I read something today about a 60 minute massage being equivalent to 8 hours sleep. Wow! that is some claim and one I wholeheartedly support. Broken down into its base elements massage is a holistic treatment that can benefit not only the physical but the mental state and for some, the spiritual as well.
Some of the benefits include:
Promoting relaxation, reducing stress, helping to lower blood pressure, improving circulation, improving posture, boosting the immune system….and the list goes on.
I believe there is one vital part that makes a massage so beneficial, that cannot be replaced by machines or foam rollers - that is the power of touch. Children instinctively know that a hug or just holding hands makes everything better, but as we grow, social rules take over and we become more reserved as adults.
To me as a therapist, that’s what makes massage amazing! I can see people visibly relax as a massage gets underway and we allow ourselves to feel cherished and nurtured again as our bodies get on with the incredible regenerating behind the scenes.
I frequently get asked “how often should I have a massage?” Of course, I’m sure we’d love to have a massage everyday if funds and time permitted. But I can ask a question in return - does you body need the power of touch? Does it need a bit of TLC, is something getting you down, are you feeling a bit achy, do you need to just take time out? If the answer is yes, then book in for a massage or better still, get a loved one to gently rub your shoulders or play with your hair as you tell them what’s on your mind.
