Todd Bowker:
CLASS OF 1985
Fowler High SchoolClass of 1985
Syracuse, NY
Todd's Story
Todd is from Syracuse, New York. Todd's schools include Fowler High School. Todd works(ed) at Find Massage Therapists.
Music Todd likes includes Ludacris, Grace Slick, Mary J. Blige. Books Todd likes include Spartacus gay guide, Massage Therapy, American Museum of Natural History. Movies Todd likes include I Am Legend, Brokeback Mountain, Coco Chanel (film). TV shows Todd likes include Anderson Live, The Weather Channel, HBO.
More about Todd:"Getting a massage might not sound like a particularly manly thing to do. However, modern massage therapy goes a long way beyond scented candles and a quick shoulder rub. Massage therapy can be used in the treatment of anything from everyday tension in the muscles that can cause soreness and discomfort, to long standing musculo-skeletal disorders. Massages range from traditional treatments to scientifically formulated practices. Massage treatments are popular amongst many top athletes, for whom it is a not a treat but a necessity that allows them to perform at peak physical condition and helps treat or prevent injuries.
Holistic Massage
Holistic massage covers a wide range of traditional practices although typically holistic or traditional massages in America are based on Swedish techniques. The purpose is generally the relaxation of muscles and the dissipation of tension and uses long, kneading strokes or deep, circular motions. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, there is evidence suggesting that massage has a beneficial effect on chronic lower back and neck pain, while it can also help relieve stress, depression or anxiety.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue or sports massages concentrate on therapeutic rather than relaxing treatment. Practitioners tend to focus on particularly tight or painful areas, using deep pressure focused on tight or knotted areas. This is based around the theory of myofascial release, aiming to release knots of tension or scar tissue in muscles caused by trauma, injury or overuse. It can help treat chronic conditions and may help to correct postural problems caused my injured muscles affecting physical alignment. This is especially important in sports where muscle imbalances or nagging injuries can occur, which can affect performance as well as leaving you more vulnerable to further injury. It can also help reduce recovery time by keeping your muscles loose and reducing lactic acid build up.
Other Massage Treatments
Other massage treatments tend to come from other cultures with their own traditions of physical treatment. Asian treatments such as Japanese Shiatsu, Chine Tuina, or Thai massage involve a combination of deep tissue massage along with physical manipulation and stretching by the practitioner. Other practices focus on releasing tension in a specific part of the body that can affect the rest of your body, such as the feet or hands in reflexology or the head in Indian head massage. Aromatherapy is similar to a holistic massage, only practitioners use scented oils to improve the feeling of relaxation.
The Benefits Of Massage
What exactly are the benefits of receiving massage or bodywork treatments? Useful for all of the conditions listed below and more, massage can:
Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion.
Assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers and shorten maternity hospital stays.
Ease medication dependence.
Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flowâthe bodyâs natura...Expand for more
l defense system.
Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.
Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts.
Improve the condition of the bodyâs largest organâthe skin.
Increase joint flexibility.
Lessen depression and anxiety.
Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks.
Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation.
Reduce postsurgery adhesions and swelling.
Reduce spasms and cramping.
Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.
Release endorphinsâamino acids that work as the bodyâs natural painkiller.
Relieve migraine pain.
A Powerful Ally
Thereâs no denying the power of bodywork. Regardless of the adjectives we assign to it (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic) or the reasons we seek it out (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen.
Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. This translates into:
Decreased anxiety.
Enhanced sleep quality.
Greater energy.
Improved concentration.
Increased circulation.
Reduced fatigue.
Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.
Profound Effects
In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body, with profound effects. Research shows that with massage:
Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and less stiffness and pain.
Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow.
Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching, and anxiety.
High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety, and stress hormones.
Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping.
Preterm infants have improved weight gain.
Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touchâwhich range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat postsurgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process.
Increase the Benefits with Frequent Visits
Getting a massage can do you a world of good. And getting massage frequently can do even more. This is the beauty of bodywork. Taking part in this form of regularly scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy youâll be and how youthful youâll remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. And remember: just because massage feels like a pampering treat doesnât mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan, and work with your practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best meets your needs.".
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