Which is better massage or stretching? 

Massage and stretching are both really helpful ways to keep your muscles relaxed, reduce tension and of course help recovery after an injury.  Stretching helps to get the blood flowing to your muscles, which is great if you’ve injured yourself, or if your muscled are stiff because they’ve contracted due to inactivity.

Giving your muscles a really good stretch can stop your muscles from going into painful spasms or cramps, and stop the knots forming in them that take so much work to get rid of when you have a massage!

Regular massage on the other hand improves your flexibility and range of motion, keeping your joints more fluid and making them less injury prone in the first place. 

What are the differences between massage and stretches - and how do they work together to promote muscle and joint health?

Massage 

What is a massage? Well, stripped right down, massage is simply a word that’s used to describe the manipulation of muscles, ligaments and connective tissue. Of course there are lots of different types of massage, and techniques that are suitable for different things, but when you go for a massage, this is what your therapist will be doing.

What’s massage good for?

We love a massage for general wellbeing, but medically massage is recognized for more than just making you feel good.

Massage can:

 Help strained muscles to heal faster
 Reduce swelling and scar tissue if you’re injured
 Relieve stiffness and tension in your muscles
 Reduce feelings of stress, anxiety and fatigue

Stretching

Stretching does have a lot of similarities to massage, but its main benefit is to relieve the tightness and tension that’s built up in your muscles when you’ve used (and over-used) them.   Having a really good, effective stretch can increase the blood flow to your muscles, and this leads to a better range of motion that helps your joints to stay in alignment
 
What’s stretching good for?

Stretching properly can;

 Improve your circulation
 Boost your nerve health
     Make movement easier
     Improve flexibility

How can massage and a stretching routine work together?

Daily stretching – to a point where you can just feel it pulling on your muscles – can really help to increase your flexibility, and you can feel the effects in a matter of a few weeks.

Enjoying a regular massage helps to keep your body relaxed and flexible. Massage can release trigger points and muscles in spasm, making your stretching routine even more effective. 

You could even opt for a Thai massage which uses stretches and massage all in one session to give your muscles and tendons a really thorough workout. You can also ask your massage therapist for advice if you have any injuries or are experiencing stiffness in your muscles.

http://www.wavecrestmassage.com/

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. 

15 Unique Ways to Use Essential Oils with a Shot Glass

1. Try an allergy “shot” with a couple drops each of lavender, lemon, and peppermint diluted in water.
2. Mix up your own mouthwash by adding 1 drop of peppermint, melaleuca, lemon, orange, cinnamon bark, or an antibacterial blend to water. Gargle, and spit.
3. When you feel like you are getting sick or getting a sore throat, try taking a “shot” with a drop of oregano diluted in water. Gargle, and swallow.
4. Fill the shot glass with your daily vitamins and supplements the night before so you will remember them in the morning.
5. If you have a cough, try adding a drop each of lemon, orange, frankincense, and peppermint to a little bit of honey. Mix with a spoon, and eat.
6. Try a detox “shot” by adding a drop of lemon to a little water.
7. Don’t like taking your omega 3 fish oil? Make it a game with another family member, and see who can down their small glass of fish oil the fastest!
8. Make your own massage blend by putting your carrier oil in the shot glass; then drop essential oils in, and mix. Pour a little bit at a time on area to massage.
9. Clean your toothbrush at night by setting the brush in a solution of hydrogen peroxide and a drop of lemon oil or an antibacterial blend in the shot glass.
10. Want to add oils to your bath? Fill a shot glass with Epsom salt and drop a few drops of your desired oil(s) in. Try a relaxing bath by adding lavender or an energizing bath by adding citrus oils. After you have your Epsom salt and oil mixture, place the shot glass under the bathtub faucet, and let the running water mix it into the filling bathtub.
11. Make a mini reed diffuser by filling a shot glass 3/4 of the way full with jojoba oil and 5-10 drops of essential oil. Place rattan reeds (cut to 4–5″ tall) in the oil mixture. After a few hours, the reeds will suck up the oil and disperse the scent into the air.
12. Mix up your own furniture polish by putting a little olive oil in the shot glass and adding a few drops of lemon essential oil. Dip a rag in the mixture, and polish away!
13. Have you heard of oil pulling? These shot glasses are the perfect size for mixing a little coconut oil and essential oils to swish in your mouth! Just swish for 15–20 minutes, and then spit into the garbage.
14. Have an upset stomach, heartburn, or motion sickness? Try taking a “shot” of water with a drop of ginger, peppermint, or a digestive blend.
15. Kids love these glasses because they are miniature and fun! If your child won’t take a capsule with essential oils, just add a drop of oil to water in the shot glass, and make it a game to drink it fast.
    

Do you have other ideas for how to use a shot glass with essential oils? If so, please comment below!















In honor of Massage Awareness Month, reference this page to receive $20 off your massage session of one hour or longer for the entire month of October. *Not to be combined with any other promotion.


Comment here & like us on Facebook to be entered into a drawing for an additional 30min to be added onto your next one hour massage. Winner will be notified via email at 1pm October 25th.
 

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

October Is Massage Therapy Month

October has been designated Massage Therapy Month raising awareness about this non-invasive therapeutic touch that benefits mind, body and spirit. The physical benefits are obvious and becoming increasingly understood by the general population including the medical profession.

As professional body workers we often see how people suffer from muscles aches and pains, injuries but also stressful working environments, lifestyles and trauma.  It may be said that massage does not cure or completely heal all that ails us but it is a real significant step towards feeling better in our bodies and reconnecting with a feeling of wholeness.  It is often the first step towards reaching out for help in a nurturing and safe environment.

Receiving a massage is the most loving act of self-care.  When we book an appointment, we declare that our time and focus for a full hour or ninety minutes will be targeted to our wellness and commitment to  well-being.  We may not have control over many aspects of our lives but we can set aside this time we entrust our care to a kind and skillful Massage Therapist.

While Massage Therapists are considered Body workers,  don’t be surprised if your favorite Massage Therapist has a keen understanding of energy work and healing.   Don’t be shy to ask if they do any form of energy work like Reiki or chakra harmonization to be added to your massage.

There are so many techniques to choose from such as Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports Massage, Acupressure, Chair Massage, Cranio Sacral Therapy, Bowen, Polarity, Myofascial Release, Kinesiotherapy, Shiatsu, Traeger, Lomi Lomi, Tuina, Reflexology, and many more.  There are many amazing Massage Therapists out there who do wonderful work.   Find one that resonates with you by trying out various techniques until you find the one that suits you.

In honor of Massage Awareness Month, reference this page to receive $20 off your massage session of one hour or longer for the entire month of October. *Not to be combined with any other promotion.


Comment here & like us on Facebook to be entered into a drawing for an additional 30min to be added onto your next one hour massage. Winner will be notified via email at 1pm October 25th.




 

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

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

What’s the Difference Between a Swedish Massage and a Deep Tissue Massage?

  Two popular massage techniques, Swedish massage and deep tissue massage have different purposes and results. It’s worth knowing the difference so you can get the most relief for your particular issues. Here is a little background information on these two massage techniques.

 

Swedish Massage is Perfect for Relaxation

 



 

 

Developed in the early 1800s by Per Henrik Ling and others, Swedish massage may be the most commonly used massage technique. Swedish massage promotes relaxation with light to vigorous strokes, including: 

 

1.Effleurage (sliding)

 

2.Petrissage (kneading)

 

3.Tapotement (rhythmic tapping)

 

4.Friction

 

5.Vibration or shaking

Swedish massage increases blood circulation and moves metabolic waste out of the body .It boosts the nervous system, which helps relieve pain and reduce tension. Clinical studies show that Swedish massage reduces lower back pain, arthritis, and joint stiffness. It lowers levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.

For relaxation and stress relief, Swedish massage is the technique to choose.

 

More Than Just Athletes Choose Deep Tissue Massage

 

As the name implies, Deep Tissue Massage uses deep pressure to reach areas of tension and pain within the muscles. With an injury or chronic tension, adhesions develop in muscles, tendons and ligaments. Adhesions block circulation, limit movement, and cause pain and inflammation.

Deep tissue massage uses direct deep pressure to break down adhesions in the back, neck, arms, and legs. The massage therapist uses massage oil and intense pressure to reach and unknot inner layers of muscle. It isn’t painful, since an experienced massage therapist is attentive to a client’s tolerance.

Deep tissue massage is often used to relieve chronic pain, such as back pain, tension headaches, or carpal tunnel syndrome. Athletes who maintain an intense training program use deep tissue massage to ease the effects of demanding workouts. It can be helpful to reduce fluid retention, too.

Areas of stiffness also benefit from deep tissue massage, and it’s used to relieve stiff neck and upper back, sore shoulders, and tight leg muscles. Deep tissue massage is most often used in cases of injury or chronic tension.

 

Both Forms of Massage Have Many Benefits

Whether you choose Swedish massage or deep tissue massage, your massage will help flush toxins out of your body. To assist that process, drink fluids, especially water.

Both deep tissue massage and Swedish massage can leave you with sore muscles temporarily. But this will pass quickly and leave you feeling better.

For a massage that’s customized to your individual needs, call Wave Crest Massage at (631) 375-0962  or sign up online. We look forward to helping you find the perfect massage for your needs.

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 appointment.  https://www.wavecrestmassage.com

 

 

 

 

Warm Bamboo Massage



Known for its healing properties, this massage works at all levels to balance, calm and energize you physically, mentally and spiritually.

 



 

 If you're looking for a rejuvenating massage treatment, there's nothing better than Warm Bamboo Massage Therapy. 

 

 

 

 

What is it?

Warm Bamboo Massage is for the person wanting a luxurious Swedish Massage or serious Deep Tissue Bodywork.  Bamboo rods are used to roll and knead the soft tissue and knots that combine the traditional benefits of massage along with comforting quality of heat creating the extreme sense of relaxation and well-being.

 

Technique used in bamboo massage therapy

 A bamboo massage is typically done with bamboo & rattan rods of various lengths and diameter. The rods are generally heated but may be used at room temperature. Longer pieces of bamboo in various widths are used for gliding strokes, whereas smaller tools can be used for more detailed work.  The bamboo and rattan replace the hand of the therapist providing a deeper, firmer massage. The bamboo rod is held by the therapist and rolled over the muscle with the same strokes they would use with their hands. The Warm Bamboo Massage improves circulation, sensory nerve perception and provides a deep sense of relaxation and serenity.

 

 

What are some of the benefits of Warm Bamboo Massage?

• Increases circulation

• Flushes body of metabolic wastes (i.e., lactic acid) for faster healing time and detoxification

• Decreases muscle spasms

• Breaks up tissue adhesions

• Releases endorphins to promote relaxation and pain reduction
• Warms and relaxes deeper tissue

 

 

 

 

Who should receive Warm Bamboo Massage?

Athletes, weekend warriors or anyone who has tissue adhesions, long periods with little movement, spasms, muscle tightness, insomnia, strains, sprains, headaches, a cold (tail-end), and plain old daily stress.

Warm Bamboo massage would not be advised for people with:

1. Lymphatic Cancer
2. Nausea
3. Fever
4. The beginnings of a cold or flu
5. Any condition that taxes the circulatory system (i.e., uncontrolled high blood pressure)
6. Most bacterial infections  

Always consult your doctor and your therapist to see if massage or specific massage types are right for you.

Make the most of your massage
Communication is key. Tell your therapist about your exercise routine and any particular pains, injuries, or conditions you have.

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 appointment.  https://www.facebook.com/wavecrestmassage  

#bamboomassage  #warmbamboomassage  #crossfit    #deeptissuemassage   #insomnia  #sportsmassage  #tissueadhesions  #endorphins 

 

 

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 appointment.  https://www.facebook.com/wavecrestmassage  

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