It’s not uncommon for massage to be one of the first ‘splurges’ to be eliminated when times are tough — whether that be fear of the expense, demands on your time, or the perception that it’s frivolous, but the truth is massage has significant positive impacts on our physical and mental health. You’re allowing yourself to spend time in an environment that’s engineered with purpose to provide the opposite of stress.
In fact, stress relief is one of the most commonly cited reasons people visit spas, and this benefit is backed by substantial clinical evidence! Chronic stress floods the system with cortisol, a hormone that contributes to anxiety, weight gain, disrupted sleep, hypertension, and compromised immune health. Many elements of modern, daily life contribute to this state from work and financial demands to constant stimulation from digital exposure and a non-stop world. Massage reduces this stress hormone, helping to slow your heart rate, bringing down your blood pressure, and moving us toward a ‘rest and digest’ state.
Additionally, massage boosts our immunity as it ups the level of “natural killer cells” in our bodies, a.k.a. the first line of defense against invading illness. Studies show massage has the capability of boosting immunity even in those with severely decreased immune systems, and for those dealing with chronic pain it provides relief from a number of symptoms. Whether you deal with headaches or migraines, deep muscle tension, or poor circulation, massage is shown to decrease and relieve that pain.
When our bodies aren’t feeling their best, it weighs on our mental health as well. Massage improves our energy and mood through increasing our brain’s level of dopamine and serotonin. Some studies have shown massage to help women with PMS as it reduces symptoms like water retention, mood swings, and muscle pain.
Through regular massage, our bodies can exist in a happier baseline state. Imagine the relief that comes from not only entering a space designed for peace and relaxation but knowing the positive effects you’re allowing yourself to have through taking your care into your hands. Massage can come to us in a number of ways—through facials, designated massage, pedicures or manicures or a partner willing to rub your shoulders. Embrace it when it comes, but don’t forget to seek it out when you need. It’s worth it.