Although we commonly associate massage with its ability to help relieve stress and relax the body and mind, these aren’t the only ways that we can benefit from this healing art.

Regular massages are something that I’ve wanted to include into my lifestyle for a while now. I just haven’t made the time to do so. But, despite this, I think, massage is an effective tool, complimentary to a holistic approach to healthy living, and self-care.

It’s a natural way to deal with and/or manage an array of health conditions, and promote general health and well-being. Massage has the power to revamp your body, mind, and spirit!

Below, I’ve put together a list of some of the health benefits associated with massage.

Health Benefits of Massage

Relieves Stress

Encourages Relaxation

Improves Posture

Improves Circulation

Lower Blood Pressure

Relaxes Muscles

Improves Flexibility and Range of Motion

Promotes Deeper and Easier Breathing

Relieves Headaches

Strengthens the Immune System

Enhances Post-Operative Rehabilitation

Improves Rehabilitation after Injury

Note: The above list was compiled from information provided on a website called Massage Envy. I would definitely recommend checking this site out for more detailed information about each of the benefits listed.

You Don’t Have to Spend a Ton of Money to Experience the Benefits of Massage

Having a massage done professionally is nice, but can be costly. Fortunately, you don’t have to pay a masseuse or massage therapist to reap the benefits of massage. Nor do you need to be a professional to give a great  massage.

Some possible options include, but are not limited to:

Find a Massage Buddy. Find someone that you can partner up with, and take turns giving each other massages. This could be your spouse, significant other, a friend, or a family member. I’m trying to schedule a weekly massage date with my husband.

Self Massage. Nobody knows your body like you do; where the pain is, the perfect amount of pressure to apply, what feels best, what causes discomfort, etc. You may not be able to massage every square inch of your body, but you can do a pretty good job massaging the areas within your reach. My hamstrings tend to be tight. So, I’ve gotten into the habit of massaging them whenever I’m sitting on the couch watching T.V. Think of ways you can sneak in a massage, or set aside a little time to do so.

Note: For the above scenarios, you might find it helpful to familiarize yourself with basic human anatomy, so you can have a better understanding of the location and structure of the muscles, skeletal system, lymphatic system, and blood circulatory system. This will not only make for a better massage, but it will help reduce the likelihood of an injury.

About 4 years ago, I bought a book called, Massage Anatomy by Dr. Abby Ellsworth and Peggy Altman. I’m just now starting to read it! Like I said, I’ve been wanting to make massage a part of my life for some time now! Anyways, this book has everything from how to create a pleasant atmosphere for a massage, items you may want to have on hand before you start a massage, anatomical illustrations, massage techniques, instructions for massaging every body part, a glossary of frequently used massage terms, and more! I’m excited to start implementing what I learn from this book!

Massage Therapy Students Need Practice. Do you know of a massage therapy school in your area? You may be able to get a massage done for free or really cheap. Students enrolled in massage therapy programs are expected to complete a certain amount of “hands on” massage experience, in order to meet certification requirements.

I’d like to end this post with a note about massage oils. What you put on your skin, enters your body through your pores. So, definitely opt for massage oils that don’t contain toxic, synthetic ingredients. A massage oil can be as simple as using a good quality, organic plant-based oil. I personally like to use coconut oil, but some other great options include olive oil, sweet almond oil, and  jojoba oil. You can also easily make your own aromatic massage oil, by combining your favorite oil(s) with a few drops of an essential oil of your choice, or a blend of essential oils.

Best of Health!

Shahné

What’s your favorite body part(s) to have massaged?! Please comment below 🙂