The Bodycare Journal: The Benefits of Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is not just a luxury. In my opinion, it’s a way to a happier, healthier, and more relaxed life. As a licensed massage therapist, I often notice how many people seem to not know or understand what massage therapy is. In this realization, I made it my mission to start spreading not only the benefits of massage therapy but also, body care in general. I even started to show, self-massage techniques for your muscles to do at home in between massage therapy appointments. In this entry, I will educate you on everything massage in hopes for you to start this care or to take this knowledge with you on your next appointment.

What is a licensed massage therapist? Well, if one thing is for certain, we are not called masseuses. Massage therapists use a combination of effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction, and vibration to knead muscles and other soft tissues of the body. These techniques provide treatment for injuries and promote general wellness. A professional massage therapist guides towards healing of the muscles after analyzing the body through its range of motion, gate, etc. The term masseuse is not inherently wrong as it was one of the terms people used years ago to refer to massage therapists before the title included the word therapist. But, a lot has changed over time. Now this term can make your massage therapist uncomfortable and even offend them. The term masseuse has been appropriated as an innuendo in the United States to mean illicit sex worker. I acknowledge myself and another massage therapist as professionals. We are here to help you on your wellness journey so please be sure to use the correct term when addressing your licensed massage therapist. 

Massage therapy can benefit you in so many ways. Even I didn’t know the importance of getting massages until I went to school for my license. Now, I try to get at least one massage a month. This is because massage therapy helps: 

• reduced muscle tension
• improved circulation
• stimulation of the lymphatic system
• reduction of stress hormones
• relaxation
• increased joint mobility and flexibility
• improved skin tone
• improved recovery of soft tissue injuries
• heightened mental alertness
• reduced anxiety and depression.

And so much more! There are many different types of massages that can be curated to address your body goals. Each one will benefit you differently. 

On average, I recommend to my clients to get a massage once a month. However, you can receive them as often as you’d like. When you start to fit massage therapy into your monthly budget, do your research. Some things you may want to look out for are years of experience, the types of massages offered, the distance you will have to drive, the price, etc. In between sessions, you can use a massage ball to help release tension in certain areas. It’s super easy! This can be done with just about any small firm ball that you have around the house or a massage ball. Start by placing the ball on the exact area of tension and then use your body weight to move the ball in a circular motion against the wall or ground. Do this and you will become closer to being a happier, healthier, and more relaxed you! 

Be on the lookout for videos where I show you exactly how to accomplish this at-home practice.  I hope this journal entry gives you the tools to feel more educated about massage therapy. If you have any questions, reach out! I would love to answer them. Next week I will share tips on plane comfortability. Stay tuned!

By Jazmine Jamal

Founder of @521wellness