Massage for Mother's Day: A Great Gift Idea

by Heather Long | More from this Blogger

13 May 2006 08:23 AM

A massage is a great Mother's Day gift for the woman who enjoys it or who may have always wanted to try it out, but has never had the opportunity. Massage dates back to the time of the Ancient Greeks and has seen a renaissance in modern day America. So what is all the fuss about?

More than just a glorified back rub, a massage provides you with some great physiological benefits including relaxing tense and sore muscles, increasing blood and oxygen flow to the massaged areas and frankly, it feels good. You spend 30, 45 or 60 minutes on a table in a cool, dimly lit room with mood music - usually something involving water tripping over rocks and you take a vacation from life while the massage therapist works away all the worries.

I'd go weekly if I could afford it.

A massage leaves you feeling rejuvenated and relaxed. It's important to not pack your schedule after you've had a massage, because you're going to be feeling pretty laid back about everything. It's also important that you drink plenty of water after a massage to help flush out the toxins a deep tissue massage can release.

Tip: Never hesitate to tell a massage therapist you don't like something. They have variable amounts of pressure they can put into the massage. If it's hurting you - tell them. They are there to help you relax and feel better - not to inflict pain. There are people who avoid going to a massage because of one bad experience - talking to your massage therapist can help you avoid this.

What Are Your Choices?

A Swedish massage involves the therapist applying oils to the skin and then kneading them into the skin, muscles and joints. The massage is more of a gliding stroke where the pressure is applied gently. The massage loosens the joints, relaxes the muscles and boosts circulation. The Swedish massage is very popular and extremely invigorating.

Sports massage is different from a Swedish massage in that the therapists use the palms of their hands to press down on the sore muscles in the back and legs. They use their fingers to apply pressure to areas where muscles spasm or are deeply sore. A sports massage is ideal for people who are just getting back into exercise and fitness programs. They may experience some serious muscle soreness related to working the kinks out and a sports massage is a great way to do that.

Reflexology is a form of foot massage that targets areas of discomfort including muscle pain, headaches and indigestion. You lie fully clothed on the table and the therapist concentrates only your feet. For individuals who are not keen on experiencing a full body massage for their first visit - a reflexology massage might be just the ticket.

A Great Mother's Day Gift

The average 60 minute massage costs about $65 and is a fantastic gift for moms everywhere. Depending on where you are purchasing the massage, such as a day spa, you might throw in a manicure, pedicure or facial for a full day of pampering. Mom will appreciate the thoughtfulness and the experience.

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Feel Better with Prenatal Massage

Learn more about Heather Long

Heather Long is 35 years old and currently lives in Wylie, Texas. She has been a freelance writer for six years. Her husband and she met while working together at America Online over ten years ago.

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