Giving the Gift of Massage: Because Dad has Enough Neckties

One of the best ways to quiet the mind and relax the body is through massage. Research shows that massage has numerous health benefits – and not just our physical health, but also our mental and emotional health as well. If we feel refreshed, we are able to function better in all of our roles.

Help dad kick back and relax with a massage therapy session that targets focus areas of the body. For example, we know dads are flexible (it comes with the job), but total body stretch can make them even more bendy. These customizable stretch sessions, featuring the Streto Method, combine the latest stretch therapy research with relaxation techniques inspired by chiropractic practices and meditation.

Massage is not one-size-fits-all; rather, it is a personalized experience that can be adapted to meet the needs of the individual. There are several different styles and massage techniques that can help dad relax. Here are just a few.

Swedish or Relaxation: A gentle technique that uses long strokes, kneading, deep circular movements, vibration and tapping to target the upper layers of the muscles to help relax and energize the body.

Deep Massage: Targets the deep layers of the muscles by using deep, slow and smooth strokes to ease the tension that may be beyond the reach of a relaxation massage.

Sports Massage: Designed specifically for the very physically active, it combines several techniques to concentrate on the body areas related to a specific sport; athletes often get sports massages to prepare for peak performance, prevent and treat an injury and reduce the buildup of lactic acid.

Trigger-Point or Neuromuscular: Targets areas of tender muscle points and tight muscle fibers that can form in the muscles following an injury or muscle overuse.

Myofascial Release: Gentle, sustained pressure into the connective tissue that covers the muscles and is present throughout the body (much like a spiderweb), eases painful restrictions and restores range of motion.

Craniosacral: Extremely light pressure stimulates the muscles and fluids within the cranium (head) and around the spinal cord to help relieve stress and headaches.

Acupressure: Involves applying pressure to certain points on the body to relieve pain and promote health and well-being.

Streto Method Stretch: “Where your mind goes, the body will follow.” That’s why Massage Envy’s Streto Method starts at the head and neck and works downward to stretch and lengthen tendons and fascia throughout your body.

Add-On Therapies:

In addition to the various types of massage, add-on therapies can be part of the massage session. Here are just a few of some of the more popular add-on therapies:

Aromatherapy and Essential Oils: Essential oils are highly concentrated plant essences that have restorative properties; the oils can be applied to the skin or diffused into the room.

Hot Stone: Use of hot stones applied to the body to bring warmth and pressure to release tension, soothe and jumpstart the healing process.

Enhanced Muscle Therapy: A great way to unlock tight muscles using a sequence of topical warming gel followed by topical cooling gel to flush the muscles of toxins. QCBN

By Mark Love

Yeah, dad deserves a little extra love! Make this Father’s Day extra special with a massage or purchase one a month for him! Buy dad $80 in gift cards and get a free $20 Promo Card.

Mark Love is the Franchisee of Massage Envy Spa – Prescott, located at 120 E. Sheldon St., by the Sprouts grocery store. For more information on the benefits of massage and to schedule an appointment with a massage therapist, visit MassageEnvy.com, call 928-778-ENVY (3689) and follow on Facebook at Facebook.com/MassageEnvyPrescott. Schedule an appointment online – your time, your convenience, your massage.