Definition: Sleep is a naturally recurring state of mind and body, characterized by altered consciousness, relatively inhibited sensory activity, inhibition of nearly all voluntary muscles, and reduced interactions with surroundings.
We know sleep is important aspect of our health and well-being, too little is associated with numerous medical conditions that can negatively affect our health. Adequate sleep is necessary for healthy functioning, and so quality sleep is vital.
Massage therapy is associated with better sleep. Individuals that have trouble sleeping can benefit from massage therapy as they may be experiencing lower back pain, muscle tension, fatigue, muscle spasms, fibromyalgia, all that can cause sleep disturbances. Insomnia causes extreme fatigue, problems with concentration resulting in adverse mood and well-being. Research has found that massage therapy helps with range of motion and pain associated with lack of sleep. Some studies have found massage to improve other ailments that can negatively affect sleep like headaches, anxiety, sports injuries and joint pain. Sleep and massage therapy combined are a winning combination that you want for a better night’s rest.
There are several massage therapy options that our massage therapist may recommend when looking to improve your health:
- Swedish massage — The main goal of Swedish massage is relaxation. Massage Therapists utilize a routine of smooth, gliding strokes, kneading and gently stretching the muscles. From head to toe, every one of the body's systems is affected by a Swedish massage. This popular technique is what most people expect when coming in for a relaxation massage.
- Deep massage — The main goal of deep-tissue massage is to alleviate soreness or tightness in muscles. Therapists utilize slower strokes and deeper pressure on contracted areas. Typically the deep, slow strokes follow the muscle line, as well as go across the grain of constricted muscles and tendons. As the name implies, the focus of this massage is the deeper layers of muscle tissues and fascia.
- Sports massage — Focused on the muscle groups associated with a particular sport and is tailored to the needs of each individual athlete. The intention is to help an athlete enhance performance or recover from an injury. This therapy will often include many of the previous techniques in order to meet the individual goals of each athlete.
- Neuromuscular (NMT) — This massage therapy is relationship between nerves and muscles. Our specially trained massage therapists are educated in the physiology of the nervous system and its effect on the muscular and skeletal systems, as well as kinesiology and biomechanics. By utilizing soft-tissue manipulation (massage) in balance with the body's central nervous system and musculoskeletal systems, this technique allows the therapist to find neuro trigger points to break up knots and relieve pain.
- Reflexology - This ancient technique based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet and hands that correspond to every part of the body. Therapists stimulate and apply pressure to the feet or hands. Reflexology can increase circulation and promote specific bodily and muscular functions. Clients with chronic conditions, such as fibromyalgia, have found this technique to be beneficial in managing their condition.
Massage is a smart, healthy, and drug-free option that has helped many people overcome sleep irregularities. A huge benefit is that massage therapy is not just for adults! Infants, children, and elderly can help improve the quality of sleep in a healthy, safe way with massage therapy since massage therapists can spend time understanding what the body needs and help the body heal. Our license massage therapist (LMT) will work with you to create a customize massage plan that meets your individual needs. If lack of sleep is affecting your everyday then a therapeutic massage can help. At Oasis Massage and Spa we pride ourselves on offering a true 60-minute massage (or 30 or 90) that you are actually on the table. More time on the table equals more relaxation for you.
Call today to schedule your next massage and start down the path of improved sleep. Let our staff help you get some Zzzzzzs. Call Oasis Massage and Spa today at 402.964.2267.
