The healing properties of massage was introduced into Western culture in the early 1800’s when Swedish doctor, gymnast and educator Per Henril Ling developed a method of movement known as the “Swedish Movement System.” This is regarded as the foundation for Swedish massage most commonly used today.
The benefits
Massage therapy is the practice of manipulating of soft tissues of the body including, muscles, connective tissues, tendons, ligaments and joints. With a global drive towards non-chemical medication, massage has proven to be a popular clinically-oriented healing option that helps alleviate the discomfort associated with everyday and occupational stresses, muscular over-use and many chronic pain conditions.
Massages are known to:
- relieve stress and conditions associated steed like tension headaches and knotted muscles.
- boost the immune system strength by increasing ‘T’ cells which fight off viruses.
- boosts mental health by relieving stress, anxiety and depression.
- ease pain aiding quicker recovery.
- improve physical fitness by easing muscle tension thereby improving performance.
The warning signs
With so many practices around and various massage options on the market, where does one start looking? Our advice is always to start with a reputable practice and nothing beats word-of-mouth. There are far too many reports of inappropriate behaviour taking place which is ruining the industry. And with physical abuse on the rise, a recommendation is safe than going in cold. So what should one look for when going for a massage.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
- Is the environment is hygienic, tidy and fresh.
- Does the space should feel personal and inviting yet still professional.
- Is the therapist’s voice soft, are they moving to the rhythm of the music, are they pausing between movements or rushing through the practice. Its all about rhythm.
- Does the therapist have a body odour; smell of taboo or alcohol? Are their nails short and clean? Is long hair tied back? Personal appearance plays a big role in projecting a professional image.
- Here’s the biggie; personal space and touch. Is your therapist constantly in your face, asking uncomfortable questions or brushing against your intimate body parts too often. If so, bail! Your instinct is your biggest ally. Trust it on all levels and leave the minute you feel uncomfortable.
Our healing hands
At Langaro, we offer a few forms of massage ranging from soft and rhythmic to deep and restorative. Our experienced therapists have been trained to enquire about your current state of wellbeing and thereby able to offer the best treatment suited to your needs.
- A deep tissue massage sees firm pressure applied to treat stress and muscle tension.
- Swedish massages offer medium pressure and great for relaxing and winding down.
- Lymph drainage is a light restorative massage designed to flush toxins from the body; perfect in aiding weight loss.
- Hot Stone massages work on strategic pressure points aiding a deep, physical relaxation. They’re highly recommended for aching muscles and to relieve tension.
- Sports Therapy massage is a new addition to the Langaro menu. Physical injuries caused by over-exertion or sport are treated by a trained sports massage therapist and may be followed by muscle strapping and taping. (Read about the full treatment here)
All our massages are performed using Terres D’Afrique coconut oil, shea butter or katrafay essential oils. It’s a high quality luxurious brand which has been created and made in South Africa using ingredients which have been sourced sustainably in Africa and are 100% organically certified. Why would we use anything else?
