For Valentines Day my son(actually my mother)gave me a full body massage from a massage therapist. I finially went this morning. I was not for sure what to expect and really didn't think it would do anything for me, I was wrong. It was wonderful. She worked on my trouble spots-neck, shoulder and lower back. Within the first 10 minuets I knew I would be buying another for later, after 75 minuets, I never wanted to leave.I haven't bought one yet(waiting for payday), but I have really struggled with this today. Is this a legit way for me to be healthier(actually, more comfortable) or am I waisting money on pampering myself? I have felt better today then I have in awhile. What do you guys think? Do you believe in massage therapy or am I just pampering myself? Thanks and God Bless

-- Micheale from SE Kansas (mbfrye@totelcsi.net), April 03, 2002

Answers

its like a jaccuzi,, yes its papmering, but it feels SOOOOOOOOOo good. I used to go to a chiropractor that had massages therapy onsite. wish the one I go to now had it,, wish I could find a sopmeone near me that did it.

-- Stan (sopal@net-pert.com), April 03, 2002.

Micheale, I am a firm believer in them. Also foot reflexology. They can do wonders for you, I just have a hard time affording the treatments.

-- cowgirlone in ok (cowgirlone47@hotmail.com), April 03, 2002.

I havn't had one-except for what my husband does for me when I've worked outside too hard, but my Mother-in Law swears by them. I think if you have the chance to do so , by all means-besides, even if it is a little pampering-whats so bad about that? If it makes you feel good, its not hurting anyone and you can afford it, go to!

-- Kelly (homearts2002@yahoo.com), April 03, 2002.

Michaele -- It is not pampering if you managed your day better because of it. If it gave back to you a measure of comfort that allowed you to enjoy your day, have more energy, and therefore a better outlook, it was required therapy.

My sister has sworn by them for years -- and they have even reduced, but not eliminated, her migraine headaches. I strongly believe in massage, and reflexology, as alternative therapies. In my humble opinion, anything is better than taking drugs for aches and pains. If the massage helped you have a great day with lots of energy, it was well worth it!

-- Tracy (trimmer31@hotmail.com), April 03, 2002.

Micheale, I didn't think too much of them for helping me....but, I was given a free massage (one hour!) for valentines, and I am sold! I had the most wonderful, healthy feeling 3 days after that! I have fibromyalgia ( and as of today, I have been diagnosed with lupus) and it was great for it! I am going to do it again. I have decided to baby sit or something to earn the money for a once a month treatment. Sissy

-- Sissy (iblong2Him@ilovejesus.net), April 03, 2002.

Yes, massage most definitely is a way for you to be healthier. You aren't wasting your money. Massages break down toxins in your body, so the body can get rid of them. The benefits far outweigh the cost, I'm sure. Marilyn CNHP (Certified Natural Health Professional). God Bless.

-- Marilyn in CO (www.tomeatbeef @aol.com), April 03, 2002.

Oh my..you go for it girl! They are wonderful and they really do physically help ya..or at least I think they do. My gal also gave me about a 20 minute trial test with Reiki (sp?) That was even more outstanding. I did not have a muscle left in my body that was not totally relaxed. What surprised me most was how long it lasted..I felt good for days afterwards. ENJOY!

-- Sher (riverdobbers@webtv.net), April 03, 2002.

Micheale - Yes this is a health benifit. Massage therapy has been keeping me on my feet along with swimming for the past 10 years. I have fibromyalgia also. It is worth the money if you have a good therapist. A "fluff" meassage does me no good and is a waste of money. Good Luck Billie - NE OH

-- billie jagers (billie@config.com), April 04, 2002.

Girl, Enjoy it. I have someone who does the full body massage and it is so wonderful. It is a chance to get all the kinks out and feel like a better person. Us women should pamper ourselves. If we don't do it who will? My mom used to really be in foot reflexology and I would love to have someone work the kinks out of my feet. GO FOR IT.

-- Melinda (speciallady104@hotmail.com), April 04, 2002.

I'm currently studying to become a massage therapist, I'll be finished with school in June. Massage increases your circulation, increases lymph flow, increases your immune response, increases the body's production and release of endorphins (natural pain-killers), decreases stress hormones, decreases muscle tension, and decreases edema and water-weight gain. There are more benefits, these are just the few I can think of off the top of my head. As others have mentioned, it can be a godsend for people with fibromyalgia.

I justify it like this: if you don't get the oil changed on your car and do other preventative maintenance you end up with big bills at the mechanic. Massage is like preventative maintenance on your body, it helps prevent big bills at the doctor or pharmacy later on.

-- Sherri C in Central Indiana (CeltiaSkye@xaol.com), April 04, 2002.