Massages are not at all the brand new Therapy, moreover the practice has been passed on for centuries. Ancient Chinese medical documents and inscriptions found in Egyptian tombs can demonstrate this. Nowadays, its popularity has drastically increased, and since we are well aware that with great power comes great rumors, we decided to bust some myths about massages. There are many reasons you should opt for a full bodywork, of course there are the Health benefits, but merely you should do it because it feels unbelievably good.
MYTH: Massages can spread cancer
According to researchers, oncological diseases develop and spread as a result of changes in DNA cells, which means massages can’t possibly have this effect.
Real benefit: On the contrary to this rumors, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery or drug therapy have used massages as a complementary therapy. They’ve been known to ease pain, help patients sleep better, reduce nausea and fatigue and improve motion and quality of life overall.
MYTH: You shouldn’t get a massage if you’re pregnant
Real benefit: There actually are specific Massage styles known as pregnancy massage or prenatal which can work wonders for future mothers. By reaching specific reflex zones, located for instance in your feet, the lymphatic and blood circulation will improve causing a benefic chain reaction: relaxing muscles, easing pain, lowering anxiety and decreasing back and leg pain.
Because it increases the levels of serotonin and dopamine, it will also help with mood swings.
A Cochrane Systematic Review (2012) found proof that massages have a significant improvement in managing labour pain and may play an important role in decreasing pain and improving women’s overall emotional experience of labour and birth.
MYTH: Massages can only have a short-term result
Of course, if you’re only going to get a massage once, the effects will not be as profound as if you’d add it to your routine.
Real benefit: By regularly getting a massage you can experience a lot of benefits. If you want a massage for relaxation and a feel-good vibe, you can get one whenever you feel your life’s gotten its toll on you or simply when you can squeeze one in your schedule.
But if you’re looking to ease symptoms of various conditions such as osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia, joint and muscular pain (and the list goes on) you will need to take more seriously and make time for it.
MYTH: Massages can’t stop migraines
Real benefit: Migraines, headaches, fatigue and insomnia are usually stress-related conditions. Besides unwinding your mind and body and helping them function properly, applying pressure on specific points can help block pain signals sent to the brain, which will prevent these conditions. It also strengthens your immune system in general and allows you to breathe deeper and easier. There are specific techniques such as reflexology or trigger point therapy that could help you if you’re experiencing painful and recurring headaches.
MYTH: All types of massages are basically the same
Real benefit: There are dozens of different massage styles, each one targeting a certain pain or need. Some of the most popular are: Swedish massage, which is the most common, best for relaxation, relieving stress and tight muscles; the Deep tissue massage is usually recommended for muscle stiffness and painful areas. Thai massages are also in demand, and are similar to a passive stretching session which improves flexibility and overall health. The Shiatsu and Watsu (basically the same thing, the only difference being that the last one is performed underwater) are destined for people having a lack of energy or suffering from migraines, lower and upper back pain or neck aches.
Nevertheless, getting a massage (especially if suffering from a specific medical condition) should be always done by a professional.
