The Benefits of Pre Natal Massage
In previous blogs we discussed the numerous benefits of massage therapy and described different types of massage. Today we look at a specific type of massage: the Pre Natal Massage.
Massage therapy at Spa Rockaway always aims to treat the body using a holistic approach. This means your therapist does not solely focus on a single symptom or area of discomfort, but treats the body as an intricate system of interconnected parts. This is particularly true of the Pre Natal Massage. Pregnancy is marked by dramatic, hormonal, physical, and emotional changes. Prenatal Massage therapy focuses on the special needs of the expectant mother’s body as the baby develops throughout the pregnancy term.
As a pregnant woman, massage therapy can help you relax and relieve tensions, and it can also be an effective method for alleviating common ailments associated with pregnancy. Improved blood circulation helps to lessen bloating, swelling, constipation, and congestion. Light kneading and manipulation of muscle tissue helps sore feet, joints, sciatic nerve pain, and lower back pain. One of the of most important benefits of getting a massage while pregnant is improved hormonal balance. Massage is beneficial for reducing stress hormones (cortisol and nonrepinephrine) while boosting dopamine and serotonin-- natural mood stabilizers. This is significant because it reduces the chances of childbirth complications and postpartum depression.
As a precaution, the massage cannot be performed during the first trimester as the fetus is rapidly developing and is more vulnerable. After the 12th week the massage can be given at any point, up until a few days before the expected due date. Your therapist will change their techniques in order to adapt to your body. This includes utilizing a gentle touch that is slightly firm, with medium pressure, rather than deep tissue work. Because laying supine while pregnant can be discomforting, your therapist might ask you to lay on your side, where they will make you feel comfortable with cushions, pillows, and bolsters. If you are in your third trimester, your therapist may do some light myofascial work on the abdomen in order to gently massage the muscle tissue directly beneath the layer of the skin.
Spa Rockaway offers Pre Natal Massage as an hour service for $120 and a 90 minute service for $165. These are also available for purchase as a Gift Certificate. Our therapists are licensed, certified, and experienced in Pre Natal Massage. We are open 7 days a week and look forward to meeting you!
