Roses, chocolate, and a romantic dinner are the typical way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. This year, think outside the (chocolate) box with the gift of massage! Massage therapy is pampering and feels extra special, so consider a massage gift certificate or a date to get massages as a couple for Valentine’s Day.
Here are some reasons to consider the gift of massage:
1.Massage is great for Stress Relief
Valentine’s Day comes at a time of year when many of us are under stress. The holidays are over but summer vacations feel very far away. Lingering cold weather, winter illnesses, and short days can leave all of us feeling stressed. Massage therapy relieves stress by reducing the levels of cortisol in our blood. Cortisol is released into our bloodstream when our bodies are under perceived stress, and while helpful in the short-term, an excess of cortisol over time can contribute to inflammatory diseases such as heart disease or diabetes.
2. Massage is great for your Heart!
The heart is not only a traditional symbol of Valentine’s Day, it is also an important life-sustaining organ! Along with reducing stress which is bad for your heart, massage therapy is shown to reduce heart rate and blood pressure, two contributing factors to heart disease. Give your loved one the gift of health with a massage!
3. Massage is Pampering
A massage is wonderful for your body but also feels indulgent. You do not need to be part of a couple to indulge in a Valentine’s massage, nothing says “I love myself” in a more positive way than a pampering massage!
4. Massage Promotes Connection and Bonding
Couples massage is popular for Valentine’s Day since massage therapy promotes feelings of bonding and connection. Massage therapy increases the body’s levels of oxytocin, which leads to feelings of social bonding. Massage therapy also increases production of dopamine and serotonin, two hormones responsible for those feel-good feelings! Your bond as a couple will feel stronger after joint massage therapy.
