Here is a lovely guest blog from the very talented, Gwen, who lives in California and blogs on all things Health & Beauty. You see, it’s not just me who thinks that massage should be a regular part of a healthy lifestyle! It’s very interesting that the first link (‘The effects of regular massage are astounding’) below is written by the very respected Mayo Clinic in the US (which also includes tips on when NOT to massage, which is very important to know) and the fact that a lot of midwives and district nurses (and the US equivalent of) now carry out regular baby massage on infants to help them relax – all of which shows just how accepted massage therapy has become in the mainstream medical world. Happy massaging! – Una
Guest Blog – A Relaxation Beauty Day is Not a Want, It’s a Knead
In this day and age, we all need a little escape from the daily stress of life and work. Finding the time to give yourself a regular relaxation beauty day will yield positive results you may never have dreamed of. Massage therapy, for example, is one way that you can treat your body, restoring it to optimal health and nurture your body, mind and soul. The effects of regular massage are astounding ; decreased stress levels, reduction in pain and tightness of muscles, increased circulation and flexibility, a calmer mind and increased focus. Read on to discover more!
Why regular massage?
Over time, our bodies accumulate toxins, our posture or the way we sit or sleep may leave our bodies tense and our muscles strained or overworked. Old injuries may leave scar tissue or weakened muscles and tissues. Factor in moods and energy levels that are in a constant state of flux, and you have a recipe for disaster.
Regular massages will promote deep breathing for stress management, and the motion of rubbing and kneading will help to flush out toxins in the lymph and work out any kinks and knots. It can also improve skin tone and health. To reap the true benefits of a massage, think of it more as a healthy choice and less of a treat. You deserve nothing less! Research has also proven that getting a massage boosts immunity and increases serotonin, boosts metabolism and boosts the natural production of dopamine and endorphins. You’ll soon find yourself happier and healthier, naturally.
What type is best for me?
Experts state that even a five minute self massage to your pressure points, hands, shoulders, neck or feet will reap benefits. Go even deeper and explore the different type of massages available for you.
The most common types include:
–Swedish Massage – Therapists use long, smooth strokes and kneading motions on the superficial layers of skin with oils or creams. This type of massage is generally suited to first timers, as an introduction to massage.
–Aromatherapy massage is massage incorporating essential oils. Essential oils can be soothing, stress-relieving, relaxing, balancing or uplifting. Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related, or emotional conditions.
–Deep tissue massage is a firm favorite for those looking for a deeper type of massage. It targets the layers of muscle and connective tissues, and is often used for chronically tight or painful muscles. It is also used by those who suffer from repetitive strain, postural problems or those recovering from injury.
Less common, but still wonderful!
-Shiatsu is a Japanese type of massage that uses no oils, and uses localized finger pressure on acupuncture meridians. Think of it as acupuncture without needles. Most people experience no pain, soreness or discomfort after receiving shiatsu which makes this type of massage perfect for those with lower pain tolerance or sensitivity.
–Thai massage, similar to Shiatsu, aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. The therapist will also move and stretch you into a sequence of moves and postures. Think of it as Yoga, without quite all the work. It reduces stress and improves flexibility.
More than just body-beautiful.
The true value in receiving regular massage and taking time for a relaxation beauty day lies within. Taking the time to spend on yourself will boost your inner confidence. After all – you are respecting yourself enough to treat yourself well, which means a more confident, happier you. Regular massages and relaxing treatments will ease stress, boost immunity, reduce anxiety and promote mental awareness.
In between massage treatments, there are many home-use tools on the market to help you keep stress-free and to maintain that relaxed feeling. The Kneader is one of these products and, with it, you never have to go a day without a “massage”
Need even more reasons to feel good? Massage will smooth out your skin, increase circulation and tone skin and muscles. You’ll look even more beautiful physically, as well as feel better and healthier emotionally and spiritually, proving without a doubt that a relaxation beauty day is more than just a want, it’s a knead!
Gwen Lewis is a writer who lives in California. She has been in the makeup and beauty industry for years and likes to write from her experience. Whenever she has extra money her first thought is massage and spa day. She enjoys looking pretty but more importantly feeling healthy.
