Getting a massage is becoming as common as getting your legs waxed. But while you’re closing your eyes and enjoying the pampering treatment, what is your massage therapist not telling you? Here are some of his or her secrets.

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Your Body is an Open Book  

This is why you should go to a massage therapist instead of dealing with your bodily aches and pains with painkillers or trying to massage areas you can reach yourself: massage therapists can tell where you’re hurting or if you have a health issue you’re battling. For instance, if you are suffering from a bout of allergies, pressure points over your cheeks, eyes and forehead are likely to feel tender. So, while your massage therapist is giving you a relaxing massage, he/she is also reading your body.

Elbow Kneading: It’s Not Just About Substituting Sore Wrists

You know that feeling when you leave the spa and feel on top of the world? There are certain techniques that massage therapists perform in order to give you a rejuvenating and calming experience. An example is how massage therapists will use their hands and fingers to apply deep pressure to areas that require a bit more attention. They might even use knuckles and elbows, such as in a deep tissue massage. The advantage of using their elbows is to help them reach a very specific spot that needs deeper care. If you think you can’t take the added pressure on your body, relax. Massage therapists know what they’re doing; every technique is being done for a reason. They know just how much pressure to apply and where. Comforting, no?

Your Body Dishes On Your Strains and Stress

You might not think of your massage therapist as being able to offer you tips on a healthier lifestyle, but your body could be showing signs of strain that a massage therapist will secretly be able to pick up on. For instance, if you sleep on an old pillow that is in dire need of replacing, it doesn’t give your neck the support it needs, resulting in strain on your neck and shoulders. Your massage therapist will be able to spot these strains.

Your signs of stress will also be readable. And no, it’s not just because of the knots in your back. You might be a little over-chatty or not be able to relax your body during the massage. Your body might even give off more subtle signs such as sweating. It’s said that massage therapists who believe that toxins are released from the body during a massage treatment will even take things like bad breath and sweating as signs that you’re finally allowing yourself to relax. Do you want to know what your massage therapist is picking up on? Ask! That way, you can start healthier lifestyle habits.

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Massages Boost Your Health  

Going for a massage is not just about relaxing your muscles. Circulation is an important part of it, and this is enhanced by oxygen levels in the blood. If you don’t have enough oxygen in your blood, this can lead to shortness of breath, anxiety, confusion and other symptoms. A massage can increase the blood’s oxygen capacity by up to 15 per cent!  Encouraging greater circulation means that your blood can carry oxygen and nutrients all over your body more effectively.

Your Body Wants Love

Behind the scenes, massage therapists might refer to themselves as caregivers. This is because many have a passion for their work and they want to offer care to their clients. Lying down for a massage can make a person feel self-conscious or awkward, but your body wants the affection. Touch is a healer, and by allowing a professional massage therapist to untie those knots and boost your circulation, it really boils down to giving your body the care and attention it needs to feel better. So, take a deep breath, close your eyes and enjoy the experience. This, in turn, will inspire your massage therapist to help you heal.

Knowing some secrets of massage therapists can help you see things from their perspective, plus it puts you in the power seat to take active control of your wellbeing. Go on and book that massage. You deserve the TLC.