How to Benefit From Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is designed to penetrate the muscles by applying strong and focused pressure to the body. Unlike most light and relaxing forms of massage, deep tissue is commonly used to treat injuries, chronic pain, tension, and to alleviate the body from knots. Deep tissue can be highly effective, especially when combined with other forms of therapy.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Talk with you practitioner or massage therapist. Communicate clearly about your reasons for pursuing deep tissue, your physical needs and concerns, medical conditions or medications, and your progress with regular treatment.

2. Establish a comfortable level of pressure. Deeper pressure, while preferred by some, does not mean faster results. It is much more effective to maintain reasonable pressure for a greater number of sessions.

3. Recover from a deep tissue massage by drinking lots of water and by soaking in a warm or hot tub, preferably with Epsom salts. Massage releases pent up toxins in the body, and overworked or over-stimulated muscles need a rest.

4. Establish a co-operative program for your health. Benefit from the corrective properties of deep tissue massage by discussing and maintaining proper posture, regular exercise, good diet, and relaxation or meditation techniques that reduce the effects of stress on the body.

5. Breathe deeply throughout your sessions, and practice deep breathing at home. Deep tissue involves focused massage and loosens up connective tissue. A major benefit of deep tissue is a release of tense muscles and knots. Oxygenating these muscles with deep breaths soothes the discomfort associated with deep pressure and encourages the body to open and relax.

6. Stick with it. Even if you choose to alternate types of massage or take temporary breaks from deep tissue, regular and prolonged treatment combined with the right care can cure or minimize chronic problems and pains.