BELLA VISTA — Massage, once considered a luxury, has grown significantly in recent years as a way to maintain overall health of the mind and body.

“Massage therapy can improve the way you feel, the way you think, and the way your body moves,” said certified massage therapist Alisa Johnson. “Massage therapy is a holistic approach to a better quality of life for anyone at any age.”

Johnson practices at Be Free Massage Therapy, located inside Panache Spalon at Highlands Crossing in Bella Vista. She has diversified her background with experience at two day spas, a chiropractic office and graduation from the White River School of Massage in Fayetteville.

She continues to build on her 12 years of experience with classes at John Brown University.

Johnson works with each client to tailor a personalized treatment.

“Every client is treated with respect and individual needs are taken into account when designing a massage session for that person on that day,” she said.

Massages can be performed clothed or draped, in silence or with casual conversation, said Johnson, adding that communication withthe therapist before and during the massage will lend to a better experience.

Massage is an important element to overall health and wellness, according to the American Massage Therapy Association. It can provide relief from sore muscles and improved flexibility, muscle tone and circulation. Mental benefits include improved sleep and decreased depression, the association says.

“Therapeutic massage also lowers blood pressure, improves mood, releases natural pain killers like dopamine and serotonin, and helps to remove toxins from the body,” Johnson said.

Be Free Massage Therapy is open Monday-Saturday. Hours are flexible according to client needs.

More information is available at (479) 899-1794.

Business, Pages 28 on 08/03/2011