Showing posts with label cortisol. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cortisol. Show all posts

Sunday, July 3, 2016

Massage Therapy For Adrenal Exhaustion


A very quick overview


Situated right above the kidneys, the adrenals are endocrine glands, responsible for releasing a variety of hormones that help the body to deal with and recover from stress. Some of these hormones include cortisol, epinephrine and norepinephrine. When a person experiences a stressful event the adrenal glands release these hormones to help us deal with the situation at hand.
Symptoms of stress or
adrenal exhaustion include fatigue, recurrent infections, inability to deal with stress, changes in blood pressure and achiness. Though the exact mechanism of action remains scientifically unconfirmed, massage therapy provides relaxation in complement with conventional medical treatment.

Lowers Stress Hormones

Daily life happens in a series of mini-stress situations: out of milk, red lights, fussy children, competition at work, angry customers, crabby spouse. The adrenal glands release cortisol to deal with these issues and emergency situations with the fight-or-flight response.
 
 
 

Massage

Massage, for obvious reasons can be very useful in helping to reduce stress levels. I think that it's worth pointing out that certain types of massage can actually be quite stimulating, so it would be important to tell your therapist that you are dealing with Adrenal Fatigue and that you need to relax! Excessively deep pressure combined with fast movements can result in you feeling like you've run a marathon by the time you get off the table. It is my opinion that the most effective way to assist in the resolution of adrenal fatigue with massage is through a series of slow, methodical, and gentle treatments.

Improves Mood

In an overview of massage therapy from the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, research indicates a single massage reduces temporary anxiety that results from a stressful situation. Multiple massage treatments reduce general feelings of anxiety and depression.  

Supports Immune Function

One symptom of adrenal exhaustion is frequent sore throats and infections. A research review published in the Townsend Letter notes the positive effects of massage on immune function. Massage increases white blood cells and natural killer cells in healthy individuals following a Swedish massage. There is an observed increase in natural killer cell activity and T-cells in HIV positive patients receiving daily massage. In addition, a reduced loss of lymphocytes in HIV positive is noted in children receiving massage therapy twice per week.
 

Tips

For a professional massage, seek out a certified or licensed massage therapist. The American Massage Therapy Association recommends you ask your massage therapist about their credentials to practice massage therapy. Talk to your massage therapist about why you are seeking massage therapy -- this will help your therapist choose the best style and approach to your massage. Use massage therapy for relaxation, not as an alternative to medical treatment.

Roy is a New York State Licensed Massage Therapist and has worked in high end spa’s as well as rehabilitation centers. He is well known for his Relaxing Massage as well as his skill in Medical Massage and Sports Massage. Contact Roy at 631-375-0962 or email at roy@wavecrestmassage.com to schedule your next appointment

https://www.wavecrestmassage.com

Monday, August 3, 2015

The Importance Of Massage For Runners



You’ve got your race number and your gear – but as you prepare for a marathon, Tuff Mudder or other sporting event, remember to add massage to your preparation kit. Here are a few reasons why.

Massage prevents injury
When you run, your tendons, ligaments and connective tissue are being stretched – literally – to their limits. Massage expands those limits by breaking up knots and tightness, thus widening your range of motion. Increased flexibility will improve your running form, and you’ll be less likely to sprain or strain something important during your sports event.
Maybe you’ve already hurt yourself? Massage to the rescue. Massage has been proven to boost the immune system and speed up lymph flow (that’s the liquid containing your muscle-repairing white blood cells). That means massage will help you heal up and recover faster from your assorted aches and pains.

Massage reduces muscle soreness
 This is a big one for runners. When you’re racing up to 26.2 miles, your muscles work hard. That’s where massage comes in – it’s the scientifically-proven way to reduce post-run muscle soreness. Massage, according to the New York Times, suppresses inflammation (which causes muscle pain) and increases blood circulation and the formation of new blood vessels (which builds muscles and reduces muscle fatigue). For best results, get the massage within 24 hours after a long run.

Massage keeps you in the zone

Massage doesn’t just heal the body, it soothes the mind. Massage squashes the release of cortisol (aka the stress hormone), while pumping up the release of endorphins, which improve mood and reduce the sensation of pain. A less-stressed brain is better at sending signals to the muscles and vice versa (called biofeedback). This means that you’ll feel better mentally and, through the mind-body connection, perform better physically.

Make the most of your massage
For best results, work with a licensed massage therapist with experience in sports massage. Many sports massage therapists are runners and athletes themselves.
Communication is key too. Tell your therapist about your exercise routine, race history, and any particular pains, injuries, or conditions you have.
While massage is restorative at any time, timing can maximize its benefits for your body. A regular schedule while training is best – whether that’s once a month or once a week. You should also plan on getting a massage three or four days before the marathon. After the race, a light massage within 24 hours is great for reducing soreness.


Tip:

Before you book your appointment, make sure your massage therapist is certified or licensed in your state and associated with the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP) or the American Massage Therapists Association (AMTA). 


Remember, only receive massage therapy when you are well. 
If you don't feel well, reschedule your massage and consult a doctor. 


Roy is a New York State Licensed Massage Therapist and has worked in high end spa’s as well as rehabilitation centers. He is well known for his Relaxing Massage as well as his skill in Medical Massage and Sports Massage.Contact Roy at 631-375-0962 or email at roy@wavecrestmassage.com to schedule your next appointmenthttps://www.facebook.com/wavecrestmassage  


#cortisol  #endorphins  #flexibility  #marathon  #musclepain  #running form  #sportsmassage  #triathlon  #tuffmudder

Thursday, January 1, 2015

Winter Depression


Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is defined as winter depression. It is triggered by the onset of winter, and is thought to be due to the decrease in sunlight, which decreases vitamin D levels. Studies have shown that low vitamin D may be linked to depression.

SAD is typically treated with light therapy, psychotherapy and medications such as antidepressants. Symptoms of depression include loss of interest in things you were once very interested in, irritability, fatigue, sleep changes, decreased energy and general low mood. In the winter months, people stay inside more, so activity levels change. These changes decrease the body’s production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.
If you are experiencing symptoms of SAD also consider therapeutic massage. Massage is, in essence, its own medicine. Massage greatly reduces the symptoms of depression. Massage decreases cortisol levels, and with decreased cortisol levels there is a decrease in stress. Massage allows the body to restore parasympathetic nervous system functioning. In this state the body is at rest. Massage increases the level of endorphins (the body’s natural anti-depressant) which interrupts the fight or flight mechanism. Massage strengthens the mind/body connection. It increases our general sense of wellbeing and increases our immunity and vitality.
General side effects of antidepressant medicines can include:
·        Nausea, loss of appetite, or diarrhea
·        Anxiety or nervousness
·        Difficulty sleeping or drowsiness
·        Headaches
·        Sexual dysfunction
For most people experiencing winter blues symptoms, this type of therapy is indeed a good antidote. In addition to eating nutritionally sound meals or obtaining light therapy or counseling, a massage is an excellent way to enhance the outlook of anyone suffering from the winter blues as well as lessen the incidences of fatigue or anxiety.

For your added convenience, Wave Crest Massage Therapy will go to your home or place of business. Ask about our free aromatherapy upgrade to receive your choice of a free upgrade of Aromatherapy or 10 minute Peppermint Scalp Treatment.

Contact us at 631-375-0962 or email at roy@wavecrestmassage.com to schedule your next appointment.

#winterdepression  #sad  #endorphins  #winterblues  #depression  #lighttherapy  #cortisol


 

Friday, December 12, 2014

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage targets the deepest parts of the muscle tissues and tendons. This therapy also focuses on the fascia, which protects joints and muscles. Massage is ideal for people who have particular trouble areas in their bodies. Massage therapists apply slow and deliberate strokes that are less rhythmic compared to other forms of massage.
Deep-tissue massage offers a variety of emotional, biological, and physical health benefits.

1. Muscle Tension Relief

Deep tissue massage offers long term relief from muscle tension and muscle cramps. This massage is therapeutic because it focuses on the muscles that are tense. The pressure helps to relieve tension by enhancing blood circulation in the affected area.
Improved circulation helps to offer immediate relief. Muscle tension is common among people who suffer from chronic pain. The massage is an ideal way to deal with this kind of tension.

2. Toxin Release

Toxin build up is one of the main causes of degenerative diseases in human beings. Exposure to environmental chemicals can lead to toxin build up. However, we also get toxins through normal internal body processes.
Toxins can be stored in the body tissue and this can increase your risk of developing chronic diseases. Deep tissue massage helps the body to release toxins by increasing oxygen and blood circulation in the tissue.

3. Chronic Pain Reduction

Deep tissue massage has been identified as one of the most effective ways to manage chronic pain. It is also affordable compared to the prescription and over-the-counter medications that most people rely on to reduce pain. The pressure applied during this kind of massage promotes blood flow in the body, which in turn reduces inflammation. Most chronic pain is caused by inflammation.

4. Promote Scar Healing

People who have scars from injuries or surgery can use deep tissue massage to promote healing. This form of massage helps to break up the tissue that forms after injury and surgery. The scar tissue can disappear after repeated massage sessions. It works because it enhances circulation in the lymphatic system.
The pressure put on the tissues also promotes drainage in the lymphatic system. The presence of scar tissue can cause stiffness and constant pain. Deep tissue massage offers relief and it is ideal, especially if you are recovering from an accident or surgery.

5. Enhance Emotional Health

A deep tissue massage can help to promote emotional health by reducing stress levels. Stress is a part of daily life and it is considered necessary but when it gets out of hand, it can have adverse effects on your emotional and physical health. When you are stressed, your body releases cortisol.
This stress hormone is released in response to any physical or psychological stress that you face. The massage lowers the levels of stress hormones in your body. It also reduces heart rate, which goes up when you are stressed.
A massage also improves your mood and promotes relaxation because it triggers the release of serotonin and oxytocin in the body. When your serotonin levels are up, you feel happier. Hectic day-to-day activities can cause stress and this leads to tense muscles, tension headaches and bad moods. A deep tissue massage relieves the stress and lifts your mood.

For added convenience, Wave Crest Massage Therapy will go to your home or place of business. During the month of December you will receive a 10% discount and free upgrade of Aromatherapy.
Contact us at 631-375-0962 to schedule your next appointment.

https://www.facebook.com/wavecrestmassage?ref=hl


#deeptissue #deeptissuemassage #massage