Cellulite. It’s a problem for a lot of folks, regardless of their weight. A supposed treatment has been cellulite massages for some time. Of course, there are many types of massages. You’ve likely heard of Swedish and Thai massages. Perhaps you’ve also heard of the lesser known Shiatsu massage. These various types have earned their place in the worlds of the spa, medicine, and sports. They are also known to stimulate lymphatic drainage, and improve circulation in the body. They, of course, contribute to general wellness and stress relief too. But do they help cellulite?
The facts behind the hype
Some masseuses offer cellulite massage, and there are many books on the topic. But the cold hard fact is: no. Massage do not help cellulite any more than a banana will unlock your front door. Cellulite is body fat and exacerbated by toxins in the body. And fat cannot be removed by any massage technique. It’s that simple.
Cellulite shows up as different from normal fat partially because of the structure of the subcutaneous fat tissue. Beneath a woman’s skin are many connective tissues. These tissues run perpendicular to the surface of the skin, and it is here that fat pockets are stored. The ageing process also contributes to increased cellulite as the skin’s elasticity is decreased.
The idea behind the cellulite massage is, in fact, comparable to the cellulite brushing theory. The concept is that by massaging the affected area, blood flow will be stimulated to a greater degree than normal. Then, oils or lotions will be applied. This gives the impression that the surface of the skin is soaking up these oils and that the cellulite is being sent packing for good. But don’t be fooled. It doesn’t work like that. It never has, and it never will.
Though the cellulite may appear to have gone away, this effect does not last for more than a couple of hours at best. The oils and lotions used to cause the skin to swell and pull taut. This only serves to mask the area affected by cellulite. When cellulite rears its ugly head hours later, the person who gets treatment may conclude they need more massages before the treatment can fully take effect. But don’t be fooled. Reasoning that way will not help you, and you will only wind up wasting more money on the procedure which, while may feel good, will not solve your cellulite problem.
What you can do
As mentioned, cellulite is linked to toxins in the body. By making lifestyle changes in your diet and adopting a reasonable exercise regimen along with collagen supplements can keep cellulite at bay. Also, employing moisturizing lotions to ensure your skin stays supple and smooth help.
What is involved in a good exercise routine? Resistance training, similar to what baseball players do, is a good place to star. Low impact exercises such as squats and calf raises help strengthen the legs and reduce cellulite. Cardio type exercises are also beneficial for, not just reducing cellulite, but your general well being too. Running and cycling, whether by treadmill and stationary bike or on a track and with a real bicycle also build up leg muscles.
Though there is no cure for cellulite, don’t be duped by masseuses. Save your money, change your diet and exercise patterns, and you’ll start to see the real results you’ve been searching for.
