Massage for Menopause

According to an article in the May/June 2001 issue of Massage Magazine, massage can lessen some of the symptoms of menopause by allowing time and space to relax, increasing circulation and lymphatic flow, reducing pain and encouraging a positive body image.

Relaxation

• For a menopausal woman experiencing anxiety, irritability and fatigue, the relaxing effects of massage can bring relief.

Circulation and Range of Motion

• Improving circulation of both blood and the lymphatic fluid, which is the fluid outside the bloodstream, can help relieve joint pain. Massage can also improve the range of motion of the joints.

Pain

• Massage can reduce menopausal headaches, leg cramps and neck and shoulder tension.

Body Image

• With all the changes of menopause, women often need to take the time to reconnect to their bodies and cultivate a positive body image. Massage is an opportunity to get in touch with your body.

Considerations

• Because each woman is unique in how she experiences menopause, the best type of massage depends on her individual needs. Swedish massage is great for relaxation, deep tissue massage may work best for someone experiencing a lot of tension or pain, and energy work may be preferable for a woman who is feeling especially sensitive or vulnerable.