscles, but it is not a panacea for solving problems with excess weight. Therefore, after an intensive course of massage, you may lose a few pounds and reduce your measurements slightly due to the removal of excess fluid and improved lymphatic drainage, but do not expect to lose 10 kg.
To achieve noticeable results, massage should be part of a comprehensive weight loss program, including proper nutrition, physical activity, and a healthy lifestyle.
Conclusion
Having disassembled the main myths about massage, it becomes obvious that this procedure requires a competent approach and professional execution. If properly applied, massage can be a powerful tool for both treatment and prevention of various diseases. The main thing is to entrust your health only to qualified specialists and not to forget about the complex approach to treatment and recovery of the body.
