This massage therapy is most effective for the dissipation of lactic acid build up in sore muscles.
A trained, competent therapist can also release and loosen the connective tissue that surrounds every muscle fiber, called the fascia. Fascia, the most abundant tissue in the body, has a tendency to bind up like glue. The reason this tissue binds up is in response to habitual movement that most people use that deviates from correct body mechanics. This “glue” in turn inhibits muscle movement and flexibility. A qualified massage therapist should be able to alleviate the tissue constriction and congestion; leaving the client feeling much more flexible and supple. With consecutive sessions, and education about how to retain correct structural body mechanics, the client should get permanent results, with equalized muscle lengths and minimal fascia congestion. This leaves the client pain free and flexible.
Many people feel they have to get a massage every week just so they can move and temporarily minimize pain. The pain never really goes away no matter how many massages
they get. The reason for this is because most massage therapists are not educated enough to address these problems correctly; some don’t even know what fascia is! Many just get the minimal education that legally qualifies them to work–two hundred hours of scholastic massage education training. These therapists are probably qualified to give a feel good relaxing massage but they certainly cannot correctly address any structural, deep tissue issues. On the other hand, all of the therapists who work for Carmel-Massage have over 1,000 hours of scholastic training and are well qualified to address and help the client with any soft tissue problems they might have.
Real talk
Frequently
Each massage type offers unique benefits: Couple’s Massage promotes relaxation and bonding; Neuro-Muscular Therapy relieves chronic pain; Hot Stone Massage soothes muscles with heat; Prenatal/Postnatal Massage reduces pregnancy-related discomfort; Thai Massage increases flexibility and energy flow; Structural Integration improves posture; Sports Massage enhances athletic recovery; Reflexology targets pressure points for overall wellness; Deep Tissue Massage alleviates chronic tension, and Aromatherapy Massage combines essential oils for relaxation.
If you want relaxation, try Hot Stone or Aromatherapy Massage. For muscle pain or tension, Deep Tissue or Neuro-Muscular Therapy may work best. Thai Massage is excellent for flexibility, while Sports Massage helps with athletic recovery. Prenatal Massage is designed specifically for pregnancy-related care.
Most are safe, but considerations apply for certain health conditions such as pregnancy, injuries, or chronic illnesses. Always inform your therapist of any medical concerns to ensure a safe and effective session.
Stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals beforehand, and arrive early to discuss your goals with your therapist. For Thai Massage, wear comfortable, stretchy clothing as it involves active stretching.
The frequency depends on your needs. Relaxation-focused massages like Aromatherapy or Couple’s Massage can be done monthly. Therapeutic massages, such as Sports or Structural Integration, might be needed weekly or bi-weekly for best results.
The experience varies: Thai Massage involves assisted stretches, Hot Stone uses heated stones, and Reflexology focuses on feet and hands. Your therapist will tailor the session to your preferences and goals, ensuring comfort throughout.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, avoid intense physical activity for a few hours, and rest if needed. For deeper treatments like Deep Tissue Massage, using ice or heat can help alleviate soreness.
Yes, many therapists can customize a session by integrating techniques from multiple styles, such as combining Deep Tissue and Aromatherapy for targeted relief and relaxation. Discuss your preferences with your therapist.