massage therapy

Mother’s Day Gift | Zen Massage Gift Cards

Amanda Sullivan Massage Service, Zen Massage , , , 0 Comment

Life doesn’t come with a manual. It comes with a mother.

There is nothing like a mother’s smile. Give your mom the gift of massage for Mother’s Day. Zen Massage Gift Cards are available on our website or give us a call @ (801) 467-3529. Zen Massage in Murray, Utah.

It takes someone brave to be a mother, someone strong to raise a child, and someone special to love someone more than herself.

10 Things You Can Start Taking Time for Again

Amanda Sullivan Healthy Lifestyle , , , , 0 Comment

Start taking better care of yourself again.

Love yourself first

Self Care

Start indulging in your passions and hobbies again.

Dedicate 20 minutes a day to something you love.

Hobbies

Start spreading joy again.

Be the change you want to see.

Joy

Start up quality conversations with loved ones again.

To be fully heard by someone, in raw form, and be adored anyhow, is what true love is.

Communication

Start listening to others without judgment again.

Just listen and smile.

Just Listen

Start enjoying peaceful downtime again.

For a few minutes, each day simply be and breathe.

Zen

Start reading good books again.

What you read determines who you become.

Read

Start cooking real, wholesome food again.

You are what you eat, choose wisely.

Homemade

Start allowing yourself to learn from your mistakes again.

Give yourself the freedom to make mistakes, cut yourself some slack. 

Oops!

Start celebrating the small victories of each day again.

Notice the little things and celebrate them. Positivity is a choice. The happiness of your life heavily depends on the quality of your thoughts.

The Small Things

Zen Massage in Murray, Ut.



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Massage Therapy the “art of rubbing”

Amanda Sullivan Educational, Healthy Lifestyle, Massage Therapy , 0 Comment

Massage therapy or the “art of rubbing” has been in practice for a very long time across the globe.

Today, massages aren’t only available in luxurious spas or massage parlors. Their popularity has made them available in business districts, hospitals, clinics, fitness centers, gyms and more.

Photo by Trường thẩm mỹ Ana Anabeautyacademy on Unsplash

Massage has ancient historical significance. In ancient Japanese, Chinese, Thai dynasties, these alternative therapies were used as effective treatment methods for musculoskeletal problems. Historical evidence proves that the “art of rubbing” has been and is being practiced across the globe. In the 1850s, during European renaissance, these techniques started adapting European styles and techniques.

Today, there are many different types of massage and spa therapies practiced by massage experts. In some countries, these therapies are included in the alternative medicine curriculum. However, the effectiveness of these treatment methods haven’t been proved by any scientific research, the patient’s reaction to the method has made the approach extremely popular.

Most popular styles of massage therapy

Massage refers to a method of patting, flattening and manipulating the skin, muscular tissues, ligaments, tendons, and other supporting structures. The basic objective of massage is to relax the muscles and reduce stress levels.

Photo by John Fornander on Unsplash

Therapists use their hands, fingers, elbows, forearms, and feet for light stroking or deep pressure techniques.

Some popular techniques are:

* Swedish Massage: it is the commonest genre; features tapping or kneading strokes. The strokes are mostly soft, long, rhythmic and light in nature.

* Sports massage: The technique focuses on a specific group of muscles used in different sports. They are designed for preventing injuries and strengthening the musculoskeletal structures.

* Deep tissue massage: The technique is also termed as pain reliever massage. This method is designed for pain anywhere in the superficial skin, tissue or muscular layer.

* Thai massage: It’s certainly one of the most popular therapies today. In this technique, the therapist uses his/her body to change the posture of the recipient and mobilize the joints to better extents. The therapy is also used for compressing the muscles and applying acupressure.

* Shiatsu Massage: This Japanese massage therapy involves applying mixed, rhythmic pressure on some specific points of the body. These specific points are termed as acupressure-points.

* Others: apart from the abovementioned techniques, there are numerous other therapies. Some popular therapies are Hot Stone Massage, Reflexology, Pregnancy Massage, Chair Massage, Trigger point massage, etc.

Photo by John Fornander on Unsplash

If you wish to feel better with immediate aftereffects, ZEN Massage in Salt Lake City is here for you. Massage stops the stress cycle and restores your natural body posture, so you can enjoy more restful sleep and naturally lower stress levels.

Zen Massage in Salt Lake City 

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(801) 467-3529

5520 South Van Winkle Expy

Salt Lake City, UT 84117


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Sports Massage in Salt Lake City

Amanda Sullivan Healthy Lifestyle, Massage Therapy, Sports Massage, Therapy Sports Injury, Zen Massage , , , , , 0 Comment

Sports Massage in Salt Lake City

Today’s athletes expect the most out of their bodies to perform at maximum efficiency. This can cause serious stress to be put on the body which in turn can cause muscle fatigue and even serious injury. Sports massage therapy is specialized massage therapy that identifies the muscle group in need of repair and works to minimize the stress put on the body by aggressive training. At Zen Massage, we help athletes maintain peak efficiency and recovery with targeted sports massage therapy at our Salt Lake City massage studio.

Sports Massage Therapy for the pros or the weekend warrior

You don’t have to play for the Utah Jazz to receive sports massage therapy in Salt Lake City. At ZEN Massage, our massage therapists can help everyone, including amateur athletes, weekend warriors, and daily joggers.

Reduce sports injuries and get back in the game faster

Frequent injuries and repeated motions can cause chronic pain and restrict your range of motion. If your body isn’t prepared to perform at its peak, you can be sure that you won’t reach the level of performance you desire. Our sports massage methods put emphasis on preventing injury and healing the stressed muscles and tendons by stimulating blood circulation in the affected area. At ZEN Massage, our sports massage therapy addresses the areas of motion which you use frequently to promote faster recovery and flexibility.

Perform at your best

If you are expecting to compete in an event, a preventative, stimulating massage will direct the blood flow to the areas of the body that are going to be used. This ensures that your blood is pumping, your muscles are ready, and you have a full range of motion to compete at your best.

After the big game or an especially grueling workout, there is nothing better for your muscles than a therapeutic sports massage. When you’re working at your best, your muscles are taking the beating of a lifetime. To prevent injury and promote muscle recovery, a post-event sports massage will repair muscles and normalize the body’s tissues.

Rehab from sports injuries

One of the most popular uses for sports massage is for the rehabilitation of a previous injury. Nothing slows you down like chronic pain from an old injury. Our massage therapists work on the injury location as well as on the muscle groups associated with the injury that may be causing additional pain from over-compensation due to the injury.

The massage therapists at ZEN Massage are ready to get you back in playing form. Contact us about our Sports Massage Therapy in Salt Lake City today!

Sports / Injury Therapy — 45 minutes for $65

Zen Massage in Salt Lake City give us a call (801) 467-3529

Massage Basics

Amanda Sullivan Blog, Educational, Healthy Lifestyle, Massage Service, Massage Therapy , , , , , , , , 0 Comment

Massage Basics

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.  

Book My Zen Massage

Zen Massage in Salt Lake City

5520 South Van Winkle Expy

Salt Lake City, UT 84117

(801) 467-3529

 

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What is Asian Massage?

Amanda Sullivan Blog, Educational, Massage Therapy , , , , , 0 Comment

Ever wonder what they mean by an Asian Massage? 

Well, as the name suggests, an Asian Massage is bodywork that follows the principles of traditional Asian medicine, which usually means touch-based therapy with very specific purposes. Although all the many kinds of Asian massages aim to rejuvenate the body and promote some degree of physical and mental relief, each comes with its own different effects on the body.

Different Kinds of Asian Massage

Most Asian massages employ techniques that work with the body’s energy flow or chi. Basically, the goal is to create balance within one’s inner elements or chakras so that the body is reset. In contrast, western massage techniques are mostly meant for relaxation. The other difference is that Asian massages can be performed while the person is fully clothed. As opposed to its Western massage that applies the techniques on the bare skin.

Acupressure Massage

Developed by Chinese medicine over 5,000 years, this is a type of massage that uses pinpoint pressure on parts of the body. By specifically targeting these specific parts, tensions that normally build up within these areas are released, giving the person significant relief. The acupressure massage uses the same principles as acupuncture treatment in that they target the same acupoints. However, they don’t use needles to “puncture” these spots. Instead, they apply pressure, which is where the massage got its name.

What’s interesting about this massage is that it can be done on yourself if you know how. When done properly, it can provide immediate relief for certain sicknesses and conditions.

Amma or Anma

Amma uses a technique that combines application of pressure on acupoints with deep-tissue massage. It aims to cure the imbalances in one’s system, refreshing the entire body after. 

This therapy is based on traditional Japanese massage techniques introduced by Gan Jon Osho, a Buddhist Priest who practiced the Chinese anmo back in the 6th century. It was further developed in the 17th century by Waichi Sugiyama, who established schools for the blind. Being blind himself, Sugiyama taught the blind the ways of amma and they became quite common in the 20th century.

Ayurveda Massage

The Ayurveda Massage gets its roots from India. It’s a technique that focuses on the body’s chakras and marmas, which are similar to the acupoints in Chinese medicine. According to tradition, the body is filled with countless marmas. The massage, however, will focus on 107 major marmas that are all found at the junctions where the joints, bones, arteries, tendons, flesh, and veins meet. This is also where most body pains meet.

The massage also uses oils in order to employ techniques that aim to open and cleanse energy channels that could be blocked over time. The technique also stimulates all the senses, which also contributes to the healing process.

Shiatsu

The word means “finger pressure” in Japanese, but the massage actually uses a wide variety of techniques such as soothing, pressing, kneading, tapping, and even stretching in order to induce relaxation of the mind and body. Although a kind of Asian massage in itself, Shiatsu further branches out into different styles, with all having some association with one of the three massage systems that originated in Japan back in the 1900s. This kind of massage is actually commonly known even in the west. Unlike other well-known treatments, however, this kind of massage does not use any oil at all, and can be done while the client is fully clothed.

Jin Shin Jyutsu

Jin Shin Jyutsu is an incredibly simple version of acupressure massage. It follows the same principles of acupressure, except that it only focuses on 26 points, which are few compared to the 300 points that acupressurists work with. The 26 points are called SELs, which stand for Safety Energy Locks and are located along the body’s energy pathways. Using his hands, a Jin Shin Jyutsu practitioner will hold on to a combination of these SELs and gently massage through them, allowing the client to experience the flow of energy, which can be as relaxing as it is healing.

Chi Nei Tsang

This Chinese detoxifying massage is said to treat the emotional conditions that have been associated with diseases. It targets the body’s organs, specifically the ones affected by any illness, in order to help with healing and recovery.

Chi Nei Tsang uses old Taoist techniques where the organs are gently but deeply massaged, which results in physical, spiritual, and emotional relief. When translated, the phrase “Chi Nei Tsang” means to work the internal organs. The abdomen is normally oiled up so it feels warm before it is subjected to massage strokes with the palm. Sometimes the person would feel some pain because the organs are indeed being targeted, but feels relaxed after.

Thai Massage

Thai massage is a full body contact massage that uses a combination of Indian Ayurvedic principles, acupressure massages, and yoga poses. It generally does not use oil and can be applied with the client fully-clothed. During the massage, the therapist follows identified lines along the body, and the client will be positioned in a way that they follow these lines. Hence, the client can expect being put into different positions on top of his fingers and extremities of the body being pulled and some knuckles being cracked. Of course, much like actual yoga, the client would feel relieved after the session, which normally lasts for up to two hours.

Asian massages have really come a long way since they were developed by ancient Asian tradition. But no matter how different they are, they all have the aim of promoting health and wellness to those who experience it. 

If you haven’t yet, make it a point to try them all and see which one suits your needs and preferences best. Don’t hesitate to ask your therapist if you want to know more about the treatment you’re looking to get so you can make the most of the experience.

 

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Zen Massage in Salt Lake City 

http://zenmassage.net/

(801) 467-3529

5520 South Van Winkle Expy

Salt Lake City, UT 84117

How to Begin a Workout Routine

Amanda Sullivan Blog, Educational, Healthy Lifestyle , , , , , , , 0 Comment

Begin a Workout Routine Again

Have you been planted in the couch cushions too long?  Here are some tips we’ve found on how to start exercising and establish a fitness routine you’ll actually stick with.

Stop beating yourself up for your lack of effort, it’s time to move on and forgive yourself.

Here’s how to start:

1 Take Some Selfies

In order to accurately track your progress, it’s helpful to identify your starting point and then define your goal. If you do this every two to four weeks you can track your progress. Another option is to use a tape measure and track measurements in your biceps, waist, hips, bust, and thigh areas so you can see you’re losing inches, even on weeks when it seems the scale hasn’t budged.

2 Start Small

So you haven’t lifted a weight since who knows when? That’s OK. The first week you’re easing back into exercising, start small. Know that any movement is good movement. Commit to doing 10 minutes of an exercise video or walking for exercise three days this week. This will help you establish behaviors and create the habits your body will thank you for.

3 Make One Change at a Time

The first week you intend to exercise, look ahead at your schedule and establish modest changes to your routine. Write down five ways you are going to be healthy today. Your daily success list could include things like not drinking soda, eating more vegetables, doing 30 minutes of walking today, taking the stairs in your office once a day, and drinking more water. Keep them small and achievable so you’ll be motivated by your daily victories.

4 Plan Out Your Mornings

Starting a morning workout routine is just like establishing any other new habit: It requires some planning and dedication. Prep your coffeemaker to go off when you wake up, pack your lunch the night before. Look at each week ahead of time and plan exercise accordingly. Advance prepping and planning can eliminate decisions about your workout, clothes, or what you’re eating that day—freeing up time to actually exercise.

5 Expect to Fall

Here’s the reality of any journey, whether it’s business, relationships, diet, or fitness—you’re going to make mistakes and stumble along the way. Just remember, like you would if you were faced with an issue in the workplace, identify the problem and take action to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

6 Look Beyond Weight Loss

Exercise for the health benefits that aren’t related to weight loss, like feeling more energized, happier, calmer, and experiencing better sleep. When you don’t feel like exercising, remind yourself of how good you’ll feel during or after exercise. If you can begin to associate being active with pleasure and how good you feel as a result of it, you’ll be more inclined to stick to your exercise routine.

7 Find Something You Can Stick With

Fitness experts and doctors alike often say the “best exercise” is the one you enjoy and will keep doing. If you hate boot camp workouts or can’t see yourself making a weekly commitment to yoga, move on to something you’ll look forward to showing up for. Maybe a dance class, Spinning, ballet-inspired barre workouts, or walking with friends. You want to make this experience as pleasant as possible. 

8 Make New Habits

If you can nail down a few fitness habits—whether that’s getting up a few mornings a week or even showing up to the gym when you don’t feel like it—you’re more likely to be successful. Once your mental game is on point and established, the physical aspect of following through with your intentions will be easier.

9 Do It for Yourself

When you make a promise to anyone else in your life—your husband, child, boss, or friend—you stick to it, but because it’s you, you might not stick to your commitment. You must treat the fitness and health commitments you make for yourself like you would your job, family, and friendships. You wouldn’t let important people in your life who are counting on you down, so why do it to yourself? 

In the end it’s all about taking care of you.

Zen Massage in Salt Lake City 

ZenMassage.net

(801) 467-3529

5520 South Van Winkle Expy

Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Back to School Specials for Mom’s – Spa Massage in Utah

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Back to School Specials for Mom’s – Spa Massage in Utah

Back to School Specials for Mom’s – Spa Massage in Utah

Over the school holidays, if you had a dollar for every harassed mom who said she REALLY needed a massage you would probably be able to close your massage and spa business for a week and fly out to the Bahamas.

When the summer vacation is all over and life has returned to near normal, there are stressed parents everywhere looking for some respite, and a little treat after the weeks of ‘Mom, I’m bored’ from their little darlings. So why not come up with a few back to school specials that will soothe and restore them again?

  1. Most Moms will have spent a lot of the school holidays on their feet. Whether they’ve been on a vacation with the kids, on day trips or just running around after them constantly, the first part of their body (well, other than their nerves) that needs to recuperate is probably their feet. Promote overall stress relief, well-being and foot care with a package that will give real results; a ‘Take the Weight Off’ pamper package offering a reflexology session with all the extras!
  2. Cover all bases with an aromatic foot soak with essential oils, sugar or salt scrub, relaxing massage and reflexology, followed by a moisturizing foot mask or paraffin wax treatment. You’re your mom is relaxed, you can complete the treatment with a choice of polish and she’ll feel just like new!
  3. Another area that busy moms neglect when the kids are home is their own personal grooming. Let’s be honest, who has the time for a wax, a facial or manicure when they have a houseful of little ones to keep entertained? Taking them to the salon is a no-no so after a few weeks, unless they’ve managed to sneak off for an afternoon of me-time, they’ll be in need of some upkeep. A pick and mix package for all the bits they’ve missed, with discounts for the more treatments they book at one time, could be a winner.
  4. So, if they are coming in for their wax, you could offer 10 per cent off a regular facial booked at the same time, and if two treatments are booked, offer a further discount on a manicure or an eyebrow/lash treatment. They don’t have to have all the treatments at the same time, but they must be booked at the same time. Promote it as ‘Back to school and back to YOU’ to encourage moms to book the deals, and get them feeling more like themselves after a frazzled few weeks.
  5. Finally, a massage package is always a winner with moms who have been feeling stressed from all the extra demands of their kids. Offer a Back to School Massage deal – all full body, aromatherapy or shoulder, neck and back massages are 10 per cent off if booked for the first two weeks after the holidays – and add in a 15 minute foot massage as a free upgrade.

The main thing to remember is that for weeks, moms everywhere have been focusing on everyone but themselves – so you’re going to put the focus right back onto them and make them feel special.

Book your Back to School Massage today at Zen Massage – (801) 467-3529

Sports Massage “Hurts So Good”

Amanda Sullivan Healthy Lifestyle, Massage Therapy, Therapy Sports Injury , , , , , , , , 0 Comment

Sports Massage Really Does Hurt So Good

According to Johnson Memorial Health’s blog, Sports Massage Really Does Hurt So Good.

 “It’s a good kind of hurt.” Sports Massage Therapy may not have the same ambiance or effects of a luxurious spa treatment, but the benefits will improve your athletic performance and help injury recovery. 

There’s no need to suffer with tight or sore muscles for weeks on end when regular therapy can help expedite recovery. The deep tissue rubdown can be painful at first but the effects on conditioning and improvement on performance is well worth the initial discomfort.

Many professional, collegiate and high school athletic programs integrate Sports Massage into their training programs, according to the American Massage Therapy Association. Massages take place before or after competition. And, while Sports Massage is more physically intense than a spa massage, you’ll still walk away with less stress and tension.

The specific technique used in Sports Massage Therapy gives your muscles more oxygen and nutrients necessary for quick recovery and to prepare them for competition. To give you a better idea of how exactly this happens, we broke down the benefits for you.

Pacing

Often fast-paced, Sports Massage Therapy can be administered before or after competition or a workout. It is designed to increase flexibility and reduce soreness – and can be customized by the sport or athlete’s body type. Typically pre-event massages are performed at a faster pace to prepare the muscles for competition; stimulating them to increase speed and flexibility.

Technique

The Certified Sports Massage Therapist administering the massage uses specific techniques that apply heavier pressure on layers of muscles and deep tissues. This helps to:

  • Get blood flowing back to the heart
  • Deliver fresh oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and tissue

The goal is to remove knots and tension within the muscles. The tissue movement also removes waste products and toxins from your tissues and muscles through the blood and lymphatic system. Drinking plenty of water after a massage helps to move these out of your body.  — with the help of lots of water following the massage.

Physical Benefits

While a Sports Massage can leave you sore for about a day or two, the therapy directly benefits the muscles and integrated cardiovascular system. Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine said the increased and enhanced blood circulation and relaxed muscles helps to:

  • Relieve muscle tension
  • Reduce soreness
  • Make for faster recovery
  • Increase range of motion and flexibility

Sports Massage Therapy can also prevent or relieve Delayed Onset Muscle soreness by encouraging blood and lymph flow throughout the body and preventing muscle fatigue.

Psychological Benefits

Besides helping the body recover physically, Sports Massage Therapy also gets you into competition mod and mentally prepares you for your next workout. During the release of tight muscles, the body increases dopamine and serotonin levels. This reduces stress, tension and anxiety by activating your parasympathetic nervous system.

Therapist Qualifications

A therapist’s credentials help give you a clearer idea of a therapist’s capabilities and competency surrounding different massage therapies. In general, according to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), credentials include:

  • Licensing
  • Board Certification
  • Education and Training with an accredited school
  • Membership with a professional association like AMTA, NCBTMB or ABMP.

To ensure that your therapist is understanding of sports-related injuries or prevention, it’s recommended that you look for a therapist with certification in particular modalities used in sports therapy, for example, myofascial techniques

Make sure to ask them about any questions or concerns you have about Sports Massage Therapy.

Originally Posted by Johnson Memorial Health

 

For professional Sports Massage in Salt Lake City Contact Zen Massage (801) 467-3529

5520 South Van Winkle Expy

Salt Lake City, UT 84117

The Benefits of Prenatal Massage

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The Benefits of Prenatal Massage

FOR MOTHER AND BABIES TOGETHER

Both mother and baby

First and foremost, prenatal massage makes you feel good. It nurtures and pampers the body at a time when it needs it most. Book your appointment at Zen Massage in Salt Lake City, UT today. (801) 467-3529

In addition to soothing the body and dissolving stress, a trained touch delivers a wide range of physiological, psychological and emotional benefits.

It’s a safe and relaxing way to relieve pregnancy’s common discomforts like backaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, leg cramps and shakes, headaches, heartburn, fatigue, hemorrhoids, nasal congestion, sciatica and shortness of breath.

Prenatal massage does more than benefit the mother. Everything a pregnant woman does — from her diet and fitness to her relaxation and relative state of contentment – also directly affects the child she is carrying.

Study after study has proven that calmness in the mother leads to healthier in-utero development.

Regular prenatal massage can help prepare you for labor by making the pelvis more supple.

Just like a regular massage, prenatal massage:

  • improves circulation
  • aids lymphatic flow
  • removes toxins
  • promotes relaxation
  • raises endorphin levels
  • eases neck, back, and joint pain
  • relieves muscle spasms and cramps

Book your appointment at Zen Massage in Salt Lake City, UT today. (801) 467-3529

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