Wellness

4 Pages 990 Words

WELLNESS

Wellness: The condition of good physical and mental health, especially when maintained by proper diet, exercise, and habits. I can think of lots of things I could do to maintain my wellness, but between work, school, two kids, and housework, I barely have time to go to the bathroom. As soon as I can free up my schedule (like when the kids go to college) I would like to try regular massage therapy sessions. I think a monthly massage would do wonders for my physical and mental health by relieving my back pain and relaxing my mind, body, and soul.
What is a therapeutic massage? Therapeutic massage involves the manipulation of the soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, discomfort, muscle spasm, and stress; and, to promote health and wellness. The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) defines massage therapy as a profession in which the practitioner applies manual techniques, and may apply adjunctive therapies, with the intention of positively affecting the health and well-being of the client.
Massage therapy improves functioning of the circulatory, lymphatic, muscular, skeletal, and nervous systems and may improve the rate at which the body recovers from injury and illness. Massage involves holding, causing movement of soft tissue, and/or applying pressure to the body. It comes in many forms, including Swedish (a gentle, relaxing massage), pressure point therapy (for certain conditions for injuries), and sports massage (focuses on muscle groups relevant to the particular sport.)
How can a massage be medically beneficial? People find that therapeutic massage can help with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
• Allergies
• Anxiety and stress
• Arthritis (osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis)
• Asthma and bronchitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Chronic and temporary pain
• Circulatory problems
• Depression
• Digestive disorders, including spastic ...