Even in the Boulder bubble, we get stressed…Stress is caused by the body and mind reacting to changes in the environment. In moderation, stress can be a good thing, helping keep the mind sharp and the reflexes fast. Problems start when stress becomes constant, and an individual gets no relief from the constant state of heightened awareness and pressure. We recommend a massage for stress relief when you find yourself in this state.
The Physical Effects of Stress
Prolonged stress reactions can lead to a slew of negative effects on the body. It’s sometimes referred to as distress or a negative stress reaction. Common reactions include headaches and muscle aches, along with upset stomach, difficulty sleeping, and heightened blood pressure. Stress can also lead to clouded decision-making. Potentially also emotional issues such as lessened patience and a tendency toward outbursts (crying, screaming, violence, etc.) as a kind of release valve. Besides, stress can even lower a person’s immune system responses, meaning that he or she will get more sick more often.
Stress is a serious problem when it comes without relief. It’s no exaggeration to say that too much stress might put someone in an early grave.
Stress Relief & Stress Reduction
Reducing stress is an important key to healthy living, and one great option for stress relief is through massage. Millions of Americans have turned to massage as a way to help combat stress. Medical science has confirmed the benefits that massage therapy has for those who are looking for a way to fight against the crush of constant stress. Since stress also has a big influence on your immunity, reducing stress should be important to everyone! Read more about this in my blog “Stress and your Immune System“.
How does massage reduce stress?
Well in the most basic ways it loosens tense muscles, which reduces aches and pains. Massage also lowers blood pressure, reduces heart rate and slows respiration. The feeling of skin to skin contact, and the care that a massage therapist offers a patient also contributes to a lessening of stress. The total result is a domino effect as one symptom after another is loosened and lessened as a result of massage.
All of that said though, massage is not a permanent solution to stress. It will reduce stress for a time. If stress comes back, however, then that person will need to get another massage to undo the damage of that new stress. That’s why, in addition to reducing stress and relaxing, it’s still important for people to deal with the sources of stress. In fact, when possible to eliminate those sources from their lives.
For more information on how massage can help you cope with the stress in your life contact us at Heavenly Embrace. We recommend a Swedish Massage or a Hot Stone massage to take the tension out of your muscles.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward developing a calmer, happier inner life, book an appointment today!
Far Infrared Sauna Therapy Increases Cellular Resistance to Stress
Saunas and heat therapy have been proven to significantly increase cellular resistance to stress, including viral infections. When our cells are exposed to heat, they increase their levels of proteins called heat shock proteins, which increase cells’ resistance to many types of stressors, including heat, low oxygen, oxidative stress, toxicant exposure, and infection. Heat shock proteins have been shown to have key roles in the immune response and boosting immunity.
With much Love, Light and deep breaths,
Liraz
Liraz Bergman-Turner is a Licensed Massage Therapist, Reiki Master & Reflexologist. She is the owner of Heavenly Embrace Wellness, a massage and energy healing practice in Boulder, CO.
Liraz is a gifted healer. Her massage was both strong and gentle, anticipating what was needed for each muscle. Her office is beautiful and relaxing. She has all the amenities for pampering and the strength for deep tissue. I loved the essential oils throughout. Highly recommend!
