Massages have long been considered one of life’s little luxuries — a decadent treat, often associated with days spent lounging in luxurious spas, for people who love pampering. But regular messages have been found to offer a variety of tangible health benefits.
“A lot of us are disconnected from our bodies,” says licensed massage therapist Muzique Broadnax. “We tend to overwork, overuse and push through.” Broadnax, who specializes in deep tissue neuromuscular therapy, is the owner of Balenchino Massage, a mobile service that travels to homes and offices throughout the Valley; she also recently opened a studio near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
“As we age, our body tends to wear and tear, and once your spine starts to curve, your muscle tissue starts to break down, and your ligaments start to tear, you can’t go back,” Broadnax explains. “Older people are finding that massage is more maintenance than luxury.”
She continues, “A lot of people who’ve never had a massage or haven’t had one in a long time are shocked at how much better they feel.”
Studies have found that massage therapy provides relief for a variety of ailments, including low-back pain, neck and shoulder pain, fibromyalgia, headache and more. According to a survey by the American Massage Therapy Association, 25% of men and 21% of women got massages in 2021. Of those, 63% did so as part of a treatment plan from a doctor or medical provider.
Perhaps it’s time to add massage therapy to your New Year’s health resolutions. For more information, visit balenchinomassage.com.
MASSAGE ADD-ONS
Cupping
This ancient traditional therapy originated in China. Special cups placed on the body create suction on the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds the muscles, and increase circulation to the area. It can help with pain management, impinged nerves and even scar tissue.
Hot Stones
Smooth heated disks of basalt or Himalayan salt rocks, both of which retain heat, are placed on pinpointed areas of the body, warming and relaxing the musculature. It increases blood flow, eases muscle tension and helps with pain management.
Steaming
Full-body detox steaming releases toxins from the skin. Intense sweating results in the excretion of metabolic waste from the muscles and improves circulation and accelerates metabolism. Facial steaming aids in the treatment of respiratory issues and colds.
MUZIQUE BROADNAX'S TIPS FOR
getting the most out of your massage therapy
Consistency is Key
You can come in and get an awesome massage, but if you don’t continue with regular therapy, your body will revert back to feeling how it did prior to your first massage. It took years to you to wherever you’re at with your body. So it’s going to take time to retrain and realign your muscles.
Customize Your Treatment
Don’t settle for a cookie-cutter experience. A good therapist with customize treatment plans for each individual customer. That can include neck decompression, foam rolling, hot stone therapy, stretching and more.
There’s More Than One Type of Massage
Relaxation and deep tissue are what most clients want. Lymphatic drainage is a popular post-injury or –surgical treatment. The gentle massage promotes the movement of lymphatic fluids and helps reduce swelling. And scar tissue rehabilitation breaks up the hard tissue and produces new collagen.
Listen to Your Body
What is your body trying telling you? Are you experiencing any pain? How is your immune system doing? How are you feeling mentally? Connecting with your body will bring you back to self and improve your happiness and quality of health.
For more information or to book a massage treatment, visit balenchinomassage.com.