Once seen as a luxury for serious athletes and the rich and famous, massage therapy is now widely accepted as an integral part of a healthy lifestyle.

There are many benefits to getting a massage. It can relax your muscles, relieve pain and stress, and improve circulation. Physically, this hands-on relief therapy stretches and loosens muscles; facilitates blood flow and removal of metabolic wastes throughout the body; increases the flow of oxygen; and stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, reducing anxiety. And emotionally, it satisfies the basic human need for that nurturing touch.

Three popular types of massage are Shiatsu, Swedish, and Sports. The Shiatsu/Acupressure type is an Asian-based finger-pressure massage to treat special pints along acupuncture “meridians”, channels of energy flow in the body. It aims to open blocked channels, which can cause discomfort. It is best for those who suffer from tension in specific areas–shoulders, back or neck.

The Swedish technique was developed by a Swedish athlete in the 19th century. It incorporates long strokes and a kneading and friction technique to target superficial layers of muscles. This technique is good for everyone, especially if it’s your first time. It promotes better circulation, reduces muscle tension, and alleviates stress.

The Sports technique is deeper and more vigorous than the other techniques. This is a pressure massage to prepare you for a workout, competition, or performance, or to help recover after. It is designed to move lactic acid out of the muscles to prevent soreness and cramps, and is best for fitness buffs who constantly suffer from sore muscles.

Before undergoing any of the above techniques, here are some inquiries to make:

1 If you’re pregnant or have any kind of cancer, the therapist will most likely recommend that you first get permission from your doctor.

2. Discuss any known allergies to scents or oils (paba and almond oil are common allergens). Migraine and sinusitis sufferers should identify themselves, as certain essential oils will be chosen to help with these ailments.

3. Bring up any kind of back problem, sore muscle, especially recent injury or surgery.

4. If you’re a sports enthusiast, tell the therapist what you participate in so he can concentrate on the muscles commonly used in that sport.

5. Skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, or even bruises should be pointed out, because the therapist can avoid direct contact, but work around the affected areas to enhance circulation.

The more often you receive massage therapy, the more sensitive you become to your own body. As a result, you become more aware of the stress signals your body sends out, and you can respond more quickly and effectively to those signals.