Bodywork by jesse

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Massage or Bodywork?

You may be wondering what is expected coming into a session. You are not alone; that is a common question! I address several things in the following paragraphs that are good to know before you arrive for a session. Everything addressed is something I have experienced in some form or other. So, being informed is great for both you and I!

I care about what I do! You are in safe hands and I will do my best to help you relax so your body can start the healing process. While I do specialize in men's wellness, all are welcome! My studio is free of gender discrimination. However, if you are looking for a spa type of relaxation massage, then I'm probably not the therapist for you.

I use the terms massage and bodywork interchangeably so don't become confused by that. If you were to look up the meanings you would find that massage refers to manipulation of tissues while bodywork refers to manipulation of the body. My style of work incorporates both.

Please come showered so that perspiration, dirt, or other pollutants are not being rubbed over your body. Taking a shower beforehand also helps in relaxation of the body and mind which is key to a successful session.

It is best to avoid eating anything heavy prior to a session as it may cause discomfort which can hinder the work being done. This is especially true if abdominal massage is performed.

Drugs and alcohol can lead to irrational behavior and are contraindications to massage so please be sober and free of any harmful substance. I have the right to refuse performing the session if you show up drunk or high.

As you know, staying hydrated is important. Hydrated muscles are more pliable than dehydrated muscles and can be manipulated easier. Massaging dehydrated muscles is uncomfortable and can lead to added soreness after a session. It is important to remember that hydration doesn't happen overnight! It takes days of hydration for the body to be considered properly hydrated. So drinking a lot of water a few hours before a massage is not going to help muscle hydration. However, don't let that discourage you from drinking water before a massage if you feel you are somewhat dehydrated. But my advice to you is to stay well hydrated all the time!

When you arrive for the massage, we will discuss any injuries that you may have and any parts of your body that are giving you trouble. The session will be tailored to your needs. Everything we discuss is confidential.

If you are a man with excessive body hair, you don't need to apologize; it's totally fine! Don't be ashamed of that.

A common fear among men is getting an erection during a massage. Getting an erection while receiving a massage is normal and nothing to be ashamed of. Touch administered to the body activates the parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system is the "feed and breed" system. That is why an erection may happen and also explains why your stomach may growl during a massage. It is unfortunate that some men avoid massage or bodywork because they are afraid or embarrassed of getting an erection. Unfortunately, a culture has been created where touch is viewed as sexual. So men view an erection during a massage as sexual. This should not be the case; touch is a powerful thing that every human being needs!

Benefits of Massage and Bodywork

Relaxation and Stress Reduction: Massage promotes relaxation by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals in the body. It also activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which induces a state of relaxation and counters the effects of stress.
Pain Relief: Massage helps alleviate pain by increasing blood flow to the affected areas, promoting the release of endorphins, and reducing inflammation. It can target specific muscles or trigger points that are causing discomfort, providing relief from conditions like back pain, neck pain, and muscle soreness.
Improved Blood Circulation: The pressure applied during massage helps dilate blood vessels and improve blood circulation throughout the body. This increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and organs, aiding in tissue repair and overall health.
Enhanced Flexibility and Range of Motion: Massage techniques such as stretching, kneading, and joint mobilization can help lengthen and loosen muscles and connective tissues, improving flexibility and range of motion. This can be particularly beneficial for athletes or individuals with limited mobility.
Reduced Muscle Tension and Spasms: Massage helps relax and release tense muscles, reducing muscle stiffness and spasms. The manipulation of soft tissues improves muscle flexibility and promotes the release of built-up tension, providing relief from muscle knots and trigger points.
Boosted Immune System: Studies have suggested that massage therapy can increase the activity of natural killer cells and lymphocytes, which are important components of the immune system. By boosting immune function, massage may help the body fight off infections and illnesses more effectively.
Improved Sleep Quality: Massage promotes relaxation and helps regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle. It can reduce anxiety, ease muscular tension, and create a sense of tranquility, leading to improved sleep quality and duration.
Mental and Emotional Well-being: Massage has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce anxiety, alleviate symptoms of depression, and improve overall mental well-being. The human touch and nurturing environment during a massage session also contribute to a sense of emotional comfort and connection.
Headache Relief: Massage techniques focused on the head, neck, and shoulders can help relieve tension headaches and migraines. By relaxing tense muscles and reducing stress levels, massage can alleviate headache symptoms and promote headache-free periods.
Posture Improvement: Massage can address muscular imbalances and postural issues by releasing tension in specific muscles and promoting better alignment. By reducing muscle imbalances, massage helps alleviate strain on the body's musculoskeletal system, leading to improved posture over time.
Rehabilitation from Injuries: Massage is often incorporated into injury rehabilitation programs to aid in the recovery process. It can help reduce swelling and inflammation, break down scar tissue, improve circulation to injured areas, and restore mobility and function.
Decreased Symptoms of Some Health Conditions: Massage has been found to provide relief from symptoms associated with certain health conditions. For example, it can reduce pain and stiffness in individuals with fibromyalgia, ease joint pain in arthritis patients, alleviate numbness and tingling in carpal tunnel syndrome, and improve digestive function in individuals with gastrointestinal disorders.

It's important to note that the specific benefits of massage and bodywork can vary depending on the individual, the skill level of the licensed massage therapist, the techniques used, and the duration and frequency of sessions.