 | Terry Chrisco has practiced cosmetology for 30 years and has been the owner of Unique Concepts in Wichita Kansas since 1996. She has been a member of the National Cosmetology Association. Terry has been a member of the Kansas Education Committee for 28 years where she has served as styles director and chairman. Since 1976, she has served on Illinois and Oklahoma education committees and has served as Exam Chairman for the state of Kansas. She is a Hair America Educator for the National Cosmetology Association, a National Certified Cosmetologist, an examiner for the National Certification Program and is certified for the "Look Good Feel Better" program. You may contact Terry at Unique Concepts, 1548 S. Webb Rd. Suite 3 in Wichita, KS 67207, by phone at (316) 689-8891, or visit www.uniqueconceptsspa.com. |
Beauty & Fashion
2007-10-01 11:09:00
Do massages really get rid of toxins...part II
My friend was telling me she gets a regular massage to get rid of toxin build up. What does she mean by toxin build up? I always thought massage was just for relaxation, does it really have other benefits? And how do I know which kind of massage to choose with so many to choose from?
Answer: There are several different types of massage. First you need to answer these questions for yourself to help you choose which massage best suits your needs.
• What are your areas of concern, the shoulders and back, or whole body? Do you sit or stand most of the day?
• How much time do you allow yourself? Will you do this on the weekend or your lunch break? Do you have more time during the week?
• Do you prefer a light almost airy touch or more of a kneading deeper touch?
• Are you getting a massage because: it was a gift, you are tense, trying to lose pounds, wanting to detox, or just relax?
• Have you had a recent surgery or broken bones? You should wait to heal before making an appointment.
• Are you pregnant?
• Are there certain areas (ex. your left foot) that should be avoided due to pins or screws from a previous surgery?
Now that you have a more general idea of what your individual needs are, choose from these types of massages: (it is recommended to start with a Swedish massage to determine if you want a deeper massage if you have never had one.)
Swedish: Medium to light in pressure, helps circulation, aids in detox, will relieve tension, long flowing movements, good for relaxing, great paired with dry sauna as well.
Deep Tissue: Heavy to medium in pressure, more manipulation of muscle groups than Swedish, more short and localized movement, best for optimal detox, but not the most relaxing, shows more improvement quicker with tension, and feels like you just worked out when you are done. It is also great paired
with dry sauna.
Aroma Therapy: Scent dispersed in the air, can uplift or relax, depending on your mood, when you book an appointment tell receptionist if you would like uplifting scents or calming ones. Done with Swedish techniques, if you dislike a certain scent, please specify. It is important to enjoy your massage experience.
Warm Stone: Less muscle manipulation, essentially a manual detox as opposed to a sauna. Warm stones strategically placed along your back and limbs, loosens the muscles for a light manipulation.
Pregnancy: Allows women with child to avoid certain pressure points and to lay on their side for massage. Much like a Swedish, improves circulation.
Reflexology: Can be paired with a 30-minute Swedish or deep tissue massage. Also, can be done by itself, breaks down toxins and calcium deposits, usually done on the feet, but can be done on the hands and ears. The feet and hands are like maps of the body’s systems. Reflexology allows you and your massage therapies knowledge of how your systems are running. Reflexology can eliminate problems, or give you an idea of what to keep an eye on. (Bladder problems such as UTI, or digestive problems like IBS, among many others including sinus problems.)
Dead Sea Salt Scrub: A massage with exfoliation improves circulation, makes skin brighter, can prepare surfaces for shaving or waxing by getting rid of dead skin cells. Less massage, but Swedish technique is used.
Chair Massage: Done in an open room. Removal of clothing is not necessary. Good for shoulders and back, only lasts 15 minutes. A “mini” massage can allow you to get acquainted with the massage therapist. Most spas have a room that is dimly lit for the massage areas. It is recommended that you undress but leave on your lower undergarments. The only area being exposed, however, is the area being worked on. Your massage therapist is trained in how to maneuver the sheet or blanket to only expose one area at a time. Massage works, and even the extremely modest can enjoy its benefits with a professional.
