23/04/2021
When you hear the word ‘massage’, you might think of fluffy robes in fancy spas – that ultimate luxury, it’s-a-special-occasion type of massage – but, really, they don’t have to be a once-a-year treat. They’re great for improving our physical and mental health, something we’re all in short supply of this year (thanks, Coronavirus).
In an ideal world, we’d aim to get a massage every two to four weeks, or every week if you’re particularly tense, achy or stressed. That way you’ll really see the benefits.
So, what are these benefits we keep talking about?
Relieve pressure on your joints
Raise your hand if you spend your day hunched over a screen. It’s probably causing damage to your neck, shoulders and spine. “Regular massage reduces the risk of injury by keeping our bodies supple and improving our range of motion”, Paul, a therapist at Peace Star Therapy, explains, “a good massage will help your body to relax and relieve pressure on your back, neck and joints”.
Boosts your immune system
Regular massage is also great for boosting our immune systems which is super important as we enter flu season and Coronavirus keeps, you know, doing its thing. Massage helps with lymphatic drainage and flushes toxins out the body. Not only does this keep you fighting fit but it helps to improve skin tone and brightens your complexion.
Reduces stress and anxiety
This year has been a lot (again, thanks, Coronavirus) and has left many of us feeling stressed out, depressed and anxious. While it’s no miracle cure, going for a massage gives you time to switch off, relax and put your wellbeing first. Getting a massage also helps to boost serotonin and dopamine (AKA, the happy hormones) levels in the body, lowering stress levels and reducing anxiety.
Increases energy and concentration
“Massage is great for boosting energy and concentration levels, too” Paul adds. “The techniques and stretches used by the therapist improve circulation in the body, filling body tissue with oxygenated blood” he explains. This rejuvenates them, helping us to feel invigorated and alert. So, while you’ll feel relaxed during the massage you can expect to feel pretty peppy once you’ve left the salon. Bonus.
Helps you get a good night’s sleep
Not only can massage help you fall asleep quicker, it can also help you enter a deeper, more restorative sleep – the kind of deep, deeeep sleep where your body can really get to work repairing and healing itself, meaning you’ll wake up looking and feeling much more revived.
