Friday 31 October 2008

Make Your Neck Pain Disappear Using Massage

Neck pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek medical treatment. In fact, the lifetime prevalence of a significant neck pain episode ranges from 40 to 70 percent. But you don't have to let it become a constant problem: regular massage treatments can help you manage it, especially if you are suffering from neck pain long after a neck injury has occurred.

The condition often occurs with back pain, and the symptoms are similar. Symptoms of neck pain may include spasm, stiffness, muscle discomfort, limitation of movement and headaches. Neck pain can occur suddenly (acute) or be constant (chronic); an acute injury, if left untreated in the hope that it shall repair itself can lead to loss of movement and debilitating pain.

Rather than continue with precription medicine for treating symptoms of neck pain, massage is a relevant non invasive alternative technique. Massage is used to relieve muscle tension that has built up within the body plus reduces stress with a hand manipulation of the affected muscles and other soft tissues. Although massage affects the whole body, it is especially therapeutic for the musculoskeletal, circulatory, lymphatic and nervous systems.

A combination of techniques, performed by an experienced massage therapist, will provide pain relief and help your recovery. The types of massage that are frequently adopted to relieve the symptoms of neck pain include Swedish, Deep Tissue, Trigger Point and Shiatsu.

Swedish massage is the term used to describe a variety of therapeutic massage techniques that help release tension with applied pressure to the surface muscles. This type of massage may be helpful in reducing emotional stress and tension that may add to your neck pain. This can also be referred to as a full body massage.

Deep tissue massage may be performed with Swedish massage to release tension from the deeper muscles and connective tissues in the neck and upper back. A massage involving deep tissue is much more intense as the pressure used by the massueur is harder as they focus on releasing scar tissue that can be the route of your neck discomfort.

Trigger point therapy uses steady pressure to release neck muscle spasms and promote blood flow to the area to aid healing. The method of therapy includes locating specific areas of knotted muscle which are manipulated being the source of the pain from the area of your shoulders and back to your neck.

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese massage in which the practitioner uses his or her body weight to gradually press acupressure points. By palpating, or feeling, the network of vessels through which your energy flows (meridians), the Shiatsu practitioner will be able to feel and simultaneously adjust the flow of energy ("Ki") in your body.


Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

Massage: Rid Yourself of Headaches

Many people suffer regular and intensive pain from headaches but once the cause can be determined there maybe a solution to counteract the paralysing effect that they have on life. Reaching for the medicine cabinet maybe alright for those with the occasional trouble, but those with regular and intensive headaches, the causes and natural cures should be examined.

In general, it is difficult to pinpoint the precise cause of an infrequently occurring muscle tension or vascular headache, but sometimes the anatomy of the headache—how it starts, where the pain is felt, and how long it lasts—provides valuable clues about its source.

Originally, it was accepted that there were just two simple explanations to thew source of headache pain. Vascular, such as migraines, occurred when blood vessels that supplied the brain and muscles of the head and neck dilated or were constricted. Tension headaches were thought to result from the tensing and contracting of muscles of the head, face, and neck in response to physical stress, such as injury or emotional distress.

However, it is now understood that there are complex chemical changes in the brain associated with pain. Tension headaches are associated with neurochemicals in the brain —varying levels of serotonin, endorphins and other chemicals that serve as neurotransmitters (substances that nerves use to send messages to one another) helping nerves to communicate.

These chemical changes observed in headache sufferers may cause, or be caused by, muscle tension. It is possible that tensed muscles in the neck and scalp may trigger a headache in someone with altered neurochemical levels or, on the other hand, the neck and scalp muscles may be tensing in response to these neurochemical changes.

The rise and fall of these chemicals are thought to not only activate pain pathways to the brain but also interfere with the brain's own capacity to suppress the pain. By adopting the benefits of massage therapy, muscle tension can be eased thus reducing the causes of headaches.

As headaches often result from or involve pain referred from problems associated with the bones and muscles in the neck, shoulder, and back, massage focusing on the cervical spine (the vertebrae in the neck behind the skull) can help to relieve headache pain.

Shiatsu massage, a Japanese technique in which pressure is applied with the fingers, thumbs and palm to acupuncture points, also may help to reduce headache pain. Another therapeutic touch technique that seems to help sufferers is known as the Trager Approach. This techniques uses massage to literally stretch the body's muscles and joint in order to enhance relaxation.

Some tension headaches may be relieved by a specific form of massage therapy called trigger point therapy (TrP). Trigger point therapy is the application of pressure to specific points such as along the trapezius muscles (the muscles extending from the base of the skull to mid-back located along the spine) and sternocleidomastoid muscles (muscles on either side of the neck).

This pressure interrupts the nerve signals that not only cause the headache pain but also create the trigger point. This massage therapy aims to relieve pain and to re-educate the muscles so they assume healthy positions and postures that do not generate pain. The beneficial effect of massage therapies to manipulate the body's muscular structure is now a recognised method of natural treatment for the causes of headaches.

Whether a full soothing body massage or therapy concentrating on the back and neck, facial or head, the techniques used can reduce stress levels and improve blood circulation leaving the person feeling relaxed and refreshed.


Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

More Massage = Less Stress

Stress is becoming more prevalent and harmful today yet still too many sufferers are adopting the wrong solutions to counteract the effects. Natural remedies such as massage has not only the beneficial effect of reducing stress but will result in many hidden benefits also.

Amongst the many ways to successfully manage stress, massage is a great way to relieve tension. The benefits of massage therapy are numerous, ranging from promoting relaxation to loosening tight muscles and increasing blood flow through to a natural remedy to that stress created phenomena, headache pain.

In order to break the cycle, action is required and an appointment to see a massage therapist or self massage can asiist in reducing your stress levels. What ever therapy you choose, it can help you manage stress by relieving anxiety and tension, promoting relaxation, increasing your energy, improving sleep, reducing muscle soreness, and decreasing pain. Don't forget also that it is possible to undertake self massage if you are aware of and understand the basic hand movements of the therapy.

Therapeutic massage, such as the Swedish method, is one of the techniques most popular in relieving stress. The Swedish techniques, that are often referred to as a full body massage, involve gentle kneading pressure and long strokes applied to the surface to relieve tension in the muscles and connective tissues. Therapeutic massage will often involve such methods as aromatherapy using massage oils and candles whereby the pleasing aromas can contribute to your stress relief during the therapy session.

A combination of various massages therapies can be very helpful in assisting in the management of stress. Other such techniques that can help relieve stress include deep-tissue massage to release tension from the deeper muscles and connective tissues, trigger point therapy to release muscle spasms from specific areas, and shiatsu to improve the flow of energy ("Qi" or "Ki") in the body by applying firm pressure to specific acupressure points.

Stress is a natural phenomena created by the body in response to the demands of life. Stress helps you face challenges and "stay on top of your game." Stress can be the result of environmental, physical or emotional factors. Although stress is a natural, and necessary part of everyday life, prolonged or chronic stress can lead to damaging health effects, including psychological and emotional disorders, as well as the development of diseases such as cardiovascular disease.

Once the stress problems appear endemic, often incorrect and harmful solutions are adopted and can in fact worsen the effects. You have to differentiate between "good" and "bad" stress and then incorporate relieving methods such as massage, be it for the full body or perhaps the back and neck or even just the head area, to ensure your mental and physical state are operating at the optimum.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

Saturday 25 October 2008

Pet Massage

Have you ever had all of your stress melted away with the help of a simple massage? If so, you know how relaxing and soothing a massage can be. The same is true for your pet! In fact, may people are deciding to give their pets massages in order to help them heal more quickly from illness or injury as well as to provide them with an overall better sense of wellness.

The Benefits of Massage

Just as with humans, there are many benefits associated with giving a pet a massage. Some of the benefits of massaging your pet include:

• Calming your pet
• Decreasing your pet's recovery time after experiencing trauma or undergoing surgery
• Increasing your pets blood circulation or the circulation of its nervous system or lymphatic system
• Increasing your pet's movement and flexibility
• Reducing your pet's pain
• Reducing your pet's stress
• Removing toxins from your pet's organs and body

It should be noted that massage is not meant to replace veterinary care. Rather, it is meant to work along with veterinary care to increase the effectiveness of treatment.

Types of Massage

Surprisingly, there are actually many different types of massage that may be used on a pet. These include:

• Efflurage
• Kneading
• Passive Joint Movement
• Passive Touch
• Stroking
• Tapotement

With Efflurage, the entire body of the pet is rubbed, including rubbing down the outside and the inside of the limbs. A circular, hand-over-hand technique is used in order to stimulate the movement of blood. Kneading, on the other hand, is used to either stimulate the skin and hair coat or to stimulate the muscle fibers. This is accomplished by rolling and pinching the skin and applying the pressure directly to the muscle rather than to the bone.

Passive joint movement is different in that it involves stretching and moving the joints, making it similar to physical therapy. Proper positioning is crucial with this form of massage, as improper placement can actually cause trauma to the tissue and the joint. Passive touch is also different because it does not involve any type of movement or pressure. Rather, the hand is simply held in place for 30 seconds to 90 seconds in order to warm the tissue and calm the animal.

Stroking is similar to what many pet owners do when petting their animal friend, though it is also included as a part of the massage and is meant to be applied slowly and lightly at the end of the massage session. Tapotement, on the other hand, is intended to stimulate the pet and may involve tapping and brushing various muscle areas. Since this technique is so stimulating, however, it should never be used on a pet with a history of abuse.

There are numerous techniques that can be used when massaging a pet. Just as with humans, however, it is best to consult with a professional in order to obtain the best results from this form of therapy.


Published At: www.Isnare.com
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Massage Parlors

For many of us the words massage parlors trigger the image of places where illicit sex is sold under the guise of a soothing massage. There are probably some massage parlors where illicit sex is sold but for the most part a massage parlor is an office and treatment center. These massages parlors are deigned to give massages that can help people with a variety of health needs.

When you enter a legitimate massage parlor the receptionist will take your name and ask if you have an appointment. Regardless of whether you have an appointment or not the receptionist will proceed to ask you a few questions. These questions will pertain to the type of massage that you are hoping to have.

Once the receptionist has the various required information you will be asked to wait in the tastefully decorated waiting room. Here you can read the day’s magazines, newspaper or you can look at the various lotions, creams and aromatherapy oils that are used in the massages. You have the option of selecting the oils and other items that are seen inside of the display stand that can be found in some massage parlors.

In massage parlors you will be asked to discuss what sort of pains or problems you are experiencing. Also the therapist may ask if you have been given a medical massage referral. These types of questions are a normal part of understanding the type of needs that a clients will have. This discussion will help both the client and the therapist.

Massage parlors need to conform to the various laws that are in place for the standard of work that is done. In many countries the client can wear their underclothing or have a towel or massage sheet draping the areas of the body that is not going to be massaged. Massage parlors must provide these items to their clients regardless of whether they are requested or not.

For the massage to be performed properly there are different types of equipment that can be found in the treatment sections of massage parlors. The standard pieces of equipment will include a massage table or massage chair, a massage stool where the therapist can give a through massage as may become needed.

The additional items that you will find in massage parlors are the various essential oils that are used in aromatherapy, mild smelling lotions and creams. Sometimes you will find CD players where pregnant mothers can ask for soothing music to be played while their massage is being performed.

So while there are some seedy massage parlors the vast majority of these massage parlors are in existence to provide healing treatments for various people. With the help of these places different people can find an alternative route to recovering from our stress filled lives.


Published At: www.Isnare.com
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Thursday 23 October 2008

How To Give The Perfect Massage!

Let's face it, sometimes we could all use a good back rub. Massages have been proven to reduce stress, improve sleep, relieve certain types of muscle pain, improve posture , and relieve soreness (especially from sports and other related fitness activities).

A massage also improves circulation and flexibility. Increased circulation of the blood helps you to eliminate toxins, feel great, and promote healthy bodily functions. Massage therapy has also been known to provide a more comfortable pregnancy. What a great gift for the mom-to-be.


Here are some massaging tips that hit the spot.

* Start with the shoulders and work your way down. The trick is to knead and roll rather than pinch or lightly stroke. Be careful not to rub directly on the spine, because the skin is thinner there.

* Use rhythmic movements and try to keep them consistent. It's best not to rub longer in one spot than in another unless asked.

* When massaging the neck, place your thumbs on the sides of the neck, curving your fingers over the top of the shoulders. This area is more sensitive for some than others. It's best to ask the person.

* Using the palm of your hand or a flattened fist, apply pressure gently to the spine, working your way up the back of the neck. Once you reach the top of the body, lightly stroke the back from top to bottom in one large motion.

* Using lotion can help relieve dry or irritated skin, as well as leave the person feeling totally relaxed.


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Optimize Your Massage With The iJoy Massage Chair

Treat Yourself Today with an i-Joy Massage Chair. Enjoy all four primary massage techniques recommended by the American College of Chiropractic Orthopedists: therapeutic compression, rolling, sdeep kneading and tapping. Human Touch Technology actually simulates the movements of a trained, massage therapist.

These i-Joy massage chairs feature three automatic programs: full massage over your entire back, upper back or lower back. You can also customize your massage to exactly where you need it most. Every Feature of the i-Joy Chair is geared toward increasing comfort.

The iJoy user is presented with a futuristic control panel built flush into the curved, padded armrest. Press a button and, in Auto mode, you’ll experience a blend of all four massage therapies in one continuous 15-minute program that travels all up and down your spine, in full, or can be focused on the Upper or Lower back. In the customizing Manual mode, you can position the rollers to apply the exact kind of massage desired on the exact spot you want.

The i-Joy chair’s backrest reclines from 110 to 155 degrees. And include a wired remote controller and feature an adjustable pillow and massage softening pad for a gentler massage. This i-Joy massage chair weighs 86 lbs. and can easily be moved on rear wheels. It features a child safety lock, with chair made of easy-care brushed velour and nylon.

It is the highly recommended and most popular massage chair today. The i-Joy Massage Chair like our other massage chair models is manufactured by the world's largest massage robotics company. Its quadrant of "Human Touch" robotic massage rollers accurately replicates the four primary techniques used by therapists and chiropractic professionals: smooth Rolling, deep Kneading, Percussion tapping and therapeutic Compression. The same robotic massage preferred by the prestigious American College of Chiropractic Orthopedists.

So many types of iJoy massage chairs are already developed, with various features and amenities. So, along with listening to music through the speakers in the headrest and powered subwoofer in the base, you also get a massage from the Human Touch Technology Robotic Massage, with Rolling, deep Kneading, tapping Percussion and therapeutic Compression. Heaven.


Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=122809&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

Thursday 9 October 2008

Massage Your Head The Indian Way

Massage, a revered form of healing is in practice since decades. Touch which is a vitally important to human well being takes the form of skilled and sensitive massage. Beside relaxing and revitalizing an ailing or tired body, it communicates warmth, reassurance and a sense of self worth.


Massage is an ideal way to ease anxiety, worries and soothe tight muscles resulting from tension and stress. There are many kinds, variations, styles and sequences of massage, influenced by local traditions, used in different parts of the world.

Indian head massage is one of the most popular forms of head massage also known as "Champissage" is characterized by a sequence of massage movements.

Originated over thousands of years ago in India, Indian head massage, traditionally began as family grooming with mothers massaging their daughter's hair with oils for long lustrous locks.

Over a period of time, Indian head massage has included massage of the neck, shoulder and face with a blend of shiatsu and acupressure to relax tense areas, rebalance the energy and clear any concentrated areas of negativity.

Since there are several acupressure points on the head, a Champissage is felt throughout the entire body. The massage may be dry or oils may be used. The advantage of using oils for massage is that besides nourishing the hair, it calms the nervous system, as the roots of one's hair are connected to nerve fibres.

Indian head massage is beneficial to those who are affected by mental and emotional stress. It helps to improve circulation in head, enhance the senses, improve memory and promote clear thinking.

If you're suffering from headaches, migraines, insomnia, vertigo and depression, Champissage will work wonders. Air conditioning, artificial lightening, slouching in front of the PC, etc often cause stress in the neck and shoulder region. Massaging the neck and shoulder areas in addition to the head massage will bring relief from stress.

Reduces hair loss, premature balding & graying, improves eyesight and concentration due to massage of the temples, eyebrows and forehead. People with chronic spinal disorders such as osteoporosis and arthritis require a more gentle massage. The pressure should be applied according to the need of the individual.



Source: Free Articles


Back Massage - The Ultimate Stress Reliever

As many of us are aware the lifestyles that we live tend to keep us on edge or stressed almost the entire day. To decompress or de-stress from this hectic pace there are dissimilar methods that can be used. Since our backs tend to take most of this feverish lifestyle demands having a back massage can untangle the assorted stress knots that have developed.

The back is often times the most vulnerable part of the body. Absorbing most of the stresses that we encounter on a daily basis. So, the idea is to take care of the back and it will take care of you.

To have a good back massage you can see a trained masseuse or have somebody that you know give you a simple back massage. For the best effects of the message you should be wearing a light cloth that covers your body where it is not being massaged.

When having a friend give you a massage be cautious and if something doesn't feel right stop doing it. This is especially true if they have little to no experience. This is no cause for alarm, just a friendly reminder.

Using a fragrant aromatherapy oils can help to relax any tense muscles during the back massage. You should select the oil that you like and one that has therapeutic healing abilities as well.

In a back massage you will need to lie down full length comfortably. The person who is giving you the rub down should either be upright or sitting next to your back. One hand should be placed at your lower back and the other hand is placed between your shoulder blades.

To start the back massage use the thumbs and softly press along the outsides of the spine. The back massage should begin at the base of the lower back and work its way up towards the neck. Make sure that the massage does not press into the support itself as injuries could occur.

Once the neck area has been reached a little bit of essential oil like Lavender should be poured on to your friend's hands. Leisurely in a gliding motion slide both of the hands down on each side of the back towards the pelvis. At the pelvis the hands need to be moved in an outward direction towards your hips.

Contact with the body should still be maintained right throughout this entire procedure. To continue getting the full effect of the back massage, your friend will need to start the massage up towards the neck area again. At this point a light kneading motion will need to be applied as your friend is moving their hands upwards to the neck.

This integral back massage treatment will need to be applied over the whole back area. When the back has been treated, the neck and shoulder areas can be given a massage. The massage handling for this area is applied in a circular motion.

This entire massage should be worked over the diverse areas that are deeply knotty and tense. When the entire back, shoulders and neck have been thoroughly rubbed and the oil has penetrated into the skin you will experience the restful feelings of a great back massage.

A back massage, when done properly, can rejuvenate you. Many have experienced higher energy levels after a massage. So, get back massages regularly and relieve yourself of the tension of the day.



Source: Free Articles


Sweet Almond Oil

Oil has been an integral part of massage therapy since time immemorial. The rationale of using oil in a massage is to facilitate ease in gliding over the massage receivers' skin. Today one come across many types of massage oil that help in healing various ailments. These various oils contain ingredients for specific or all skin types to purify and nourish the skin.

One of the most popular (carrier) massage oil is Sweet Almond Oil. A form of almond oil, sweet almond oil is used mostly external therapeutic purposes. It is a light, sweet and slightly nutty oil. The fine texture of the oil makes it easily penetrable and nourishes the skin. It is an excellent softening and soothing moisturizer for all skin types.


It conditions the skin by helping it to adjust the loss and absorption of moisture hereby resulting in clear, clean complexion. Being anti inflammatory in nature, it eases irritation, itching that occurs when one suffers from eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and sunburn. Also palliates muscular aches and pains.

Sweet almond oil is pale yellow in color with sweet odor, containing important vitamins such A, B1, B2, B6 and E. It is extracted from the seeds of almond tree by cold pressing the kernels followed by clearing of the oil through filtration. Sweet almond oil is inexpensive making it the most commonly used carrier oil by massage practitioners and aroma therapists.



Source: Free Articles


Saturday 4 October 2008

A Back Massage To Unravel The Various Tension Knots That Develop

As many of us are aware the lifestyles that we live tend to keep us on edge or stress almost the entire day. To unwind or de-stress from this hectic pace there are different methods that can be used. Since our backs tend to take most of this hectic lifestyle demands having a back massage can unravel the various tension knots that have developed.

To have a good back massage you can see a trained masseuse or have someone that you know give you a simple back massage. For the best effects of the message you should be wearing a light cloth that covers your body where it is not being massaged.


Using a fragrant aromatherapy oils can help to relax any tense muscles during the back massage. You should select the oil that you like and one that has therapeutic healing abilities as well.

In a back massage you will need to lie down full length comfortably. The person who is giving you the massage should either be standing or sitting next to your back. One hand should be placed at your lower back and the other hand is placed between your shoulder blades.

To start the back massage use the thumbs and gently press along the outsides of the spine. The back massage should begin at the base of the lower back and work its way upwards towards the neck. Make sure that the massage does not press into the spine itself as injuries could occur.

Once the neck area has been reached a little bit of essential oil like Lavender should be poured on to your friend’s hands. Slowly in a gliding motion slide both of the hands down on each side of the back towards the pelvis. At the pelvis the hands need to be moved in an outward direction towards your hips.

Contact with the body should still be maintained right throughout this entire procedure. To continue getting the full effect of the back massage, your friend will need to start the massage up towards the neck area again. At this point a light kneading motion will need to be applied as your friend is moving their hands upwards to the neck.

This entire back massage treatment will need to be applied over the whole back area. When the back has been treated, the neck and shoulder areas can be given a massage. The massage treatment for this area is applied in a circular motion.

This entire massage should be worked over the various areas that are deeply knotted and tense. When the entire back, shoulders and neck have been thoroughly rubbed and the oil has penetrated into the skin you will experience the relaxing feelings of a great back massage.


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Effective Stress Relaxation Techniques

Schedules, meetings, career, family, kids, parent meets – stress! By the end of the day, you are ready to pull your hair out unless you can do something to relax. But, in a scenario where there is not a moment to spare, it is difficult to find time-effective ways to unwind. Then, how can you overcome stress?

According to Dr. Trevor Powell, stress is a positive force that can enable a human being to survive. Considering the connotations that the word has in our life today, it is hard to believe that stress can have any positive effect on us. Each one of us experiences some amount of stress. Up to a certain limit, stress can stimulate us to perform better. This is because stress can evoke certain body reactions that make us feel energized, alert and focused.


But too much stress is counter-productive. It impairs performance and brings out dangerous knee-jerk reactions. Too much stress or negative stress can lead the body to produce stress chemicals that linger in the blood and prevent us from relaxing. High levels of stress over long periods of time can lead to anxiety, fear, frustration, panic, emotional withdrawal and depression. In its worst form, stress can lead to health problems like ulcers and diabetes. It is obvious that we have to develop certain effective stress relaxation techniques to cope with negative stress.

Massage: Massaging tense muscles and kneading soft tissues relieve stress. A good body massage can help you feel relaxed and integrated. However, you would need to find a professional massage therapist in order to get full benefit from this technique.

Visualization: Visualize a beautiful place in your mind. It could be the beach, the park or even your back garden. Feel the sights and the sound of the place you love. This will help you relax.

Music: Stress reducing music has been used even in the ancient past. Emperors and kings used music and dancing to unwind after a hard day of toil. Listening to specially designed relaxation music is one of the most effective stress relaxation techniques known to man. Stress reducing music has been used by clinical psychologists and hypnotists to induce a deep state of relaxation in their patients. These specially designed pieces of music have voices, rhythm and tempo that will help an individual relax. Their specially designed musical notes guide the brain to generate a deeply relaxed state of mind. There are special CDs and DVDs available for both stress reduction as well as inducing a deeply relaxed sleep.

To be of any use, effective stress relaxation techniques must be cost and time-effective. Plugging on to stress reducing music and listening to it through your ipod or mobile phone while you drive yourself to work or sit in a bus or train is one of the easiest ways to cope with stress.



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Natural Remedy For Childhood Ailments

Are you looking for natural remedies for childhood ailments? This article discusses how aromatherapy can be helpful in treating common ailments like asthma, tummy ache, eczema, sore throat and nose bleeds. Just read this article and find effective natural remedies for these childhood ailments.

1. Asthma


If you child suffers from asthma, aromatherapy can help in several ways. Add four drops of benzoin and four drops of rosemary oil to his or her daily bath.

Make massage oil using three drops of benzoin and three drops of lavender oil. Rub it into the chest at regular intervals daily. Also try using a vaporizer in the child’s bedroom at night with benzoin, pine and rosemary oils (or, any one of them)

2. Tummy ache

Gentle massage is soothing on its own, but is even more beneficial with the help of aromatherapy.

Add two drops of camomile, two of fennel and two of peppermint oil to 4 fl oz (100 ml) of carrier oil. Gently rub this into your child’s tummy, using soothing massage strokes. Also, try adding the above oils to a warm bath – the heat helps pain and there is no need for carrier oil.

3. Eczema

This is a very common childhood complaint and aromatherapy is a very effective way of helping it.

Dry eczema - Add six drops of geranium oil to 4 fl oz (100 ml) of avocado oil and apply to the affected areas several times daily. You can also add six drops of geranium oil to your child’s daily bath.

Weeping eczema - Add six drops of bergamot oil to 4 fl oz (100 ml) of avocado oil and apply to the affected areas several times daily. You can also add six drops of bergamot oil to your child’s daily bath.

4. Sore throat

Either of the following remedies helps soothe irritation or you can use both together if the patient does not object. Obviously very young children can’t gargle, so use the oil instead.

To make a mouthwash/gargle, add two drops of lemon, two drops of eucalyptus and two drops of lavender oil to a cup of warm water.

Alternatively, you can add the above oils to 4 fl oz (100 ml) of carrier oil and rub the mixture into the throat and chest then up into the glands behind the ears, at regular intervals.

5. Nose bleeds

While your child is sitting forward, pinching his or her nostrils together, make up the following cold compress.

Soak a flannel in 1 pint (600 ml) of very cold water to which you have added six drops of frankincense oil. Fold it in half and place over the bridge of the nose. Bleeding usually stops very quickly.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.



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Friday 3 October 2008

The Health Benefits Of Massage Therapy

Massage is all a matter of touch. We are all sensual beings and as a result our bodies respond well to massage and human contact. When there is touch, more healing takes place.

These are some of known health benefits of Massage Therapy:


• Improves blood circulation, thus allowing increased oxygen and nutrients to be delivered to treated areas including areas that have been injured or have experienced overexertion.

• Helps to lower blood pressure.

• Aids in detoxification by propelling toxic waste products through the lymphatic system.

• Relieves stress and promote sense of well being.

• Relaxes injured muscles, reducing cramps, and muscle spasms

• Stimulates the release of the bodies’ natural endorphins which may aid in pain control.

• Provides increased exercise stretching for atrophied muscles.

In fact, increasing evidence show that massage therapy helps to bolster the immune system of a person. Some studies show of cellular changes in immune function following massage therapy, including the new research on healthy women that indicates increases in disease-fighting white blood cells and natural killer-cell activity.

Before a Massage Therapy session, you may wish to consult with the Massage Therapist as to your treatment goals. Different combinations of massage techniques may be used to attain these goals. For instance, if you have a sports injury, you may wish to have specific massage strokes targeted to reduce swelling and to improve blood flow in that area. Or the therapy session may just well be a general de-stressing and relaxing one.

If you agree that many of today’s illnesses are due to stress-related issues, then Massage Therapy which helps in the reduction of stress, can really help in the process of building white blood cells. For a better immune system and reduced stress levels, try Massage Therapy today!



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