Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) can be a debilitating side effect to a woman’s menstrual cycle; headaches, weight gain, hormonal imbalance, and breast pain/sensitivity are just some of the effects. To think, most women suffer from this every 2-4 weeks (depending on the severity) without any relief! Research has shown that massage therapy relieves premenstrual symptoms and even Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD-a severe form of PMS) in as little as 30 minute sessions.
Lymphatic, Deep Tissue and Thai massage are most common in relieving symptoms of PMS or PMDD. Lymphatic massage aids in promoting blood circulation and lymph flow, renewing energy and restoring the hormonal balance. Deep tissue massage relaxes the body enough to enjoy a deep sleep. Sleep resets the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, improves memory, mental focus, and cognitive performance. Thai massage consists of stretching and kneading of the muscles, which aids in alleviating cramping and muscle pain. Thai massage also increases blood circulation, joint range in motion, headaches, and migraines.
Sessions consist of kneading the neck and stroking the forehead, pressing down on the tops of the shoulder and stroking the hands, arms and shoulders. Circular strokes on the stomach pinpoint the pain while kneading thighs and stroking feet and legs relieve the water retention. PMS is linked to anxiety and depression; massage has been shown to relieve both in studies.
In conjunction with the massage therapy of your choice, we also add a layer of aromatherapy to give you an overall relaxing experience. Aromatherapy is commonly used to improve mood and to relieve soreness, among many other uses. Common aromatherapy oils used in PMS therapy are rose oil, geranium, lavender, and bergamot oil. Aromatherapy promotes relaxation and sleep and can relieve PMS-related acne and other skin conditions. Most times these essential oils are massaged directly on to the skin, however, sometimes they can are blended with a base oil such as almond or jojoba.
If you suffer from acid reflux, irritable bowel disease or have fibroids, please share this with your massage therapist. Your therapist will take extra care in massaging gently if you have fibroids or are experiencing severe cramping. Avoid massage if you suffer from IBS or acid reflux until your symptoms have lessened.
Before your massage, talk to us about the essential oils we will be using, and if you are sensitive to certain scents/oils. We take extra care in making sure your experience is both beneficial and relaxing!
