The Unexpected Physical & Mental Benefits of Relaxation Massage
Is there anything sweeter than a really good massage? Massage therapy has been around for centuries and it is easy to understand why; it feels great! What you likely don’t know, however, is that relaxation massage benefits more than just relaxing sore muscles and relieving tension.
Here we are going to reveal some of the secret benefits relaxation massage has on your body and mind.
What is a Relaxation Massage?
A relaxation massage is a smooth, gentle treatment that relieves muscular tension, increases circulation, and promotes a general sense of relaxation. Relaxation massage is a whole-body, hands-on, treatment that uses pressure on your skin to help you relax.
What is the difference between relaxation massage and remedial massage you ask? While remedial massage therapy’s focus is to “remedy’ the body, the main focus of relaxation massage is to de-stress, calm, and relax the mind and body. It's a less specific form of physical therapy, especially due to the busy lives we live today. This massage style aids with your mental and emotional health, as it calms the mind and settles the nervous system.
Why Is Relaxation Important?
Modern day life can be stressful for everyone, and it can be difficult to find time for yourself. Proper relaxation can keep you healthy, both physically and mentally, helping you to recover from the stress that everyday life gives you.
Relaxation has many benefits for your brain as well as your health, it helps balance the negative mental and physical effects. When we relax the flow of blood increases around our body giving us more energy. It helps us to have a clearer mind which aids positive thinking, concentration, memory and decision making. Relaxation slows our heart rate, reduces blood pressure and relieves tension. It also aids in digestion as we absorb nutrients more efficiently when relaxed which helps to fight off disease and infection.
Why Do Massages Feel So Good?
Getting a massage feels amazing. You even begin to feel more relaxed before the therapist even enters the room. Your Calgary massage therapist's touch causes an immediate reaction in your brain. As soon as your skin's nerves feel pressure, they signal the brain to release feel-good endorphins, which boost your mood and give you a natural high. As a result, stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline begin to decrease and the overall effect is one of euphoria and bliss.
Unexpected Benefits of Relaxation Massage
Massage therapy is much more than simply feeling good and relaxing. While that is all true, there are many additional health benefits to massage therapy. Some of these amazing benefits may even surprise you. Let's take a closer look at some of the unexpected benefits of relaxation massage therapy.
Quick Pain Relief
Relaxation massage is an effective method for naturally relieving pain throughout the body. Whether headaches, migraines, muscle aches, chronic pain, recovery from accidents or sports injuries, massage therapy can help to provide both quick and long lasting pain-relief.
Book a massage online in Calgary to get some relief from chronic or acute pain!
Better Joint Mobility
Massaging the muscles, connective tissues, tendons, ligaments and joints stimulates blood flow, relaxes tense muscles and improves joint range of motion making you more flexible, improving your mobility, balance, and therefore decreasing potential for injury.
Massage therapy can increase joint mobility by: stimulating the body's production of natural joint lubricants, increasing tissue temperature which increases elasticity and reduces constrictions, reduces swelling, and keeps the cartilage clean and free from toxins.
Lower Blood Pressure & Heart Rate
Numerous studies have shown that massage can help to lower blood pressure, particularly in people with hypertension. It is a safe, effective and cost-effective intervention for controlling blood pressure. Relaxation massage helps to lower blood pressure by improving circulation, moving stagnant blood out of tightened areas which then flood with fresh blood, increasing vascular pressure, which is only temporary, leading to lowered blood pressure.
After only 20 minutes of relaxation massage, the body begins to release those endorphins that relax the blood vessels, reduce the intensity of the heart pumping and shuts down the adrenals from producing more cortisol.
Alleviate Symptoms of Chronic Illnesses & Diseases
People suffering from chronic illnesses and diseases also experience higher stress levels. Elevated stress can worsen the stress, creating a vicious cycle. While massage therapy has not been proven to cure any disease, it has been found to improve the quality of life for many individuals.
Ramps Up Immune System Function
Studies have shown that receiving a single relaxation massage lowers the stress hormone cortisol while increasing the number of white blood cells. Further studies have shown that weekly massage therapy increases the immune cell levels and white blood cells in every single subject involved.
Massage is also known for promoting increased circulation and lymphatic flow, which helps move healthy nutrients throughout your body and to filter metabolic waste. Massage also increases the levels of lymphocytes, which are the cells that help the immune system fight off harmful substances in the body.
Stimulates Better and more Beautiful Hair Growth
Here is a secret that virtually no one talks about, if your hair is thinning or you want to increase your hair's natural volume, a twice weekly scalp massage can improve your hair and make it grow longer and thicker.
When the scalp is massaged, it promotes blood flow. This allows the hair follicles to receive more oxygen and nutrients has been shown to increase hair thickness and even reduce the symptoms of pattern baldness.
Reduces Recovery Time After Intense Exercise
If your muscles are sore after a rigorous workout, a good relaxation massage actually helps you heal your muscles faster. Researchers have found that massage decreases the inflammation caused by exercise, swelling, and pain while improving soft tissue repair and increase the occurrence of cell repair.
The benefits of massage therapy for athletes are very well known, which is why all major sports teams employ massage therapists for their players.
Mental Benefits of Relaxation Massage
Massages are fantastic of course, who doesn't love a massage? But did you know, that massages alleviate much more than soothing muscle aches? The mental benefits of relaxation massage for mental health are extraordinary. The increased blood flow and circulation not only relaxes your body, massages also relax your central nervous system lower stress hormones, like cortisol, in the body. Below are a number of ways relaxation massage helps to reduce our mental health challenges:
Reduce Stress & Anxiety
Stress is a normal part of life. We all experience it, but when stress starts affecting our life it becomes detrimental to our health. Relaxation massage is a proven method to help combat stress and reduce its effects on both the body and mind. It has been shown that even just 10 minutes of massage therapy can activate the body’s natural happy hormones and leave you feeling more relaxed.
The mood enhancing benefits of massage therapy makes it easier to feel more calm and in control, reducing anxiety and naturally calming the body’s fight or flight response.
Looking to reduce anxiety through a relaxation massage? Book a massage in Calgary online with Why Knot today!
Central Nervous System Regulation
Speaking of fight or flight response, that brings us to your central nervous system. The stressors and traumas we encounter through our lives we hold in our central nervous system. This keeps us in a state of fight, flight, or freeze which is also called our sympathetic nervous system. Being trapped in sympathetic nervous system can keep us from even being able to relax because we are stuck in a state of hyper-vigilance, underlying physical “fear” and keeps our system prepared for strenuous physical activity.
Relaxation massage can help us switch back into our natural state of parasympathetic nervous system, also known as rest and digest, by stimulating receptors that transmit sensory signals to relax the central nervous system, which literally allows us to rest and relax.
Boosts Your Mental Health
Physically relaxation massage can improve mental health by increasing the production of endorphins, dopamine and serotonin, our happy hormones which are natural pain killers and mood enhancers creating a sense of well-being. Relaxation massage also reduces the stress hormone cortisol. The lowering of cortisol combined with the increased serotonin boosts the body's ability to fight off pain, anxiety, and feelings of sadness.
Relaxation massage has also been referred to as an “hour long hug” as it fulfills the need for human contact and comforting touch.
Increase your Overall Happiness
Relaxation massage has been known to lower stress, decrease anxiety, reduce irritability, along with increasing brain serotonin and dopamine. The combination of these effects lead directly to you being happier. Being a happier person can have an infinite number of effects on your personal life and those around you.
Scheduling regular massages with your Calgary massage therapist at Why Knot should be carefully considered for people looking for a holistic way to improve your mental health and well being.
Rest More Efficiently
Massages aren’t only useful for relaxation in-the-moment. Relaxation massages have been shown to improve sleep patterns in all types of people: children, adolescents, and adults who suffer from insomnia, cerebral palsy, fibromyalgia, migraines and more.
Research has demonstrated that a 30 minute massage a week for five weeks reported a significant decrease in pain, which led to fewer sleep disturbances.
Who Could Benefit from Relaxation Massage?
According to the Mayo Clinic massage therapy is safe for people of all ages. If you are experiencing any of the following conditions then relaxation massage therapy could be the right healthcare for you.
Back Pain
Anxiety
Fibromyalgia
Nerve Pain
Stress Insomnia
Soft tissue pain
Strains and /or Injuries
Headaches and neck pain
Sports related injuries
Conclusion
Relaxation massage is not only a feel-good way to indulge or pamper yourself, it is a powerful tool to take charge of your physical and mental health and well-being. Relaxation massage is important in maintaining your body's central nervous system and hormone regulation. The skilled therapists at Why Knot have vast toolboxes of techniques that can be incorporated based on your needs.
Talk to your Calgary massage therapist at Why Knot, our skilled pain management specialists can create a treatment plan that works for you. Your health and wellbeing are our top priority.
Book your Calgary relaxation massage online today with Why Knot.
Your Journey to Wellness - Trigger Point Therapy Calgary
Woke up with a tight knot in your neck? Feeling sore spots in your leg after a work-out?With all of the wellness and pain management out there, one therapy has been gaining attention for its effectiveness and holistic approach - Trigger Point Therapy. This unique therapy offers a promising solution to chronic pain. Mobility issues and overall wellness. Trigger point therapy is a soft tissue technique that works to release painful tension in muscles and fascia.
What is a Trigger Point?
Basically a trigger point is also known as a muscular knot. A trigger point is a hyperirritable spot meaning that it is excessively sensitive. Trigger points produce pain locally and in referred patterns and often accompany chronic musculoskeletal disorders. Acute or repetitive micro trauma may lead to stress on muscle fibers and the formation of trigger points. Trigger points are a common factor of acute aches and pains felt in the body.
There are three types of trigger points:
Active Trigger Points
Active trigger points cause pain when no pressure is applied. This means they are painful even when not being massaged. This type of myofascial pain is the most common and can be experienced anywhere in the body.
Latent Trigger Points
Latent trigger points are ones that cause pain when pressed and often send referral pain to other areas. These are precursors to active trigger points . if left untreated they will become active trigger points.
Satellite Trigger Points
Satellite trigger points are the area that the pain is referred to. For example a trigger point in your shoulder is sending pain referring down to the elbow, the elbow points would be the satellite trigger points. This is why it is important that you work on more than just the areas that are painful.
How To Tell If You Have Trigger Points
If you are experiencing stiffness or aching pain in the neck or limbs, you may be experiencing trigger points. There are tell-tale symptoms and signs of trigger points. If you are unsure if you have trigger points or not, here is a quick checklist:
Do you have localized pain in your muscles?
Does the pain increase when you apply pressure?
Does the pain increase or worsen at specific times or after certain exercises?
Do your muscles feel fatigued in any specific area?
Are you experiencing reduced range of motion in the affected areas?
Do your muscles feel tight or knotted up?
If you answered yes to many of these questions, you very likely have a trigger point.
Trigger points may also manifest as tension headaches, TMJ / jaw pain, joint pain, and pain shooting down your arms, legs and lower back. Trigger points may be a symptom of an underlying problem that requires intervention
What Causes Trigger Points?
When overworked or injured muscle fibers become unable to relax, which can cause mini contraction in a small area of the fascia or muscle fiber, thus stretching the muscle on either side of the trigger point. The knot restricts blood flow to the affected area, effectively starving the muscle of vital oxygen leading to a buildup of waste material in the cells.
How Does Trigger Point Massage Therapy work?
Trigger points cause a lot of pain and can greatly affect your everyday life and wellbeing. Trigger points will NOT heal on their own. Treating them requires the help of a skilled massage therapist, as there is no one type of massage, therapists use a number of techniques including but not limited to myofascial release and deep tissue. Massage works by pushing fresh blood flow and vital oxygen in flushing waste materials out. This oxygen helps to relieve some of the pain and encourages the muscles and trigger points to release.
What Are The Benefits of Trigger Point Therapy?
Trigger point therapy is an incredibly effective way to relieve pain and tension in the body. Trigger point therapy treatments have many advantages, making it an excellent alternative to conventional or traditional pain management approaches. Here are some of the most significant advantages:
Better circulation
Reduced Tension and stress
Increased flexibility and mobility
Higher energy levels
Better sleep
Increased range of motion
Book Your Trigger Point Therapy in Calgary
Trigger points may be small but they can cause massive discomfort and disruptions to your daily life. Luckily you can experience lasting relief with trigger point therapy massage. Whether you are an athlete looking to enhance your performance, a desk worker seeking relief from muscle tension or someone dealing with chronic pain. If you are dealing with pain, consider giving trigger point therapy a try.
Talk to your Calgary massage therapist at Why Knot, our skilled pain management specialists can create a treatment plan that works for you. Your health and wellbeing are our top priority.
Book your Calgary massage online today.
Lilac Festival In Calgary 2022 (And Our Giveaway!)
We are so happy to be welcoming back the Lilac Festival this year in Calgary! This one day free event downtown Calgary is one of our favorite celebrations. This year you can find us at Lilac Festival with a mobile massage chair, gift and goodies for guests, and our greatest giveaway to date! Come by and find our Why Knot Massage & Wellness booth at Lilac Festival.
What Is The Lilac Festival?
The Lilac Festival is a one-day all-ages festival that happens each year downtown Calgary, hosting over 500 local vendors, 6 stages with over 30 performances, and thousands of visitors enjoying the spring weather after a long and cold winter.
When Is The Lilac Festival?
The Lilac Festival is on June 5, 2022 and goes from 10am - 6pm.
Where Is The Lilac Festival?
Image from the official Lilac Festival website.
The Lilac Festival runs the length of 4th Street downtown Calgary, between Elbow Drive and 12th Avenue.
Why Knot Massage & Wellness Giveaway
This year at Lilac Festival we will be set up with our booth and entrants can come visit us to enter our great giveaway. Win one of these prizes from us!
Grand Prize Package
Five, you’ve got it - FIVE 60 minute massage sessions with Why Knot!
Second Prize Package
One 90 minute massage session with Why Knot!
Third Prize Package
One 60 minute massage session with Why Knot!
Book Your Calgary Massage Online
Can’t wait until the festival to get your massage in? Book your massage online today.
How To Choose Your Massage Therapist in Calgary
If you are looking for a massage in Calgary, you should know how to choose the best therapist for you. This can be done best if you simply read on and follow the guidelines presented below!
For several decades now, massage therapy has been one of the most popular forms of medical treatment all around the world to help ease symptoms of muscle aches and pains, joint pain, and more. Today, massage therapy has also entered a therapeutic realm, after staggering benefits of massage therapy have shown it has had an incredible effect also on the mind.
A massage can be very relaxing, and also very rewarding when given as a gift. Consider the things that you will want to look for in a massage therapist and then feel free to narrow down your search. When choosing, it is important to remember that it may take time before you find the right person to do your deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, or other special treatments. If you are looking for a massage in Calgary, you should know how to choose the best therapist for you. This can be done best if you simply read on and follow the guidelines presented below!
How Can I Find The Right Massage Therapist?
Choosing a massage therapist shouldn't have to be confusing or time consuming. Once you have made the decision to book your massage, you may find yourself at a loss as to where to turn next. Several factors need to be considered: location in Calgary and whether it’s close to you, or close to major travel routes, accreditation and credentials of the therapist, types of massage offered and whether or not they offer stress management workshops and if so which ones, what are their cancellation policies etc. When choosing your therapist all of these must be taken into consideration.
What Questions Should You Ask Before Choosing Your Massage Therapist?
Before scheduling an appointment with any massage therapist, it's a good idea to ask a few questions to make sure you're making the right decision. Your potential massage therapist is trained and skilled, but that doesn't necessarily mean they'll be a good fit for you. Take the time to consider these five questions so you can find a massage therapist that will help you relax, reduce stress, and feel better both physically and mentally!
What To Look For In A Massage Therapist
The first thing to look for in a massage therapist is experience. A good future therapist will have experience under the supervision of other skilled professionals, the more experienced the better. An experienced professional usually has better training and is more likely to know what they're doing, leading to a better massage overall.
A therapist whose schedule fits with your own
You shouldn’t have to miss work to make a massage work for you! Look for a massage therapist in Calgary whose schedule is flexible.
PS - did you know Why Knot is open from 9am - 9pm, 7 days a week?
Somebody you’re comfortable with and who listens to you
When you're looking for a massage therapist, you need someone who can make you comfortable and help you relax. It’s important that your massage therapist and you get along, and that they hear your medical concerns and are happy to customize the massage therapy treatment experience to your needs.
A massage therapist who offers the technique you need to heal your muscles
There are many different kinds of massage therapy techniques. If you’re looking for your ideal massage therapist in Calgary, make sure your therapist offers the technique you need. Not sure what type of massage you’re wanting? View our massage therapy treatments page, or contact us today to learn about our customized treatment plans!
Read the reviews: You should be able to see a company’s Google My Business profile and read the reviews for that place, and for your massage therapist.
Book Your Massage In Calgary
At Why Knot, we have a team of certified massage therapists in Calgary to help you overcome your acute or chronic muscle injuries. Book your massage online, or contact our team today.
PS - looking for the perfect gift? No matter the time of year - we have gift cards available!
Celebrating The Holidays In Calgary: Calgary Events This Winter
This winter, bundle up the family and explore the city to see some of the incredible events going on in Calgary for the holidays this year. Take in some lighted displays, outdoor skating activities, music and plays and more!
Calgary in the winter can be incredible - the snow, the lights, even the cold temperatures can be a relief from our hot summers! This winter, bundle up the family and explore the city to see some of the incredible events going on in Calgary for the holidays this year. Take in some lighted displays, outdoor skating activities, music and plays and more!
Calgary Winter Entertainment Events
Plays, carols and more - enjoy some of these Calgary events in person, or from the comfort of your own couch! Click each event to discover more and make ticket purchases as necessary.
What: A production designed for kids, including a kid-friendly menu! Bundle up your little ones and take them to an evening they’ll never forget. $36.95 - $39.95
When: November 6 - January 8
Where: Jubilations Dinner Theatre
What: Dickens’ classic Christmas tale, A Christmas Carol, adapted into a 75 minute abridged edition. Enjoy the masterpiece and Christmas tradition of this story in person, or online! From $30 for online access, to $48 - $88 for theatre access.
When: November 30 - December 31
Where: In person at the Max Bell Theatre, or online from your own home!
What: A presentation of classic Christmas carols and classical music as presented by the Calgary philharmonic - all from the comfort of your own home! This event is free and open to the public to register online.
When: December 18, 7:30pm
Where: Wherever you’d like! The event will be livestreamed online.
Special Christmas Events in Calgary
Social gatherings, outdoor skating rinks and more! Click on each event heading to learn more about all of the special Christmas events in Calgary this winter.
What: Deck the Ave is an ongoing event in downtown Calgary full of lighted Christmas light displays, firepits and live music. This event is all ages and free (photo booths are $5 per adult)
When: December 3-4, December 10-11, December 17-18
Where: Stephen Ave
What: Holiday performances, visits with Santa, food and drink and hot chocolate, Christmas caroling, a Christmas market and more! This 10 day Christmas event in Calgary has it all.
When: Weekends in December 4 & 5, 11 & 12, 18 & 19, and December 20 to 23, 2021 - 10am-4pm
Where: Heritage Park
What: A man-made skating rink for you and your family to go and visit. Discover the beauty of Deerfoot on this gorgeous skating rink and take in the sights. Book your visit online.
When: December 1 - 31
Where: The Boulevard at Deerfoot
Christmas Light Displays in Calgary
Find the best places to see all of the Christmas light displays in Calgary, both outdoors and indoors. Click on each event heading for full details on the events.
What: Discover the winter wonderland in the Legacy community. Come and see all of the lighted displays and parade of Christmas decorations in our community.
When: November 15 - January 10
Where: Legacy Community, South Calgary
What: Enjoy Christmas lights at the Calgary Zoo! Walk around and visit with the animals and discover the Calgary Zoo as you’ve never seen it - transformed into a Christmas wonderland. 16+ $21.95, 3 - 5 $14.95, under 3 free.
When: November 19 - January 2, 5:00pm - 9:00pm nightly
Where: The Calgary Zoo
What: Enjoy a beautiful lighted display presented at the Telus science center. Stay warm and enjoy the Christmas lights indoors this winter! Adults $19, 3 - 17 $13, ages 2 and under free.
When: November 25 - January 2, 5:30pm - 9:30pm
Where: Telus Spark Science Center
Enjoy All Calgary Has To Offer
No matter the season, Calgary is an incredible place to live and to visit. The city is so full of wonderful events during the holiday season, and a downtown core that has all you could need - including your massage therapy experts! Relax from all of the holiday activities with a downtown Calgary massage - book online with Why Knot today.
Massage For Migraines: Beat Headaches With Massage Therapy
There are many different types of migraines, and headaches, and while massage therapy may not cure your migraine or headache, it can be a great step taken forward to managing the oftentimes debilitating symptoms that go alongside these conditions.
Do you suffer from migraines or know somebody that does? These debilitating pains can have you out for days on end at times. Sometimes we do everything we can to prevent them, but migraines have a funny tendency of popping up whenever they feel like it, unprovoked even.
What’s The Difference Between A Migraine and Headache?
There are many different types of migraines, and headaches. A headache will generally cause localized pain in one area, and tends to end on its own, or with painkillers. Headaches can be painful, but are usually short-lived and the result of environment, or dehydration.
Migraines seem to happen with no rhyme or reason, though some can be seasonal, or brought on by diet, or stress. Migraines tend to last much longer than headaches, affect one side of the head, and have accompanying symptoms such as:
Nausea
Pain in one side of the head, behind the eye or ear
Light sensitivity
Flashing lights or spots (known as an aura)
Temporary vision loss
The only true way to get a proper diagnosis between a headache or a migraine is to talk to your family doctor.
What Causes Migraines and Headaches?
Head pain can be brought on by a multitude of different ways.
Hormonal changes (particularly in women)
Fluctuations in estrogen can be a trigger for migraines in women, oftentimes occurring before menstrual periods, pregnancy or menopause.
Alcoholic beverages
Both alcohol and caffeine can be a trigger for migraines in some, particularly red wines.
Stress and physical factors
Mental and physical stresses can be a major contributor to overall body tension and trigger migraines and headaches.
Certain foods and food additives
Certain preservatives such as sulphites, aspartame, and MSG can all be migraine triggers.
Weather changes
Drops in barometric pressure can be a cause of headaches and migraines, particularly in the fall and spring when the weather changes.
Scents and sensory stimuli
Heavy scents can bring on headaches for some, such as paint thinner, cigarettes and perfumes.
How Can Massage Therapy Help With Migraines and Headaches?
While massage therapy cannot cure migraines and headaches, it can help to alleviate the severity of the symptoms associated with migraines.
Massage Therapy Helps Promote Circulation
Massage therapy can help to promote healthy blood flow and proper circulation to parts of your body that may be ischemic (lacking in blood flow), such as your neck, skull and cranium, and this can help to alleviate pain.
Massage Therapy Decreases Stress
Massage therapy has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol, which is the hormone responsible for creating physical and emotional stresses. Therefore, massage therapy helps to reduce stress, which is a known migraine trigger.
Massage Therapy Eases Tense Muscles and Relieves Spasms
Migraines and headaches can be caused or triggered by physical tension in the head, neck, and back, and massage therapy helps to keep these muscles more relaxed and reduces muscle spasms as well.
Book Your Massage Online
If you’re struggling with headaches or migraines, or are just looking to relax - book your massage in Calgary online with us today! We offer full online booking services, or use the form below to contact us to book your downtown Calgary massage with Why Knot.
Hours of Operation:
Monday: 9am - 9pm
Tuesday: 9am - 9pm
Wednesday: 9am - 9pm
Thursday: 9am - 9pm
Friday: 9am - 9pm
Saturday: 9am - 9pm
Sunday: 9am - 9pm
Which Massage Therapy Treatment Is Right For Me? How To Choose Your Massage
You’re in pain, and you know you need a massage. You probably know there are a few different types of massage, but do you know how to choose your massage therapy treatment, or the differences between massages?
You’re in pain, and you know you need a massage. You probably know there are a few different types of massage, but do you know how to choose your massage therapy treatment, or the differences between massages? You might be wondering, what’s the difference between a therapeutic massage and a relaxation massage? Or how do I know if I book a deep tissue massage or a sports massage?
When it comes to booking your massage, you’re going to have questions - and we’re here to help!
Which Issues Can Massage Therapy Help?
While massage therapy is excellent for the sore muscles, there are a multitude of hidden benefits that you may not know about receiving regular massage therapy.
Muscle aches and pains
Massage can be a lifesaver when it comes to dealing with chronic pain. If you’ve suffered from chronic pain, you understand the absolute agony it can be to have constant muscle aches and pains. We will assess you and help you ease your pain through regular massage therapy.
Tension and overall stresses
We tend to carry tension in our muscles. Whether we realize it or not, our muscles will physically hold the mental stresses we’re carrying. We actually hold ourselves more tensely when we’re stressed or worried! By massaging out those tense muscles, you can actually help to relieve mental or emotional stresses as well - which in turn helps to keep your muscles and joints healthy!
Menstrual cramps and migraines
If you suffer from either menstrual cramps or migraines, you know how debilitating those can be. Massage therapy can have a similar effect on both of these conditions - massage therapy improves blood flow. This can help to aid with period pains, and to help to provide more blood flow to your brain - lessening the severity of migraines!
How Many Different Massage Therapy Techniques Are There?
There are many different types of massage therapy, and each one varies in its technique and results. Here at Why Knot Massage & Wellness, we offer the following types of massage techniques:
A therapeutic massage is very light and introductory and designed for those who are experiencing mild to moderate body pains.
A treatment massage follows a specialized plan designed to target your body’s pain points and alleviate your pain.
Trigger Point Therapy & Release
Trigger point therapy and release is a massage technique designed to target problematic areas causing chronic pain or localized muscle injuries.
A pregnancy massage is designed to help alleviate the symptoms of pregnancy, especially those found in the third trimester.
Deep tissue massage is a great option for those who are experiencing chronic muscle pain. Deep tissue massage is a bit more thorough than a relaxation massage.
Swedish massage is a gentle full-body massage that’s best for people who are newer to massage, are sensitive to the touch, or have a lot of muscle tension.
A relaxation massage is just that! A massage designed entirely for you to relax, from head to toe.
If you’re active and repetitively use your muscles during sports and workouts, it’s recommended to get regular sports massages to proactively treat for any potential sprains or injuries.
Hot stone massage is similar to a Swedish massage, but incorporates hot stones in addition to their hands to ease muscle tension.
Myofascial Mobilization & Release
Myofascial mobilization and release is a specialized massage therapy treatment that involves lengthening the muscles to improve function of the muscle tissue.
How to Choose Your Massage
Your best bet to choose your massage is to call our clinic and request a consultation with one of our registered massage therapists. No two injuries or ailments are the same, nor should they be treated the same. Our team is fully trained to do an assessment of you, your history with chronic pain, or experiences with acute pain, and to make the best decision to create a fully customized massage therapy treatment plan.
Contact Us For Your Calgary Massage
If you’re looking to book any of the above massages in Calgary, you can book your massage online, or come in to see us. We’re open from 9am - 9pm, 7 days a week. Not sure which massage is right for you? Contact us, and we’ll be happy to do an initial assessment and consultation and create your customized plan!
All About Deep Tissue Massages
What sets a deep tissue massage apart from say a Swedish massage, relaxation massage or more? How do you know when you need a deep tissue massage? Is it going to hurt? These are all the questions you may have when it comes to booking your first deep tissue massage appointment, and we’re here to answer any questions you may have.
What sets a deep tissue massage apart from say a Swedish massage, relaxation massage or more? How do you know when you need a deep tissue massage? Is it going to hurt? These are all the questions you may have when it comes to booking your first deep tissue massage appointment, and we’re here to answer any questions you may have.
Our team at Why Knot will actually put together a customized massage therapy treatment plan for you, so we’re able to recommend a massage that works specifically for you. You may think you need a deep tissue massage, but we’ll happily assess your situation,
What Is A Deep Tissue Massage?
A deep tissue massage is a type of massage technique that’s designed to specifically treat musculoskeletal injuries and pains caused by muscle strains, and commonly sports injuries. Specifically, a deep tissue massage works to repair damaged muscles and connective tissues by targeting scar tissue and breaking up scar tissue that forms after your injuries.
Not sure if a deep tissue massage is right for you? View our list of massage therapy services to learn about all of the massage treatments we offer.
Does A Deep Tissue Massage Hurt?
A deep tissue massage may feel more uncomfortable than a relaxation massage, but it is not supposed to be extremely painful. If at any point your massage therapy begins to hurt, please inform your massage therapist.
It may be uncomfortable, but not painful. A deep tissue massage targets the inner areas of your muscles, which requires more pressure. In comparison, a Swedish massage doesn’t require the same type of pressure.
Your body may tense up in response to the treatment, which may cause a bit of discomfort.
To prevent pain after your massage, drink water before and afterwards, and relax after your treatment.
What To Expect During Your Massage
First to prepare, your registered massage therapist will best determine your painful target areas so we can put together an appropriate treatment plan going in. When we begin you’ll be asked to lie on either your back or stomach, depending on the problem areas. We’ll work to warm up your muscles with gentle massage techniques, and once your muscles are more relaxed, begin to apply more pressure to begin to treat the underlying scar tissue and painful muscles.
Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage
Each massage therapy treatment has its own individual benefits, and if you’re not sure which treatment is right for you, contact our team for an assessment today.
Relieves stress
All forms of massage therapy will help to relieve stress by relaxing your body and providing a near-meditative state when you’re undergoing a massage therapy treatment. Massage helps to lower blood pressure, increase dopamine, and boost your mood, which relieves stress.
Breaks up scar tissue to help with movement
Deep tissue massage in particular is designed to break up scar tissue which has formed deep underneath the muscles, causing chronic pain. That scar tissue is targeted with firm pressure and specialized techniques.
Rehabilitates injured muscles
Chronic muscle pain can be detrimental to an active or sedentary lifestyle. Chronic muscle pain and injured muscles interfere with the day to day activities. Deep tissue massage helps to relieve that pain and repair injured muscles.
Preparing For Your Massage
One of the best ways to prepare for any massage session is to begin by drinking water. Water helps to hydrate your muscles to prepare for massage therapy. After your massage - continue drinking water. This helps to flush out any toxins which are brought out of your muscles during the massage treatment.
And - relax! And if you aren’t relaxed before your massage, you can guarantee you will be afterwards!
Book Your Deep Tissue Massage in Calgary
Are you in need of a deep tissue massage? Contact us today for an assessment. Our team will help to create a customized massage therapy treatment plan in our Calgary massage clinic.
Fill out the form today with any questions you may have, or use the button below to book your deep tissue massage in Calgary today.
Therapeutic Massage vs. Relaxation Massage
Learn what the difference between a therapeutic massage and relaxation massage is, and which is right for you. Learn about our Calgary massage clinic today.
Did you know there are multiple different types of massages, all benefitting different parts of your body or acute or chronic pains you may be experiencing. It’s important to work with a registered massage therapist to best diagnose which massage treatment is best for you.
The two most common massage therapy treatments are a therapeutic massage, and a relaxation massage. Here are some of the differences between these two popular massage types.
What Is A Therapeutic Massage?
Any form of a therapeutic massage is designed to target and ultimately treat any pains you’re experiencing, whether or not the pain is acute (sudden onset, usually from an injury), or chronic (long-term pains which may only be managed, not treated). There are different types of a therapeutic massage, dependent on the pain and diagnosis.
Did you know we offer specialized massages in Calgary such as:
And more?
Wondering what therapeutic massage may be best for you? Contact one of our registered massage therapists today.
Therapeutic Massage Benefits
A therapeutic massage can be beneficial for anybody, but at Why Knot we customize our massage therapy treatments to each individual based on their needs. Here are some of the benefits of a therapeutic massage:
Manage chronic pain
While chronic pain from injuries may not always be treatable, a therapeutic massage regimen can help manage the symptoms of strained muscles and aching joints.
Therapeutic massages are tailored to your needs
Nobody’s bodies are the same. When you book a therapeutic massage, you will be assessed for a treatment designed just for you.
Relieves stress and anxiety
Let’s face it - we’re not at our best when we’re in pain. We’re crabby, irritable, and stressed out. A therapeutic massage (and relaxation massage) helps to reduce the pain, and therefore any stresses/anxiety you may be experiencing.
What Is A Relaxation Massage?
A relaxation massage is different from a therapeutic massage - this type of massage is designed solely for you to relax! It’s incredible the amount of tension, stress, and emotion that we carry in our bones, joints and muscles. Stress itself wears on our body and creates knots of tension in our muscles. While a relaxation massage may be different from a therapeutic massage, it still has many therapeutic benefits which are similar.
Relaxation Massage Benefits
Have you ever felt the tension in your body building and building? You know the physical sensations of stress: irritability, frustration, pain, and tension in the back, jaw, shoulders, and muscles. You may not even realize how stressed your body actually is until you truly relax.
Relaxing
As the name suggests, the biggest benefit of a relaxation massage is - to relax! To ease that physical stress and discomforts. Relaxation massages actually help to decrease stress hormones in your body.
Improving your circulation
Relaxation massages have benefits for improving your body’s circulation, helping your body and organs receive more oxygen - which improves their function overall.
Relaxation massage can help you sleep better
Many people struggle with falling and staying asleep throughout the night. A relaxation massage can help you sleep better by relaxing your entire body, and mind. (Take a look at our blog post about the benefits of massage for your body and mind)
Which Is Best For Me? Therapeutic or Relaxation Massage?
While each has its own benefits, there’s no way to guess which massage treatment is best for you without an initial consultation and proper intake. If you’re experiencing acute aches and pains, a therapeutic massage may be the best option. We’re happy to assess you and create a customized treatment plan just for you.
Book Your Massage in Calgary Online
We offer full online booking for your Calgary massages. We’re open from 9am - 9pm, Monday to Sunday (depending on practitioner availability) so you can get your massage when it works best for you.
Contact us today, or book your Calgary massage online with Why Knot.
Calgary Massage Therapy: Hot Stone Massage, Deep Tissue Massage and More
When it comes to booking your massage, remember that no two types are the same! This is why we have a team of registered massage therapists at our Calgary wellness clinic. Each team member is skilled in their own area of expertise, but collectively the team at Why Knot holds years of experience in a variety of different massage treatments and techniques.
If you’re not sure which massage is right for you, contact our team. We’ll provide you with an intake form and assessment, and create a customized massage treatment for you.
When it comes to booking your massage, remember that no two types are the same! This is why we have a team of registered massage therapists at our Calgary wellness clinic. Each team member is skilled in their own area of expertise, but collectively the team at Why Knot holds years of experience in a variety of different massage treatments and techniques.
We know how important it is to have the massage that’s best suited for you. If you’re in pain, a therapeutic massage may be for you. If you’re feeling tense, you would likely benefit from a simple relaxation massage (or a Swedish massage!). We offer multiple different types of massage.
If you’re not sure which massage is right for you, contact our team. We’ll provide you with an intake form and assessment, and create a customized massage treatment for you.
What Are The Benefits Of Massage Therapy
If you’ve ever suffered from any chronic muscle injuries you know how agonizing it can be to be continually in pain. Oftentimes our muscles can become strained simply from every day exercises. Lifting, twisting and bending can cause muscle strains, and the effects of these can take time to fully be felt.
Massage therapy can also give preventative measures to a host of physical and emotional conditions. Here are a few lesser known benefits of massage therapy:
Massage therapy helps to manage symptoms of anxiety, stress, and worry.
Believe it or not, you can improve your skin tone through massage.
Regular massage therapy can stimulate brain function and create a heightened sense of awareness.
Massage therapy can stimulate the lymphatic system, flushing out spots of tension and pooled lymphatic swelling in the muscles.
You can improve your overall mood with massage therapy. Not just by reducing stress, but by lowering cortisol and hormones as well!
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is beneficial for people who:
Are experiencing muscle pain and inflammation
Are feeling the effects of stress and anxiety
Are suffering from insomnia
The basalt stones are heated and pressed upon the body in tandem with a traditional/Swedish massage, and are designed to release both tension and muscle toxins. We recommend drinking an ample amount of water before, and after your hot stone massage.
Book Your Hot Stone Massage in Calgary
Deep Tissue Massage
A deep tissue massage may be beneficial if you’re experiencing:
High blood pressure
Sciatica
Fibromyalgia
The most common question people have about deep tissue massage vs. therapeutic massage is, “Does a deep tissue massage hurt?” The answer will always be no. If at any point your massage ever hurts, please tell your registered massage therapist. A deep tissue massage is not designed to hurt. You should experience pressure, but never a shooting pain.
You may experience tenderness after your massage treatment.
Book Your Deep Tissue Massage in Calgary
Therapeutic Massage
A therapeutic massage is different from a relaxation massage - when you present to a registered massage therapist with a specific and persistent pain, we will create a specialized massage therapy treatment plan for you based on your specific needs. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, a therapeutic massage may be best for you:
Chronic or persistent muscle aches and pains
Difficulty with mobility
Migraines, cluster headaches, tension headaches, or sinus headaches
We’re always happy to discuss the various illnesses and ailments that a therapeutic massage may be able to help with.
Book Your Therapeutic Massage in Calgary
How Much is a Massage in Calgary?
Our treatments all vary in pricing depending on your individual needs. All of our information about pricing for the massage treatments we offer can be found on each of our individual service pages, and on our massage treatment page.
What’s The Process to Book a Massage?
Booking a massage with Why Knot is easy - simply use our Book Online services, or get in contact with us today. A registered massage therapist on our team will be in contact with you to determine the best course of massage treatment for you - or, if you’re wanting to book a relaxation massage, we’ll book your appointment right then and there!
We’re open 7 days a week, from 9am - 9pm (depending on practitioner availability) so you can get the massage treatment you need, when you need it the most.
Book Your Calgary Massage Online
We offer fully integrated online booking services so you can book your next massage in Calgary online. If you have any questions about these massage therapy services, or any other massage therapies in Calgary, contact our team, and we’ll be in touch with you shortly!
4 Most Popular Types of Massage (And How To Choose Your Massage)
How do you know which massage is best for you? Chances are you may not - and that’s fine! It’s up to your massage therapist to assess you and best recommend a course of massage therapy treatment for your muscles. At Why Knot we offer completely specialized massage therapy treatments that are personalized for each client’s needs.
When it comes to massage therapy, there are many different forms of effective massage treatments for muscle and joint pain, and massages can even be beneficial to a whole host of other physical effects (read our blog post about the benefits of a massage on your body AND mind).
How do you know which massage is best for you? Chances are you may not - and that’s fine! It’s up to your massage therapist to assess you and best recommend a course of massage therapy treatment for your muscles. At Why Knot we offer completely specialized massage therapy treatments that are personalized for each client’s needs.
Let’s take a look at some of the more popular massage treatments that we offer, and explore the differences and benefits for each one.
Relaxation Massage
If you are looking to relax - this is the massage for you. A relaxation massage is just that - it’s designed for utter relaxation of your muscles. Are you feeling tense, stressed out, or anxious? Consider relaxation massage as a therapy for anything that may be nagging your mind. It’s incredible the bond between our mind and our body, and how even subconscious stresses can affect our muscles, and cause overall tension.
A relaxation massage can work absolute wonders on a tense mind.
Book Your Relaxation Massage Online
Deep Tissue Massage
We commonly get asked, “Will a deep tissue massage hurt?” The answer to that is to always let your massage therapist know if a massage is hurting. Massage therapy though may cause slight pressure, it is not designed to hurt you. Please inform your massage therapist if at any point you begin experiencing pain during your massage.
Deep tissue massage therapy is designed to break up any scarring within your muscle tissue, to improve blood flow and lower your overall blood pressure, and can help with painful arthritis symptoms. A deep tissue massage is a step up from your relaxation massage.
Book Your Deep Tissue Massage Online
Sport Therapy Massage
Sport therapy massage, or sports massage, is a routine regimen massage treatment specifically for athletes. Athletes are using their muscles constantly, and oftentimes straining muscles during particularly active workouts. While this isn’t a bad thing, sport therapy massage treatments can help stimulate positive muscle growth, and keep your muscles limber and healthy.
Highly active athletes will get a sports massage once a week, but even moderately active people should consider a sport therapy massage every other week to keep the muscles, bones and joints happy and healthy!
Book Your Sports Massage Online
Hot Stone Massage
Doesn’t a hot stone massage just sound relaxing? Well, it incorporates the relaxation aspect of a massage with some fairly incredible benefits from the hot stones.
Firstly - the stones themselves are a basalt stone, which is a smooth volcanic rock. And just a reminder, while it’s called a hot stone massage, if the stones are too hot for you - please tell your massage therapist immediately! The stones are heated to between 110 - 130 degrees, and designed to be comfortably warm.
By placing the hot stones on your body strategically, we promote blood flow and healing to the places where the stones are resting. The stones are designed to release toxins within your blood, and we recommend that you drink water before your hot stone massage therapy appointment, and drink plenty of water afterwards.
Book Your Hot Stone Massage Online
Which Massage is Right For Me?
Let’s find out! We will do a client intake assessment and together we will come up with a personalized massage therapy treatment plan that works for you. A few of the questions our team will ask before deciding on a treatment will include:
Where are you experiencing pain?
What concerns do you have?
Do you have mobility issues?
What is your goal with massage therapy treatment?
Do you have any medical issues we should know about?
And any other applicable questions that arise will be asked when assessing you thoroughly for your massage therapy treatment.
Book Your Calgary Massage Online
We are open from 9am - 9pm, Monday to Sunday, depending on appointment availability. We use an integrated online booking system so you can book your Calgary massage appointment online with Why Knot!
If you have any questions, contact us at 403.270.0854, or by email at hello@whyknot.ca
COVID-19 Policies
We are fully operational, and have implemented COVID-19 safety protocols for our staff, our guests, and our families. Please take a moment to read through our COVID-19 policies after booking your massage appointment.
Benefits of a Massage for the Body and Mind
If you’ve ever enjoyed a relaxation massage, you know just how therapeutic it can be physically, but do you know that massage therapy also benefits your mind? There’s a beautiful tandem between the body and mind, as many diseases, stresses and tensions affect both equally. Few practices are able to mend these two parts of us, but massage therapy brings great benefits for you - mentally, and physically.
If you’ve ever enjoyed a relaxation massage, you know just how therapeutic it can be physically, but do you know that massage therapy also benefits your mind? There’s a beautiful tandem between the body and mind, as many diseases, stresses and tensions affect both equally. Few practices are able to mend these two parts of us, but massage therapy brings great benefits for you - mentally, and physically.
Physical Benefits of Massage Therapy
We all know that a massage feels good. Have you ever enjoyed a massage before? If you haven’t, the sensation of utter relaxation is incomparable. More than just feeling good though, there are multiple physical benefits to massage therapy, or a relaxation massage as simply a treat for yourself.
Relaxes the Body
What happens when your body is full of tension and stress? Your shoulders are tight. Your jaw is locked. Each muscle in your body is connected, and the tension we feel in one part of our bodies may affect another in a way we can’t quite imagine. Massage therapy relaxes the body as a whole.
Improves Circulation
Especially in our bodies’ furthest extremities (feet, hands etc.), our circulation may become poor with factors like diet, age, weather, or any other causes. If you’ve been a sufferer of ‘cold feet’ or reached for fuzzy gloves in your life, you can likely relate to this. Massage therapy stimulates body circulation by increasing blood flow.
Reduces Stress
Stress manifests as physical symptoms brought on by generally a mental ailment. While we can take care emotionally of what’s troubling us, the damage that stress does to our bodies can be significant. We all wear our stresses physically. Relaxation massage reduces our overall stress, and helps to soothe our bodies when we don’t even acknowledge or see the pains.
Improves Blood Pressure
Do you know your blood pressure? Next time you’re in a pharmacy, try getting a self-test. If your blood pressure is high there can be many causes - diet is a factor, smoking, or high stress. When the cause is stress, relaxation massage can help safely lower your blood pressure.
Promotes Muscle Relaxation
A relaxation massage soothes aching muscles, improves flexibility, and repairs muscle damage, but it also increases the production of serotonin and dopamine, two ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitters responsible for your overall happiness and health.
Strengthens the Body’s Immune System
One of the best things we can do for our bodies, especially during this time where keeping our immune systems in check is more important than ever. By providing our body with relaxation, decrease in stress, increase in good blood flow, and taking care of our physical needs with a simple massage, we can increase our immune systems.
Mental Benefits of Massage Therapy
Our mental, emotional, and physical bodies are connected in a way that we can’t always see or understand, but that connection is there. In fact, it’s all intertwined. So while you may think that a massage is great for your muscles, it actually provides these benefits for your mental health as well:
Decreases Anxiety
Anxiety is so common and so prevalent these days. While it’s becoming increasingly common, it doesn’t make the sensation any less bearable, enjoyable, or fun. Massage therapy can put your body into a relaxed state and help you shed some of the anxiety you may be feeling.
Helps You Rest
You know how it feels when you wake up after a good nights’ sleep, and how GOOD that sensation is? How at ease you feel, how your body feels, and how your mind feels? Massage therapy can help you get the rest that you need. Sometimes we can’t immediately tell a bad nights’ sleep - until we experience a great one.
Alleviates Mental Stresses
We carry our mental anguish, stress, and tension in our bodies. Some people feel tense in their shoulders. Others grit their teeth. Some tap their toes, or clench their jaws, tighten their stomachs, or wear their mental stress physically - whether we feel it or not, we all have a space in our bodies where our stress lives. Massage helps to locate our stressed out centers, provide relief for our muscles and bodies, and alleviate our stresses mentally.
Improves Relaxation Response
Most people find incredible difficulty in relaxing. It’s not something that we’re geared to do unless we train ourselves. This can be done through meditation, yoga, and other relaxation practices. When you enjoy massage therapy, it helps to improve our body and minds’ relaxation response time, and makes the process of relaxation more easier and natural.
Increases Serotonin
Serotonin is one of our feel-good brain chemicals that is produced when we’re happy - or conversely, creates happiness within us when it is produced. It’s been physically proven that massage therapy releases serotonin into our brains, therefore leading to more happiness as an overall.
Book Your Calgary Massage Therapy Today
While there are many mental and physical benefits of massage, there are also medical conditions (chronic/ongoing/recurring) that require routine massage therapy. Note that all types of massage are not the same! At Why Knot we offer a multitude of Calgary massage therapies such as:
Therapeutic Massage
Treatment Massage
Deep Tissue Massage
Pregnancy Massage
Sports Massage
Hot Stone Massage
Trigger Point Therapy & Release
Swedish Massage
Myofascial Mobilization & Release
And more
Not sure which massage therapy is best for you? Contact our team today and we can walk you through the specifics of each massage treatment we offer in our Calgary massage therapy clinic. You can reach us by email, or telephone at 403-270-0854, or popping by our Calgary office at #203-2212 4th St SW. We’re open from 9:00am - 9:00pm every day, depending on appointment availability.
PS - we also offer gift cards!
Contact us today to book your massage.