Many people have a difficult time with work-life balance. A massage can help to reduce the stress and anxiety that are part of everyday life, promoting an improved quality of life.
Studies have shown that a massage can reduce the stress hormone cortisol, reducing anxiety and improving mood. It can also aid in better sleep, which is important for maintaining a healthy body and mind.
Benefits
Massage improves blood circulation. It stimulates the lymphatic system, which carries away the body’s waste products. It also helps with muscle cramps and pain relief. It releases a hormone called serotonin, which enhances the feeling of well-being. In addition, it enables you to sleep better and reduces stress levels in the body.
Massage can increase the immune system. In a study, people who received massage had higher levels of white blood cells that protect the body from different diseases. They also had lower levels of molecules that cause inflammation in the body (cytokines) and decreased cortisol, which is the stress hormone.
Unlike medical treatment, where a massage treats specific injuries or ailments, Napa day spa are designed to feel good and boost mental and physical health. Whether a professional athlete or just trying to stay healthy, massage and spa are important tools to keep up your game. It may seem indulgent, but it’s a part of wellness and health.
Preparing for a Massage
It is important to relax before and during the massage. Doing so will help you receive the most benefits from your session. To do so, take some deep breaths and try to let go of any stress you may be feeling.
It also helps to drink plenty of water before and after your massage. The massage will start breaking down toxins that build up in your muscles, and drinking water will help flush those toxins out of your body.
You should wear loose, comfortable clothing to your session, as you will be asked to undress to your comfort level. Loose clothing makes this process easier.
Finally, it is important to turn off your phone or set it to silent mode so that you can fully relax and be receptive to the therapeutic touch of the massage therapist. Also, attending your appointment a few minutes early is good to relax and settle in before your massage begins.
During the Massage
Massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure. The result is a reduction in the body’s production of stress hormones and an increase in feel-good brain chemicals like serotonin. The client may be sore afterward, but this is a positive sign that the muscle tissues are being repaired.
If the client eats a light meal before their massage, it helps to calm the stomach and reduce any discomfort they might feel after their session. However, it is always recommended that you should not eat anything heavy just before the massage because this can cause bloating or gassiness.
Showering before a massage is always a good idea as this will help the client avoid uncomfortable smells in the confined space with the massage therapist. It is also smart to avoid wearing perfumes or scented creams before the massage, as these could distract the therapist.
Post-Massage
There is often a feeling of being run-down or tired after a massage. This is a very normal response since the treatment is working your body in a very intense way. There are increases in circulation, oxygenation, metabolism, immune function, and muscular recovery response, as well as hormone and other chemistry-related changes.
You may feel a little sore for 24-48 hours, but this is very normal and a result of the body healing from the work done during the massage. It is important not to overdo anything after a massage and to allow your body to rest.
If you must get back into a schedule, avoid high-impact exercise, such as running or gym workouts. Try gentle stretches instead, and take time to relax and recharge your mind and body.
