massage therapy

Check Out Olena Litovsky’s Story

Amanda Sullivan Blog, Healthy Lifestyle, Massage Service, Massage Therapy, Utah, Zen Massage , , , , , ,

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.

Pricing:

  • $89 for 60 min massage (reg price)
  • $69 for 60 min massage (membership price
  • $129 for 90 min massage
  • $159 for 120 min massage

Contact Info:

Thank you Voyage Utah for the interview spotlighting Zen Massage of Salt Lake City.

Original source: https://voyageutah.com/interview/check-out-olena-litovskys-story

Rumor Has It … Massage Myths Explained

Amanda Sullivan Alternative medicine, Blog, Healthy Lifestyle, Massage Service, Massage Therapy, seasonal stress, Zen Massage , , , ,

“Massage is a luxury for the rich and famous.” 

“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. 

Book Online or Call (801) 467-3529

Virtual Tour of our Massage Salon in Salt Lake City

Zen Massage

5520 South Van Winkle Expy,

Salt Lake City, Utah 84117

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Massage Techniques for Fibromyalgia Relief

Amanda Sullivan Alternative medicine, Educational, Healthy Lifestyle, Massage Therapy, Zen Massage , , , ,
Fibromyalgia Relief

Massage therapy is widely used for reducing stress, relieving pain, decreasing feelings of anxiety, and increasing overall well-being, all of which are great for people with fibromyalgia. Below are 5 massage techniques that have been shown to relieve fibromyalgia.

Attention: Massage therapy may not be for everyone suffering from fibromyalgia, but meeting with a trained and attentive massage therapist that eases you into the session may provide the relief you need. Make sure to communicate your symptoms and how much pressure you are comfortable with.

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is the most common massage therapy technique. This massage utilizes a variety of movements to relax the entire body, including long strokes, kneading, rolling, and circular movements. Swedish massage is widely known for reducing stress, increasing blood flow, and detoxifying the body, all of which are beneficial to fibromyalgia sufferers.

Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger points–widely called knots–are painful spots found on muscles that are sensitive when pressure is applied. These points are very common, particularly around injuries, and can feel very sharp or like a dull ache. Those who suffer from fibromyalgia tend to have more trigger points than the average person. Trigger point massage therapy aims to deactivate those trigger points by applying pressure and kneading the muscle. The pain relief is often immediate.

Myofascial Release

Fascia is a thin casing of connective tissue that surrounds and holds every organ, blood vessel, bone, nerve fiber, and muscle in place. The myofascial release technique relieves pain and tightness in the fascia. The massage therapist finds trigger points and tightness which helps reduce fibromyalgia pain and stiffness.

Hot-Stone Massage

During a hot-stone massage, the massage therapist places heated, smooth, flat stones on key points of the body. These stones help the body relax, provide pain relief and release muscle tension.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is very similar to Swedish massage but with stronger pressure from the massage therapist. This massage focuses on releasing tension in the body’s soft tissue and relaxing and detoxifying the body. This massage technique is not recommended for those just starting with massage therapy for fibromyalgia relief as many with fibromyalgia suffer from a lower pain threshold. Acupuncture for fibromyalgia or consistent massage therapy sessions can actually help increase this pain threshold.

Fibromyalgia can feel debilitating, but with a multi-treatment approach, this chronic condition shouldn’t slow you down. 

Zen Massage in Salt Lake City, Ut. Set up an appointment with the best masseurs in SLC today! Book Online or Call (801) 467-3529

Virtual Tour of our Massage Salon in Salt Lake City

Zen Massage

5520 South Van Winkle Expy,

Salt Lake City, Utah 84117

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Massage Therapy for Headaches

Amanda Sullivan Alternative medicine, Educational, Healthy Lifestyle, Zen Massage , , , ,
Massage Therapy for Headaches

Nothing is worse than a headache disrupting your personal or professional life, and some headaches come with symptoms like nausea and fatigue, making it even harder to get things done and live your life.

Whether you suffer from chronic migraines or get random stress-related headaches, there is a good chance massage therapy can help you. Massages provide a variety of health benefits, many of which can prevent headaches from happening in the first place. 

What are your headache triggers?

It’s important to figure out what could be triggering your headaches so you choose the correct treatment methods. People have different headache triggers, especially those who suffer from chronic headaches like migraines. 

The most common triggers for all types of headaches include: 

  • Stress
  • Hormones
  • Diet
  • Changes in sleep
  • Dehydration
  • Caffeine
  • Light

If your headaches are becoming more frequent or you are unsure what triggers your headaches, we recommend speaking with your primary care doctor. You deserve to know how you can live a headache-free life. From simple treatment methods to figuring out how you can avoid getting the headache altogether your doctor will have some helpful ideas.

How can massage therapy help?

One of the most common causes of headaches is Stress, a well-known benefit of massage therapy is stress reduction. Studies have shown long-term stress relief for people who get regular massages from a licensed therapist. 

Massage therapy also:

  • Increases serotonin levels
  • Relieves tension
  • Improves oxygen flow

All of which can contribute to headache prevention and relief.

Unlike a lot of the other headache triggers, stress is a pretty difficult thing to avoid. If you think stress is causing headaches, we recommend giving massage therapy a try for your headache relief.

Book Your Massage @ Zen Massage Luxury Massage in Salt Lake City, Utah

If you want the best masseurs in Salt Lake City, set up an appointment with ZEN Massage.

Book Online or Call (801) 467-3529

Zen Massage

5520 South Van Winkle Expy

Salt Lake City, UT 84117

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10 Things Your Massage Therapist Can Tell About You

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

So, we all expect massage therapists to ease muscle tension and help us work through injuries. But that hour on the table reveals a lot more than just the stress we’ve asked them to soothe. Here are 10 things your massage therapists can most likely tell about you and your health after a massage.

1. You Love Big Purses

If your body is tighter on one side, a therapist knows that you shift more onto one leg while standing (this happens with women who carry purses predominantly on one shoulder). Glutes, hamstrings, and quads will be tight, and you’ll also have an unnatural pelvic tilt.

2. You Have A Desk Job

The signs? A weak lower back, as evidenced by one hip being higher than the other. People who sit in front of a computer all day also have tight glutes and legs.

3. You Do A Lot Of Driving

Sitting behind the wheel leads to a far-forward posture. People who spend a significant amount of time commuting by car will often exhibit hunched shoulders because of this.

4. You’re Injured

If you have an acute injury, therapists can feel heat and inflammation. Chronic injuries show themselves in the form of dehydrated muscles that feel tight. And with repetitive injuries, tendons and muscles will feel wiry like guitar strings.

5. You Text Too Much

Chronic texters will find it painful when a massage therapist rubs their shoulders. The cause? The downward position of your head when texting creates an imbalance in the shoulders.

6. You’re Dehydrated

Trigger points in the upper back will be tender if you haven’t had your recommended eight glasses of water each day.

7. You’re Cold All The Time

It’s instinct to hunch up our shoulders to our ears when we’re cold. So it’s no surprise that clients come in with stress in their necks and the tops of their shoulders during winter months.

8. You’re A Runner

Hips and the low back will feel tight, and you might also complain about tension in the bottom of the foot.

9. Your Allergies Are Acting Up

Is Pet dander getting to you? The tissue around your eyes, forehead, cheeks, and jaw will feel tender and inflamed. The same goes for lymph nodes in the chest, neck, and underarms.

10. You’re A Frequent Backpacker

Heavy backpack straps cut across the shoulder blades, and the muscles in your scapula become tight in response to the pressure.

Book Your Massage @ Zen Massage Luxury Massage in Salt Lake City, Utah

If you want the best masseurs in Salt Lake City, set up an appointment with ZEN Massage today! Book Online or Call (801) 467-3529

Zen Massage

5520 South Van Winkle Expy

Salt Lake City, UT 84117

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Spring Cleaning and Massage Therapy

Amanda Sullivan Educational, Healthy Lifestyle, Therapy Sports Injury, Zen Massage , , , , ,

Cleaning up around the house is a physical task that often results in muscle pain and soreness.

When it comes to yard work or even deep cleaning our homes, most of us don’t really stop to think about how we are lifting. It’s important to lift properly, even when handling a lightweight box or reaching for something small that is just a little beyond our reach. It’s common for Massage Therapists to get a lot of clients coming in for sore back, stiff neck, knee pain, and/or muscle spasms during the spring season. 

Lifting should be done with a straight neck and back, about 45 degrees angle from the ground, legs bent. Most of the lift is really coming from your legs and gluteal muscles. They are a lot more powerful than the many smaller muscles of the back and spine. Even when what you are about to lift from the floor is just a few pounds, it’s best to lift properly regardless of the weight you are about to pick up.

The more you practice proper lifting (with your legs and NOT your back), the easier and less likely it will be for you to lift improperly later because by then it’s automatic.

Not only do we lift improperly, but some of us also seem to do a twist in the middle of lifting. That usually results in immediate spasms in the mid to lower back. Remember, that when we lift AND twist our backs, we are then pulling the muscles. 

It is not recommended to contract your muscle while twisting and thus stretching. This combination could result in muscle tearing.

There are two common types of lower back strain:

  • A muscle strain happens when the muscle is over-stretched or torn, resulting in damage to the muscle fibers (also called a pulled muscle).
  • A lumbar sprain happens when ligaments are stretched too far or torn. Ligaments are very tough, fibrous connecting tissues that connect bones together.

For practical purposes, it doesn’t matter if it is a muscle strain or a ligament sprain that is causing the pain, since the treatment and prognosis for both are the same.

When the muscles or ligaments in the low back are strained or torn, the area around the muscles will usually become inflamed. The inflammation leads to back spasm, and it is the back spasm that can cause both severe lower back pain and difficulty moving.

The best way to NOT have any of these symptoms is PREVENTION. That means proper body mechanics and proper posture.

So before you start your spring cleaning projects, please make sure you set your massage appointments within a few days after each project. That way you can recover from any muscle fatigue or soreness that has resulted in this once-a-year physical event. Your body will thank you.

Book Your Massage @ Zen Massage

If you want the best masseurs in Salt Lake City, set up an appointment with ZEN Massage today! Book Online or Call (801) 467-3529

Zen Massage

5520 South Van Winkle Expy

Salt Lake City, UT 84117

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Gain Mental Clarity by Zenning Out

Amanda Sullivan Educational, Healthy Lifestyle, Zen Massage , , , , , ,

Why should you zen out?

You have so much you want to do and accomplish, but life has a way of stepping in and presenting challenges. These challenges can cause you to go into stress mode, compromising your ability to think clearly or in an emotionally balanced way.

Many of the issues we have with mental clarity and emotional imbalance can be traced directly to stress. Stress, which signals a natural hormonal response to our fears, and negative perceptions of information, events, challenges, and issues, has a way of depleting our peace of mind. This leaves us open to negative thoughts and self-talk, unfounded fears, anxiety, and depression that can release an overwhelming dose of fight or flight hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, into our bloodstreams.  These hormones are what make us physically feel our stress. They speed up our breathing and create shallow breaths. They tighten the muscles across our shoulders and can leave a queasiness in the pit of our stomachs. Stress hormones can cause insomnia, headaches, toothaches, backaches, and other illnesses that arise from a lowered immune system, like colds and infections. The best ways to override the symptoms of stress are to know your signs of stress, and consciously avoid them by getting your zen on.

Getting your zen on is all about managing and eliminating your stress by taking yourself easily into a relaxed state on a regular basis. In your zen state, you will realize that it is your perceptions of things that cause you pain, not the thing itself. You will also realize that you have the mental power to choose how you process and understand information, as well as how you respond to issues and challenges.  Below, you’ll find some ideas on how to get your zen on.

What is zen and zenning out?

Zenning is the new version of an ancient Japanese Buddhism practice that emphasizes the value of meditation and intuition. In Japanese, zen means ultimate meditation. Zenning out is the combination of mind, body, spirit actions you can take, to raise your ability to meditate, heighten your intuition and release the stress that is interfering with your mental clarity and emotional balance.  

How to zen out

  • Meditate – A neuroscientist at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School did an extensive study that found, meditation not only reduces stress and relaxes you, but it actually restores grey matter to various areas of your brain and helps you to retain your short term memory longer. If you are not good at meditation, try a guided meditation app, like Calm, or find a free one to help you get going. Take a look at this list of meditation apps to see if any of these will work for you.
  • Practice yoga – Yoga can help to gain and maintain mental clarity by increasing your body’s awareness, relieving stress, and reducing muscle tension, and inflammation. Yoga also sharpens your attention span and calms your nervous system as reported by the American Psychological Association. To get started you might look for classes in your area or try a health spa.
  • Get a massage – Massage therapy can actually treat anxiety and other mental health disorders like depression, because of its ability to reduce cortisol levels in highly stressed individuals. Also, you need to know that massage releases toxins from your muscles into your bloodstream for elimination, so after a massage, drink lots of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol. Also, avoid getting a massage when you are feeling sick. To get a professional massage you might look for deals in your area or if you live in Salt Lake contact us at Zen Massage https://zenmassage.net/ 
  • Take Tea – In general, low or reduced caffeine teas can promote calm serene feelings, but according to a 2017 study, reduced caffeine green tea shows great promise as an aid for helping you to sleep better as well. Getting a good night’s sleep is critical to gaining and maintaining mental clarity and emotional balance. Don’t just drink tea, learn how to Take Tea. Try this zen tea music with your tea.
  • Take a stroll – All exercise is deemed beneficial to mental and physical health, but according to the website, Walking for Health, consistently walking for 90 minutes a week, can improve your self-perception, self-esteem, mood, and sleep quality, all while helping to reduce your stress, anxiety, and fatigue.  Lace-up a good pair of walking shoes, find a scenic path, and get to walking.
  • Clearing – Clearing is a lovely ritual, of getting rid of things that are no longer useful to create sacred space for positive energy; be it clothing, habits, or even thoughts. Clearing will open your mind and heart and allow peace to flow freely in and around you. 
  • Cleansing  – When we cleanse as a form of meditation, cleansing becomes a ritual of commitment to personal harmony and beauty.  When we cleanse, we are detoxing and purifying everything that contributes harmony and beauty in our lives; be it our minds, bodies, homes, or even relationships, cleansing can help us find mental clarity and emotional balance. 

How do you zen out? 

Come in and Zen out @ Zen Massage

If you want the best masseurs in Salt Lake City, set up an appointment with ZEN Massage today! Book Online or Call (801) 467-3529

Zen Massage

5520 South Van Winkle Expy

Salt Lake City, UT 84117

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WHAT IS AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE?

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

What is Aromatherapy Massage?

Well, Aromatherapy Massage is a specific type of massage therapy that incorporates the use of scented essential oils into a massage. The massage involves alternating between gentle and harder pressure while using a specific blend of essential oils. The essential oils are diluted before use and are applied along with lotion during the massage. Not only is the client’s body benefiting from direct contact with the essential oils, but the oils are alleged to have specific healing properties upon inhaling after exposure. 

What are the benefits of Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapeutic massage not only has the client leaving with a full body massage but they also allegedly provide emotional healing and relaxation. The benefits are on a long list that includes some of the same benefits as other massages. Below are a few benefits of a massage that incorporates aromatherapy:

  • Stress-reducing
  • Anxiety reliever
  • Increased calmness and relaxation
  • Decreased muscle tension
  • Pain relief
  • A reduction of symptoms of depression
  • Ease of pain from these conditions:
    • Fibromyalgia
    • Chronic lower back pain
    • Myofascial pain syndrome
    • Arthritis
    • Insomnia relief
    • Temporomandibular joint dysfunction
    • Peripheral neuropathy
    • Polymyalgia rheumatica
    • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
    • Premenstrual syndrome
    • Rheumatoid arthritis

As you can see above, the benefits of aromatherapy are fruitful. There are many different essential oils that correlate to many different healing paths so it’s up to you to communicate with your therapist to decide what oils are best for you to use. If you are someone who has trouble sleeping or needs to relax, something like lavender would most likely be applied during your session. If you are suffering from emotional distress, perhaps rosemary or rose will be applied. 

How Does It Work?

The process of aromatherapy is just like any other massage. After scheduling an appointment with your therapist, you will then discuss any issues you have or what you need to work on (only if this was not discussed prior). Then after you let the therapist know what type of condition you have or what specific oils you would like they will then give you your options. If a client isn’t requesting a massage to heal any nerves, muscles, or joints, they can ask for a more general request such as an energizing, uplifting, relaxing, or decongesting massage. Once you choose your oils, the therapist will give you time to un-robe and situate. Then your experience will begin.

In terms of the research that backs the science of essential oils; it is conflicting. There is clear evidence of essential oils aiding people in their healing process, but there is no clear research that shows how essential oils directly correlate to that healing process.

Here are the facts:

  • Essential Oils can make people feel good
  • Aromatherapy is a widely used practice
  • So far the dangers of oils arise only when clients are allergic to them (which is not common)

Why Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy has very few precautions attached to it. The main thing to worry about when dabbling in the realm of essential oils is making sure that you are not allergic to any of them. Not only are you inhaling the scent of the oils, but they will be in direct contact with your body and it is not safe to expose yourself to any substances you are allergic to. Other than that, essential oils and aromatherapy massage are holistic methods of healing that does not involve any sort of drugs.

If you are someone who is interested in healing with minimal drug usage, then investing your time in learning about essential oils would be great for you.

Book Your Massage @ Zen Massage

If you want the best masseurs in Salt Lake City, set up an appointment with ZEN Massage today! Book Online or Call (801) 467-3529

Zen Massage

5520 South Van Winkle Expy

Salt Lake City, UT 84117

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Therapeutic Massage for Seniors

Amanda Sullivan Healthy Lifestyle, Massage Service, Zen Massage , , , , , ,

Therapeutic Massage for Seniors

As we grow older, our bodies tend to start slowing down as we begin to experience some of the pain and stiffness that comes with aging. It may be difficult to stay involved with all the physical activities you enjoy due to chronic conditions like osteoarthritis or ailments like Parkinson’s disease. 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

According to a survey conducted by the American Massage Therapy Association, approximately 9 million people over age 55 had a total of 39 million massages in the last twelve months, 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 healthier overall.

Massage therapy offers numerous benefits to 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 the 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.

Typically a massage for a senior 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.

Senior Massage Benefits

Massage therapy for seniors has been proven to have positive effects on:

  • 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.
  • Sleep habits and quality of sleep. Seniors who receive weekly massages report that they are 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Physical and 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.
  • 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.

Try incorporating massage into your healthcare routine to see what benefits and relief you begin to experience yourself. Please consult your Doctor before seeking new treatments and therapies.

Book Your Massage @ Zen Massage

If you want the best masseurs in Salt Lake City, set up an appointment with ZEN Massage today! Book Online or Call (801) 467-3529

Zen Massage – 5520 South Van Winkle Expy. Salt Lake City, UT 84117

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Pain, Emotional Wellness & Massage

Amanda Sullivan Educational, Massage Advantage, Massage Therapy , , , ,

Pain affects every single one of us at many stages of our lives. Pain is the leading reason people seek medical attention from a general practitioner and accounts for approximately 80% of all physician visits. It is estimated that currently, 50 million Americans experience chronic pain such as:

  • back pain
  • headaches
  • carpal tunnel syndrome
  • osteoarthritis
  • neck and shoulder pain
  • fibromyalgia

It doesn’t have to be chronic pain to have negative effects. Anyone who has had muscle aches, or shoulder or back pain that comes and goes, or a temporary injury, has likely noticed the connection to negative emotions like anxiety, stress, or depression, or general mood swings. Left unchecked, this can have long-term negative consequences, affecting your overall health and getting in the way of everyday tasks and responsibilities.

Not to mention pain really throws a kink in your active lifestyle, preventing you from doing the things you love—the things that make you, you!

Pain is a multi-dimensional, subjective experience unique to every individual. Weirdly, pain doesn’t only affect your emotions, causing you to be anxious or depressed, it can also be the expression of your anxiety and depression. That’s right, your unaddressed emotional baggage could be causing pain, and/or your pain could be causing you emotional distress. Talk about a knot to untangle!

The good news is, there is significant evidence supporting the inclusion of massage therapy to help alleviate the different types of pain that plague so many of us—and even prevent them from getting severe in the first place.

So how does massage help combat these negative impacts and help to manage all kinds of pain?

A 2016 systematic review and meta-analysis found that “massage therapy may be beneficial, with minimal safety concerns, for treating various pain and function-related outcomes in pain populations.” The American College of Physicians (ACP) has issued new guidelines for treating low back pain that recommends massage and other complementary therapies such as applied heat and acupuncture over “costly and potentially harmful drugs.”

It’s also important to point out that in addition to pain relief, massage therapy can play a big role in the management of anxiety and depression which have become so common in modern-day. In fact, stress and anxiety reduction are among the most common physician referrals and patient requests for massage therapy.

So whether it’s physical pain causing emotional stress, vice versa, or one or the other, massage is a definite win-win-win-win.

Clearly, this isn’t a secret. According to the American Massage Therapy Association in 2019, 21% of adult Americans received a massage, with 52% reporting it was for a health or medical reason and 26% reporting it was for relaxation and reducing stress.

When it comes to seeking relief from pain and discomfort, or anxiety and stress, or all of the above, massage therapy can play a large role in your management solution. That’s the upside. And there really is no downside. Massage has been shown to have few risks or adverse side effects and is generally recognized as safe, therapeutic, and effective.

Come “Zen Out” at Zen Massage therapeutic massage customized to meet your unique needs!

Book Your Massage @ Zen Massage

If you want the best masseurs in Salt Lake City, set up an appointment with ZEN Massage today! Book Online or Call (801) 467-3529

Zen Massage

5520 South Van Winkle Expy

Salt Lake City, UT 84117

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