As we grow older, our bodies begin slowing down. As we experience some of the pain and stiffness that comes with aging, it may be challenging to stay involved with all the physical activities you enjoy. Chronic conditions like osteoarthritis or ailments like Parkinson’s disease make the challenge even harder. However, staying physically active is vital for seniors because regular exercise can help improve mobility, flexibility, and even your mental health.
Massage Therapy for Seniors has Positive Effects:
1- Decreases Pain Due to Osteoarthritis
A study showed that seniors who utilized massage as part of their treatment for osteoarthritis had less pain and stiffness and improved physical function over the course of a few months.
2- Improves Sleep Habits & Quality of Sleep
Seniors who receive weekly massages report sleeping more deeply and for longer lengths of time. This results in an overall feeling of better health as the body is being allowed more time to repair itself.
3- Decreases Agitation Due to Alzheimer’s Disease
Studies have shown that slow-stroke back massage on Alzheimer’s patients helps alleviate some of the agitation expressions that come with the disease, like wandering, pacing, and resisting.
4- Helps in Alleviating Depression
Touch has been proven to provide comfort to the elderly- especially since so many of them are deprived of it- which can help improve mental health.
5- Improves Physical & Mental Relaxation
Massage has been shown to decrease the unhealthy buildup of cortisol, known as the “stress hormone,” in the body, allowing the body to enter a rest and rejuvenation period.
6- Quicker Healing from Injuries or Illnesses
As we age, our joints and muscles tend to tighten, which can make it more difficult to heal from an injury because our range of motion is restricted. Massage therapy keeps muscles, connective tissues, joints, tendons, and ligaments more fluid and even less injury-prone in the long run.
Massage Therapy for Seniors
According to the American Massage Therapy Association, approximately 9 million people over age 55 had a total of 39 million messages in 2014 alone, mainly for medical purposes. Massage therapy for seniors can be an effective, non-invasive way to help alleviate some of the symptoms of many age-related conditions, especially when used to complement traditional medical services. With regular massage, seniors can experience an improved quality of life, increased energy levels, and feel younger and healthier overall.
Massage therapy benefits the entire body. It helps ease joint and muscle pain, and can even reduce the increased levels of stress that tend to come with aging. The massage techniques utilized for seniors include lighter, gentle stroking and kneading as well as application of pressure to specific points on the body. Even the most gentle massage has proven effects on the nervous system and blood circulation, two of the most vulnerable systems of the body that feel the effects of aging.
A typical massage for a senior usually involves a short session lasting around thirty minutes. Soothing hand motions help improve blood circulation, especially in diabetic feet, and relieve muscle tension while relaxing the body and mind.
Try incorporating massage into your healthcare routine to see what benefits and relief you begin to experience yourself.
We know that Massage therapy can be used to help manage a health condition or enhance wellness. Massage has been practiced in most cultures, both Eastern and Western, throughout human history, and was one of the earliest tools that people used to try to relieve pain.
So what exactly are the benefits of receiving massage or bodywork treatments?
While personal experiences very, massage is useful for all of the conditions listed below and more.
Massage can:
Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion
Ease medication dependence
Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow—the body’s natural defense system
Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles
Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts
Improve the condition of the body’s largest organ—the skin
Increase joint flexibility
Lessen depression and anxiety
Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks
Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation
Reduce post-surgery adhesions and swelling
Reduce spasms and cramping
Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles
Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body’s natural painkiller
Relieve migraine pain
A Powerful Ally
There’s no denying the power of bodywork. Regardless of the adjectives, we assign to it “pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic” or the reasons we seek it out “a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management”, massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen.
Experts estimate that upwards of 90 percent of diseases are stress-related. Perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress.
Massage Benefits:
Decreased anxiety
Enhanced sleep quality
Greater energy
Improved concentration
Increased circulation
Reduced fatigue
Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.
Profound Effects
In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body, with profound effects. Research shows that with massage:
Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and less stiffness and pain.
Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow.
Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching, and anxiety.
High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety, and stress hormones.
Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping.
Preterm infants have improved weight gain.
Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch—which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat post-surgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process.
It’s true! Kindness is the best medicine. It not only strengthens our hearts but also helps to keep us healthy, happy, and energized! Recently scientists found that when people do kind acts they often experience an emotional warmth that produces oxytocin in their brain-and this chemical creates a sense of well-being.
Kindness gives us healthier hearts. It also strengthens our immune system, reduces aches and pains, makes us happier, and boosts energy and strength in elderly people. Acts of kindness are often accompanied by emotional warmth, which produces oxytocin in the brain and throughout the body. This chemical is responsible for creating a sense of well-being and connection. Of recent interest is its significant effect on the cardiovascular system. Oxytocin causes the release of nitric oxide in blood vessels, which expands them, reducing blood pressure. Thus oxytocin is known as a ‘cardioprotective’ hormone.
Kindness also slows aging. On a biochemical level, aging is a combination of many things, but two culprits that speed the process are free radicals and inflammation, both of which can result from unhealthy lifestyle choices. Remarkable research now shows that oxytocin reduces levels of free radicals and inflammation in the cardiovascular system, thus slowing aging. Free radicals and inflammation also play a major role in heart disease. So kindness is very good for your heart and for your overall health!
Kindness gives us healthier hearts.
Using the Tibetan Buddhist loving-kindness meditation, one study found that kindness and compassion did, in fact, reduce inflammation in the body, most likely due to its effects on the vagus nerve. One simple practice you can perform to stimulate the vagus nerve, and slow heart rate at the same time lowering blood pressure is deep diaphragmatic breathing with long, slow exhalations.
At Zen Massage Salt Lake City, we encourage you to get massaged frequently. Caring touch stimulates the release of oxytocin. And when you use your attention to mindfully slow down and give length to your breathing while you are getting worked on, you double the benefits of your bodywork session. Bring loving-kindness to your heart and nervous system!
We all know that a short foot massage every now and then can really help us relax, most everyone enjoys it, particularly after a long day of standing up and walking around when our feet tend to swell up. But most people ask does it really have any benefits other than making us feel a bit more relaxed and relieving some of the pain?
We will take a look at some of the benefits of foot massage that are supported by actual scientific research – benefits that are either immediate or can be seen and felt after a couple of weeks, even with as little as two to three sessions per week.
1. Improves circulation
Due to a mostly sedentary lifestyle, we have become unaccustomed to using our muscles on a regular basis. The muscles in the feet get hardly any exercise and circulation is often impaired by tight and uncomfortable shoes. A 10–20 minute massage session before going to bed can greatly improve circulation in the lower extremities, which is particularly important for people suffering from diabetes.
2. Helps prevent foot and ankle injuries
Massaging the feet can help with joint pain and aid recovery after an injury, as well as reduce muscle soreness. However, when massage is combined with foot and ankle strengthening exercises and stretching it can prevent future injuries, as well as speed up recovery of existing injuries. A short session three to five times a week will ensure that you minimize the risk of injury. We all have our moments of clumsiness, but a strengthened and flexible ankle and foot ensure that we can avoid unpleasant injuries.
3. Reduces the effects of depression and anxiety
Looking at some of the studies that have been done on the effects of reflexology, it seems that this type of foot massage goes beyond simply putting people in a relaxed state for the duration of the massage.
Frequent sessions have been shown to significantly reduce anxiety in cancer patients. The techniques can be learned fairly quickly and can serve as an effective way of dealing with depression and anxiety.
4. Helps with headaches and migraines
A study conducted in Denmark showed that people suffering from headaches and migraines showed great improvement after receiving reflexology treatments. The test subjects stopped taking their medication, and three months after completing their treatments, 65% had reduced symptoms while a small number had been cured. It is believed that those who had reflexology foot massages managed to make additional positive lifestyle changes that may have contributed to their impressive results.
5. Lowers blood pressure
High blood pressure has become fairly common in modern men and women. It can be caused by a number of things such as stress and an unhealthy diet, but in most cases, it has no particular cause and is believed to be a result of environmental factors and genetics. A study conducted on healthcare staff working with elderly people suffering from dementia – a job that is highly stressful and both physically and mentally taxing – showed that a 10-minute foot massage session up to three times a week resulted in improved mood, less anxiety, and lower blood pressure.
6. Helps with flat feet and plantar fasciitis
People with flat feet do not have a normal foot arch due to ligament laxity, which causes the arch to collapse. It can have no major effect on a person, but some people experience foot pain after even mild physical activity due to flat feet. Chronic heel pain can be caused by inflammation or deterioration of the plantar fascia (the connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot). Regular foot exercise coupled with deep massage, where you apply strong pressure on the arch, can help significantly lessen the pain and even cure these conditions.
7. Helps alleviate symptoms of PMS and menopause
The most common symptoms suffered during PMS include feelings of sadness and unhappiness, irritability, anxiety, tension, insomnia, fatigue, headaches, and mood swings. Most of these symptoms can be alleviated with daily foot massages during this period.
In the same vein, symptoms of menopause, which are similar to those suffered during PMS with the addition of hot flashes and depression, can be effectively minimized with regular massages.
No one can deny the restorative healing power of massage. Reducing pain, depression, anxiety and stress, along with boosting our immunity. All of which have an effect on our mental and physical well-being. Pain affects our lives and our quality of life.
Massage is known to help reduce pain by increasing blood flow, easing inflammation, and reducing muscle tightness.
It’s a well-known fact that individuals who have a high level of stress are more prone to injury and illness. Reduction of stress is another benefit of massage. Stress is known to elevate your heart rate, cause elevation of the stress hormone cortisol, which inhibits weight gain, elevate blood pressure, cause headaches, digestive problems, sleep problems, heart disease, memory and concentration issues just to name a few.
These all affect our immune system and make us physically ill. You may not be able to remove all the stress in your life, but you can take stress-reducing measures which are healthy choices.
Research has shown that receiving regular massage therapy helps boost our immune system and flush toxins, increasing blood flow throughout the body. Massage increases the activity of white blood cells that help our body fight diseases and may help with the reduction of cortisol.
Remember to only receive a massage when feeling healthy, as a regular routine. Massage in combination with other complementary and conventional treatments can help you look and feel your best. When you look and feel your best you are at the top of your game and you become more productive at home, work, sports, and in your everyday life.
Massage therapy is an excellent choice as a complementary therapy to conventional health care.
Be open and honest with your massage therapist, if you are under the care of a physician for a specific ailment, check with them about massage. It may be an option for you. It’s not meant to take place of, nor postpone seeing your health care provider for any medical or mental issues. If you have a health condition and are unsure if massage would be right for you, please discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Here are a few tips for reducing stress and boosting your immune system:
Accept that there are events that you cannot control.
Try to keep a positive attitude.
Try to halt stress in its tracks, yes it’s hard when you can’t control it.
Manage your time. Give yourself time to get things done; don’t overwhelm yourself, you know your limits.
Do things you enjoy, like cooking, reading or gardening.
Take 15 to 20 minutes every day to sit quietly and reflect. Learn and practice relaxation techniques like yoga or deep breathing.
Exercise regularly.
Avoid alcohol, recreational drugs and don’t smoke.
Eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
Get enough rest and sleep, your body needs to recover and repair itself.
Get a regular massage which will help lower your stress level and increase your immune system.
Seek out social support.
See your healthcare provider as needed, especially if things feel beyond your control.
We all want to be healthy and it’s not always easy to know where to begin. Here are some suggestions that can help you improve your health.
It’s best to put just one or two into practice at a time so you do not get burned out. As more of these healthy actions become habits, you can add more into your routine.
1. Limit Sugary Drinks
Sugary drinks like sodas, fruit juices, and sweetened teas are the primary source of added sugar in the American diet.
Unfortunately, findings from several studies point to sugar-sweetened beverages increasing risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, even in people who are not carrying excess body fat.
Sugar-sweetened beverages are also uniquely harmful for children, as they can contribute not only to obesity in children but also to conditions that usually do not develop until adulthood, like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Healthier alternatives include:
water
unsweetened teas
sparkling water
coffee
2. Eat Nuts & Seeds
Some people avoid nuts because they are high in fat. However, nuts and seeds are incredibly nutritious. They are packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.
Nuts may help you lose weight and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Additionally, one large observational study noted that a low intake of nuts and seeds was potentially linked to an increased risk of death from heart disease, stroke, or type 2 diabetes.
3. Avoid Ultra-processed Foods
Ultra-processed foods are foods containing ingredients that are significantly modified from their original form. They often contain additives like added sugar, highly refined oil, salt, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, colors, and flavors as well.
Examples include:
snack cakes
fast food
frozen meals
canned foods
chips
Ultra-processed foods are highly palatable, meaning they are easily overeaten and activate reward-related regions in the brain, which can lead to excess calorie consumption and weight gain. Studies show that diets high in ultra-processed food can contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions.
In addition to low quality ingredients like inflammatory fats, added sugar, and refined grains, they’re usually low in fiber, protein, and micronutrients. Thus, they provide mostly empty calories.
4. Don’t Fear Coffee
Despite some controversy over it, coffee is loaded with health benefits.
It’s rich in antioxidants, and some studies have linked coffee intake to longevity and a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, and numerous other illnesses.
The most beneficial intake amount appears to be 3–4 cups per day, although pregnant people should limit or avoid it completely because it has been linked to low birth weight.
However, it’s best to consume coffee and any caffeine-based items in moderation. Excessive caffeine intake may lead to health issues like insomnia and heart palpitations. To enjoy coffee in a safe and healthy way, keep your intake to less than 4 cups per day and avoid high-calorie, high-sugar additives like sweetened creamer.
5. Eat Fatty Fish
Fish is a great source of high-quality protein and healthy fat. This is particularly true of fatty fish, such as salmon, which is loaded with anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and various other nutrients.
Studies show that people who eat fish regularly have a lower risk for several conditions, including heart disease, dementia, and inflammatory bowel disease.
6. Get Enough Sleep
The importance of getting enough quality sleep cannot be overstated.
Poor sleep can drive insulin resistance, can disrupt your appetite hormones, and reduce your physical and mental performance.
What’s more, poor sleep is one of the strongest individual risk factors for weight gain and obesity. People who do not get enough sleep tend to make food choices that are higher in fat, sugar, and calories, potentially leading to unwanted weight gain.
7. Feed Your Gut Bacteria
The bacteria in your gut, collectively called the gut microbiota, are incredibly important for overall health.
A disruption in gut bacteria is linked to some chronic diseases, including obesity and a myriad of digestive problems.
Good ways to improve gut health include eating probiotic foods like yogurt and sauerkraut, taking probiotic supplements — when indicated — and eating plenty of fiber. Notably, fiber serves as a prebiotic, or a food source for your gut bacteria.
8. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is an important and often overlooked marker of health. Staying hydrated helps ensure that your body is functioning optimally and that your blood volume is sufficient.
Drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated, as it’s free of calories, sugar, and additives.
Although there’s no set amount that everyone needs per day, aim to drink enough so that your thirst is adequately quenched.
9. Don’t Eat Heavily Charred Meats
Meat can be a nutritious and healthy part of your diet. It’s very high in protein and a rich source of nutrients.
However, problems occur when meat is charred or burnt. This charring can lead to the formation of harmful compounds that may increase your risk for certain cancers.
When you cook meat, try not to char or burn it. Additionally, limit your consumption of red and processed meats like lunch meats and bacon as these are linked to overall cancer risk and colon cancer risk.
10. Avoid Bright Lights Before Sleep
When you’re exposed to bright lights — which contain blue light wavelengths — in the evening, it may disrupt your production of the sleep hormone melatonin.
To help reduce your blue light exposure wear blue light blocking glasses — especially if you use a computer or other digital screen for long periods of time — and avoid digital screens for 30 minutes to an hour before going to bed.
This can help your body better produce melatonin naturally as evening progresses, helping you sleep better.
11. Take Vitamin D if you’re deficient
Most people do not get enough vitamin D. While these widespread vitamin D inadequacies are not imminently harmful, maintaining adequate vitamin D levels can help to optimize your health by improving bone strength, reducing symptoms of depression, strengthening your immune system, and lowering your risk for cancer.
If you do not spend a lot of time in the sunlight, your vitamin D levels may be low.
If you have access, it’s a great idea to have your levels tested, so that you can correct your levels through vitamin D supplementation if necessary.
12. Eat Plenty of Fruits & Vegetables
Vegetables and fruits are loaded with prebiotic fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, many of which have potent health effects.
Studies show that people who eat more vegetables and fruits tend to live longer and have a lower risk for heart disease, obesity, and other illnesses.
13. Get Moving
Doing aerobic exercise, or cardio is one of the best things you can do for your mental and physical health.
It’s particularly effective at reducing belly fat, the harmful type of fat that builds up around your organs. Reduced belly fat may lead to major improvements in your metabolic health.
According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, we should strive for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week.
14. Use Plenty of Herbs & Spices
There is a variety of herbs and spices at our disposal these days, more so than ever. They not only provide flavor but also may offer several health benefits as well.
For example, ginger and turmeric both have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help improve your overall health.
Due to their powerful potential health benefits, you should aim to include a wide variety of herbs and spices in your diet.
15. Nurture Your Social Relationships
Social relationships — with friends, family, and loved ones you care about — are important not only for your mental well-being but also your physical health.
Studies show that people who have close friends and family are healthier and live much longer than those who do not.
16. Get Rid of Excess Belly Fat
Excessive abdominal fat, or visceral fat, is a uniquely harmful type of fat distribution that is linked to an increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
For this reason, your waist size and waist-to-hip ratio may be much stronger markers of health than your weight.
Cutting refined carbs, eating more protein and fiber, and reducing stress (which can reduce cortisol, a stress hormone that triggers abdominal fat deposition) are all strategies that may help you get rid of belly fat.
17. Meditate
Stress has a negative effect on your health. It can affect your blood sugar levels, food choices, susceptibility to sickness, weight, fat distribution, and more. For this reason, it’s important to find healthy ways to manage your stress.
Meditation is one such way, and it has some scientific evidence to support its use for stress management and improving health.
In one study involving 48 people with high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or both, researchers found that meditation helped lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and inflammation compared with the control group. Additionally, the participants in the meditation group reported improved mental and physical wellness.
To Sum It All Up
A few simple steps can go a long way toward improving your eating patterns and wellness.
Still, if you’re trying to live a healthier life, do not just focus on the foods you eat. Exercise, sleep, and social relationships are also important.
With the tips above, it’s easy to introduce small changes that can have a big impact on your overall health.
Today we’d like to introduce you to Olena Litovsky.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started? Massage was always a passion of mine. In 2006, as I was studying for medical exams we decided to open Zen massage. Started small as a way to stay in contact with my clinical background while going through steps of medical validation of credentials, but grew into amazing practice connecting two critical components of happy employees and satisfied clients.
Zen massage grew and constantly kept adapting to demand and changes in our social environment. Starting from the economic difficulties of the 2008 recession to the Covid19 shut down for six weeks.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road? Of course, during 15 years we have seen it all. Busy and slow. High unemployment rate and difficulties finding competent and compatible team players to add to our Zen family. Despite all of them we only grew stronger.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do? I do have a medical background (graduated from Medical school in Ukraine) but had neither business education nor experience. So, the beginning of the journey was easy and without expectations to make money.
It came later as a result of regulars returning customers, word of mouth, etc. Lots of our clients are close to us as a family too. Some have been loyal to us for 15 years, I am overwhelmed with gratitude every day. Being so happy to experience this perfect tango between business and passion, love to help people.
That is probably the key difference between us and other massage businesses. We don’t follow the traditional approach to staff and employment. We allow lots of freedom, encourage taking time off as needed to spend time with family, friends, to recover physically and mentally. Health is the main topic here. That includes physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects.
Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts. I love taking risks. Without it, I believe, it is impossible to achieve success and growth. Major risk #1 for me personally was to come to the USA in 2004.
As for Zen Massage signing up for the construction of the new location, signing up for a personal guarantee right before the 2008 market crash and downturn of the economy. I take risks in numerous ways in my life, my personal safety, and my hobbies by training and competitions in jiu-jitsu.
Hiking, always trying new things like target gun shooting, ax throwing, ect. Trying new travels and experiences like yoga retreats. I challenge myself and others with physical and mental challenges. Risks are a big part of who I am.
“A massage will help me relax, but if I’m in pain I’ll go to the doctor.”
“A Swedish Massage is the best massage for me.”
You’ve probably heard or said one of those statements before, but they’re not the full story. It’s time to set the record straight on the three most common myths about massage therapy.
Myth 1:
Massages are a luxury that you can’t afford.
Truth:
Massages are both a luxury and a necessity. If you think about all the other “luxuries” you have each month like hair salons, gym, and nail salons, a massage is probably equal in expenses. A massage is not a luxury for just rich people. Massage treatments are affordable for the stay-at-home mom, the working dad, and even the college student with a part-time job. It’s just up to you to decide how much your well-being is worth.
Myth 2:
A massage is just for relaxation.
Truth:
Relaxation is just one of the many benefits of massage therapy. They are therapeutic and can get to the heart of other problems. Massages have positive emotional, physical, and mental effects. In fact, many people receive massage regularly to relieve pain or to rid their bodies of toxins. Cramps, headaches, back pain, and anxiety are also conditions that a massage can remedy. So, whether you need to relax or relieve pain, massage can get the job done.
Myth 3:
The only massage available is Swedish Massage.
Truth:
Although Swedish massage is the most common massage, there are many other types available. Sports massage, deep tissue, and hot stone massage are just some of the other options available. If you are unsure about which massage is right for you, you can always give us a call at Zen Massage of Salt Lake City (801) 467-3529 and speak with one of our professionals.
So, in conclusion, don’t believe everything you hear when it comes to massage therapy. It’s best to try it for yourself, let our team of Zen Massage Therapists show you the amazing benefits massage brings to your life. Schedule your appointment online or by phone.
Most of us have experienced that sense of relaxation and wellbeing that sets in after one massage. But have you thought about the benefits of enjoying massage on a regular basis?
Massage is a great mode of preventative care when used on a consistent basis. In fact, in many cultures, use it every day.
Receiving massage on a regular basis comes with amazing benefits for your body:
Increase in ‘Happy Hormones’
Massage boosts levels of the hormones serotonin and oxytocin and combats the creation of the stress hormone cortisol. Serotonin sends your body a calming message and oxytocin makes you feel better overall. Massage helps to regulate these hormones levels.
Reduce Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can come from sitting at a desk all day, having poor posture, or from an injury. Massage helps increase blood flow throughout the entire body, it reduces inflammation and pain. Massage also helps to move toxins from the muscles, which promotes healing from generalized muscle tension or injury.
Improved Flexibility
Massage therapy is a fantastic way to maintain and improve flexibility as well as range of motion. Massage modalities like sports and deep tissue focus on muscle tension, connective tissues, joints, tendons, and ligaments. Getting massage on a regular basis will help keep your joints in good health and your muscles agile.
Enhanced Sleep Quality
Pressure applied during a massage triggers the creation of melatonin, the hormone your body releases for quality sleep. If you suffer from insomnia, get a massage right before bed.
Chronic Headache Relief
Headaches are often caused by stress, depleted energy, or poor circulation. Because massage improves blood flow to the heart and releases hormones that are effective in producing relaxation, a massage can be just the thing to kick your headaches for good.
Strengthened Immune System
Massage boosts your immune system by helping to release illness fighting white blood cells. These blood cells will help your immune system fight the common cold or flu, as well as promote overall wellness.
So, the benefits of enjoying a massage on a regular basis speak for themselves.
Working with the same massage therapist regularly can similarly enhance your wellbeing. It allows them to gauge your overall muscle health on a more consistent basis. They will become familiar with any problem areas or personal preferences you might have, making the massage experience that much more powerful.
Get Consistent Massages with a ZEN MEMBERSHIP
Monthly Maintenance Massage Membership
Join Zen Massage Membership with an introductory $50 Massage (normally $65), when you sign up for a 12-month massage membership.
Don’t think of massages as one-time treats, indulgences, or rewards for a tough week. Regular therapeutic services truly elevate your everyday life, smoothing out the rough spots, helping you be your best and making it easier to deal with life’s curveballs.
At Zen Massage, we offer a lifestyle, a better way to live. Our Membership Programs are designed to facilitate an overall feeling of well-being that gets even better with each session.
Become a Member today and experience first-hand that life feels better when lived at it’s fullest.
12-month Massage Membership details – 60 Minute Massage – $65 Per Month with a 12-month membership.
Call Today to Sign up for your Membership (801) 467-3529
Massage is the practice of rubbing and kneading the body using the hands. There are several types of massage that focus on different parts of the body or healing approaches. Keep reading and decide which type of massage might be right for you.
Swedish massage
Swedish massage is a gentle full-body massage that’s ideal for people who:
are new to massage
have a lot of tension
are sensitive to touch
It can help release muscle knots, and it’s also a good choice for when you want to fully relax during a massage.
For this massage, you’ll remove your clothes, though you may choose to keep your underwear on. You’ll be covered with a sheet while lying on the massage table. The massage therapist will move the sheet to uncover areas that they are actively working on.
The massage therapist will use a combination of:
kneading
long, flowing strokes in the direction of the heart
deep circular motions
vibration and tapping
passive joint movement techniques
Usually, a Swedish massage will last for 60–90 minutes.
Hot stone massage
Hot stone massage is best for people who have muscle pain and tension or who simply want to relax. This type of therapeutic massage is similar to a Swedish massage, only the massage therapist uses heated stones in lieu of or in addition to their hands. It eases muscle tension, improves blood flow, and relieves pain by using heated stones. Hot stone massage may help:
ease muscle tension
improve blood flow
alleviate pain
promote relaxation
relieve stress
During a hot stone massage, heated stones are placed on different areas around your whole body. Your therapist may hold a stone as they massage different parts of your body using Swedish massage techniques using gentle pressure. Sometimes cold stones are also used.
You don’t wear clothes for hot stone massage unless you’ll feel more comfortable wearing your underwear. You will be covered with a sheet. Usually, the massage is 90 minutes long.
Aromatherapy massage
Aromatherapy massages are best for people who want to have an emotional healing component to their massage. This type of massage can help:
boost your mood
reduce stress and anxiety
reduce symptoms of depression
relieve muscle tension
relieve pain
Aromatherapy massages combine soft, gentle pressure with the use of essential oils. Your massage therapist will usually decide which essential oils to use, but you can let them know if you have a preference. Essential oils are diluted before being applied to the skin.
During the massage, you’ll be given a full-body massage while inhaling essential oils through a diffuser and absorbing them through your skin. Sometimes an aromatherapy massage will only focus on your back, shoulders, and head. You won’t wear any clothing other than underwear, which is optional.
An aromatherapy massage is 60–90 minutes.
Deep tissue massage
Deep tissue massage uses more pressure than a Swedish massage. It’s a good option if you have chronic muscle problems, such as soreness, injury, or imbalance. It can help relieve tight muscles, chronic muscle pain, and anxiety.
During a deep tissue massage, your massage therapist will use slow strokes and deep finger pressure to relieve tension from the deepest layers of your muscles and connective tissues. You can be naked during this massage or wear your underwear.
The massage will last for 60–90 minutes.
While deep tissue may be more intense, you shouldn’t feel any pain or soreness.
Sports massage
Sports massage is a good option if you have a repetitive use injury to a muscle, such as what you may get from playing a sport. It’s also a good option if you’re prone to injuries because it can be used to help prevent sports injuries. You may also use sports massage to increase flexibility and performance. Additionally, sports massage can be used to relieve pain, anxiety, and muscle tension.
A sports massage can be done as a full-body massage or the massage therapist may focus on the parts of the body that need the most attention. Deep pressure may be alternated with soothing strokes depending on your needs.
You can have a sports massage while clothed or naked. If you prefer to wear clothing, make sure it’s thin, loose, and allows the therapist access to your muscles. Loose shorts and a tank top are options.
The massage will last for 60–90 minutes.
Trigger point massage
Trigger point massages are best suited for people who have injuries, chronic pain, or a specific issue or condition. Sometimes areas of tightness in the muscle tissues, known as trigger points, can cause pain in other parts of the body. By focusing on relieving trigger points, this type of massage can reduce pain.
Trigger point massage uses broad, flowing strokes that are gentle and relaxing combined with stronger, deeper pressure. The massage will include work on your entire body, though your therapist will focus on specific areas of your body that need to be released. You can wear lightweight clothing for the massage or be fully or partially undressed.
This type of massage will usually last for 60–90 minutes.
Reflexology
Reflexology is best for people who are looking to relax or restore their natural energy levels. It’s also a good option if you aren’t comfortable being touched on your entire body. Reflexology uses gentle to firm pressure on different pressure points of the feet, hands, and ears. You can wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to your legs.
A reflexology massage lasts for 30–60 minutes.
Shiatsu massage
Shiatsu massage is best for people who want to feel relaxed and relieve stress, pain, and tension. It’s a Japanese type of massage that:
promotes emotional and physical calm and relaxation
helps to relieve stress, anxiety, and depression
may relieve headache
reduces muscle tension
Shiatsu massage works the whole body, but your therapist may focus on areas of your body that need extra attention. During the massage, your therapist will use their hands, palms, and thumbs to massage certain points of your body. Pulsing or rhythmic pressure is used. You can be fully clothed during this massage.
Shiatsu massages typically last for 60–90 minutes.
Couple’s massage
A couple’s massage is a massage that you do with your partner, friend or family member in the same room. It brings all the benefits of a regular massage and sometimes provides you with access to the spa’s hot tubs, saunas, and other facilities. Other treatments such as pedicures, facials, and body scrubs are sometimes offered as part of a package.
You can usually choose which type of massage you’d like to receive, and you and your partner can each get a different type of massage depending on your preference and the offerings at the spa. Your partner and you will be on tables side-by-side, and you’ll each have your own massage therapist working on your body. You can talk during the massage if you wish.
Chair massage
A chair massage is best for people who want a quick massage that focuses on your neck, shoulders, and back. A chair massage can also be a way to introduce you to massage if you’ve never had one before. Chair massage also helps to relieve stress and promote relaxation. This type of massage uses light to medium pressure.
During the massage, you’ll remain fully clothed and sit in a specially designed chair. You’ll straddle the chair so that your chest pushes into the back of the chair, allowing the massage therapist to have access to your back.
These massages are usually 10–30 minutes.
Communication
Always communicate your expectations and intentions with your massage therapist and speak up if there is something with which you aren’t comfortable. Talk to your doctor before getting any type of massage if you have any health concerns or conditions.
Massage may be a way for you to feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally. Experiment with different types of massage and with different massage therapists to find the type and provider that is most ideal for you.
Zen Massage Therapists, Salt Lake City
When it comes to massage therapy, no amount of exotic marble, fountains, lights, and monograms on fancy terrycloth robes and slippers can equal the skilled, experienced hands of a master massage therapist. A luxurious interior can make a great impression, but when you’re back in your clothes again walking out the door, the only thing that matters is how you feel in the real world. The quality of any spa experience is quite literally in the hands of the therapist. Nobody understands this better than ZEN Massage of Salt Lake City. Our partner-therapists make ZEN Massage what it is. We partner with only the best therapists who share a sincere passion for the craft of healing and the art of massage. But most of all, our partner-therapists are approachable. They know how to listen and to understand. They want to make you feel great. They enjoy what they do because they do it exceptionally well.
