The holiday season certainly is magical but, there is no doubt that it the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping, traveling, and celebrating can add stress to your everyday lives. According to a study conducted in 2017 by the US Highbush Blueberry Council, “31 percent of Americans describe the season as frantic.” These added stressors can be brought on by shopping for gifts, crowds, cleaning, and cooking. While these are all a part of the holidays, there is no reason that stress needs to become a holiday tradition too. One of the most effective ways to help relieve all that stress is through deep tissue massage. A deep tissue massage has been proven to help lower high blood pressure, treat back pain, help relieve arthritis, rehabilitate muscles, and, most importantly, relieve stress. Not only can stress impact day-to-day lives, but it is also considered a risk factor for a multitude of chronic diseases. That why it is so important to get a massage both during the holiday season and regularly.
What is a deep tissue massage? What exactly does the massage therapist do? A deep tissue massage is a technique that uses slower, more forceful strokes to target muscles and tissues that are deeper than surface level. This deep muscle and tissue manipulation allow blood to reach them and flow much more freely to encourage quicker healing. Thus, leading to quicker recovery from injury and allowing your body to focus on other parts that may need to heal. The act of massage is delightful in nature. When the body is being manipulated in the ways of a deep tissue massage, it releases endorphins. Endorphins are a chemical that triggers the pleasure sensors in the brain.
Another large factor in how effective a massage can be is making sure to find a massage therapist that fits your needs and understands your body. Different therapists have different strengths, both literally and in terms of technique. If your first-time experience is not as relaxing and fulfilling as you had hoped, don’t be discouraged. Try a different therapist or be more vocal next time you come in for a massage and let your therapist know what you would like done specifically.
When one looks at the extra type of stress that the holiday season can put on one’s body and compare it to the overall benefits of a deep tissue massage, the decision to get a massage is as easy as opening a gift bag. So, when the in-laws are over, and the kids won’t stop screaming, just remember that complete relief is just a deep tissue massage away!