Archive for the 'Self-care' Category

The Importance of Massage During Financial Crisis

 

Every household should budget massage therapy into their financial plan.  If you think you can’t afford massage therapy right now, consider this information from massagetherapy.com:

Massage is a vital part of self-care that has a positive ripple effect on us as we work, play, and care for others.  Massage can boost immunity, helping fend off illness–meaning fewer medical bills and days off work. Better sleep, reduced anxiety, and a sense of emotional balance are just a few additional benefits of bodywork during tough times.

If you think about it, massage is an excellent value. The price of massage has remained stable in recent years, as the cost of movies, meals out, and sports events has risen. Which of these has the power to improve your health and your outlook on life?

Following are health reasons all American adults should be including massage in their family budgets and schedules.  Massage:

  • Reduces anxiety
  • Reduces the flow of stress hormones
  • Improves sleep
  • Boosts the immune system
  • Improves energy levels and reduces fatigue
  • Improves concentration
  • Increases circulation
  • Improves self-esteem
  • Reduces frequency of headaches
  • Releases endorphins

The positive effects of regular massage can have benefits in many areas of your life.

Home

Massage therapy will also help families under stress create healthier households with clear-thinking and more relaxed moms and dads.  Children are very sensitive and often pick up on tension in a household, parents who are taking care of themselves are more likely to be better caregivers and provide a sense of security to their kids.  This goes for caregivers of aging parents and other family members.

Work

The health benefits of massage can help forestall illnesses and lost work time, especially when you may be asked to produce more with fewer resources.  Decision-making skills will be better and your performance is likely to be improved with a clear focus and more energy.  A hint for the boss:  Research shows employees exhibit less stress and improved performance when given twice-weekly, 15-minute massages in the office!

Health Conditions

Those with already existing health conditions can continue to reap benefits in the following ways.  And proactively caring for health through massage may help reduce costly doctor visits and use of prescription and over-the-counter medications.

So the real question isn’t can you afford a to get a massage, but rather can you afford not to?  Book a massage today!

Current Mood: busy
Sphere: Related Content

Between Massage Sessions

To get the most out of your massage, practice these self-care tips regularly.

  1. Stretch. If you are getting massage for pain and discomfort, stretching is essential for you. Frequency is more important than length of a stretching session.
    • Try setting up a reminder sound like a chime on your computer to remind you to stretch for 2 minutes every hour, or 5 minutes every two hours.
    • Follow this simple routine. Exhale as you stretch whatever feels tight or uncomfortable to a feel-good position, and inhale as you return to a starting position. Ask your massage therapist for specific areas.
  2. Exercise regularly. Even very moderate exercise can help relieve pent-up muscle tension and improve your circulation, two benefits you may have also notices after massage. Walking, gardening, golfing and tai chi are all ways to get your heart pumping and your muscles moving, and can also help shift your attention from your worries to relaxation and the enjoyment of life.
  3. Take time to relax. Change your schedule to include more down time, even if it’s only 15 minutes for deep breathing or a walk after work or at lunch. Get away from chores on the weekend for a morning or afternoon to enjoy some time in nature or a pot of tea with friends.

Take action - book a massage today - set a goal for yourself to receive regular bodywork; you’ll do yourself a world of good!

Sphere: Related Content

Self-care for the Forearms

If you are having discomfort in your forearms, these tips may help reduce your pain and prevent further injury.  Try them out, then choose one or two to focus on for several weeks before adding more.

  1. Support your forearms when you can, but do not rest them or your wrists on anything while typing.
  2. Don’t pound on the keys; use a light touch.
  3. Hold the mouse lightly as if you were cradling a small bird; don’t grip it hard.
  4. When typing,  keep all your fingers and your thumb softly curved.  If you tend to keep your pinkie finger raised or stiff, begin trying to relax it to avoid injury.
  5. Take mini-breaks every few minutes.  Stop, let your arms hang to your side, shake them out, and take several full breaths.
  6. Stretch frequently. Hold your arms out in front of you, and bend your wrists one way and then another.  Ask your massage therapist for specific stretches and self-massage techniques for the forearms and wrists.

Massage Therapy is a wonderful way to help keep the forearms relaxed, and to help prevent injury, as well as reduce pain.

Book a Massage with me today!

Current Mood: awake
Sphere: Related Content