Massage

Massage is no longer a luxury, it is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. Its important physiological and health-promoting effects are welcomed by our body, mind and soul.

The physiological effects of massage

As a mechanical stimulus, massage triggers different reactions in the body, which is why it is also called stimulus or response therapy.

The effect on the skin and subcutaneous tissues:

- the temperature of the skin is raised,

- blood circulation is increased, blood engorgement occurs,

- the metabolism of cells and tissues is stimulated,

- chemical processes are triggered, e.g. the production of histamine, which has a vasodilating effect,

- sloughing off the top layer of dead skin cells, resulting in younger, more elastic skin,

- it has a positive effect on the function of the endocrine glands, including sweating,

- massage reduces the fat content of the subcutaneous connective tissue, improving body contour,

- promotes the slimming of the skin and connective tissue.

Effect on the musculature:

- Increased blood circulation

- Increased muscle metabolism

- Accelerates the elimination of waste products.

- Muscle tone changes

- Muscle performance increases.

- Muscle fatigue, tension and graded tone are eliminated.

Effect on the blood and lymphatic system:

Massage increases blood and lymphatic circulation, primarily through massage strokes. The action of the strokes causes blood and lymph to be squeezed out of the tissues, and some massage strokes, such as kneading, create a suction-pressure effect in the muscles and increase the flow of body fluids to the heart.

Effect on the nervous system:

If we think of the body as a whole, we have to conclude that all the effects of massage are reflexive through the nervous system. Massage strokes trigger stimuli that are transmitted by the nerves to the central nervous system, where various responses are produced - reduction in muscle tone, re-tuning of the nervous system, improvement in well-being. By varying the strength, rhythm and timing of the holds, the body can be brought to a relaxed, calm state or a refreshed state of greater performance. A treatment with a slow rhythm and many strokes is relaxing, while a massage with a faster rhythm and more vigorous kneading is refreshing. All well-executed strokes can be said to work towards optimal body functioning.

When is massage not recommended?

- Fever

- Infectious disease (acute condition)

- Unadjusted high blood pressure

- Untreated heart and circulatory problems

- Recent trauma, post-operative condition

- Active phase of rheumatoid arthritis

- Varicose veins (the affected limb should not be massaged, but other areas may be)

- Thrombosis

- Advanced stage of osteoporosis

- Cancer (except terminal)

- Pregnancy (first and last trimester)

- Menstruation - the circulatory stimulating effect of massage enhances bleeding and the antispasmodic, analgesic effect makes it easier to endure menstruation, so massage requires individual consideration and decision.