Do you ever feel stressed or have tension? Do you have sore muscles or maybe some kinks or “knots” in your back?
If you answered yes to any of these, have you ever tried getting a massage to help? If you answered no, why not?
Many people tend to shy away from getting massages because they think it might feel weird or hurt, or they don’t want some stranger touching them. However, more and more people should think about booking that appointment because there are plenty of benefits.
First off though, what exactly is “massage?”
According to an article on the Mayo Clinic’s website, massage is a general term for pressing, rubbing and manipulating your skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Massage therapists typically use their hands and fingers for massage, but will occasionally use their forearms, elbows and sometimes, even their feet. Massage can vary from very light pressure to real deep tissue.
Anita Lindstrom, one of Vital Fit Club’s certified massage therapists, noted that there are so many benefits to massage therapy. Just some of the benefits, she said, is that it boosts your circulation, gets your lymphatic system working, releases tension and helps muscle aches, along with helps to reduce stress and anxiety.
“Massages help to break up the toxins in our bodies,” said Anita. “Which is why you need to drink plenty of water after your massage because that is what helps to flush those toxins out of our bodies.”
People who suffer from migraines or tension headaches can also benefit from massage therapy, she said. Anita also mentioned that massage therapy helps to speed up the recovery process for those who have had knee or hip surgery. And, it is good for people with fibromyalgia.
For those who spend a lot of time at the gym or working out a lot, massages can help to keep the stress down on our muscles and it also helps to keep range of motion in check, Anita said. But she stressed that it’s best not to workout hard after a massage because it is counterproductive. “It will undo what was just done by getting the massage,” said Anita. It is best to do your workout, and then get a massage – unless it is light workout such yoga or a light jog/walk.
What you can expect during a massage
In a typical massage session, you undress or wear loose fitting clothing. Undress only to the point that you’re comfortable. You generally lie on a table and cover yourself with a sheet/blanket.
Depending on preference, your massage therapist may use oil or lotion to reduce friction on your skin. Tell your massage therapist if you might be allergic to any ingredients.
A massage session may last from 15 to 90 minutes, depending on the type of massage and how much time you have. No matter what kind of massage you choose, you should feel calm and relaxed during and after your massage. Although, it is very common to feel sore a day or even two days after your massage, noted Anita.
If you have been debating whether or not a massage is for you, now is a great time to just book it. Vital Fit Club is offering a 60-minute massage for $40 – a savings of $15. This special will run until July 31. The massage must take place before the month’s end. Call (320) 762-0442 to book yours today!
Anita Lindstrom, certified massage therapist, is on the schedule Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Gab Lyseng, certified massage therapist, is available Monday – Thursday in the mornings and on Fridays in the afternoon.
Call for specific hours for either massage therapist.
