Tess: Despite its growing popularity, massage therapy is still perceived by the general public as an indulgence that only a privileged few can partake of on a regular basis. But the truth is, for the price of a dinner in a good restaurant, you can receive a massage and feel its positive effects days, or even weeks later.
Hi, my name is Tess Abalos. I’m a licensed massage therapist practicing in Connecticut. My intention for you is to change your relationship to massage therapy for the rest of your life.
Just as one needs clean water, restful sleep and nutritious meals, nurturing and therapeutic touch are essential parts of healthy living. In a society where touch between adults is often categorized as either sexual or violent, many people have become deficient in nurturing touch. Similar to nutrient deficiency, touch deficiencies can present with symptoms that can become chronic health problems. The primary symptom of this deficiency is stress, and it’s common knowledge that stress is a precursor to chronic digestive ailments, eating disorders, heart disease, and other serious medical conditions. These health problems can have a negative impact one one’s personal and professional life, health and happiness.
Sharon: I really enjoy coming to Tess for massage, not as a luxury but as a health necessity. And one of the things that’s very special about Tess is her ability to know what’s going on in my body just by touch. She’s able to basically sense from touching certain parts of my body - I guess it’s trigger points - what’s going on in my life and able to relieve that tension and stress. It’s an unbelievable experience because she just knows. She touches that area and I’m like "ooh" how did you know that was bothering me. And she’s able to pick that up very quickly and easily and provide me with relief.
Tess: Massage therapy involves the manipulation of the muscles. Techniques include long or short sweeping strokes, pressure, range of motion and percussion. As a result of reducing the production of the stress hormone cortisol, massage boosts the immune system, helps with sleep, and is an effective pain management tool.
A typical massage lasts 30 to 90 minutes. Most table massages require that you undress, but you are completely draped under a sheet and blanket, to ensure your warmth and comfort. Only the area being massaged is exposed. Communicate with your therapist the amount of pressure you require and what areas need more attention.
It’s important to find a licensed massage therapist whose personality and style suits you. Licensed massage therapists study anywhere from 500 to 1000 hours of theory and technique, but no two are ever alike. You might also want to check with your state’s licensure department to be sure your therapist is licensed to practice in your state.
Sharon: I’ve started to make massage a part of my overall lifestyle leading to what I perceive as a healthier lifestyle. I recently lost - in the last three years - both of my parents to chronic illness, and I’ve made a commitment to myself and to my children that I would take what I perceive as better care: a more holistic approach to my body, my health and my lifestyle.
Tess: So find a therapist in your area to see once a month, once a week, or whatever your time and money can afford. Massage therapy is one of the best gifts that you can give to yourself and to the people you care about. Thanks for watching.