Everyone relieves their stress and improves their health in their own way. Some run, some lift weights, some meditate-your path is yours. But, what if you knew that intertwining massage with your workout routine would not only improve your health, it would bring great benefits to your overall state of mind as well?
Fitness is only a piece of the overall health puzzle. There’s eating well, drinking enough water, getting enough sleep, and mental health.
Increased Blood Flow To Muscles:
Working out fatigues muscles; they need oxygen and nutrients to build more muscle tissue to become stronger and denser. Massage increases the flow of blood to your muscles so that they’re better nourished.
Improve Flexibility and Range of Motion:
If your muscles are tight, you risk injury, which can then lead to a domino effect of issues. Massage releases lactic acid which causes cramping and soreness, and strengthens connective tissues. Getting a massage regularly will also help your muscles and tissues heal faster.
Faster Recovery Time:
This goes back to improving your range of motion and flexibility. Massage stretches out those tight muscles and dilates the blood vessels. Why is that important? It allows for better circulation and oxygenation for fatigued muscles.
Reduced Chance of Injury:
Data from the American Therapy Massage Foundation showed that due to a relaxed mental and physical state that an athlete enters during their massage, massage can aid in reducing muscle tension. This makes it easier to work out regularly.
Improved Mental State:
Getting on your workout gear is half the battle. Actually, working out and being consistent about your routine is a goal many of us struggle with. Knowing that a massage is at the other side of that vigorous routine makes for a happier, more positive approach. Massage therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety and relieve stress and tension, as many of us know. However, activating the parasympathetic nervous system, increasing dopamine and serotonin levels, and thereby reducing cortisol levels (which are linked to stress) will engage you in a more relaxed state with better focus for your next workout.
Fitness season is in high gear, especially as the weather continues to warm up. We want you to be the best, happiest you you can be. Ask us for a consultation on how to schedule your massage around your workout routine, or to help you in scheduling massage therapy in preparation of a race, marathon or anything else that will take a toll on your physical body. We also have many essential oils that can aid in the healing process and can be used during your massage as well.
