Elements Therapeutic Massage - Belmont

Melt Away Tax Time Stress with Three Simple Relaxation Strategies

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:42:00 -0500

April showers may bring May flowers, but “stress storms”, common this time of year (April tax deadlines, changes in seasons, failed New Year’s resolution attempts), can leave you feeling wilted, run down and even depressed. Instead of getting caught in a storm of stress this spring, blow away the winter blues by melting tension and fatigue with regular therapeutic massage sessions that will not only nurture your mind and body, but support your overall well-being.

In today’s plugged in, always on-the-go society, stress can be found in all aspects of your life. While some types of stress can be healthy for your mind and body, a January 2012 study from the American Psychological Association (APA) revealed deepening concerns about the connection between chronic disease and stress. Research continues to show that stress can negatively impact your health by:

Weakening your immune system, leading to common colds, sicknesses and even more critical medical problems.
Disrupting sleep problems, leading to fatigue and even insomnia.
Decreasing positive moods and feelings about yourself and others, leading to depression and an overall sense of unhappiness.
Causing headaches, upset stomach or digestion, and muscular tension.
Increasing irritability, anger, anxiety and nervousness.1

Realistically, you may never be able to completely eliminate stress, anxiety and pressure from your life, but there are steps you can start taking today to stop the vicious cycle of being showered with stress. In honor of National Stress Awareness Month this April, you can start by incorporating the following three relaxation strategies into your daily life to promote a more stress-free lifestyle.

Release Mental and Physical Tension

Therapeutic massage is a medically proven method for supporting your health and wellness. Massage can help relieve physical tension such as back/neck pain, reduce stress, increase circulation, and improve your body’s full range of motion. And, by making massage a regular occurrence on your calendar, you will give yourself a designated time each month to release mental and physical tension, lowering the risk of stress piling up to levels that can lead to negative results.

Revive and Reinvigorate Tired, Sore Muscles

Whether you are sitting in front of the computer all day, chasing a toddler around the house or training for a sporting event (or trying to be successful at all three at the same time!), it is more than likely that your hips, back and neck may feel sore and fatigued at the end of the day. By loosening these common stress carrying muscle groups on a regular basis, you can instantly de-stress your mind and body. Deep tissue massage specifically can break up scar tissue and help muscles recover more quickly so you can bounce back faster from a hard gym workout or working on a computer screen for 12 hours a day. Not only will your body feel more revived and stronger after a massage, but your mind also will be sharper, helping you maintain a more consistent focus on all of your day-to-day activities.

Take Time to Get in Touch with Yourself

Massage can help you establish a balance in your life that is not only good for your mental and muscle health, but also your body’s internal system well-being. Studies show that leading factors of medical problems and common illnesses can occur from overworking yourself, carrying too much stress and not dedicating enough time to relaxing your mind and body on a regular basis. It’s important to carve out 15 minutes a day (daily meditation), one day a week (designated “Me” time) and once a month (monthly therapeutic massage) to devote time and energy into establishing a positive mind/body connection.

By implementing these three stress reducing habits, you are well on your way to avoiding a stress storm this spring and giving yourself the opportunity to stop and take time to smell the flowers. The skilled massage therapists at Elements Therapeutic Massage are available to listen to your individual needs and will use the proper techniques to deliver a truly therapeutic experience. Call us today today to begin experiencing all of the stress management benefits of massage therapy.

1 Stress in America™, Our Health at Risk, American Psychological Association, January 2012.

5 Simple Commitments for an Amazingly Healthy 2013

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 16:35:00 -0600

It's that time again...time to make resolutions for the New Year. If you find yourself in the same postition each January making promises to yourself that you know you won't keep, then break the cycle and stop making resolutions. Make commitments!

Instead of focusing on that big audacious goal that is out of reach, make small daily commitments towards better health. All of your other goals for the year will stem from feeling better, looking better, and achieving a higher level of wellness. So, start with these 5 small, but extremely impactful, commitments:

1. Take a multi-vitamin each morning with a well-balanced breakfast.

2. Commit to at least 20 minutes of activity each day, and yes, walking counts.

3. Absolutely no eating after 7PM.

4. Make a commitment to drinking at least 60 oz. of water each day.

5. Be grateful. Give thanks each day, and remember that no matter how bad your day is going, you have many blessings.

If you can start your New Year with these 5 commitments in your personal wellness plan arsenal, you will certainly be on the right path to total wellness of body, mind and spirit.

Happy New Year!

Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Massage

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 08:15:00 -0500

As health care costs continue to increase, consumers are looking towards alternative therapies to treat pain and stress. According to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), 44 percent of adult Americans who received a massage between July 2010 and July 2011 received it for medical or health reasons compared to 35 percent the previous year. However, many consumers still have misconceptions about massage and how to make the most of their experience. It’s to be expected – there’s a sense of vulnerability when it comes to getting a massage, and many are reluctant to seek clarification.

Get the most out of your massage by following these simple tips:

Speak up! At restaurants, we’re quick to request dressing on the side. At the drycleaners, we’re not afraid to ask for extra starch. Yet when it comes to receiving a customized massage, many consumers are hesitant to ask for what they want. It’s essential to clearly communicate your goals, so don’t be afraid to tell a massage therapist to spend more time on a certain area, or to alter their technique to be more gentle or firm.

Undress to your comfort level: The customer has free range to undress as much, or as little, as he/she likes. Modesty is always accepted, so if you feel most comfortable in shorts and a T-shirt, wear it!

Rehydrate: Even though you’re laying still while receiving a massage, your muscles are being worked and they need to recharge. Always drink plenty of water following a massage. An hour-long massage works your muscles similar to that of an hour spent at the gym.

Winter Weather/Wellness Policy

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 08:17:00 -0600

In the event of inclement weather (i.e. snow) and you are unsure if we are open, please call the studio at 617-484-3400 (Belmont) or 617-467 6072 (Newton) and speak with a staff member or listen to the message. Assume we are ALWAYS OPEN unless you hear otherwise. Generally, the following guidelines will apply:

1. Our staff and client safety is our #1 concern. We ask for flexibility from you and in turn will be flexible in return:
a. If you do not feel safe traveling to the studio in the event of snow/ice, you will not be charged for a no-show.
b. If you have children and school is cancelled or delayed and you cannot reschedule your session, you will not be charged for a no-show.
c. If a therapist is late or not able to come to the studio due to inclement weather, please understand!!!

2. Appointment Make-ups: If we have missed appointments due to unsafe road conditions - we will do our best to stay open later another night that week to accommodate clients. We will send out an email to that effect.

Illness:
Because of the nature of the work that we do, it is important that only healthy bodies enter the studio. Increased communication in this season is necessary.

1. When you have a cold/get the flu: If you are not feeling well and have a scheduled appointment approaching, please call the studio as soon as you start feeling unwell, to give us a head's up. This way we can take a wait-list for that appointment, and fill the spot if your health situation worsens. Please call again to confirm/cancel the appointment as soon as you are certain of whether or not you will keep it. If you are sick and have given reasonable notice, you will not be charged for the appointment. If you call shortly before the appointment to say you have the flu - you will be charged for the appointment as the flu is not something that comes on instantly.

2. Last Minute Illnesses/Emergencies: If you have an accident or an emergency, you will not be charged for missing your appointment. Please focus on taking care of yourself and your family and let us know as soon as possible. If your child becomes sick and you must collect them from school/stay with them, you will not be charged for your appointment. Again, please notify us ASAP.

3. Staff Illnesses: Please be understanding! We must adhere to a strict policy of keeping our therapists home if they are unwell. In some cases, this may result in the cancelling of your appointment. We will do our very best to give you as much notice as possible and help reschedule you at a time that meets your needs.

Drive Slowly. Allow Extra Time.
Wash Your Hands. Drink Juice.
Take Care of Yourself This Season!

5 Ways a Prenatal Massage Should Be Different

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 17:45:00 -0500

Pregnancy can be so uncomfortable! Time for a massage — but do you need a special kind of massage when you’re pregnant? What’s different about it besides the fact that you might not be able to lie on your stomach? Here’s why the experience, techniques and benefits of a prenatal massage are different from a standard massage.

When you’re expecting a baby you’re likely to feel all kinds of aches and pains. The added weight you’re carrying, along with the way it’s centered in the front of your body, can cause changes in your posture and gait as your body tries to compensate for your changing center of gravity. But as the uterus expands, the baby grows and your hormone levels shift, it’s more than just backache that can ensue.

There are several ways in which a real prenatal massage is different than the average relaxation massage you receive at a typical day spa. These differences become more important and more pronounced as your pregnancy progresses — with more adjustments made in your second and third trimester vs. in your first trimester.

Prenatal massage techniques are designed to …

Reduce swelling. Special manipulation techniques can be used to stimulate soft tissues to reduce edema (fluid retention). Edema is often caused by the fact that the heavy uterus can reduce circulation and increase pressure on major blood vessels, notes the American Pregnancy Association based on research published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
Relieve sciatica. Sciatic nerve pain is a common complication during pregnancy because the uterus rests on the pelvic floor and lower back muscles. The pressure radiates pain through the sciatic nerve into leg muscles, in turn causing those muscles to swell and put pressure on nearby nerves. Massage therapy can reduce inflammation in the nerves by helping to release the tension on nearby muscles. Many pregnant women experience significant reduction in sciatic nerve pain through regular massage.
Balance hormone levels. Recent studies have shown that massage during pregnancy significantly improved regulation of the hormones norepinephrine, cortisol and serotonin — hormones associated with stress, relaxation and mood. These improvements can help expectant mothers balance out mood swings and reduce the risk of low birth weight or complications with delivery, reports the APA based on an article on massage therapy effects on pregnant women suffering with depression, in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
Keep baby safe. The intensity of the pressure applied to the muscles and tissues, and the positioning of the mother’s body, should be adjusted to ensure that the baby is protected.

5 tips for getting the right prenatal massage for you

Tell your massage therapist how far along you are and when your due date is.
Ask for a massage therapist experienced in prenatal massage techniques. These professionals specialize in prenatal and postnatal massages.
Advise the therapist of any particular troubles, concerns, aches … Point out where you’re feeling pain or discomfort, when it tends to be at its worst, and what activities seem to aggravate it or cause it to flare up.
Be specific. “Feels like” comparisons are helpful here — does it feel like a needle in your back every evening, or a dull ache in your hip when you try to bend?
Ask about Swedish massage. Swedish massage is a recommended prenatal massage method because it is effective at relieving many discomforts related to the changes in hormone levels, spinal and joint alignment, and circulation that are often experienced by pregnant women. Swedish massage aims to relax muscle tension and improve lymphatic and blood circulation. The therapist uses long, gliding strokes and kneading and tapping techniques on the top layer of muscles; and may also manipulate the joints gently to improve range of motion.

Be sure to consult your doctor first about whether a massage is suitable for your condition.

When you’re nearing delivery, schedule yourself for a postnatal massage. This type of therapy is differs from a prenatal massage in that it focuses on toning a new mother's body and reducing fluid retention. And of course, it can help ease the stresses of all the change you’re experiencing at home (like getting up with the baby in the middle of every night) — and that release and renewal can help you be a better mom.

Elements Therapeutic Massage Belmont (www.elementsmassage.com/belmont)

Add Massage to Your Summer Training Regimen for Increased Health and Wellness

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 12:03:00 -0500

Do hill repeats, long runs/rides, brick workouts or lap swims fill your summer training calendar? Are your upcoming weekends full of family hikes, golf tournaments, beach volleyball games or family camping trips? If so, then regularly scheduled massage therapy sessions should be an essential element to your active lifestyle. Whether you are a seasoned marathoner, weekend warrior, activity enthusiast or your ultimate goal is to finish your first 5k, incorporating massage into your summer routine will not only revive your health and well-being, but get you to the start (and finish!) line healthy and happy.

According to 2010 research published by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, massage to support a healthy lifestyle dates back to early civilization and it is a common technique today for the management and prevention of sport injuries. Massage also has been used to successfully increase flexibility and provide a greater range of motion. J Strength Cond Res 24(7): 1917-1924, 2010.

To prepare you for your active summer lifestyle, we offer the following tips for feeling restored, pain free and vibrant as you trade in your suit and high heels at the end of the workweek for athletic gear and fun-filled weekend adventures.

TREK DOWN THE TRAINING TRAIL

Just as every training program lays out a master plan for you to succeed in your big summer race, event or tournament series, don’t forget the most important element to any training schedule – regularly scheduled therapeutic massages to repair your tired, tense muscles and relax your training-focused, wired brain. A highly skilled massage therapist can be an extremely valuable member of your training team by helping you reduce the risk of injury, flush out toxins from your body, lengthen and stretch tight muscles and minimize the longevity of injuries.

Experts agree that if you treat common overuse injuries (sore ankles, tight back, sore shoulders and tight hamstrings, for example) with massage as soon as you feel the first muscle tweak or pain, you will be more likely to keep your training schedule on course, while setting up your body and mind for a successful summer event.

Suggested Massage Techniques during Training: Deep Tissue Massage or Sports Massage

LOOSEN UP PRE-EVENT JITTERS

Before you lace up your shoes and pack your gear for your big summer event, prepare your muscles for the strain and intensity of the planned activity by scheduling a therapeutic massage 2-3 days prior to the event date. The goal of this massage is to release tension in your muscles without leaving them sore, as well as reduce any pre-event stress or anxiety so that you can maintain a positive mental focus on race day. Your massage therapist will loosen any last minute muscle kinks and warm up muscles to prepare you for a successful event.

Suggested Massage Techniques Prior to Event: Swedish Massage

CELEBRATE YOUR EVENT SUCCESS

You’ve trained hard, raced hard, played hard and now it’s time to treat yourself to an after-event massage. Instead of waiting in a 25-person deep line for an on-site post-event massage that only lasts five minutes, schedule at least an hour long massage for the day or two following your event. The goal of this massage is to help your muscles recover from the strenuous activity, as well as improve your body’s range of motion and reduce any spasms or cramping that may have been caused by the event. You will be better hydrated 24-48 hours following the event and will have more time to enjoy the fruits of your labor as your mind and body relax and unwind through the healing touch of a highly skilled massage therapist.

Suggested Massage Techniques Following the Event: Deep Tissue Massage

Elements Therapeutic Massage looks forward to partnering with you this summer to help you achieve your goals of living an active, vibrant lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a monthly massage and begin experiencing the Elements difference.

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Thu, 17 Mar 2011 12:28:00 -0500

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Tue, 08 Mar 2011 13:46:00 -0600

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Oh, My Aching Back!

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 13:25:00 -0600

More than 100 million Americans suffer from lower-back pain, and nearly 25 billion dollars is spent in search of relief annually. A 2003 study shows that massage therapy produces better results and reduces the need for painkillers by 36 percent when compared to other therapies, including acupuncture and spinal manipulations*.

Therapeutic massage can indeed be an effective way to ease the pain of a wide variety of spinal conditions including: muscle tension, spasms, inflammation, aches, stiffness and pain. A skilled massage therapist will knead, rub and manipulate the affected muscles to increase blood flow (circulation) throughout the body. This will deliver oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and helps eliminate any acids or other waste products that accumulates in the affected area. The outcome is pain relief.

Here are some tips on how to massage away that pain in your back:

• Make sure the massage therapist you use for your back pain has received training from an accredited school and that they have completed 500 hours of training.
• If you’ve been injured during exercise of some type, consider a sports massage. Sports massage promotes both flexibility and relieves deep muscle tightness and strains.
• For acute pack pain, request a deep tissue massage, but be prepared for an aggressive massage designed to liberate muscle fiber and detoxify the muscle tissue. There may be a slight level of discomfort, but it should not feel too uncomfortable. The therapist should check in with you during the treatment to determine if the pressure it right, “Should I go deeper, stay at the same level or even go somewhat lighter?”
• Try a massage that alternates hot and cold treatments to alleviate back pain caused by sprains.
• A hot stone massage can be very effective as the stones transfer heat into your body, allowing the therapist to work more effectively.
• For a quick and temporary fix, look at investing in a hand-held home massager to take away minor pain. This will not provide all the benefits of a professional massage therapist but it will help you in a pinch.

Always remember, not all types of massage is appropriate for all types of back pain. A deep tissue massage is potentially not a good idea for someone suffering from rheumatoid arthritis or other degenerative diseases; however, a lighter touch massage would be appropriate. Be sure to always discuss the techniques to be used by the massage therapist, before beginning the massage session. If you have acute back pains, you should also consult your physician before beginning any massage therapy program.

At Elements Therapeutic Massage, our therapeutic approach is designed to match you with the therapist and the specific technique that’s best for your unique health and wellness situation. We also use a proprietary numbering system that indicates the level of work a therapist does, which is very important when dealing with back pain.

*Annals of Internal Medicine, June 2003

Therapeutic Sports Massage - for the Elite and Occasional Athlete

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 15:26:00 -0600

Therapeutic sports massage was originally developed to help athletes prepare their bodies for optimal performance and aid in quick recovery. Many elite athletes consider sports massage an essential part of their training and recovery routine. They rely on it to help them train more effectively, improve performance, prevent injury and speed their recovery after strenuous exertion.

All that being said, you don’t have to be a professional athlete to get a therapeutic sports massage! It’s ideal for anyone who’s physically active – as well as someone who’s just starting out with a new workout program at the gym, running their first 10K or marathon, or doing anything else that’s outside their normal activity routine. If you’re a novice athlete, a pre-event sports massage can make a better, less-painful event for you. Or, if you’re a “weekend warrior”, a regular therapeutic sports massage may be just what you need to concentrate on a specific problem (sports or otherwise), chronic pain or a restricted range of motion.

There are four types of sports massages:

Pre-event Sports Massage - A short, stimulating massage before an event. It is directed towards the parts of the body that will be the most heavily involved in exertion.
Post-event Sports Massage – Usually this takes place either an hour or two after an event. The objective is to normalize the body’s tissues and prevent stiffness or soreness.
Restorative Sports Massage – Takes place during training to allow the athlete to train longer, harder and with less possibility for injury.
Rehabilitative Sports Massage – Should take place on a regular basis and is designed to either alleviate pain, increase range of motion or to restore the body to health.

Because every sport and athletic event uses muscle groups in a different way, there are a variety of methods used to administer a therapeutic sports massage. Generally, this is a type of massage often combined with various forms of stretching. A sports massage will stimulate circulation of blood and lymph fluids and may include one or more of the following techniques:

Deep Swedish massage – Long, broad and flowing strokes which may be used before, during and after any of the techniques listed here. Designed to increase circulation and remove toxins. It also re-aligns the muscle fibers to get them back to their normal state.
Deep Tissue massage – Muscle-specific massage for chronically tight or painful areas.
Trigger Point massage – Designed to break down adhesions and increase range of motion. Left untreated these tender points often lead to restricted and painful movement of entire body regions.
Lymphatic massage – Stimulates lymphatic-drainage pathways, which improves the body’s removal of excess fluids in the tissues that cause swelling and pain.
Compression Massage - A rhythmic compression into muscles to create blood flow and to soften the tissues. This is usually a warm-up for deeper, more specific massage work.
Cross-Fiber massage - A friction technique used in a general manner to create a stretching and broadening effect in large muscle groups. This helps reduce adhesions (knots in the muscles) and creates strong and flexible repair during the healing process.

Whether you’re a serious or an occasional athlete, enjoying less muscle pain and stiffness as well as improving your sense of well-being is good reason to take advantage of a regular therapeutic sports massage.

To get the most benefit from a therapeutic sports massage, be sure and ask your therapist about their training and techniques to learn what is right for you. And, no matter what type of massage you choose, the therapist should always check in with you about your needs and expectations during the massage.

At Elements Therapeutic Massage, you can always find a skilled therapist to help with your sports-related aches and pains!

Therapeutic Massage is for MEN too!

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 12:37:00 -0600

It’s a proven statistic. More women than men enjoy the benefits of regular therapeutic massage. According to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), statistics from their 2009 national studies reveal 40 percent of women and only 29 percent of men reported seeing a massage therapist in the past five years.

Therapeutic massage is clinically proven to provide a wide-number of important health benefits including stress reduction, pain relief, lower blood pressure and improvements to the immune system. As a result, healthcare providers are increasingly promoting the benefits of massage to their patients.

In AMTA’s 2009 survey, thirty-nine million American adults discussed massage therapy with their healthcare providers. While physicians led the way in recommending massage, chiropractors and physical therapists also recommended massage therapy when their patients discussed it with them. Additionally, more than three-quarters of massage therapist (76%) indicate they receive referrals from health care professionals.

So to the 71 percent of men out there not experiencing massage, what’s the problem?

According to many experts, including licensed massage therapists, here are some of the questions about massage that men always want to ask, but are too embarrassed to ask….

Do I have to undress and if so, will the therapist be there when I undress? Nudity is indeed the number one concern for everyone getting a massage. But don’t worry; you should always undress to your level of comfort. It’s perfectly acceptable to leave on your undergarments and sometimes more, depending on the areas that need attention. If you do disrobe (totally or partially) all clients are discretely draped under a sheet with only one body part uncovered at a time. Additionally, the massage therapist always leaves the room so you’re alone to remove clothing and get under the top sheet/blanket. Don’t rush, they will knock and ask if you’re ready before coming in – just like at a doctor’s office.
What if I have a certain body part that I’m self-conscious about? People are indeed concerned about their bodies for a variety of reasons; overweight, scars, excessive body hair, etc. Don’t worry, massage therapists are used to seeing all shapes, sizes and condition of the body and they have an entirely clinical perspective, no different than any other health-care provider. However, if there’s a certain part of your body you really are subconscious about, just ask the therapist to avoid it.
I always chat when I get my hair cut, should I talk during the massage? If you want to talk, feel free, but don’t feel compelled to do so. This is your time to recuperate and relax. The therapist should check in with you during the massage to make sure the pressure level is correct and that they’re addressing your concerns. Of course, always speak up if anything is uncomfortable or you if forgot to mention something during the pre-massage consultation.
What if I’m uncomfortable with a male (or female) therapist giving me a massage? Don’t ever hesitate to specify that you would prefer a female or a male therapist. In fact, most massage studios will be upfront and ask you for your preference, before you have to ask.
If it’s a therapeutic massage, am I supposed to tip? I don’t at the doctor’s office. Whenever you’re pleased with the massage services, a 15 to 20% tip is standard. However, if you’re in a clinical/medical setting there really aren’t any ground rules. When unsure, don’t be afraid to ask if tipping is customary – either when you arrive or call ahead.

So your basic questions are answered and you’re ready for a massage. What type of massage do you want to experience?

Most massage studios offer a wide range of massage options, which can also be confusing. For many men, a good place to start is with a therapeutic sports massage. This is a type of massage technique that focuses on treating soft tissue aches and pains associated with recreational activities.

You don’t have to be an Olympian to benefit from sports massage. Whether you are a regularly sports enthusiast or an occasional athlete (even just a “walker”), a sports massage is the perfect way to relax tight, overworked muscles with a mix of techniques and stretches. The areas may include the hamstrings, quads, calf muscles and glutes. It also helps reduce adhesions (knots in the muscles) relieving the stress they can place on tendons, ligaments and joints. Sports massage is also good for those with injuries, chronic pain or a restricted range of motion.

For all the men who are hesitant about massage therapy, now’s the time to experience a massage! There are an increasing number of credible massage studios that always welcome women and men with convenient locations, plus evening and weekend hours. Whether you choose a therapeutic sports massage or any one of the many other massage techniques available, you’ll soon learn the value of regular massage therapy.

Men - Elements Therapeutic Massage is the perfect place for a “first-ever” massage or regular monthly massage. When you call to book your appointment we will schedule you with the therapist who best matches your specific massage needs. Our therapists will talk with you to learn where the pain is and help you decide what treatment is best for you. Ladies – help your “significant other” learn about the benefits of massage, treat him to an Elements gift certificate!

Call or email the studio to book an appointment!

617.484.3400

Belmont@touchofelements.com

What Kind of Massage Do You Need Right Now?

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 09:06:00 -0500

Choosing from a menu of massage techniques may sound like a heavenly dilemma (so many techniques, so little time …). But the choice you make is a weighty one — and it’s not just about your preferences for light or deep pressure, but also your health and physical condition right now.

So how do you know which massage therapy technique is best for your health concerns and priorities? Here’s how to know your options so you can get the greatest therapeutic benefit from your massage.

Swedish massage

Best for: Relaxation, stress relief, first massage

The most common form of massage therapy in the U.S., Swedish massage is designed to warm up the muscle tissue to release toxins, tension and soreness. The strokes are longer and slower than with many other forms of massage. It’s usually done using the hands, sometimes with the forearms. Swedish massage can be done using lighter or deeper pressure, but the strokes are long — from the shoulders to the low back and back up, for example, or from wrist all the way up the arm into the neck and then back down again.

This form of massage is typically very relaxing and is an ideal technique to experience if you’ve never had a massage before.

Deep tissue massage

Best for: Chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, recovery from injury

Deep tissue massage is a combination of various techniques used to increase the level of pressure applied to the body. It’s often done more with the forearm or elbow to help exert more pressure into the tissue. Two of the most common specific forms of deep tissue massage:

Petrissage is a massage movement that is much like kneading bread; the therapist uses this technique to get the blood flow into a traumatized area of the body. It’s typically applied in a specific area of the body rather than used as a full-body treatment.
Friction is another technique that produces heat and helps bring more concentrated blood flow to an area.
Tapotement (tah-pōt-ment´) is often described as karate chopping but can be done in other ways as well, such as using the fingertips or with the hands cupped. The main characteristic of tapotement is a rapid, rhythmic tapping motion, usually with a higher intensity of pressure applied to the tissues than with many other forms of massage.

Most deep tissue techniques are done at a slower pace, with lots of communication between the therapist and the client. The therapist should check in with you during the treatment by asking, “With this pressure would you like me stay here or go deeper or lighter?”

There might be a certain level of discomfort — what we call ‘in a good pain range’ — for deep tissue massage to be effective. But it should not feel too uncomfortable. It’s similar to stretching — it may not feel very good to start, but if you breathe and hold the stretch, it starts to feel better.

Trigger point work

Best for: Highly localized “knots” where the body holds tension;

Trigger point work is designed to get into those little knots. It’s often done using the thumb, knuckle or elbow to apply static pressure to those points. The therapist can feel that knot to detect when it’s loosening up and is trained to know what a muscle is supposed to feel like normally versus what it feels like when it’s “in knots.”

Common trigger points — like that nagging area between the shoulder blades — are associated with the fact that toxins commonly accumulate in certain places in the body. When the therapist locates a trigger point and applies pressure, that pain will often “refer” or travel to another part of the body. For example, if the therapist applies pressure to your hamstring or back of your leg, you might feel it in your lower back.

Trigger point work will help get an injured client’s muscle tissue back to a more normal state, but the initial massage may be about getting everything around that injured area more relaxed. Sometimes a client’s tissue can’t take the deeper pressure work, or the client doesn’t like the feeling of the deep tissue work – it may be uncomfortable for some clients.

Hot Stone Massage

Best for: easing muscle tension without deep pressure; maximizing massage time

A hot stone massage might look and feel too good to be therapeutic, but these stones do in fact serve a clinical purpose.

The shape of the stones themselves enable the therapist to use special techniques that can deliver more therapeutic benefit — benefits you’ll really feel.

A therapist might use the rounded edge of a stone around the shoulder blade or in the low back or neck area to really relax the tissue between the muscles and the bone.

Then there’s the heat, of course. Beyond the “ahhh” factor of feeling those hot stones go to work on your aching back or neck, the stones transfer heat into your body. Thus allowing the therapist to work more effectively.

Still, you want the longest session you can get with a hot stone massage. The stones are pre-heated to 125 degrees at the time your session begins. You want an 80- or 110-minute hot stone massage to get the greatest benefit.

Prenatal Massage

Best for: Decreasing swelling, relieving aches and pains, easing the physical and emotional stresses of pregnancy

If you’re pregnant, it’s very important to work with a therapist who’s trained in prenatal massage. Prenatal massage training includes instruction in specific modifications used to help protect the baby, relieve symptoms like edema (swelling) and low back pain that are common during pregnancy, and make Mom more comfortable both during and after the massage.

Prenatal massage is typically done with the client lying on her side, or on her back with a wedge to support the back and knees to take pressure of the baby off the mom’s internal organs.

The therapist also needs to be trained on certain aspects of prenatal massage such as pressure points that may have the possibility of triggering contractions. Research doesn’t necessarily prove that, but you want to make sure the therapist is knowledgeable in this area.

Sports massage

Best for: Preventing and treating injury and enhancing athletic performance.

Sports massage is designed mostly for pre– or post–sports event work. For example, you might get a sports massage the day of or the day before an event such as a half-marathon to get the body really ready for the activity.

Sports massage is typically not as relaxing as other forms of massage — the generally more fast-action than Swedish massage; the techniques the therapist uses to apply pressure to the body move at a faster pace. Aided stretching is also a common sport massage technique; and it’s used to help get the lactic acid buildup in the muscles to dissipate.

But you don't have to be a professional athlete to get a sport massage. It's ideal for anyone who’s physically active — as well as someone who’s just starting out with a new workout program, running their first 10K or marathon, or doing anything else that’s outside their normal activity routine. Especially if you’re more of a novice athlete, a pre-event sports massage can make that a better event for you. And for regular marathon runners, there are specific techniques used to help a body that’s been through that kind of intense event.

Right technique, right therapist

The majority of massage therapists are trained in Swedish and deep tissue massage. Some have had advanced training in other techniques, and everyone has techniques in which they’re especially skilled or experienced. So a high-quality therapeutic massage provider will look at your health history, goals, challenges and lifestyle to match you with the therapist who’s best for your situation. You don’t want to just get put in a time slot – you need to be matched to the right therapist for you.

Your preference for light or deep pressure is another reason you want to be matched to a therapist vs. just a time-slot technique. Massage therapists’ level of pressure is not determined by the therapist’s stature, size or strength, but by how they leverage their body weight to do the deep bodywork.

Many people believe a male therapist is stronger than a female therapist and assume they’ll get a deeper massage, but that’s really not true. There are a lot of petite female therapists who know how to leverage their body weight and provide a deep tissue massage experience. So remember, gender doesn’t determine the type and depth of massage you will get.

At Elements Therapeutic Massage, our therapeutic approach is designed to match you with the therapist and the specific technique that’s best for your unique health and wellness situation. We specialize in customizing each massage session to the specific needs of every client. Therefore we often incorporate techniques from each type of massage to ensure that you receive the best and most appropriate treatment.

We also use a proprietary numbering system that indicates the level of work a therapist does. Level 1 is light pressure and Level 4 is deep pressure. Some conditions such as cancer, epilepsy, or diabetes are not appropriate for some massage techniques. Please consult your physician before beginning any massage therapy program.

Sleeping with the Enemy? (Hint: It's Stress)

Fri, 14 May 2010 12:19:00 -0500

Lying awake at night? Can’t stop your mind from worrying about what happened yesterday and what will happen tomorrow? It’s not healthy — and that’s not just a saying.

Stress and the way you react to it may be affecting your health, even though it may not be apparent to you. You may think that persistent headache or inability to focus is caused by a physical illness, but the culprit may actually be excessive ongoing stress in your life. And it can lead to serious health problems.

According to the National Institutes of Health, stress is at the root of 80 percent or more of all illness and doctor visits in the U.S.. Here's how stress increasesyour risk of serious disease, your healthcare cost and your productivity.

Health effects of stress

The health effects of stress identified by The Mayo Clinic can range from relatively minor symptoms and conditions including …

o Headache

o Back pain

o Upset stomach

o Sleep problems

o Irritability

o Lack of focus

o Forgetfulness

o Overeating

… to more acute and critical health conditions including …

o Chest pain

o Heart disease

o High blood pressure

o Depression

o Decreased immunity

What can you do to reduce stress?

First, recognize that you can’t prevent stress. It’s part of everyday life — and some level of stress is actually good for you. It’s how you react to stress, as well as a lifestyle that brings a frequently elevated levels of stress into your life, that can get you and your state of health into trouble.

Health experts agree that making lifestyle changes to help you identify your stress triggers and, most importantly, better manage your reactions to stress, can bring numerous health benefits.

Stress management techniques recommended by medical experts include massage as well as exercise, guided relaxation and breathing techniques, meditation, yoga and tai chi. (please spell check)

How massage can help you manage stress

The Mayo Clinic notes that studies have found massage helpful for stress relief and for managing anxiety and depression, as well as boosting immunity. Massage has been shown to help regulate hormones including norepinephrine, cortisol and serotonin — naturally occurring chemicals in the body that are associated with stress, relaxation and mood.

Beyond the physical effects of tactile manipulation of the muscles, tissues, joints and organs, the stress-relief and health benefits of massage also come from the caring and comfort of physical touch.

These benefits of regular massage can help you cope with stress when it’s occurring - and also develop a stronger everyday resilience to the stresses life will inevitably bring.

Stressed to the max? We can help. Our team of massage therapy professionals at Elements Therapeutic Massage in Belmont is trained to help you identify your stress “storage” points and release the tension physically - so you can let it go more easily and feel calm, cool and in control of whatever comes at you. Life brings it on. We get it out.

Be sure to check with your doctor if you’re experiencing chronic stress. Your symptoms could be associated with a serious health condition.

Mother's Day is May 9th!

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 14:44:00 -0500

She keeps it all together. She knows where your winter socks are and which vegetables your children simply won't eat. Her day starts early and ends late. She deserves a massage!

Buy your Mother's Day gift cards and save $10 when you mention this posting!

That will make a 55 minute massage only $69 and an 80 minute only $95.

Make Pain and Stress go away. This Mother's Day, give the gift she wants -- an Elements Therapeutic Massage.

Elements Therapeutic Massage Belmont

www.ETMBelmont.com

The Return of the $39 Massage

Sat, 17 Apr 2010 11:25:00 -0500

Activate your (free) wellness membership before Mother's Day 2010 and get your next massage for $39! (or $65 if it's an 80 minute!)

Membership details can be found under the "get started/specials" section, but basically, you are signing up for at least a $20 discount on just about all Elements services... It's a heck of a deal, which is why so many of your friends and neighbors are doing it!

Call with any questions -- 617-484-3400

Elements Therapeutic Massage Belmont

www.ETMBelmont.com

Therapist "Level" System

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 08:26:00 -0500

We are now sharing our pressure rating or "level-system" with you to help you make informed choices around what therapists would best meet your needs. Please look for an explanation of it in the 'What to Expect/Your First Visit' section of this website. Therapists will be tagged with their 'level' on both this website under the 'Therapists'section and in our 'Appointment Openings' emails.

Elements Therapeutic Massage Belmont

www.ETMBelmont.com

Vote for us in the Reader's Choice Awards!

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 13:43:00 -0600

If you love the bodywork you receive at Elements, let the world know!

Vote for us at http://favorites.idcwebserver.com/index.asp Voting closes on February 10th-- vote vote vote. There are lots of cool prizes to be won. Check them out at their website.

Also, if you're feeling particularly enamored of us, YELP ABOUT US! at www.yelp.com or, send a testimonial to post on our website to the manager at belmont@refreshatelements.com

Thanks for spreading the word!

Elements Therapeutic Massage Belmont

www.ETMBelmont.com

How Much Should I Tip?

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:03:00 -0600

Q. Clients ask me this all the time, because they really want to do the right thing -- but don't know what the right thing is.

A. Like restaurant servers, Elements Massage Therapists factor in tips as part of their wage. A standard tip, similar to in a restaurant, is between 10% and 25% of the value of the service. (So, if you want to tip 20 percent on a 79 dollar 55 minute massage, then you would leave $16. If it was great -- leave more, if you felt something was lacking that the therapist could have controlled, leave less.)

Q. Why do we use a tipping system when we could just make it a flat rate?

A. For the same reason that tipping exists in restaurants. A vending machine can get you your food. A great server can execute your order perfectly, make sure your wine glass is always filled, and/or coax your tired seven year-old into "trying the chicken fingers." Servers that bring your food with the effort of a vending machine, should not be overcompensated. Servers that give their 'all' to make your dining experience fabulous, should get compensated for their above-and-beyond effort.

We believe that all our massage therapists are just terrific, but we leave the tipping system in place so that you, the client, are given the opportunity with your gratuity to show them that you think so too.

Comments can be addressed to Laura Blackwell at belmont@refreshofelements.com

Elements Therapeutic Massage Belmont

Elements Therapeutic Massage - Belmont

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Therapeutic Sports Massage - for the Elite and Occasional Athlete

Therapeutic Massage is for MEN too!

What Kind of Massage Do You Need Right Now?

Sleeping with the Enemy? (Hint: It's Stress)

Mother's Day is May 9th!

The Return of the $39 Massage

Therapist "Level" System

Vote for us in the Reader's Choice Awards!

How Much Should I Tip?

Drive Slowly. Allow Extra Time.
Wash Your Hands. Drink Juice.
Take Care of Yourself This Season!