The Benefits of Therapeutic Massage

I’ll let you in on a little secret, every Thursday I go visit my friend Cheryl who’s a licensed massage therapist. Cheryl has been using her special gift to help others for over 13 years. Originally, I called to inquire about a lymphatic drainage massage, which is a very light massage with very little pressure.

The lymphatic system is a filtration system throughout the body and mine tends to get clogged up. Cheryl explained that on occasion she has done lymph massages, but prefers to do more of a deep tissue massage. A deep tissue massage really digs in to fix something that’s wrong; it could be the traps, the lower back or commonly in runners, it’s the IT band.

As Cheryl explained every individual has different needs, and not every body part needs a deep tissue massage. But everyone can benefit for different reasons. Her clientele ranges from 18-90 years old.

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Upon my very first visit, I felt welcomed here. Cheryl’s Mom and sister made the handbags.

Beastly benefits

  • Reduces inflammation
  • Soothes aches and pains
  • Reduces anxiety and stress
  • Relieves pulled muscles
  • Helps with sciatica
  • Promotes relaxation and improved health
  • Provides overall maintenance for the whole body
  • Releases muscles after a tough workout

Beastly bonuses

Massage may also help relieve

  • Headaches
  • Digestive disorders
  • Stress related insomnia
  • It may also reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol

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Native American Indian motif creates a relaxing atmosphere in Cheryl’s massage room.

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The Himalayan Salt lamps make me feel right at home.

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The massage starts face down and lasts for 60 minutes. Cheryl locates knots, especially in my traps. With each session the knots are releasing, and there’s a noticeable improvement.

Beastly tips

Depending on the massage therapist oil or lotion can be used. If you are a highly sensitive individual consider asking ahead of time if you can bring your own lotion or oil. Once you become a regular it should be no problem.

Cheryl is very gracious and lets me bring my own pure almond and essential oil from home. We created a special concoction that smells absolutely fantastic and works great on my skin.

Try it: add several drops of your favorite essential oil to a carrier oil, such as almond oil.

Even though I originally called to inquire about a lymphatic drainage massage, I truly would’ve missed out if I didn’t try the deep tissue massage. The weekly massage has been improving my overall lymphatic system and reducing the amount of inflammation in my body.

By keeping my lymphatic system clear and reducing the amount of inflammation, I’m able to train harder throughout the week. Whether you’re looking to improve your overall health, or are knotted up from stress or a hard training session, give it a try.

If you’re ever in town, look her up on Facebook at Massage Associates of Saint Augustine by Cheryl. The cute handbags made by Cheryl’s Mom and her sister can also be found on Facebook at Sue Bee Creations.

Have you benefited from a massage? Let me know in the comment section below.

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