Manual massage and its features
Massage, which originated millennia ago, has retained its relevance to this day. This medical method is actively used as a therapeutic and preventive, hygienic, and general health-improving tool. Different peoples and cultures had their own massage techniques. The migration of peoples over centuries led to the mixing and global spread of massage secrets. Over time, countless techniques, methods, and types of massage have emerged. However, no matter where it is performed, by which method, or for what purpose — the best kind of massage is considered to be that done by hand.
Main Parameters of Massage
In recent years, massage has reached peak popularity and is now studied and developed with a scientific approach. It is successfully used by traumatologists, surgeons, gynecologists, therapists, cardiologists, neurologists, sports doctors, and rehabilitation specialists.
Recent studies have thoroughly examined the impact of various massage techniques on the human body, expanding its use in normalizing physiological processes, boosting protective functions, and significantly reducing dependence on pharmacological drugs.
Massage is a set of reflexive and mechanical effects applied to the human body through pressure, friction, and vibration, performed through direct contact with the skin surface. Manipulations are carried out manually or with the help of special equipment.
Massage can be:
- General — the entire body is massaged sequentially;
- Localized — only specific parts of the body are targeted.
Depending on the goals, there are different types of massage:
- Hygienic;
- Sports;
- Therapeutic;
- Anti-cellulite;
- Infant;
- Self-massage.
Duration and Sequence of the Procedure
The duration of a manual massage session varies from 10 minutes to 1.5 hours. The length depends on the number and size of areas to be massaged, the goals set, and the patient’s gender and weight. A proper diagnosis helps determine the right approach.
Approximate time spent on massaging individual body parts: the neck, pelvis, and back require at least 20 minutes. Upper limbs take about 15 minutes, legs around 20, and chest and abdomen about 15–20 minutes. In addition, time must be allocated for preparing the skin surface before the active massage and calming it afterward. The sequence of massaging different zones may vary.
During the massage, metabolic processes significantly accelerate — to a degree comparable to physical exercise. Improved metabolism supports better capillary function.
Officially established data show that during a session, blood flow to all body tissues increases more than 100 times compared to the resting state. This means cells receive 100 times more oxygen and nutrients. A similar effect occurs during physical activity, but massage has the added benefit of avoiding lactic acid buildup in muscles, which causes soreness.
Positive Effects of the Procedure and Contraindications
The result of manual massage sessions includes accelerated tissue recovery, normalization of metabolism, and cellular detoxification. This type of massage has a strengthening and therapeutic effect on the muscular system, increasing muscle tone and overall body performance.
It is suitable for all healthy individuals. However, there are contraindications: acute inflammation, elevated body temperature, skin diseases or injuries, increased risk of bleeding, and varicose vein disease. It is strictly prohibited in cases of tumors and other growths of any nature.
Energy Replenishment at "Berezoviy Gai"
The "Berezoviy Gai" resort offers full-body manual massage lasting one and a half hours, as well as localized sessions. Each separate zone is massaged for about 10 minutes, including a combined massage of the neck, back, and pelvis. When you come to relax and improve your health, it's also wise to bring your body into tone — cleansing it of toxins at the cellular level and filling it with energy.