Keep calm and massage
0The Benefits of Massage
Last month I wrote about baby massage but let’s not stop there. Imagine if we treated each other the same way that we treat babies – giving and expecting nothing in return, and demonstrating love without fear of rejection.
Using massage to break down some inhibitions we feel goes a long way to make both the recipient and the giver feel better. Non-verbal safe communication is what massage is – pampering, nurturing and caring.
When I used to massage clients I often found that after taking a case history before the treatment, the “real” case history would come out after massaging the clients feet or back. Where they were cautious prior to a treatment somehow the trust developed by massage initiated an open conversation – this honest communication is healing as opposed to thoughts that go on in our heads and drive us crazy.
Massage tips
Massaging your spouse or partner is a beneficial way to improve relationships. and you don’t have to be a professional masseuse! Simply use some oil or cream and firmly touch the other person with one hand while gently applying the oil with the other hand. The trick to massage is to pretend to be doing slow motion actions, but with firmness otherwise it could be ticklish. Gentle yet firm strokes are best as if you were trying to spread the oil evenly.
Back massaging is about symmetrical strokes up, down and around. Hand and arm massages are also beneficial – always apply more pressure going up the arm than down. And self massage of the feet, legs and arms when done with the intention of comfort can make us feel a whole lot better.
Benefits of massage for kids and teenagers
Foot massage allows for eye contact and this is especially great for children and for teenagers. Instead of repeatedly asking your adolescent ” what’s wrong ” to which the answer will be “nothing “, offer a foot or back massage. Sometimes the back massage with no eye contact feels safer for the adolescent to talk freely.
Don’t pressurize them to talk, focus on the massage and what you are doing is offering comfort to whatever conflict is going on in the minds of the recipient.
Don’t forget to ask for a massage in return – communication is a two way street and remember that massage is touch communication.
Massage and stroking communication can say what we can’t say verbally sometimes so get your bottle of massage oil and offer someone a massage today!
Try our range of bath and massage oil (link to http://www.aromatic.co.za/bath-and-massage-oils/)
About the Author
Ask Dory
Doryce Sher, co-founder of Aromatic Apothecary, is one of South Africa’s leading advocates on the regulation of complementary medicine, with a particular interest in Aromatherapy.
Serving on and representing various health boards in South Africa, it is her passionate aim to ensure people are aware that there are choices when it comes to health and well-being.
Doryce would love to hear from. If you have a question, comment or would simply like to tell her your story, do so below. We look forward to hearing from you.