Acupuncture & Massage BLOG

MASSAGE FOR STRESS REDUCTION
Stress results in tense neck and shoulder muscles, leading to stiffness, headaches and more stress. Massage helps to relax the mind, body and spirit, providing time and space for self, and a feeling of peace, calm and well-being. It allows the nervous system to normalize itself, and may reduce many stress-related conditions, such as palpitations and raised blood pressure.
Prolonged periods of stress can subconsciously affect many systems of the body. Stress has been shown to aggravate, or even cause, such conditions as heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, memory loss and decreased immune dysfunction. Massage therapy is one of the best antidotes for stress. Massage boosts the body’s immune system, which can become compromised from extended periods of stress. Tension can build up in the muscles, causing a decrease in circulation and nutrient delivery to tissues.

With a therapeutic massage, stress can be significantly reduced. This, in turn, will increase energy and improve life outlook. When sustained stress is experienced daily, the brain responds in a manner known as “fight or flight”. This signals the sympathetic nervous system, which is controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain. Muscles tighten in our neck, shoulders and back, blood vessels constrict, eyes dilate, large amounts of energy are expended as the adrenal glands excrete hormones.
Massage breaks this tension by triggering the parasympathetic nervous system (the body’s way of conserving and restoring energy). Stretching and kneading releases tight muscles and natural endorphins. This results in decreased pain, decreased heart rate and a sense of calm. Massage, when combined with traditional medical treatments, can reduce stress and promote healing in people with certain health conditions.
Massage and bodywork techniques are therapeutic in addressing chronic muscle and soft tissue strain patterns created by stress and aligns the muscles and soft tissues of the body by using a combination of specialized and advanced massage techniques. Some techniques may include: Functional muscle assessment (visual, kinesthetic, palpation), myofascial release, neuromuscular, deep tissue massage techniques, structural balancing (positioning and mobilizing), and external hot/cold applications. For more information contact Dr. Richard Browne at (305) 595-9500.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. It can be used as long as credit is attributed to the author by including the following section :

“Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Browne

http://www.amcollege.edu

http://www.acupuncturistmiami.com”

ASSERTIVENESS TRAINING

Assertiveness training is a behavioral technique designed to develop the necessary skills to manage interpersonal situations effectively. Specific areas of training may include developing new strategies for conflict resolution, growth goals and stress management that result in taking a more active approach to self-determination. Used in various settings including schools, corporate boardrooms and vocational programs, it identifies three main styles of communication: aggressive, passive and assertive.

Communicating more assertively and effectively requires developing an understanding of one’s communication style and learning modification of it through application of assertiveness principles. Aggressive individuals express rights and self-enhance at the expense of others (win-lose solution). Passive individuals are self-denying, inhibited and allow others to make choices for them (lose-win solution). Assertive individuals are expressive, self-enhancing, make personal choices that reflect respect for self and others (strives for win-win solution).

Assertiveness can be assessed. When differing with someone, do you speak up and share your viewpoint without hesitation? Do you accept positive criticism and suggestion? Do you have confidence in your own judgment? Do you express thoughts, feelings, intentions, and goals in a direct way? Do you work for a solution that benefits all parties? Assertive behavior is constructive and involves a balance between aggression and passivity that promotes fairness and allows others to experience self-empowerment.

The goal of assertiveness training is to increase the variety and number of situations in which assertive behavior is possible and to become aware of personal rights: You have a right to accept your convictions as legitimate, to negotiate for change, to change your mind, to request clarification, to put yourself first sometimes, to not have to justify yourself to others, to not respond to a situation, to ignore the advice of others, to not anticipate others’ needs or wishes, to have your own opinions, to decide on a different course of action, and to make mistakes.
For more information about assertiveness and self-empowerment contact Dr. Richard Browne at (305) 595-9500.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. It can be used as long as credit is attributed to the author by including the following section :

“Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Browne

http://www.amcollege.edu

http://www.acupuncturistmiami.com”