Ok, I'm going to address a question that I was asked at the gym the other day -
"I've never had a massage and I don't think that I need a massage. Do you think I need a massage?"
My initial thought was "Of course! Everyone needs a massage!"
But then I thought to myself, "Why?"
Here are my top 7 scientific reasons of why it's important to have regular massages (I'm sure that you can think of a plethora more!):
1. You will look younger and healthier. Your skin is your largest organ - regular massage can help reduce skin tension, moisturise (depending on if oils or balm is used) and help promote tissue regeneration
2. Your organs and muscles will function better as regular massage will improve your circulation and help increase blood flow and the capacity of the blood to carry oxygen by 10 - 15%
3. Weak or atrophied muscles can be strengthened and exercised (e.g. in sedentary people or those who are bed-bound) while injured, tired or overused muscles can be relaxed and will recover quicker following exercise with regular massage therapy
4. Your joints and skeletal system will also benefit through increased joint flexibility and range-of-motion as regular massage will also help increase nutrition and circulation to tendons and joints
5. You will be healthier as your body will eliminate more waste and toxins through stimulation of your lymphatic system
6. You will feel more relaxed as regular massage helps to reduce the production of stress-related hormones (i.e. Cortisol, Adrenalin and Noradrenalin)
7. You will feel better mentally due to the release of endorphins by the brain - this can help alleviate anxiety and depression as well as promote feelings of well-being.
Additionally, I know that whenever I've had a massage, I not only feel the benefits physically and mentally, but also on an emotional level.
So, in response to the question that I was asked, my answer would be, "Massage therapy isn't just about being pampered and indulging yourself..."
"...It has many proven beneficial effects on your muscular, circulatory, skeletal, endocrine, nervous and integumentary (skin) systems that promote an improvement in overall health as well as nurtures your mental and emotional well-being."
I know that I've just touched upon a few reasons why having regular massages is so important and why it should be incorporated as part of your regular health and fitness regime.
I'd love to hear your reasons why you have a massage and what you gain from it.
And, if like the question-bearer, you've never had a massage, I'd be interested to hear your reasons why as well!
That's it for today.
I hope that next time you're considering booking that massage, whether you're in Sydney or not, stop for a moment to think of all the benefits that you can't see and that you will prosper from when you float out of your appointment you've just had with your remedial massage therapist.
Wishing you all the best in health,
Mel
"Your time is precious, and your time with us, is your time, looking after you"
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