This Needs to Change

In this link it tells us the statistics about how many men and women have or have not received massage and how the numbers have changed in the past year.
http://www.massagemag.com/News/massage-news.php?id=9862&catid=1&title=More-U.S.-Women-than-Men-Receive-Massage-Therapy

Since 2009 the numbers have decreased, this needs to change.  Why? because our society has been doing pretty good these last 10 or so years about adding Complimentary Alternative Medicine into their lives, and now the numbers are dropping?! I do realize that we are in an economic downfall, and trust me we all feel the burn, but there are ways around that so we can still receive massage and stay healthy.

First of all, by receiving massage therapy on a regular basis (this could mean weekly or monthly depending on the person) we are only setting our selves up to be healthier.  This could mean less doctor visits because you are sick less. A gradual decrease in medications (consult doctor) for certain ailments such as high blood pressure, muscle relaxers, pain management treatments and many more. Less sick days from work, increased energy, over all feeling better, and the list goes on and on. All of these things either help you not spend so much money or help you make more money. Overall people need to receive more massage to be able to take advantage of these benefits.

How do I get around high massage prices from crappy massage therapists?
First; a referral from a friend is always good. Your friend doesn't want you to think less of them because they sent you to a crappy, expensive therapist, so they will send you to a good, competitive one.

Second; If the therapist has a website or information you can read, be sure you look at it. There should be testimonies, information on massage, prices, benefits and more. Something you can begin to relate to from your own life.

Third; If you call the therapist to ask questions, they should call you back with in 24 hours. They should be knowledgeable and passionate about what they do and also very eager to help you with your problems.

and Lastly;  Take advantage of the therapists client appreciation program and their newsletter (if they have one) this will give you discounts, exclusive offers for you, family and friends.

So there are so many reasons to take advantage of massage therapy. Doctors tell us to take this medication because the good things out way the bad side effects. Well in this case that is most definitely true. There are way more benefits then side effects to massage therapy. And if there is a type of massage that someone should not receive (like Hot Stone massage for pregnant women) there is always another technique to use (like prenatal massage).