Does Massage Therapy Improve Health and Vitality?

I try to get a massage every two to three weeks. In general, a one-hour massage from a massage therapy center or popular day spa costs around $80 to $150, plus however much you plan on giving as a tip (generally tip a masseuse around 15 to 20 percent; same as a waiter, taxi cab driver, etc.)

Regular massage has many benefits. It improves the circulation, relaxes muscles, carries away toxins, and relieves enflamed or fatigued muscle tissues. Massage therapy is particularly good if you have a sore back from repeated strain at work (such as sitting at a desk all day long).

Aside from the numerous physical health benefits, I find that an hour every week or two to simply relax and not think about anything is great for your emotional and mental well-being. Frequently, massage therapists will put on a CD, dim the lights, and spark up some incense or other aromatherapy.

Before your massage begins, be sure to point out any health concerns you may have -- if, for example, you have a bad back you may not want the masseuse or masseur to bang away near your spine. Tell them to be gentle in that area. If you have recently had any surgeries or take medication, also let the massage therapist know about this.

Once I am relaxed, about fifteen or twenty minutes into the massage, I try to clear my mind of the day's business and personal concerns. I focus on something I want to accomplish within the next couple months and calmly play what I want over and over again in my mind's eye -- I visualize having whatever it is I want. I imagine what it would feel like to have this new job promotion, toy, or other thing.

This time of relaxation allows me to figure out "obstacles" I need to get past before receiving what I want. Frequently it is during this time that I come up with good business ideas or think of a new colleague or contact to reach out to for assistance.

For what it's worth, I have noticed that I get a great deal of the things I visualize accomplished sooner or later. I am a firm believer in visualization's power to "focus" your mind and creative energy on a single task. And I believe weekly or monthly massages give your subconscious mind the space and time to do this -- without a break from the hassles of daily life, you will not be able to focus as well.

Benefits of massage therapy differ depending on the individual, but for me it is all about entering this relaxed and creative state of mind. It also helps keep my back pain to a minimum and, although anecdotal, I think regular massages or relaxation routines keep your immune system running smoothly -- I rarely get sick.