1. Massage therapy gets rid of toxins.
There is no scientific evidence that massage therapy releases toxins and that you can drink a glass of water to flush them away! Unfortunately massage is not an all-in-one miracle cure. Luckily your kidneys and liver have the job of getting rid of toxins and other waste from your body. Want to read more about this? Read my blog: Drink water after a massage? What’s the deal?
2. Massage needs to be painful to be beneficial
Massage does not need to be painful to be effective – you may feel a bit of discomfort with some techniques. I always explain to my client that the massage should never be painful – you may feel “sweet pain” and this feels that you are getting some benefit from the massage. I always say to my clients to let me know if they find something uncomfortable and painful – communication is so important – and if this is the case then I adapt my techniques to suit your needs.
3. You can’t interupt a massage therapist during the session.
Yes you can! If the pressure is too much; if the pressure can be harder; if the face cushion becomes uncomfortable; if you want a sip of water – anything that I can adjust to make your massage session more beneficial/comfortable just speak up. Even if I have to adjust the face cushion 5 times to get it right – its not a problem and believe me, I have done this. Its YOUR session, just let me know.
4. Massage is unsafe during pregnancy
Massage is safe and highly beneficial for pregnant women – it can provide relief from the various discomforts which are common during pregancy such as back ache, edema (swelling) as well as helping to lower stress levels. Want to know more? Read my blog: Can I have a massage when I am pregnant?
5. Getting a Massage Helps You Lose Fat!
Unfortunately it does not – massage targets muscle fibres and not fatty tissues. Its probably the therapist who is loosing some fat by giving massages every day!
6. Massage therapy only affects the muscles.
Massage primarily involves the manipulation of muscles but it can also do much more than that – it increases blood circulation, carrying nutrients around the body and thus promoting natural healing. Also, it enhances the flow of lymph (a fluid which travels around the body and fights infection) and so reduces inflammation.