Struggling to deal with winter-related illnesses, labor, and dry skin? A good massage may be just what you need.
Massage Combats Dry Skin
As the temperatures fluctuates from warm and rainy to freezing and sunny, it makes it difficult for clients to maintain healthy skin. Dry skin is not only unattractive, but also presents a serious health risk. Studies have shown that it leads to cracks along the mucus that coats your sinuses, making you more vulnerable to the flu and other viruses. The influenza virus also lives longer in drier environments, leading to greater risk of infection. A good massage can resolve all these problems. Massages influence the collagen in your skin, making it moister and more elastic. For best results, choose a massage therapist who uses coconut oil, milk-oatmeal, or some other natural moisturizer.
Massage Reduces Seasonal Pain
Given the massive number of deciduous trees in our region, late fall can be one of the most labor-intensive months. A season spent raking and composting leaves can take a toll on your shoulders, lower back, and forearms. In extreme cases, it can even cause hernias and nerve or vertebral damage. Regular massages can be a great way to mitigate this pain, giving you the energy and resilience to get through the winter stronger than ever.
Massage Fights Diseases
A good massage can heal damage to your nervous system, allowing your body to more easily transmit information, nutrients, and cells. One of the benefits of this healing is increased flow of white blood cells, the heavy hitters of your immune system. Known as “killer cells,” these lymphocytes are adept at finding and killing viruses and bacteria, helping you to avoid getting sick and to recover quickly when you do. There’s no better way to weather the “sick season” than regular massage sessions!
Massage Improves Circulation
Massages help your body to transmit blood more easily, reducing your blood pressure and helping your body function more efficiently. Healthy blood pressure brings a wide range of health benefits, including lower risk of heart disease, strokes, dementia, and aneurysms. Increased blood circulation also means that you’re less likely to feel cold during the winter. Finally, massages can help prevent muscle contraction, a common ailment during winter months. Less muscle contraction makes it easier for your body to transmit nutrients and eliminate waste, giving you more energy.
Massage Promotes Mental Health
Besides the benefits to your body, winter massages are also good for your soul! Seasonal effective disorder is an atypical form of depression that many experience during the winter, marked by feelings of hopelessness and an elevated risk of suicide. Massage therapy helps to cure this condition by releasing endorphins and serotonin, two chemicals that increase feelings of happiness and reduce stress.
More broadly, massage therapy has been shown to promote hormonal health. Hormones are responsible for controlling many aspects of your mood and personality, from hunger to sex drive to concentration. Excessive levels of hormones like cortisol, which produces stress, are associated with unhealthy mindsets and practices. Massages reduce levels of cortisol, replacing it with oxytocin, a hormone that produces feelings of happiness and contentment. The end result is more hope, more happiness, and a healthier outlook on life.
