There are many well-known tools for the beauty and health of our bodies, like regular exercise and sports or a diet / weight loss diet. Perhaps for many, the power of novelty can be influenced by the fact that a certain type of massage can also promote fat burning. This technique is called “fat-burning massage”, “cellulite massage” or possibly “consumer massage” with noble simplicity.

While this type of massage is not comparable to a relaxing massage and not a substitute for conscious nutrition and regular exercise, it can be a perfect complement to dieting.

Its main purpose is to gradually alleviate cellulite, tighten the skin, remove toxins, speed up metabolism, and break down adipose tissue / reduce fat cells, all of which together help to eliminate excess fat pads.

How does it works?

Thus, during a fat-burning massage, we stimulate, among other things, points in the body that are associated with the hunger center and metabolism. This means that while the appetite of the massaged party steadily decreases as the treatments progress, its metabolism speeds up.

After some time, the body adapts to this process, so it is unlikely to be so burdensome for those who want to lose weight to follow the rules of nutrition that they deem correct, yet stricter.

As mentioned, fat burning massage not only helps to get rid of excess fat, it can also be an excellent tool to fight cellulite (a visible layer of fat deposited under the skin). It takes many years to develop, so it is not possible to disappear immediately.

Since excess weight usually also results in cellulite, during a consumer massage, the masseur or masseuse uses ointments that in themselves make our skin firmer and more supple.

However, it is important to mention that these creams are few in themselves, as is the massage itself, so using them cannot completely replace regular exercise and a balanced diet, it can only supplement them. (Although the use of fat-burning creams has been shown to help remove excess fat, you may want to look more closely at exactly which one to choose.)

But how do you approach this massage?

With the right knowledge, we can even try this type of massage at home, not only in a massage salon.

Certain movements of the treatment itself are relatively simple to learn:

• The consumer massage consists of right-to-left and bottom-up, smoothing, pinching and circular movements. The best time for this treatment is after the evening shower or bath (or it may be advisable to do the treatment immediately after training, as this will make it easier for the muscles to relax, regenerate and shape more quickly.)
• We start the massage at the thighs first, then the hips and buttocks, and finally the abdomen. First we have to smooth all the said areas with slow but firm movements, and then we gently pinch the parts we want to slim down (thus reviving the lymphatic and blood circulation).
• Finally, we knead through the more critical body parts with our hands clenched into fists and the “cams” ​​at the junction of the fingertips. This sequence of movements is followed again by pinching and then by definite but smoothing movements.

How often is it recommended?

It may be worth spending at least three to four times a week on these catches, as well as getting enough exercise. If you decide to rely on professional masseurs or masseuses, a treatment can take longer (60-90 minutes), but especially in the initial period it is important to take four times a week for a fat-burning massage, and later three times a week. , until the desired result is achieved.

Is it really effective?

Although some types of massage may be painful, we don’t have to worry about anything like this in the case of cellulite massage, after all, we work with relatively gentle movements from the beginning to the end of the treatment.

Of course, the effectiveness of a fat-burning massage can be affected by several factors, most notably what lifestyle we otherwise have. Although massage can help you lose 1-2 pounds of weight a week, its effectiveness depends on the amount of excess weight and the binding of adipose tissue.

It is recommended to pay special attention to drinking at least 2.5-3 liters of water during the treatment, so that the fat dissolved during the massage is more easily removed from our body.

It is important to mention that although cellulite (against which a fat-burning massage may also prove effective) is not necessarily the result of weight gain. Although it depends on a healthy or even unhealthy diet, it can also be of hormonal origin, so it can develop in the same way for women with a slimmer physique.

We have already explained the steps of consumer massage in more detail above, let’s also take a closer look at how it would be worthwhile to transform our meals to make our skin more beautiful!

• Citrus fruits such as lime or orange have an extremely high fiber content and are also rich in vitamins. They contribute to the proper functioning of the liver, and this organ of ours is vital for the excretion and removal of toxins.
• Capsaicin (a spicy active ingredient containing vitamin C), which is also found in hot peppers, significantly improves metabolism, thus speeding up the removal of toxins and even reviving blood circulation. Incidentally, it is also an important ingredient in many anti-fat or cellulite creams.
• Chicken breast proves to be an excellent source of lean protein, and is also a perfect diet food for healthier, such as grilled. It is characteristic of lean protein sources that it helps to balance our body’s insulin levels, as its fluctuations also lead to cravings for unhealthy, carbohydrate-rich foods, among other things.
• In addition, one of the biggest enemies of cellulite is antioxidants, vitamins C and E. You may want to eat as many fruits and vegetables (apples, beets, cucumber, etc.) that contain these substances.
• As already mentioned, regular fluid intake can also help make our skin more beautiful. Of course, vitamin-rich and healthy smoothies and squeezed juices can also contribute to fat burning. (So ​​if we run into clean water or possibly want sugary soft drinks, we can safely put together a smoothie of some fruits and vegetables at home, which not only saves us money, but doesn’t even hurt our weight loss or cleansing regimen.)

To sum up, while cellulite, the tendency to gain weight, and / or the elasticity of connective tissues may even be genetically encoded in us, we can do so for our health and good condition.

Whether it’s a full-time job, everyone can find out what a favorable alternative they have, whether it’s sports, training, or choosing food and drinks, or a more detailed home massage, using different creams. While it is not possible to change our way of life overnight without determination and perseverance, we can only guarantee that it is well worth the energy invested in it, both externally and internally.

What is Ayurvedic massage?

It is one of the fundamental treatments of the holistic Ayurvedic medicine, which examines the body, soul and mind as a whole. The word literally means “the science of long and healthy life”. It has ancient Indian roots. A health-preserving, rejuvenating, healing treatment that detoxifies not only on a physical, but also on an emotional and spiritual level.

Ayurveda classifies the individual into three basic types, called ’doshas’. The three doshas are Pitta, Vata, and Kapha, which are associated with different combinations of the five basic elements. Pitta is related to fire and water, Vata to air and ether, and Kapha to water and earth.

It is rare for someone to belong to only one type, just as it is rare for someone to belong to all three types equally. The most common is when one type or two combined together dominates, and the third is only weakly present or absent. When one of the doshas under- or over-functions, it leads to an upset of balance.

Ayurvedic massages, depending on their type, provide personalized treatment not only for preventive purposes but also to help restore the breakdown of harmony. According to the principle of Ayurveda, diseases can be avoided by maintaining our balance. Massage contributes to our basic state of happiness, health and well-being.

Comparison with other massages

In practice, Ayurvedic treatment is preceded by a short conversation that helps the therapist select the right massage oil for the individual. The part or parts of the body to be treated are then pampered with warm oily smoothing, rubbing, pulling and tapping. At the end of the treatment, the whole treated body surface is steamed with the help of an herbal decoction for more effective detoxification.

While the carrier used in Swedish massage has only a function of reducing friction, and int he case of Thai, the treatment is done without a carrier, all dressed up, in Ayurvedic the healing mechanism plays a key role. Cold pressed oil made from 100% plant ingredients is used, in which it has several active ingredients. The oil is personalized according to the guest’s dosha, and an important point is for the whole body to soak in this oil throughout the treatment.

The treatment focuses on specific energy points, unlike the Swedish one, which is more focused on anatomy and physiology. The goal is to loosen energy blocks and release emotional burdens, unlike in Sweden, where the goal is to relax muscles and physically manipulate them.

The strength of the strokes also depends on the dosha classification of the individual. In the case of Vata, a gentle sattvic touch is used, in Pitta a deeper rajasic, and in Kapha an even deeper tamasic. During treatment, the chakras become balanced. Depending on your dosha, the pace of catches can be either drawn-out or fast.

Types

Among the Ayurvedic treatments, we distinguish a number of popular and extremely beneficial massage therapies. The following are the best known and most commonly used forms:

• Abhyanga

One of the most important types, it affects the whole body. It has an excellent effect on all our cells, provides a wonderful treatment for our skin, muscles, joints, and makes our internal organs and nervous system healthier. It also has a highly effective detoxifying effect at the cellular level. It improves blood and lymphatic circulation, strengthens our immune system. Depending on our skin type, it is recommended to be applied weekly, or even once a day.

• Gandharva

During Gandharva, the therapist complements the touch with sound therapy. In addition to the warm oil treatment, it uses crystal singing bowls to vibrate and transform cells in order to increase energy flow. After the therapy we can leave full of life and with happiness in our hearts.

• Marma

Ayurveda calls the vital energy points that connect body, mind, and emotions ’marma’. The marma massage envelops the body with gentle, circular movements with the healing oil corresponding to the dosha of the individual. It wonderfully enhances the body’s self-healing processes, awakens the prana, helps the body’s blood and lymphatic circulation, relieves muscle tension.

• Navarakizi

Following Abhyanga, detoxification is enhanced by rubbing the body with a brown rice bun. Excellent skin nourishing and rejuvenating treatment. It is also recommended for muscle weakness or joint wear. It is extremely effective in compensating for pitta overactivity in skin complaints, wrinkles, psoriasis, eczema and inflamed, acne prone skin. They put rice cooked in milk in the bundle, which is then dipped in herbal warm milk. This mixture contains valuable ingredients such as folic acid, zinc, B vitamins, zinc, protein, calcium, manganese, iron, magnesium and selenium. Thanks to the latter, Navarakizi is also a perfect help in early graying.

• Padabhyanga

This kind is the massage of the feet and legs. By stimulating the reflex zones, it improves the condition of our internal organs and thus our vital functions.

• Patra poli

Special, personalized massage form. After Abhyanga, indulgence is crowned by rubbing an herbal batyus corresponding to the individual’s dosha. The right herbs perfectly harmonize bodily functions, possible disorders of the organ systems. It has wonderful detoxifying properties.

• Shiroabhyanga

This type works on the head, face, neck and shoulder girdle. It increases blood circulation, stimulates brain functions, improves oxygen delivery to the brain, and reduces insomnia. It completely relieves the blockages of stress accumulated in the neck and shoulder area. However, keep in mind that the treatment begins with a massage of the scalp, also with the help of oil. While this makes our hair shiny and healthy, there could be some who are reluctant to lubricate their hair.

• Shirodhara

Following the Shiroabhyanga treatment, an herbal oil is being dripped onto the guest’s forehead slowly, by moving left and right. This type of massage if applying regularly maximizes relaxation and eliminates chronic insomnia and headaches. It is also very effective for migraines, stress and mental exhaustion.

• Udwartan

A type that shapes, firms and detoxifies with powerful rubbing and kneading. Overfunction of the kapha dosha can lead to excess fat and waste products, and Udwartan moves these substances out of the body. The massage is done with customized herbal powder and oil. At the end of the treatment, most of the released toxins are excreted in the body through sweating as a result of steaming.

Ayurvedic massage focuses on the dominant dosha of the individual. It is believed that if a person suffers from an imbalance, the imbalance can be remedied by its opposite.

• For Kapha dosha, therapy with deep-tissue, stimulating strokes are most effective, as in Udwartan. This will remedy their lethargic, monotonous and depressed mood.
• Pittas, if unbalanced, can bring themselves into harmony with Abhyanga treatment for example. By releasing toxins and calming the central nervous system, miraculous results can be achieved.
• The Vata type is recommended for Shirodhara and Marma massages to treat the symptoms of restlessness, weakness and digestive problems.

Is Ayurvedic massage recommended to everybody?

Ayurvedic massage is recommended for almost everyone as it provides a perfectly personalized therapeutic method. In accordance with our personality, mental state and therapeutic goal, we are guaranteed to find up to 100% in our types what best meets our expectations. It is not a magical insanity, its blessed effects can be experienced by skeptics in the same way as those with a holistic, spiritual attitude.

However, it is worth visiting a highly experienced, professional therapist, because if we do not receive the appropriate treatment for our dosha, it will lead to even greater imbalances, both physically and emotionally.

 

Massage, as many know, is one of the most ancient medical procedures. It is likely that people of ancient times first (out of sheer instinct) tried to relieve their muscle aches with squeezing, rubbing movements, which later resulted in more conscious, professional movements.

But exactly how long does the tradition of massage go back? How does it appear in some cultures? What are the specifics of massage in another countries?

There are some interesting facts about the types of massage listed below, grouped into different countries, through which we can gain insight not only into the characteristics of the different types of massage, but also into their historical background.

China

Thousands of years of acupressure treatment, derived from the practice of acupuncture, is extremely popular in China. It is extremely effective against back pain, headaches, muscle aches, but can also be an excellent antidote for sinus problems, arthritis, and stress and tension. It helps to remove the toxic substances in our body and improves our general well-being.

During acupressure massage, gentle but firm pressure is applied to the acupuncture points of the body with the help of the hand, fingers or elbow. Even a single such massage can help stimulate blood circulation and relax muscle tension.

The feeling of calm and relief is practically guaranteed. (Interestingly, China’s first collection of medical topics, The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine, also deals with massage, so massage was a part of traditional Chinese medicine. To this day, it is one of the most important works of traditional Chinese medicine. There is no consensus on the date of this collection, but it is certain that it dates back to the centuries before our time.)

Greece

The ancient Greeks (like the Romans) took over various massage therapies from the Egyptians. (Hippocrates, referred to as the father of medicine, also recognized the physiological effects of massage, and he recognized one of its contraindications, fever.)

In ancient Greece, athletes preferred to use various massage techniques before competitions to condition their bodies. Doctors often used oils and herbs during massages. This is where the method of aromatherapy massage, which is still popular today, comes from. In doing so, the room used for the massage is rocked with a specific essential oil, helping the client to relax and increase their energy level.

Different essential oils have their own unique properties and can also be blended according to customer needs. (However, aromatherapy massage, or an older version of it, has appeared not only in Greece, but also in the aforementioned Egypt and ancient Italy.)

India

In India, a five-thousand-year-old natural medicine system, Ayurveda, plays a very decisive role in terms of medicine. This can be seen as a kind of alternative treatment that places great emphasis on disease prevention, while at the same time being in harmony and balance with the world around us. According to the principle of Ayurveda, body and spirit form an inseparable unit, not merely influencing each other.

Ayurvedic massage improves blood flow, removes toxins and rejuvenates the body. In the process, a preheated mixture of massage oils containing herbs is used.

(These ointments are put together according to the possible illnesses, diet, and physique of the massaged party.) The part of the body (foot or head) to be treated during the massage is stimulated with rubbing, gently kneading, and tapping beats.

Turkey

In many countries, including Hungary, a few people could hear about traditional Turkish massage, the hammam. Turkish baths (due to the expansion and campaigns of the Ottoman Empire) were built in many places, many of which still function today. (As an example, such a spa is Cemberlitas Hamami, which is located in what is now Istanbul and was built in the 15th or 16th centuries.) Visitors to such baths have the opportunity to take part in treatments in keeping with the traditions of old times.

The first step in a hammam massage is to keep your body warm in front of it, for which watering with warm water can be just as great a tool as hot steam. The massage itself appears in different forms. They use stronger movements somewhere, while in some places they combine foam treatment and air-filled pillow washing with stretching and relaxing dishes. (The interesting thing about this type of massage is that it is usually performed on a heated marble bed.)

A hammam massage stimulates blood circulation, relaxes muscles, and reduces stress.

Mexico

Perhaps a little-known Mexican invention for many could be the Hakali massage (also known as the cactus massage). As the name suggests, the most important ingredient in this type is the cactus, which has a number of antioxidants.

During the Hakali massage, cactus leaves are pushed through the client’s body, paying special attention to the tired muscles.

But before that, of course, the thorns are removed and the leaves are heated in hot water. The skin is then hydrated with a creamy substance (which also contains the stem and flower of the cactus) to help detoxify and refresh.

Hawaii

When we talk about Hawaiian types of massage, we can think of lomi-lomi in particular. One of the characteristics is that the massage can vary from island to island, but even from family to family.

The lomi-lomi massage combines deeper pressure and caressing movements.

By the way, it does not require any special equipment. It can be done in the same way in a massage parlor as on the beach or seaside, and can have a relaxing effect anywhere.

Sweden

It is probably no exaggeration to say that Swedish massage is one of the best known and most commonly used types of massage in Europe. (This may be why it is referred to as a classic massage in many parts of the world instead of a Swedish massage.)

This type provides the basis for therapeutic, segmental, and even sports massage. (This type of massage can be great for regular athletes, among other things, because it also helps reduce lactic acid buildup.)

In addition to reducing pain, Swedish (or classic) massage relieves joint stiffness, improves blood circulation, and results in flexibility. It can be a great way to relieve stress, relieve cramps, improve general well-being and relieve chronic fatigue.

This type of massage is made up of five basic techniques, which are smoothing and kneading. tapping and vibrating (or in other words vibrating). The order of these is not entirely bound. (For example, in the past, rubbing was preceded by kneading, nowadays this is no longer a generally accepted rule.)

What is the best massage type?

Our world can be said to be extremely interesting and versatile, whatever the topic. This is also the case with massage. It seems almost unbelievable how many types of this sector have emerged over the past millennia. Nevertheless, we can discover a lot of similarities in them.

Whichever type you choose, it can all help us relax and heal. Massage is an experience that virtually anyone can and should try. In addition to the types listed, we still have plenty of options.

However, it is also important to note that before participating in any program that we seem sympathetic to, look for contraindications. While massage can be a perfect tool to protect not only our mental and spiritual health, but also our physical health, in addition to various summaries and testimonials, it may be worthwhile to delve deeper into possible