Why relaxing techniques shouldn’t be separated from remedial massage?

Remedial massage is known to address muscular conditions, whereas relaxing massage deeply relaxes one’s mind and body. In this blog we will discuss why these two modalities shouldn’t be separated.

Being on a massage table doesn’t automatically stop the monkey mind to be active. Therefore, starting with relaxation techniques for any type of massage and especially remedial massage is crucial. Once the mind is calm and quiet the body can heal faster, and the massage treatment is more efficient. Additionally, clients will feel mentally and emotionally rejuvenated.

A calm mind is depicted in a slow brain activity or brain wave frequency called alpha, theta and delta. On the other hand, Beta is the brain activity of the thinking process. Alpha and theta have a slower brain activity where a meditative state is occurring. Theta is especially known to be the state of drifting off or the feeling we have just before waking up. Delta wave is occurring through the slowest brain activity with a regenerative sleep.

It is scientifically proven that a meditative state of 30 minutes depicted in the alpha, or theta brainwave are like 2 hours of restorative sleep.

Bringing clients into this brain wave state will increase the benefits of the treatment as well as giving a sense of a deep restorative break.

The following paragraphs list a few techniques to facilitate clients to disconnect from their thinking process and get closer to a meditative state.

Grounding clients through the breath will induce a calming feeling and slowly release superficial contractions of the body. By placing both hands on the back of the clients and asking them to inhale and exhale for a few times will force them to connect to the present moment. At this stage the body becomes lighter.

Slow and firm palpation give precious information to the therapist about muscular impairments as well as it allows the client to let go on extra layers of tensions. The fascia become more supple.

Increasing the body temperature of the client through any techniques such as skin rolling or myofascial release through repetitive and slow motion will further increase the relaxation of muscles and stiff joints.

Music also plays a significant role into letting go of tension. For instance, choosing music without lyrics will ease the mind.

To summarise, remedial massage has the therapeutic intent to help muscular dysfunction whereas relaxing massage can have a deep calming effect on the nervous system. Both massages combined have tremendous benefits on the physical and emotional health.

Indeed, drifting away to a mental meditative state will consequently help the body to let go of physical contractions, alleviating tensions, pain and ache as well as giving a euphoric sense of wellbeing.

 

Reference: A Deep Dive Into Brainwaves: Brainwave Frequencies Explained | Muse™ EEG-Powered Meditation & Sleep Headband (choosemuse.com)

What is Abhyanga Massage?

Abhyanga is a traditional Ayurvedic practice of massaging the body with warm herbal oils. It is an important part of Ayurvedic self-care and is believed to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of abhyanga and how to incorporate it into your self-care routine.

One of the primary benefits of abhyanga is its ability to nourish and moisturise the skin. The warm herbal oil is massaged into the skin, penetrating deep into the tissues and providing essential nutrients that promote skin health. This can improve the skin’s appearance and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dryness, and other signs of aging.

Another benefit of abhyanga is its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress. The warm oil and gentle massage strokes help to release tension in the muscles and calm the nervous system. This can lead to a reduction in stress and anxiety, as well as improved sleep and overall feelings of calm and peace.

In addition to its physical benefits, abhyanga is also believed to have a positive impact on the mind and emotions. The practice is said to help balance the doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha), the three fundamental energies that govern the body and mind in Ayurveda. By promoting balance in the doshas, abhyanga can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Abhyanga is also thought to promote lymphatic drainage and improve circulation. The warm oil and gentle massage strokes help to stimulate the lymphatic system, which helps to remove toxins and waste from the body. Improved circulation can also help to bring oxygen and nutrients to the cells, promoting overall health and well-being.

Incorporating abhyanga into your self-care routine is easy and can be done at home with just a few simple steps:

  1. Choose the right oil: Different oils are recommended for different body types and skin types in Ayurveda. Choose an oil that is appropriate for your skin type and doshic balance. Some common oils used in abhyanga include sesame, coconut, and olive oil.
  2. Warm the oil: Heat the oil until it is warm, but not hot. You can do this by pouring the oil into a container and setting it in a basin of warm water.
  3. Begin the massage: Start at the feet and work your way up the body, using gentle circular motions to massage the oil into the skin. Pay special attention to areas that feel particularly tense or stiff, such as the neck, shoulders, and lower back.
  4. Continue the massage: Continue the massage for about 15-20 minutes, focusing on the entire body and paying special attention to any areas that feel particularly tense.
  5. Rinse and relax: After the massage, rinse your skin with warm water to remove any excess oil. Then, relax and allow the oil to penetrate deeply into your skin and tissues.

Abhyanga is a simple but powerful practice that can promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By nourishing and moisturising the skin, reducing stress and anxiety, promoting lymphatic drainage and improved circulation, and balancing the doshas, abhyanga is a valuable tool for anyone looking to improve their overall health and well-being. So why not try incorporating it into your self-care routine today?

 

Resources:

National Library of Medicine

Chopra

National Library of Medicine

Healthline

National Library of Medicine

National Library of Medicine

 

Supporting your Lymphatic and Immune Systems with Natural Therapies!

Massage therapist focusing on pressure point on back area

What is the lymphatic system?

This is the fluid (plasma) that moves around the body, under the skin and feeds back into our bloodstream at the subclavian veins in the neck. The plasma is a component of blood. Plasma contains white blood cells, viruses, bacteria. damaged cells, cancer cells, protein, fats, minerals and nutrients. The lymphatic system is continuous narrow tubes and lymph nodes (bean shaped) throughout the body with approximately 600 lymph nodes, filtering lymph to our bloodstream. The primary organs are the thymus and bone marrow and secondary are spleen, lymph nodes, mucous membranes, appendix, tonsils and adenoids. The tonsils and adenoids help to protect the sinuses and the lungs and the digestive system from foreign matter.

Main lymph nodes are the armpits, breasts, groin, neck, abdomen, pelvis and chest. The neck nodes are easier to feel, and they usually get sore when you are sick with the flu or virus.

Your lymphatic system is part of your immune system to help with the first line of defence in attacking foreign invaders; White blood cells, B and T cells.

How to support for your lymphatic system naturally?

Hydration, a healthy Mediterranean style diet and eating lots of colourful vegetables and fruit in your diet, exercising regularly, don’t smoke, keeping alcohol in moderation, adequate sleep, washing your hands frequently before making meals, handling meat to avoid infection, minimise stress and avoid chemicals like PFOA. PTFE, pesticides and harsh cleaning products.

There is a large amount of lymphatic tissue around the breast, and underarms, make sure you relieve the pressure of a bra, by allowing no bra when you sleep. Foam rolling can oxygenate the blood and improve lymphatic movement and can be used as regular exercise to stretch our fascia to improve our overall structure of bones and joints.

Boost your immune system with supplements of vitamins or herbs for micronutrient deficiencies such as; Vitamin A, B6, C and E. Vitamin C we do not produce in the body, it is within our food source, daily supplementation helps with our line of defence against viruses and bacteria and the toxins attach to the vitamin C and are eliminated out of our bodies. Vitamin A supports the immune system, vision, reproduction, heart, lungs, organs and growth and development. Vitamin B supports your immune system especially B6 and B12. B12 deficiency is common in those with low immunity and immune disorders. This can be checked with a simple blood test regularly with your doctor.

Food, herbs and supplements to boost immunity are; Basil, Black Pepper, Caraway, Chamomile Flowers, Cinnamon, Clove, Coriander, Echinacea, Elderberry, Fenugreek, Garlic, Ginger, Honey, Mushrooms, Neem, Olive Leaf, Oregano, Paprika, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Tulsi-Holy Basil and Turmeric.

Start and end with diaphragmatic breathing, activate the main lymph pump areas and neck and face lymph nodes first, then the liver node, lingual node and knee node then use long gentle pressure in slow and rhythmic action, or lymphatic drainage massage will help move stagnation of fluids and lymphoedema. Avoid crushing the lymph nodes.

Moving lymph fluid naturally; Dry brushing followed by clay mud placed all over the body once a week, left on till it hardens and you shower it off. The clay powder you mix with water; green is detox-which I love to use even though my skin is hypersensitive, pink for skin disorders and hypersensitive skin, yellow for sun damage, and white for very hypersensitive skin. Simple dry brushing method; or can be done while in the shower. A loofah or light natural brush bristle work from the tips of your extremities upwards from bottom to top with brush strokes on the skin to push the fluid upwards, from your toes to the top of your legs and, from the tips of your fingers up the arms to your shoulder and this can be done daily. You can also use Himalayan pink salt and rub it into the skin with the same motions, it will remove dead skin cells and help the lymphatic function, pushing the fluid up and helping you absorb minerals through your skin and can be done once a week, fortnight or monthly.

Regularly see qualified remedial massage, myotherapy, lymphatic drainage massage, aromatherapy, trigger point therapy, myofascial dry-needling, Gua-sha and/or cupping with a Chinese remedial massage therapist.

A healthy lifestyle, food, herbs and spices, water, exercise and brushing the skin, micronutrients and massage can be beneficial to support your lymphatic and immune system.

Clean lifestyle and living, enjoy!

 

References:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-to-boost-your-immune-system/

The lymphatic system and cancer | Cancer Research UK

Lymphatic System: Diagram, Function, Anatomy, Diseases (verywellhealth.com)

How to Maintain a Strong Immune System (verywellhealth.com)

Lymphatic system | Structure, Function, & Facts | Britannica

7 Herbs and Spices for Immune Support | Everyday Health

Use These 8 Herbs & Other Ingredients to Boost Your Immune System (healthline.com)

6 Easy-to-Grow Herbs That Help Your Immune System (allrecipes.com)

36 Super Herbs and Spices to Boost Your Health | Fresh n’ Lean (freshnlean.com)

Moringa Shop Cairns Australian Grown Made Product of OZ Vegan

https://www.musclefreedom.com.au/2016/05/7-ways-to-boost-your-lymphatic-system/

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/foam-rolling-101-heres-what-you-need-to-know/

https://www.naturalhealthmag.com.au/content/body-brushing-essential-guide/

4 reasons you should book yourself an Oncology Massage

Practitioner performing remedial massage on patient

Oncology massage is a specialised form of massage therapy that is tailored to the unique needs of someone who has had a cancer diagnosis. It is important for someone who has undergone cancer treatment, no matter how long ago that was, to seek out oncology massage rather than other types of massage due of the following reasons:

Safety: Oncology massage therapists are trained to work with cancer patients and survivors who may have unique medical considerations such as medical devices, lymphedema, low platelets, bone density loss and other post-treatment complications. The therapist understands the contraindications and precautions necessary to create an effective treatment plan to benefit the individual whether they are in treatment, palliation or thriving post cancer. Adjustments to massage may need to be made even years post treatment and without specialised training in oncology massage, a therapist may not understand this.

Comfort: Oncology massage therapists understand the physical and emotional challenges that individuals face during and after cancer treatment and are trained to adapt their massage techniques to address these challenges. They create comfortable and nurturing environments for everyone to receive massage therapy no matter their situation. From adapting the way you lie or sit on the massage table to accommodate any pain, medical devices or limitations you may have, to adjusting the pressure of treatment to ensure you do not bruise or have any inflammation post the massage treatment. Direction of massage techniques are also taken into consideration if the lymphatic system has been compromised.

Benefits: Oncology massage has been shown to provide numerous benefits during treatment, in recovery, palliation and survivorship. Reducing anxiety, pain and fatigue, improving sleep and enhancing quality of life are some of the major benefits. Abdominal massage may help settle bowel issues caused by chemotherapy and pain medications and hand and foot massage may ease chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy. The deep relaxation elicited by oncology massage helps shift the body from a state of stress, or ‘fight or flight’ to a state of calm.

Rehabilitation: Oncology massage is beneficial post cancer treatment to reduce pain and discomfort, improve range of motion issues left over from surgery or radiation therapy and help survivors feel more connected to their bodies, enhancing their overall sense of well-being.

In summary, oncology massage is a safe and effective form of massage therapy that is tailored to the unique needs of cancer patients and survivors. It can help individuals manage the physical and emotional challenges of cancer treatment, improve their quality of life and support their overall recovery and wellbeing. Seeking out a massage therapist with specialised training in oncology massage is essential as they are knowledgeable about the unique needs and concerns of cancer patients and are able to adapt every part of their treatment to meet the specific needs of the individual. So why not book yourself an appointment with an oncology massage therapist today to see how you can reap the benefits of this amazing modality.

Find out more from Amy on the benefits of Oncology Massage in this video: 

Reference

Lopez, G., Liu, W., Milbury, K. et al. The effects of oncology massage on symptom self-report for cancer patients and their caregivers. Support Care Cancer 25, 3645–3650 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-017-3784-7

5 benefits of using oncology massage during and post radiation therapy

Massage therapist focusing on pressure point on back area

Oncology massage is a type of massage therapy that is gaining popularity in recent years for its ability to help alleviate some of the physical and emotional side effects of cancer treatment, including radiation therapy. Radiation therapy is a common treatment for cancer, but it can cause a range of side effects, such as pain, anxiety, depression, fatigue and tightness within the radiated tissue. In this blog, we discuss the benefits of using oncology massage during and post radiation therapy.

  1. One of the primary benefits of oncology massage for cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy is pain relief. Radiation therapy can cause pain and discomfort in various parts of the body, including the site of treatment. Oncology massage can help reduce this pain and discomfort by stimulating the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. This can help cancer patients manage their pain and improve their overall quality of life.
  2. Another benefit of oncology massage is the reduction of anxiety and depression. Cancer patients often experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, which can affect their emotional and physical well-being. Studies have found that massage therapy can help lower levels of stress hormones and increase levels of feel-good hormones, which can help alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression. This can improve the mental health of cancer patients and help them cope more effectively with their cancer treatment.
  3. Oncology massage can also improve sleep quality in cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. Improved quality of sleep leads to better overall health, including helping cancer patients feel more energised and better able to cope with their treatment.
  4. In addition to these benefits, oncology massage can also help improve range of motion in tight muscles and joints in cancer patients who have undergone radiation therapy. Radiated tissue can become stiff and tight post-treatment, limiting movement in surrounding structures such as joints and other soft tissue. Massage therapy can help rehydrate and soften the radiated tissue, allowing for easier movement and improved range of motion.
  5. Finally, oncology massage can enhance the overall quality of life for cancer patients. Research has found that massage therapy can help improve mood, reduce feelings of fatigue, and enhance overall well-being in cancer patients. This can help cancer patients cope more effectively with their treatment and improve their overall quality of life.

It is important to note that not all massage therapists are trained in oncology massage. When choosing an oncology massage therapist, it is essential to look for someone who has specialised training and experience working with cancer patients. They should be knowledgeable about the unique needs and concerns of cancer patients and be able to adapt their techniques to meet the individual needs of each patient.

In conclusion, oncology massage can be a safe and effective way to manage some of the physical and emotional side effects of cancer treatment, particularly during and post radiation therapy. By providing pain relief, reducing anxiety and depression, improving sleep quality and range of motion, and enhancing overall quality of life, oncology massage can help cancer patients feel better and cope more effectively with their cancer treatment.

 

Reference

Lopez, G., Liu, W., Milbury, K. et al. The effects of oncology massage on symptom self-report for cancer patients and their caregivers. Support Care Cancer 25, 3645–3650 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-017-3784-7

Stress Can Hurt – Stress and Musculoskeletal Pain

Stress is a response to challenging or new life events such as a job loss, exams, deadlines, finances, or divorce. While stress is not a diagnosis, persistent stress can lead to long term physical and psychological symptoms.

It is estimated that more than half of Australians (59%) experienced at least one personal stressor in the last 12 months. The General Social Survey (GSS) found that during 2020, people with a mental health condition were more likely to have experienced at least one personal stressor compared to those who do not have a mental health condition (83% and 56% respectively).

Stress is a genuine issue. It can cause:

  • Tension, headaches, pain, and fatigue.
  • Digestive issues and stomach problems.
  • Anxiety, irritability, and anger.
  • A lack of focus and motivation.
  • Depression.
  • Eating disorders.
  • Substance abuse.
  • Sleep disorders.

The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)

Developed in the early 1980s, it’s a measure of the degree of stress a person feels about their life. The questions in the PSS ask about feelings and thoughts during the last month. In each case, respondents are asked how often they felt a certain way. You can take a test here (https://www.bemindfulonline.com/test-your-stress)

Stress and Musculoskeletal pain

Muscular co-contraction can also be related to pathological situations to states of physical or mental stress, or simply to the inability to relax. Physiologically, there is evidence that stress releases hormones like cortisol, which increase the pain perception and cause muscle tension. States of psychological stress can lead to prolonged contraction of trapezoid muscles, in severe cases, stress can be somatised as continuous states of muscular contraction of the shoulders and can lead to development of several chronic musculoskeletal pathologies (e.g., shoulder pain, headache).

Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire

It consists of structured, forced, multiple choice questions and can be used as a self-administered questionnaire or as an interview. The original version consists of several parts: a general questionnaire, and three specific parts focusing on the lower back, shoulders, and neck. The questionnaire was designed to answer the following question: “Do musculoskeletal troubles occur in a given population, and if so, in what parts of the body are they localised?” You can answer the questionnaire here (https://pdf.ac/18gR6E)

Stress management strategies and muscular pain releases.

Accordingly with the American heart foundation the 3 tips to manage stress:

  • Positive self-talk (I have got this)
  • Emergency stress-stoppers (Take deep breaths, going for walk)
  • Stress busting activities (take a walk, play with kids, exercise)

Top 3 shoulder stress relievers:

1 – Remedial massage

2 – Good posture

3 – Neck and shoulder stretches

Check out Rafael’s awesome video explaining Massage, Posture and Stretching

Remedial massage is a type of massage therapy that aims to treat specific musculoskeletal problems and restore normal function and movement. It can help with stress and muscle tightness by improving blood circulation, reducing inflammation, releasing trigger points, and relaxing tense muscles.

Remedial massage can also promote mental and emotional well-being by stimulating the release of endorphins, the natural painkillers and mood enhancers of the body.

Here are 2 great neck and shoulder stretches to do regularly to help reduce tight muscles from stress!

 

What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage and its main benefits?

It’s not surprising that Lymphatic Drainage Massage has gained popularity in recent years, due to its numerous health benefits. This type of very gentle, therapeutic massage focuses on the lymphatic system, encouraging the drainage of lymph nodes and the movement of lymph fluids around the body. The lymph system plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system and Lymphatic Drainage Massage can therefore significantly support and improve overall immune function.

One of the main benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage is to reduce swelling and oedema in the body. Oedema can be associated with the extremities, such as the arms, legs, hands and feet. An article in Medical News Today discusses the benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage and its use in reducing oedema in the body. The gentle, rhythmic massage techniques used in Lymphatic Drainage Massage promote the flow of lymphatic fluid, reducing swelling and restoring a normal range of motion.

Oedema is one complication that can occur following breast cancer treatment, where lymph nodes are removed or treated with radiation. The oedema can present shortly after surgery or even many years later. The disruption in the flow of lymph leads to swelling, which, if left untreated, can become severe and lead to infection. Lymphatic Drainage Massage has been shown to help reduce this congestion by increasing the rate of lymphatic flow.

The lymphatic system is the most important transport network for our immune system and is responsible for producing and transporting white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infections and diseases. Numerous studies have shown that massage, especially Lymphatic Drainage Massage, improved the functioning of the immune system, as measured by the number of white blood cells and antibodies produced.

Being gentle and rhythmic in nature, Lymphatic Drainage Massage has been shown to have a calming effect on the body, helping to relieve stress and anxiety.  Lymphatic Drainage Massage can also help to reduce fatigue and increase energy levels. By stimulating the flow of lymphatic fluid, which in turn helps to increase blood flow, Lymphatic Drainage Massage can lead to an overall improvement in circulation, and therefore energy levels.

A study published in the National Library of Medicine found that Lymphatic Drainage Massage improved the appearance of cellulite, as well as increasing skin elasticity and hydration, having an overall positive effect on skin health and appearance.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a very gentle, safe and effective way to promote overall health and well-being. If you are looking for a natural way to improve your health, consider giving Lymphatic Drainage Massage a try.

 

Resources:

Medical News Today

Massage Magazine

Cleveland Clinic

Melbourne Integrative Oncology Group

Hopkins Medicine

Massage & The Immune System

National Library of Medicine