" Discover How Therapeutic Massage Can Change Your Life (for the Better!)"

Therapeutic massage offers numerous physical and psychological benefits for those who receive it. These benefits act as truly transformative advantages, given the impact they have on the daily life of the recipient.

In this article, we will discuss some of these key benefits that directly influence different areas of life and contribute to an overall improvement in quality of life.

By the end of this article, you will know:

• What a therapeutic massage is;
• The transformative advantages of therapeutic massage;
• Who can benefit from a therapeutic massage;
• How to choose a therapeutic massage;
• Where to have a therapeutic massage.

Continue reading to discover how therapeutic massage can change the life of those who receive it..

What is a Therapeutic Massage?

Therapeutic massage, also known as massage therapy, involves the manipulation of soft tissues in the body, as well as limbs and joints. It encompasses various techniques and procedures, and depending on its objective, it can be performed in different ways.
 

The history of therapeutic massage dates back to traditional Chinese medicine techniques, with over 3,000 years of existence. However, its presence in Western culture is much more recent. It is believed that Pehr Henrik Ling, a Swedish athlete who lived during the 19th century and sought a way to relieve his pain, was the pioneer of therapeutic massage in the West.

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Now, let’s explore the benefits that therapeutic massages provide and how they have the power to transform the lives of those who receive them.

What are the Transformative Advantages of Therapeutic Massage?

Generally, all massages have associated benefits. However, depending on the techniques used, massages present more specific advantages.

Let’s now highlight some of the transformative advantages of therapeutic massages, which, while not exclusive to this technique, ensure a range of benefits.

See how these advantages can positively transform the life of the recipient:

Pain Relief

The movements performed during a therapeutic massage act directly on the muscles and joints, promoting muscle relaxation and ensuring pain relief.

People who suffer from recurring muscle pain, such as those with fibromyalgia, tend to be less active due to the pain and difficulties they face when moving.

By providing pain relief, therapeutic massage serves as a complementary treatment that helps restore some normalcy to the lives of those suffering from chronic pain. This way, it becomes easier to carry out daily tasks and gain a new lease of life for activities that were previously set aside.

Mood Improvement

The benefits of therapeutic massage extend beyond the physical and into the emotional and mental spheres.

Various studies show that massages, including therapeutic massage, increase dopamine and serotonin levels, the well-being hormones. A visible effect of this extra dose of well-being is mood improvement.

A person in a good mood interacts better with others and faces daily challenges with more confidence. A positive mood also makes people more open to new experiences, helping them lead a more fulfilled and generally happier life. This happiness is reflected in family, work, and, of course, self-esteem!

Reduces Anxiety and Stress

Therapeutic massage has a direct effect on reducing levels of the hormone responsible for anxiety and stress: cortisol. Regular practice of this therapy helps decrease cortisol levels in the body, ensuring physical and psychological relaxation.

Anxiety and stress have the power to completely alter a person's life. Extreme fatigue, lack of focus, and concentration are some of the effects of these two villains that steal health and quality of life.

Through therapeutic massages, it is possible to find the balance that stress and anxiety take away. This way, it becomes easier to focus on what matters—your health and well-being—and to organise your life calmly and productively.

Improves Sleep Quality

With its relaxing effect, therapeutic massage helps slow down the nervous system, leading to more restful nights.

It is during sleep that our body renews itself. Well-rested nights guarantee better learning and also strengthen the immune system.

By contributing to more restful sleep, therapeutic massage helps us recharge and face the next day with greater productivity, focus, and concentration. In other words, a good night’s sleep ensures a well-spent day.

Who Can Benefit from a Therapeutic Massage?

Although everyone can enjoy the benefits of this type of massage, there are specific groups for whom therapeutic massage is particularly recommended:

Therapeutic Massage for Athletes

Used as a complement to physiotherapy, it provides relief and reduces muscle tension, aids in recovery from possible injuries, and ensures the psychological well-being necessary for each competition.

Therapeutic Massage for the Elderly

This age group is more prone to chronic pain. Therapeutic massage can be a great help in pain relief and in improving their lifestyle, making them more active and engaged members of society.

How to Choose a Therapeutic Massage?

There are several types of therapeutic massage, varying in approach and techniques. Learn about some of the most commonly used ones and find out how to choose your therapeutic massage according to your needs:

De-stress Muscle

This therapeutic massage targets tense muscles caused by physical and mental fatigue and accumulated stress. It is recommended for areas such as neck joints, shoulders, lower back, arms, and legs.

It uses essential oils such as black pepper, rosemary, ginger, and lavender to help increase circulation, warm the muscles, and reduce inflammation.

Deep Tissue Massage

In this therapeutic massage, movements are adapted to the specific needs of each person. The result is muscle tension relief and reduced accumulated stress. To maximise the effects, essential oils are used, ensuring a therapeutic and relaxing moment to face the day ahead.
 

B-Alive

If you want to release specific points of muscle tension, this therapeutic massage is perfect for you.

It uses vigorous movements that allow deep action. This way, it promotes quick physical recovery and a sense of well-being. It is an excellent option for those needing a moment to recharge.

Ultimate Deep Pressure

This therapeutic massage consists of a deep muscle treatment to relieve pain and stiffness in various muscle groups. The combination of therapeutic herbs with Thai massage techniques makes this therapy a truly transformative experience.

It also incorporates the ancient "Tok Sen" technique on the back, allowing the vibration to work the muscles at a deeper level.

The "Tok Sen" used in this therapeutic massage is an instrument resembling a hammer, made from tamarind wood. With this instrument, it is possible to stimulate energy channels through tapping movements that vibrate the muscles. A unique experience worth trying.

Sports Massage

Designed to assist athletes and those who engage in sports with preparation and recovery before and after training, sports therapeutic massage uses movements targeted at the musculoskeletal structure of the recipient. When executed correctly, it prevents injuries and strengthens muscles and joints.

Where to Have a Therapeutic Massage?

Therapeutic massages can be done in spas with all the appropriate facilities to provide a transformative experience.

When choosing a spa for your therapeutic massage, you can enjoy a more comprehensive experience beyond the massage itself. You may benefit from additional facilities such as pools, hydrotherapy, steam baths, saunas, and relaxation rooms, which are generally complimentary with the massage booking.

With a team of specialised therapists, the TOPSPA spa network is available in Porto, Lisbon, Óbidos, and Albufeira.

Contact us to clarify any questions you may have about the most suitable therapeutic massage for you.