Over a decade ago, I had an accident that caused me to sprain my neck. I was sitting on a tall stool, in my fathers-in-law garage. When he came in for a big bear hug and knocked the stool I was sitting over. It was a fluke accident and I thought I was fine at the time. The next morning though, I woke up in so much pain, I could barely lift my head off the pillow. It was so painful I went to the doctor who prescribed pain meds and muscle relaxers. They helped but muscle relaxers put me to sleep and the lingering pain and stiffness of the whiplash, I incurred, stayed with me even with medication.
I decided to go to the chiropractor and get some adjustments, physical therapy and massage to help me heal. I felt some relief from the adjustments, but the PT seemed to just annoy my problem instead of helping. The one thing that did offer immediate and lasting relief was the massages I received. I was so stunned by how much they helped, that I decided to go back to school to become a Massage Therapist. I was so relieved I wanted to help others in this same way!
Now I am a Certified Massage Therapist because of my personal massage experiences!
Massage Therapy is good for you in so many ways. I know a lot of people think of massage as ‘pampering or indulgent’ and honestly, I used too also! The truth is… giving your muscles, the relief they need to function at their best is taking care of yourself! If your car has a bad tire, you just don’t ignore it, you fix it so that your car performs at its best. Massage is no different than giving your body the maintenance it requires to be the best it can be.
Massage therapy not only feels good, it is good for you!
Increases circulation – releasing tight muscles lets the blood flow freely, increases healing in the area of your body that is injured or just sore from regular use. When you increase circulation, you decrease the time it takes to heal. Clients who work out regularly, benefit from massage to keep their muscles from forming knots, therefore keeping them in top form and to prevent injury.
Loosens restricted areas from overuse or scar tissue – lots of people suffer from repetitive injury pain: in their neck, shoulders and back areas from their work. Manipulating and loosening the tissue in these areas gives the body great relief.
Increases range of motion – people who work on computers or drive all day, sit in the same positions for extended periods of time. This can lead to so much tension in their neck and shoulders, that they have a lowered range of motion. If it is difficult to look behind you when backing the car out of the driveway, you have restricted range of motion. Massage can help get loosen those tight muscles, so they perform the way they are supposed to.
Relieves stress – This is a side effect of the physical relief of massage therapy. When the body feels better, so does the mind. Allowing yourself an hour to check out of the real world and give your mind a break; does wonders for your stress levels and attitude. I know lots of moms whose only time out that they get, is the time they have on my table. It is not pampering, it is taking care of yourself and you are worth it!
Lowers blood pressure – Studies have shown that a consistent massage routine can lower blood pressure by lowering your stress hormones. When you lower the flow of these hormones you also lower your temper, anxiety and stress reactions. Doesn’t that sound lovely?!
There are so many kinds of massage to choose from; so make sure you talk to your massage therapist to get the one that is best for you. Some folks like to have light pressure with the sole reason of relaxing. While others feel like it is not a good massage unless you feel it the next day.
Pro Tip – Do not be shy about your preferences! Your Massage Therapist wants you to enjoy your session so speak up and let them know what you are thinking. Most of us are not mind readers. If you need more pressure or less, it is okay to say so! I tell my clients: “Don’t be afraid to speak up. You will not hurt my feelings because I want you to enjoy your massage!”
There are so many reasons why you should get a therapeutic massage. So, with all these reasons… “Why are you NOT getting regular massages?!” I am here to tell you, “You are worth the investment of keeping your mind, body and spirit in working order!”
I love you. I want you to know that you are worth taking the time for yourself and spending the money on your needs.
Thank you for reading my blog today! I hope it encourages you to take some time for yourself. You deserve it.
Wishing you an abundance of magical blessings!
With love,
Emy Minzel ~ Adventure Sister
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Stacy Crep ~ Adventure Sister
Emy Minzel 