touch Massage and Holistic Therapies

The history of Massage Therapy can be traced back over 5,000 years varying in many

different types and applications. Chinese, Persian, and Egyptian cultures have all recorded the use of

Massage Therapy for a variety of purposes including the improvement of circulatory and joint

movement issues.

There are numerous types of massage, but perhaps the most popular and commonly

known is

Swedish Massage, which was first introduced as medical gymnastics in the 19th century by

Swedish Psychologist

Pehr Henrick Ling. He created a system of massage, using old techniques used by ancient

Greeks and Romans to enhance many physical benefits.

Others believe that Dutch practitioner Johan Georg Mezger is the true developer

of the techniques of Swedish Massage. He created the French

names of the

techniques incorporated within this type of massage.

Massage is generally assumed to be a lavish comfort that only the wealthy can

afford. This idea has been changing throughout the course of history. Presently, Swedish massage

is used not only to relax the human body, but to increase the overall health of the person receiving it.


Why Do I Need Massage Therapy?

There are numerous benefits to Swedish massage for all people and particularly athletes.

Dilation Of Blood Vessels

Swedish massage helps to dilate the blood vessels, which improves circulation, which is necessary

for flushing out toxins that exist throughout the body (lactic acid) that can cause problems such as

swelling and muscle soreness.
It is not the actual massage that is increasing circulation, but it aids the body to initiate its own

natural healing. It also increases the amount of red blood cells, protecting the body from anemia.

For athletes, it is very important to keep the muscles healthy and in superior condition to increase

performance.

Swedish massages assist in this process by improving muscle tone and helping to prevent fatigue

and muscular atrophy which could result in injury. Injury is commonly caused by fatigued muscles

that have become shortened (that is, tightened and strained). This type of massage has been

known to actually lengthen the muscle, which reverses this problem. (APC CLASS NOTES)

Injury Prevention & Cleansing

Injury prevention is imperative for athletes. Massage helps the individual to be conscious of how

their body functions and what restrictions it may have.
It is also very important for athletes to keep their body cleansed of impurities, thus Swedish acts

as a mechanical cleanser, by stimulating lymph circulation and quickening waste and toxic

elimination.

As we all know, when a muscle is pushed too hard without enough water, muscle spasms can

occur. Massage works to relax muscle spasms and gives a relief of tension, while also provides

natural recovery to the body.

After an intense workout, the body is depleted of essential amino acids, such as L-Glutimine. Massage can offset this depletion as well as boost the immune system. Athletes know that it is

vital that they stay in optimal health so they can continue to train.

To become sick and have to stop training for even three days can be detrimental to an athlete and their workout regimen. This massage provides support for the individual, not just on a physical level but on a psychological level as well.

The massage helps to stimulate a chemical reaction in the body that reduces the opportunity for the body susceptibility to colds and slower recovery time.

Relief From Tension & Stress

One of the most popular reasons to schedule a massage is to relieve the amount of tension and

stress that one may feel. This includes athletes! Training is difficult and requires an enormous

amount of dedication

and hard work.
The actual event that the athlete is participating in can push their stress level to the max which can

actually lessen their performance. This is where massage comes in as a necessary tool.

By allowing the mind to relax and release inner tension, the body follows along. From my own

personal experience, having a massage prior to an athletic event has not only made me feel less

anxious, but it has also made me aware that I have an edge on the rest of my competitors.

Boost Performance

Pre-event massage helps to enhance performance, reduce tense muscles, augment flexibility and

awareness, and also as injury prevention. (Salvo, 571) Massage can actually boost confidence

levels because of a better outlook on body image, which is very important to all people but

especially those who are faced with competition.
The body has the tendency to get so worked up from all the exercising and dieting that it can

forget to relax, just as you forget to relax. Massage is beneficial for this reason because it allows

the body to just chill out for a while and try to recover.

Benefits Of Swedish Massage

Circulatory System

Increases circulation and lowers blood pressure
Emphasizes the elimination of metabolic wastes. This is also effective because it lessens

ischemia

(reduction of blood supply to organs and/or tissues which affects muscular pain)
Improves the lymphatic system which also removes waste from the body thus resulting in less

swelling from injury

Endocrine System

Releases endorphins
Mechanically stretches and elongates muscles
Stimulates parasympathetic nervous system
Reduction in pain
Helps improve weak muscles
Supports relaxation and improves sleep

Muscular System

Alleviates the restriction of muscles as well as tension and stiffness
Enhances blood circulation
Increases flexibility and durability of muscles
Delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles which reduces muscle fatigue and

soreness.

Respiratory System

Stimulates slower breathing
Breaks up mucus and other respiratory discharge in the lungs.
Allows the body to become relaxed and begin the repairing process
If you're suffering from a cold, this is helpful because it helps you to rid your body of

these toxins at a faster rate.

Digestion/Elimination

Can relieve colic and gas as well as constipation
Promotes better digestion

Psychological

Relaxes body and mind
Improves all over well-being of the individual
Relief of inner tension and stress (Salvo)

Swedish Massage & Athletes

I would recommend a Swedish Massage for any athlete. There are many different types of

massage; the differences vary in the application of the massage (pressure, technique) as well

as the goals and limitations

of the person receiving it.

In my own experience, I have worked on runners and cyclists. The muscle groups differ with each

athlete, but massage is important no matter the sport an individual is involved in.

After any type of massage, it is important to drink at least 3 glasses of water (approximately 24oz).

This will facilitate the release of toxins and emphasize muscle flexibility.

A useful tip for post-massage is to stretch, this will enhance the benefits of the massage.

Most importantly, relax and enjoy the massage!