Why Should You Try Side-Lying Massage? 

You’re used to getting a massage while lying on your stomach or on your back. But have you ever gotten one while you’re on your side? Yes, side-lying massage is a thing, and it offers some specific benefits you may want to experience for yourself the next time you’re at Firefly!

What Side Are You On?

So what exactly is a side-lying massage? It’s simple; you are positioned on one side of your body, with support from pillows, cushions, or blankets to keep you securely and comfortably in place.

When you are in this side-lying position, a massage therapist can reach certain areas of your hips, back, and shoulders, as well as other body parts, to offer targeted precise massage techniques. These can include Swedish massage strokes, trigger point therapy, and even gentle stretches, among others; plus, a therapist performing deep-tissue massage can use more intensity while working on a side-lying client to achieve more thorough tension release 

You may want to ask about getting a side-lying massage if you can’t lay comfortably on your stomach or back. The most common reason for this is pregnancy, but you may have other issues like back pain, health concerns, or limited mobility that could require you to lie on your side during treatment.

Pick a Side!

Like massage in general, side-lying massage offers great benefits:

• Relief from pregnancy pain and discomfort. If you’ve ever been pregnant, you know carrying a baby can take a toll on your back and hips. Side-lying massage is an absolute game-changer because it allows expectant moms to get much-needed respite with massage techniques that reduce pain while promoting relaxation.

• Focused treatment. Say your IT band feels tight or sore after heavy workouts. If you’re on your side, the massage therapist can work directly on that all-important muscle to effectively release tension with a sports or deep-tissue massage that can really undo any knots. Talk to your therapist if you want to focus on any muscles located on the side of your body; side-lying treatment may be the way to go!

• Inclusive, accessible care: A side-lying position opens up massage to many people who may not be able to get treatment otherwise. This includes anyone with chronic back pain, a medical condition or device, respiratory issues, and older people with tender skin and stiff joints, among others.
• Increased relaxation: Some people prefer side lying because it’s the position they sleep in, or because it mimics the fetal position. The use of supportive pillows can create an ultra-serene and safe feeling, which allows them to truly relax and let go of stress and tension.

Try Something New at Firefly

Firefly’s skilled and caring massage therapists can customize a treatment and incorporate side work. We’re here to answer any questions and review your health history, so we can talk about recommendations for side-lying massage.

Book an appointment today! And if you end up loving side-lying massage, purchase a monthly Firefly or Glow membership so you can get a 60- or 90-minute massage, respectively, at special prices. At Firefly, we’re on your side!