Stress is an element we all deal with in our lives. While we may be better or worse at managing it, it’s an unavoidable consequence of a busy life. Smartphones are a mixed blessing when it comes to the effect they have on our lives. They make some things easier and more straightforward. They also make it harder for us to get that much-needed “me” time to unwind. We’re always within reach of our friends, our family, and of course, our place of work. Not answering our phone or responding to a text can cause drama and has even been grounds for losing our job.
The Wages of Stress and How Massage Can Ease Them
Stress is such a frequent part of our lives that many people underestimate the sheer amount of harm it can inflict on our health. We also fail to recognize where it comes from and where it is. When we worry about work, are constantly thinking about our responsibilities, and don’t get a lot of downtime, we’re carrying a lot of stress with no relief. Stress can be the cause of numerous health concerns, including:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Sleep Problems
- Trouble focusing
- Restlessness
- Depression
- Heightened risk of heart disease
- High Blood Pressure
These only show a small part of the health concerns that can result from unmanaged stress. Studies researching the effect of receiving massage therapy on stress have been promising. Nearly 1 in 6 Americans have begun seeing a massage therapist to seek aid in relief from stress. The relief we experience is due to multiple elements of the massage therapy experience, including:
- A soothing environment that promotes relaxation
- Effective use of aromatherapeutic methods and agents
- The healing effects of massage therapy at the hands of a trained practitioner
A proper environment is an essential part of getting a positive result from massage therapy. While receiving a massage can be soothing and relaxing, it’s the separation from distractions that brings it all home. Soft music, low lighting, and the removal of outside noise let us disconnect from those things that worry us. Aromatherapy has been proven to be an effective method of easing stress and producing relaxation. Its inclusion in massage oils and incense used in the massage environment is important to take advantage of these results. With this environment firmly in place, your release from stress can begin with the help of your massage therapist.
Experience Effective Relief From Stress With Massage Therapy
Massage therapy produces a number of effects that help to relieve stress. It activates the lymphatic system to move toxins out of our body while engaging our parasympathetic and sympathetic systems. Massage eases muscle tension, which allows our muscles to relax, which often takes a portion of our stress with it. Tight muscles and stress are connected, and so this tightness will likely return if the stress remains unaddressed. However, a circular effect has been observed where having tense muscles can make us feel tense, which then adds to our stress and thus makes our muscles tense. Breaking this cycle by releasing the muscles often has a beneficial effect.
Those who receive massage therapy regularly often see a reduction in cortisol (the stress hormone) of up to 30%. Dopamine and serotonin are hormones that help us feel happier and more relaxed. These are increased by an average of 28% and 21%, respectively. Start your road to reducing stress by scheduling a massage appointment today!
