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The Most Popular Massage Techniques

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In the fast-paced world we live in, so many stressors are constantly testing the tolerance and sanity levels of individuals.

Some opt for dangerous escapades (smoking and drinking) while others let the power of burden take over them. However, the best way to deal with all these issues is by getting a massage.

It is the best way to get rid of stress, anxiety, and body pains. In addition, getting a massage is the ideal way to release negative emotions from within and live a life that can be full of positivity.

There are specific massage techniques that are done to target specific issues. Today, let us go in depth and learn more about them

1.     Applied Pressure

This technique is used to lessen the tension that is in the muscles and to give deep relaxation to the pressure points.

  • The pressure is applied using different parts of the hand including the thumbs, palms, and the spaces between the fingers. Some massage methods use elbows and feet as well to give the full effect of the massage.

2.     Effleurage Method

This technique utilizes gentle strokes. The hands are kept flat –side by side- and gently moved all over the body.

  • This technique is used either at the beginning or at the end of the massage, or it is used as the transition move between two techniques.

3.     Kneading

This is a technique performed to relax the muscles and promote circulation in the deep tissues. It is extremely pleasant and gives deep relaxation. The focus is on the muscles near the shoulders and the neck.

  • The therapist will move the hands in different directions while applying pressure from the fingers, thumbs and the heel of the hand. There is even more pressure applied on the muscles –directly- to move them in their proper place.

4.     Rubbing

This is another deep tissue relaxation technique that focuses on the joints, muscles, blood flow, and the lymphatic circulation.

  • With the help of this technique, the knots are undone so the pain can escape the muscles. There is pressure applied with the thumbs in circles directly on top of the problem area.

5.     Vibrating Method

This is the technique that energizes and triggers the circulatory and nervous systems with the help of vibrations.

  • The therapist places their hands on your body (flat) and with gentle and quick motions; he or she will shake the muscles. Sometimes, the therapist uses the fingertips to apply pressure on the muscles in order to release the tension in them.

6.     Tapping

With the help of two hands and swift motions, the therapist taps the body for relaxation. The pressure can be altered according to an individual’s needs.

  • It can be done with cupped hands or with flat hands. This technique is used for athletes as well as it is great to promote blood circulation.

 

These are the six most popular massage techniques. They all are designed to provide individuals extreme comfort and stress-free lives.

Call (780)455-2112 to book your appointment today! Our Registered therapists are happy to help.

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7 Advantages of Getting A Massage

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In a fast paced and busy world, it is important to take time out from your busy schedule to indulge in a little “me time.” Although many people decide to go on a stay-cation, others go for a dip in a pool, whereas some opt for massages. Aside from providing your body with ultimate relaxation, massages are known to have endless advantages. Even though the sole purpose may be to get instant pain relief, if massage practices are done consistently, they can bring many benefits to your health.

Here is everything you can achieve from massages:

1.     Ultimate relaxation for the body

A hot stone or a Swedish massage is the perfect combination of heat and pressure that can provide ultimate relaxation to painful muscles. If your body feels worn out or too stiff from ongoing tensions, you will need to get one of these massages.

2.     Banish headaches

Despite what type of headache you may be suffering from, massages can alleviate them. Medical research has shown how getting regular massages and staying consistent with massages can reduce and even eliminate the headache issue.

3.     Experience less joint pain

A common issue amongst many individuals would be chronic joint pain. Moreover, pregnant women face this issue mostly, which is why doctors have started recommending massage therapy. Getting a massage regularly will relieve pains.

4.     No more anxiety worries

There are at least 40 million people in the world that suffer from a type of anxiety. This mental issue is one of the most common one and is responsible for the most mental health expenses as well. Luckily, with the help of massage therapy, it is possible to reduce the stress hormones in the body, which will automatically decline the symptoms of anxiety.

5.     Lessen back pains

Another common medical complaint would be continuous back pains. Multiple studies have proven how getting massage will reduce the requirement of painkillers in the body by 36%. It is also true that massage is more beneficial for treating back pains as compared to acupuncture and chiropractic practices.

6.     Improves flexibility

Because the issue of stiffness is recurring, people are unable to reach their desired level of flexibility. This issue makes it hard to excel at sports or freely do exercises. Therefore, getting a massage will target your body’s flexibility so you can enjoy life freely.

7.     Relieves insomnia

If you ask any individual about their sleeping habits, at least one thirds will reply with “falling asleep and staying asleep is a hard task.” Since sleep is such a crucial factor in life, it is important to resort to ways that will allow an individual’s sleep to be healthy all year long. Studies have proven that getting weekly massages can reduce insomnia significantly. Moreover, since many health issues happen because of sleep (prone to depression and a weak immune system), opting for massage is crucial.

 

With these noted advantages come many others as well. This is the reason why massage therapy has rapidly increased in the world. If you want to improve your quality of life, just get a massage!

Call (780)455-2112 or head online at www.ocwc.ca to book your appointment with one of our registered therapists!

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5 Ways Massage Can Help Improve Health

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Stress and tension have become such a big part of every individual’s life and it seems to be deteriorating their mental health. However,  there are ways to get rid of stress in the most comfortable way.

If you are suffering from everyday stress, your go-to solution to relieve stress should be getting a massage. It comes with numerous health benefits along with relaxation. Massage therapy should become a part of every individual’s healthcare regime as it will give them a break from life, unwind, and relax.

Here’s how massage can add to your overall health and wellbeing:

1.    Makes Blood Circulation Better

Sitting in the same position for long hours leads to postural stress. Lack of stretching or walking can be a result of poor blood circulation. This then leads to a weak immune system and bad digestion. Blood circulation gets better when you add massage to your routine as it will give you energy and release muscular stress. Although exercise is recommended, massages have proven to be the best way of stimulating blood flow in your body. They also improve the immune function and digestion.

2.    Fight Depression and Anxiety

Massage therapy  is also referred to as the “art of touching.” A single human touch can change perceptions and give the relaxation one needs after a long, tiring day. Massage stimulates the release of happy hormones to in your body, which calms the pathways of neuromuscular activities. This causes a significant decrease in anxiety and depression amongst people. The Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry revealed that individuals who get regular massages are less anxious and depressed compared to others who don’t.

3.    Better Sleep

When blood circulation gets better and muscle tension is released, an individual feels relaxed and calmer. This allows the sleep cycle to improve and gives the person a better perspective on things. A good massage will allow you to go to sleep with a clear mind and enjoy a deep, sound sleep.

Fun fact: If infants are massaged before sleeping, they will sleep longer and better.

4.    Strong Immune System

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine revealed that people who get regular massages have stronger immune function. Stress causes your body to be prone to diseases and viruses. Therefore, an individual should work on strengthening their immune system. Massaging helps lessen the stress hormones that are present in your bloodstream. It causes the activity of white blood cells to increase, which leads to a strong body defense and a healthier perspective on life.

5.    Get Rid of Headaches

Having a long-term headache can possibly make an individual dysfunctional. When you are suffering from a severe headache, your first instinct is to apply pressure on the area that is hurting. A therapeutic massage will allow the pain to ease along with a positive and clear mindset.

Visit www.ocwc.ca to learn more about our registered therapists and to book  your appointment online!

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Massage Therapy Dos And Don’ts

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Since massage therapy has become the new big trend, more and more people have started opting for it. The reason for this is that this therapy allows individuals to release pains, stresses, and tensions, while gaining maximum benefits and relaxation. However, when it comes to massage therapy, there are a few dos and don’ts every individual must be aware of to get the most out of a single therapy session.

To make your massage therapy experience even better, we have the top dos and don’ts for you!

Dos

  • You must be on time, or even a few minutes earlier than the scheduled time. The reason being earlier is recommended is so that you can get “your fully-allotted time” and get the paperwork done early as well.
  • It is important to shower before the sessions. It will make a good impression on the masseuse. Moreover, it is a common hygienic practice, and the experience will be better overall.
  • Let your masseuse leave the room before you take your clothes off. Even though your masseuse has to deal with undressed bodies the entire day, it certainly does not mean they are open to seeing you take your clothes off.
  • Make sure you are telling your masseuse about any injuries or major surgeries you have undergone. This means ALL the injuries or surgeries you have had in your entire life because it will make a difference.
  • You must speak up if something does not feel right. The best massage is the one that makes your eyes close, but if yours are not, it means there is something wrong. Feel free to let your masseuse know so they can change what they are doing and provide you with the best experience.
  • No matter how relaxed you may feel, it is important to leave on time. As amazing as your masseuse may be, you need to know that he/she has other clients as well.
  • Let your friends know. The best compliment for a masseuse is when there are clients coming in with reference; this shows him/her that she provided his/her clients with top-notch services.

Don’ts

  • Try not to go for a massage when you have a contagious condition or if you are sick. Why? Because you don’t want to get everyone else sick. In case you are, you must call the reception and reschedule your appointment.
  • It is not a sin to have hairy legs, whether you are a man or a woman. Masseuses deal with all sorts of clients every single day, making them used to all these things.
  • Make sure you are not going in for massage therapy if you have consumed alcohol or have taken drugs in the past 24 hours. Narcotics are the last thing you would want in your system when you are getting a massage because it is dangerous and unethical to massage someone under the influence.

These are the top dos and don’ts when you are getting a massage. Simply by following these you will be heightening the benefits of your massage while getting ultimate relaxation.

Give us a call at (780)455-2112 or visit www.ocwc.ca to book online with one of our registered massage therapists!

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Best Massages From Around the World

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Frequent travelers know how hard it can be hopping on one plane to another. With the constant rush of getting everything packed on time to catching the flight can lead to great physical and mental stress. Therefore, it is important to opt for a safe escapade when these travelling individuals land in their destinations. Here is a breakdown of the best massages around the world.

Swedish Massages

Contrary to popular belief, the Swedish massage did not originate in Sweden. Moreover, it was not even invented by a Swede. A Dutch practitioner incorporated basic strokes with French names to create this massage.

This massage is best known for its ability to soothe frictions using stokes, rubs, and kneads and strikes on the human body with different levels of pressure. Moreover, it is ideal for those that exercise regularly or even athletes, as it can loosen the lactic acids in the body and promote blood circulation.

African Rungu

This massage was first introduced in South Africa, but it is rapidly spreading across the region. The Rungu stick is a symbol of the warriors, which is why it is special.

This massage is done with the help of the Rungu stick so pressure can penetrate deeper into the muscles for better and more effective pain relief. The stick is then moved in circular fashion over the problem areas, which releases tension from within the tissues. Moreover, it promotes blood circulation.

Japanese Shiatsu

Although, acupuncture and herbalism is a form of ancient China, the Japanese brought this into their nation, incorporated their own techniques, and created this massage method.

The meaning of Shiatsu is “finger pressure” which means this massage is all about applying the right amount of pressures to the painful areas. There are many variations of this massage (like cupping and acupuncture). However, the goal is to create a balance in the body.

Hot or Cold Stone Massages

There are different variations of this massage available, but its roots come from Arizona.

The thing to remember when opting for this massage is that the temperature of the stone must be chemically connected with the body temperature. Every therapist has their own way of performing this massage, and sometimes it is even incorporated with others for best results.

Thai Massages

This massage has been around for many generations, but has been modified as time has gone on.

For this, there is movement required from the therapist and receiver. It includes high-pressure rubbing and kneading, but in some cases, the therapist has to move on the body to give the best results. Sometimes the sound of bones cracking is also audible!

Ayurveda

Created with intense Indian influence, this head massage has been around for many generations.

In this massage, the therapist uses oils on the head and begins kneading the head, applying pressure on the temples. They slowly move towards the shoulders, neck, and hands. This allows the body to restore its energy and release tensions.

 

Next time you land, make sure you opt for one of these recommended massages to experience the best time in your destination and so you can stay relaxed.

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The Most Popular Massages

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Recently, massages have become more and more popular. The reason for this is that massages provide every person with endless relaxation and comfort. Even though, there are many different types of massages available, each one is suited for every person’s individual needs. With so many massages, it is important to know the most popular ones.

1. Deep Tissue Massages
Similar to its name, the target of the deep tissue massage is to get into the deepest layers of your muscles and connective tissues so the muscle knots can be untied. The massage therapist will use friction or slow strokes on top of your muscles to relieve pains. This massage focuses on fixing postural issues, repetitive strain, injuries, and painful/tight muscles. The pressure used in this massage therapy is much more intense compared to the others, but it does not cause pain or discomfort. If you are someone who has chronic pains, troubles moving, or injuries, you are the best candidate.

2. Swedish Massages
At spas, clinics, gyms, and wellness centers, the Swedish massage is the most popular kind of massage. The goal of this massage is to use longer strokes so it can focus on healing certain pains of your body. The 5 strokes used in this massage are friction (small circular motions), tapotement (percussion), effleurage (smooth long strokes), petrissage (rolling, kneading, lifting), and vibration (shaking and rocking movements). This massage is ideal because it releases tensions from your entire body.

3. Aromatherapy Massages
Aromatherapy massage is a modified version of the Swedish massage because this massage uses essential oils. These essential oils are extracted from flowers or plant parts and they are known to have healing powers. For example, rose and lavender oils have the ability to relax your body. Even though every single oil has its own properties, there is a chance that the massage therapist has a pre-blended oil that will provide you with uplifted feelings and energized.

4. Hot Stone Massages
This form of massage uses warm (slightly hot) stones to relieve pains. The massage therapist will place smooth, somewhat hot stones on the painful parts of your body while massaging you. The stones used in this massage are basalt (these are volcanic rocks that preserve heat). The warmth preserved in these stones have the ability to loosen your tight muscles while the massage therapist is massaging your body.
However, if you are suffering from issues like varicose veins, heart diseases, diabetes, or high blood pressure, you will need to talk to your doctor before getting a massage. Similarly, if you are taking any mediation that may be thinning your blood, you will need to consult your doctor again.

These are the top 4 massages that are popular all around the world. If you have never opted for a massage, make sure you opt for the most popular ones.

Our clinic is home to 3 of the best massage therapists in the city. If you or someone you know are in the market for a quality massage, give us a call at (780)455-2112 to book your appointment today! Visit www.ocwc.ca to learn more about our therapists.

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7 Reasons To Get A Massage

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In this fast-paced world, it is easy to get tensed and stressed, which is why it is important for individuals to find alternative methods in making them feel better. Although, some individuals find unhealthy alternative methods, the best one would be to get a massage.

Massages are incredibly important for individuals, but many fail to understand that. To help you grasp a better understanding, here are the top reasons why you should opt for a massage.

1.      Massage can readjust your posture

Sitting in the same position all day or leaning in to use your phone is not good for your posture. Getting regular massages will straighten your posture and alignment while relieving the pains from your back and neck. The American Massage Therapy Association claims that massages are known to relieve tensions.

2.      Massage can help you sleep better

Regular massages aid with the blood circulation, which means it will help you sleep better. If you are suffering from insomnia or sleepless nights, opting for regular massage would be the best option. If you cherish your sleep, get a massage.

3.      Massage can help ease your anxiety

Massages are known to lessen anxiety. If you have gotten it before, you must know how amazing it feels. A study done in Korea showed how a simple massage can lower the heart rate and blood pressure. The simple touch of a hand can make sure your anxiety is lessened.

4.      Massage can help alleviate headaches

If you have been suffering from migraines or chronic headaches, it is important to talk to your doctor about them. However, if you know the reason behind these pains, you need to start getting regular massages. There have been endless studies done that have proven that massages are great at lessening migraines and chronic headaches.

5.      Massage can treat all kinds of pains

Not only do massages help athletes with their pains, but also massages can help people with all kinds of bodily pains. Although, painkillers are the go-to option for most people, this type of medication has many side effects despite the immediate pain relief. Getting a massage will help ease the pain while it leaves you feeling relaxed and much better.

6.      Massage can lessen the effects of chemo and other treatments

Studies and many researches have proven that if you have undergone (or are undergoing) chemotherapy or any other intense treatment for severe illnesses, massage is the best option. These studies have shown that massage can alleviate nausea after getting the treatment. The best part is that massage is known to make the pain less as well when you are undergoing these treatments.

7.      Massage can make your mood better

With lesser pain in your body and no anxiety, massages will definitely make your mood better. Therefore, if you are willing to make your mood better, a 30-minute massage will do the job. According to science, massages are supposed to make you feel better.

These are the top reasons why you should opt for massages. They will improve the quality of your life, while making you feel like a new and better person.

If you are in the market for a high quality massage, Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic has 2 very skilled therapists on staff. Give our clinic a call at (780)455-2112 or visit www.ocwc.ca to learn more about our therapists.

 

 

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4 Tips on Choosing the Right Massage Therapist

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Be honest, have all your massages been as amazing as you have thought they were? Probably not, and there could be many reasons for this. Fortunately there are ways that will help you determine the best massage therapist for yourself. Simply keep the following tips in mind and you are good to go.

1.      Be Aware Of Your Goals

When it comes to massages, every person has different goals. Some people want massage therapy on a particular area to relieve pain, some are getting massages to treat medical conditions, while other are doing it for mere enjoyment. It will be important to clearly communicate your goals with your massage therapist. It will ensure you are getting the treatment and results you desire.

2.      Learn About the Different Massages

Since there are so many types of massages, it is important that you understand the differences between them. There are massages that are specifically made to treat medical conditions, some are for recreational purposes, and others are for athletes. Take time to research different types of massage therapy so that you are educated before your visit. If you require more information, make sure to ask your massage therapists question before you begin your treatment.

3.      Figure Out Your Preferences

After determining your goal and the method you would like, you will need to decide your preferences. This means you need to know where you want the treatment to take place.

Do you want an at-home massage or do you want to go to the massage therapist? What type of environment would you like to go to? Or, if you have additional requests like dim lights, relaxing music, or scented candles.

After figuring out your preferences, you can talk to the therapist and make arrangements.

4.      Homework

Before finalizing your therapist, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. You must ask them a few questions regarding their work.

How long they have been doing this for, whether or not they are certified and so on. You can also read reviews regarding your therapist and call them up to ask any additional questions.

By following these simple tips, you will definitely book the best massage therapist in your area. Moreover, you will be getting the maximum benefits while you are relaxing your body.

For more information about our clinic check out our website @ www.ocwc.ca. To book your next massage therapy appointment give us a call @ 780-455-2112.

Rules of Getting Massages

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Although, you will be opting for a massage to get ultimate relaxation, there still are a few responsibilities on your shoulders. You have to be vocal about your experience so you can get the maximum benefits out of this session.

You need to tell your masseuse if it feels good or if the pressure needs to be stronger. In addition, keep in mind, hurting is not “ok” unless you want it to hurt. Getting regular massages are supposed to relieve you from all bodily pains.

If you want the most benefits out of your massage, here are the rules you need to follow:

Slacking is Acceptable

This is your time to be relaxed and loose. Go in ultimate relaxation mode and trust your therapist. If you fall asleep, good! This means the massage was good and effective.

Keep Breathing

You have probably heard this before, but we will repeat it again. Breathing properly will definitely heighten the results you are getting. Moreover, it will make the purification process better and provide you with more relaxation. Since you will be getting regular massages, practice your breathing.

Time to Let Go

Give your body’s controller to the therapist. Give him/her the right to move your body the way they want to. You must not move until and unless you are told to.

No Thinking, Just Feeling

Go into the massage session with a clear mind. Everything floating in your mind needs to wait until the session is over. When you are in your massage room, the only thing that needs to matter is the power of feel. Moreover, if something feels uncomfortable, feel free to tell the masseuse.

“No Pain, No Gain”

Massages are not supposed to be painful. Since there will be muscle knots in your body, when the masseuse is trying to relieve them, you might feel a little pain. You just need to keep your body firm, but let your masseuse know if it gets too painful for you.

Embrace All Feelings

People feel all kinds of emotions during their massage sessions. While some laugh, others tend to cry. If this happens, this means that your emotional tensions are also being relieved.

Be Vocal

When you are getting your massage, you are in charge. If you feel that there need to be adjustments made, make sure you are vocal about it. Your masseuse will be waiting for your feedback, so do not be shy.

Positioning

You must be placed in a position that enables utmost relaxation. No need to bend your body or be on one side, you just need to be comfortable. Although, sometimes some muscles are contracted, just try to relax your body as much as you can.

 

With these massage rules in your mind; you will be able to get the most benefits out of one massage session. Keep in mind, if you want long-term benefits, you will need to get regular massages.

Call Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic @780-455-2112 to book your next massage today.

Determining What Massage You Need

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The best way to relax –on any given day- would be by getting a massage from licensed massage therapists as it will promote your body to heal naturally and relieve tensions, tightness, and soreness in your muscles. Although, individuals may think all massages are the same, it is not quite the case.

There are different types of licensed massage therapists as well as different massage types. Therefore, depending on your issues, preferences and needs, you need to pick a suitable massage. Below we have provided you with the common massage options to make it easier for you to determine which one you need.

Deep Tissue Massage (Thai Massage)

This massage is recommended for those that have irritating pain and tightness in their body. This type of massage is done by putting strong and firm pressure directly onto the muscles to release all the tight knots and tensions within your body.

You will need to drink plenty of water after it is done because the intensity of the massage often leaves individuals feeling dehydrated.

Acupressure Massage

The purpose of this massage is to apply pressure onto the pressure points of your body. The theory behind this type of massage is that “healing energies” are released when these pressure points are stressed on.

Since there is pressure being applied to your pressure points, it can feel uncomfortable. This massage will not be suitable for you if you are in search of a spa-like experience. It is ideal for those that want to promote their body’s natural healing ability and release all tension.

Orthopedic Massage

This massage is used as rehabilitation for those who have been injured. It focuses on one area of the body or the injury. This massage is a combination of stretching and massaging the body to promote the ranges of motion and strengthen the body while allowing the body to relieve pain and heal by its self.

Hot Stone Massage

This massage has become a popular option in spas and healthcare offices. It combines the use of pressure and heat so it can provide relaxation to the muscles and promote healing. The hot stones are strategically placed on top of the body so muscles can unwind and relax. When pressure gets added, this massage can be a little uncomfortable.

Swedish Massage

This massage is considered “basic.” The reason is that people opt for this massage because it provides full relaxation. There are multiple essential oils and body lotions lathered onto your body to give you ultimate relaxation. The massage therapists apply pressure in different intensities so if you want it can be extremely relaxing. If you are in search of a proper spa experience, then you should opt for this massage.

When you are looking for a massage, make sure you keep these massages in mind. When you are aware of your massage goals, it will be easier for you to choose a suitable massage.

Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic has both male and female licensed massage therapists on staff to serve you. Give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112 to reserve your spot today.