What about high blood pressure?

Massage is good for those with hypertension (also known as high blood pressure).  A contraindication for massage would be if you don't have your blood pressure under control, by not taking your medication.  Since massage naturally lowers blood pressure, it could drop too much and cause you to faint

Massage is indicated for those whose blood pressure is slightly to moderately high.  Massage can help to drop those numbers.  Massage increases blood flow.  If you have high blood pressure and have any doubts, it's a good idea to ask your doctor first.

Hypertension is often caused by chronic dehydration. Drinking a lot of water can hydrate your body and will help lower your blood pressure.  When the body lacks water, your system attempts to hold available water supplies by resorting to vascular constriction throughout the body.  

Most of the fluids that people drink during the course of the day dehydrate the body.  Colas, coffee, sports drinks, all drinks with processed sugars dehydrate the body and raise your blood pressure.  If you hydrate your body with plenty of water, watch your sodium intake, it will help you to drop your blood pressure naturally and without side effects.

Another good thing to do is check your blood pressure before massage.  We can measure it here at our clinic if perchance you don't have a blood pressure gauge at home.  I always have each client fill out a questionnaire that informs me of health history and medicines they are taking.  It's important that you let your therapist (moi) know that you have high blood pressure before the massage.