Massage That Stress Away!
In today's 24/7 society, stress seems to be at an all time high. There are many things one can do to relieve the stress of work, commuting, parenting, school and other stressors we are met with on a daily basis. But massage perhaps is the most rapidly growing form of stress relief.
First of all, what is stress? Stress is a response from the body when we are placed in a situation that is difficult to handle. Stress can come at us in two ways, acute and chronic. Acute stress is basically stress that comes at us immediately and can also go away, perhaps stressing before a big event such as a presentation, a wedding or during the purchase of a new home. Then, once the stressful event is over, so is the stress. On the other hand, chronic stress is when stress builds up over time and does not seem to go away. This could happen for people who have stressful lives in general.
The first and most common side effect of acute stress is tension. You know, a tight neck and back that is literally hard when touched. Other side effects can be nausea, anxiety, sweaty palms, a rapid heartbeat and rapid breathing. Even is stress is from an emotional issue, it is amazing how stress physically affects us. (Let alone the racing mind!)
Massage can play a role in both clearing the mind, as well as alleviating the physical symptoms of stress. Massage in general relieves tension and promotes better breathing, which takes care of two of the symptoms of stress right there! Also, if getting a full body massage, these are generally done in a room with dim lighting and perhaps some soft music. This means about an hour of just relaxing with the eyes closed in a totally relaxing environment. That alone can just be a relief from the busy outside world. But, what's more is that the massage therapist can recognize where tension is built up and use his or her expertise to loosen those tight spots. Overly stressed people have actually been known to cry during massage because the relief is that good.
Another benefit of massage for the stress-out person is that massage promotes a better immune system. Those under stress are more prone to illness. Having an improved immune system can help combat any stress-related illness. Would you believe that 75-90% of visits to family doctors are for stress-related issues? Getting a regular massage can actually help prevent those visits, and help you feel better all around!
Workplace stress is perhaps the root of most stress. Unfortunately, we have to work though. Many large companies offers as an amenity to its workers a little stress relief through on-site chair massage. This is where a massage therapist comes to an office or other workplace with a folding chair massage. Workers can take turns visiting the therapist for a seated chair massage. These differ from the full bodies in that the recipient remains fully clothed and there are no oils or lotions used. The massage focuses on the back, upper body, arms, hands and sometimes scalp and legs. This not only relives some tension and stress, but also makes employees for alert, happy and perhaps increases morale among the entire workplace. And, with the average chair massage lasting 15-minutes, workers can get right back to work. Productivity will be higher and stress will be lower.
There are many benefits to massage, but since stress causes so many mental, physical and even health problems it is perhaps the #1 reason massage therapists are in business! And, don't forget for those suffering from chronic stress, making an investment of a massaging recliner for the home may be a good bet!