Stress is a highly common condition which almost everyone had been into for at least once in their lives. Whether it be work-related or issues with relationships, we’ve all been there. We’ve known how it felt.
An occasional stressful day is actually not the main concern here. It is the daily stressors that contribute to our stress levels and how often we have to encounter such situations. Like smartphones. Though they are undeniably great, at certain points, smartphones also lead for us to be overworked and get constant contact with external stressors such as social media. One thing to note though is that stress isn’t always harmful and may sometimes help to keep us active and motivated. But if not properly managed it can wreak havoc on our bodies and overall well-being as it can cause:
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Insomnia and other sleep-related problems
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Losing focus
- Depression
- Restlessness
With all those unwanted effects of stress, for sure, we’d want to know how we can properly manage it before it takes a toll on our health.
One of the best and proven way to relieve stress is a nice massage session. But how?
Relaxing and calm environment
Most (if not all) massage therapy sessions are done in a private environment that encourages relaxation. Spas and beauty studios specifically make it possible by using low lighting paired with comforting and soft music that allows you to disconnect from the real world and your distracting electronics. This way you can fully unwind and focus on the massage.
Aromatherapy
With the help of essential oils, aromatherapy is so effective to calm your stressed mind and tired body. With proper blend of essential oils, aromatherapy can calm and relax overactive minds, provides euphoric effects, can prevent depression, and has anti-inflammatory effects.
Rebalancing your hormones
Massage therapy is proven to reduce stress hormone levels by up to 30% and increase serotonin and dopamine levels by up to 28 and 21% respectively. Moreover, massage therapy relieves muscle tension. When you are stressed, muscles tend to tighten in response and relax as soon as the stress ends. However, with constant stress, your muscles can stay lightly, permanently tensed. If neglected, you may experience joint aches, headaches, and neck pains.
So is massage an answer to stress? It definitely can help reduce your stress levels but prevention is better than cure.
Stressed out? It’s time to book your much-needed massage therapy session!