Apart from feeling absolutely fabulous, there are many benefits gained by the therapeutic treatment, massage.

Too many people view this therapy as an indulgence rather than a wonderful preventative to health problems. They turn to it for its powerful benefits only when their body has been injured or suffering with intense pain.

Massage is a natural therapy which can be used to prevent debilitating problems from occurring. It calms the nervous system, releases endorphins, increases oxygen intake therefore breathing and digestion become more expansive while eliminating toxins, and building healthy tissue. Massage reduces levels of stress hormones, adrenalin and cortisol, and releases amino acids which work as the body’s natural painkiller. It enhances the immune system by stimulating lymph flow—the body’s natural defence system.

So, why not implement this therapy into your life on a regular basis, so its powerful affects can keep your mind and body humming away at it's optimum levels? A regular booking with a massage therapist can make a huge difference to your life. If you are running fast and hard to keep up with your life, it is important to put yourself first. It is important to invest in your wellbeing so you are happy, fit and healthy, and therefore, capable to achieve all that you desire.

It is important to take care of yourself as you would your family and friends, so that you have the energy and health to be able to give and care for the people you love. By investing in yourself in such a way you are acting as a positive example to the people in your life. They too will learn the benefits of self care, from you actions.

Swedish Massage- Is the most common massage therapy. It is very gentle and relaxing.

Head Massage- Book yourself into the hairdressers and ask for a head massage. For a further massage ask for your hair to be blow dried. Hairdressers work with the head and scalp all day, so they know how to release the tension and get the blood flowing in head. When the head is nice and relaxed the body naturally follows.

Facial- Beauty therapists specialise in kneading and massaging neck and facial muscles. They use silky creams and oils to cleanse and nurture the skin whilst gently massaging the areas around the eyes, mouth, cheeks, temples and neck.

Aromatherapy Massage- Is a massage with addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils.

Hot Stone Massage- Heated smooth stones are placed on specific areas of the body to warm and loosen tight muscles. The therapist may also hold the stones and apply gentle pressure with them whilst massaging.

Remedial - Deep tissue massage focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury.

Shiatsu- Is a form of Japanese body work, unlike the massages of the West, where kneading and friction is used, in shiatsu pressure and stretching is the key. The shiatsu practitioner uses palms, fingers, thumbs, knuckles, elbows, knees and the feet, to work on the body’s acupuncture points.

At your desk Massage. - There are masseuses who come to the workplace. However, leaving your work and your home environment to receive a massage will be of greater benefit.

On the couch Massage- Whilst sitting watching tele massage your hands, feet, and temples. Rub your stomach and solar plexus. Better still, if someone is sitting next to you ask them if they would like to do it for you. - And, of course- visa-versa.

There are many forms of massage, and the best way to find out which type suits you best is to be experimental and give them all a try. Make sure the practitioner has the necessary qualifications for the therapy you choose. You can also find discounted packages for massage, at natural medicine colleges for therapists in training.
Ask the practitioner for some quiet time whilst massaging. Don't be afraid to ask him/her to knead their fingers harder if necessary, or lighter. There are many products available such as chair massages, foot massages etc.

Invest in yourself and be a happy, relaxed person with sustainable energy and motivation to achieve great things!.

If you're ready to discover the simple techniques for breaking through the stress cycle and creating the success you deserve, visit http://www.gaeldrum.com.au/products.htm

Copyright Gael Drum, Balanced & Bold Work Life Solutions 2009. All Rights Reserved. This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. Ph: 0408 439 814 Email: gaeld@gaeldrum.com.au

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Stress Management Guru, Gael Drum from Balanced & Bold Work Life Solutions publishes the popular 'Stress Less for Success' fortnightly tips which helps people to take back control of their lives and maintain high energy levels, good health and motivation. http://www.stressfreeandsuccessful.com/

Author's Bio: 

Gael Drum is the author of the newly released book ‘Beyond burnout to balance’ and ‘A beautifully guided meditation’ CD series. Gael is available for speaking engagements and corporate stress management workshops. Book and CDs are available at http://www.gaeldrum.com.au/products.htm or your favourite book store.