US Health Issues

First some basic answers to get you started; then some very important questions. Determine whether “massage” is a viable strategy to help you get well.

ANSWER 1/ “Massage” (i.e. a type of therapy done by massage therapists) helps to bring about positive change and balance to the mind, body and emotions. Its purpose is to:

* Reduce tension

* Relieve pain

* Increase blood circulation

* Create a better range of motion in the body

* Help to elongate tight muscle tissues, thereby aiding everyday movement (especially valuable when more strenuous activity is attempted)

* Many people feel happier, more vibrant and energetic after massage therapy. This feeling can last hours, days or weeks.

ANSWER 2/ Types of Massage, especially for people with Fibromyalgia and/or those who suffer with chronic illness:

* Myofascial release: Many times “regular” massage therapists can perform elementary myofascial release holds and moves, but the more specifically trained professionals in myofascial release therapy have received extended education and use stylized techniques and tools. They apply the type, degree and specific techniques that are best suited for each person’s need. Myofascial Release therapy can be effective particularly for individuals with trigger or tender points and for those whose muscles tend to be knotty.

* Swedish massage: Any massage therapist should be able to do this kind of work. This technique is gentle, but done with enough applied pressure to comfortably work on sore spots.

Note: there are many other types of massage therapies and some are viable for people who suffer with chronic illness and/or long term pain. Ask questions, get good advice and decide for yourself. These two methods are among the most popular in the industry. (If you want to go further, they can be combined with other mechanisms such as 1) specific muscle stretching, electrical stimulation, applied heat, etc., by a qualified physical therapist, or 2) body manipulation techniques by a chiropractor or hands-on osteopathic physician, or 3) energy enhancement and blood flow techniques by an acupuncturist.)

QUESTION 3/ What happens during a massage?

When you receive a massage, you should be in a safe, quiet environment. The professional will take time to ask about your health issues, needs and concerns. You will be given the opportunity to undress privately and take off your outer garments. It is a matter of personal preference whether you take off your underclothes; some people do and others don’t. Either way lay down upon the massage table at your own pace and cover yourself with a sheet (and a blanket if desired). Drape the sheet across your entire body for complete privacy. Breathe deeply; relax and prepare to have a great experience. When you are covered, the therapist will enter the room again and begin your treatment. The technician may play soothing background music to help you quiet your mind and body. This peaceful music will help you relax further and be able get the maximum benefit from your massage.

*Note #1: As the massage therapist begins to work, he (or she) will oil his hands and begin kneading your skin, while uncovering each section of your body as necessary. Oil also can be poured directly onto the skin. If you have “allergic” sensitivities to scents or substances, mention that fact now if you haven’t already done so. (If the therapist uses high quality essential oils, they may work fine. Many people find essential oils extremely beneficial and therapeutic. Decide whether to allow use of them or not. Unless you know you have a problem, you may want to try them.) Use of massage oil is a time-honored tradition for a massage therapist and an important “tool” in his toolbox.

*Note #2: Essential Oils were one of the first “medicines” on earth. History shows their use thousands of years ago. Today they are distilled from the high quality plants that we have on the planet today. Some of these come from the roots of ancient civilizations.

QUESTION 4/ Can massage really help me?

Most anyone can benefit from massage. If you’re a newbie and have not had much bodywork, start slowly. Having someone stroke your “sore” spots may feel a bit “ouchy,” but that type of touch therapy may be quite beneficial in the long run. Have your therapist go as slowly as you need. You can build up to deeper applications by spreading out your experience over many appointments.

Special note: Whether you’re the patient or the caregiver of a chronically ill person, life’s stress can increase to unbearable limits and can cause great mind/body/spirit imbalances. By relaxing your mind and body, massage helps to raise your health and vitality closer to a state of wellness. Perhaps, you will feel better than you could possibly imagine. Start gradually, book weekly, bi-weekly or monthly appointments. Consider keeping a record of your progress. Few doctors would advise you not to try massage therapy, but to be safe, it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor before embarking on such therapy.

QUESTION 5/ Does massage help people with chronic pain, too?

Many people who live with chronic pain (or with chronic illness) are likely candidates to benefit from good quality massage. It can become an integral part of the healing process. (When I was extremely sick and hurt almost 24 hours a day, I “lived” from one massage appointment to the next! They were a great refuge.)

There are many mind/body/spirit therapies that can help you heal. Some offer more relief than traditional medicine, but this is a personal choice to investigate for yourself. If you’re interested in looking into one of the newest mechanisms that’s earning “rave reviews” for

1. simplicity,

2. thoroughness

3. versatility- and

4. relative low cost…

Check out information on ELT (Essential Life Therapy), a new energy/ healing protocol! How? By ordering a “free” report on How to Stay Healthy and Avoid Health Problems in “The Fatigue Factor: 5 Ways to Begin Your Own Healing From Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Allergies and Autoimmune Illness” at

Hello, I’m Cinda Crawford. After being really sick with Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and several other illnesses for over 15 years, I’m now healthy and completely well! I work as an ELT (Essential Life Therapy) Health Practitioner with clients all over the world. I facilitate personal energy healing on a mind/body/spirit basis. I counsel people on how to be healthy and how to heal. Be courageous… explore the ultimate treasure chest– Discover How to Manifest Your Own Healing! I wish you health and happiness this day, my friend. Cinda Crawford, ELT Practitioner

Tags: body, chronic fatigue syndrome, ELT, fibromyalgia, massage, mind, pain, spirit, STRESS, therapy

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