Many moms who are currently at home are probably dreaming of when they can plan a visit to the spa, and there are good reasons for it. Treating yourself kindly and pampering yourself is a key to weathering life’s tough times, according to researchers at Duke University. Self-kindness the kind you show when you take the time to have a massage or a facial is known to eliminate a lot of the anger, depression and pain we experience when things go badly for us. How can something as simple as soothing human touch lower stress levels in a powerful way, and what treatments are particularly effective for this purpose?
The Physical and Mental Benefits of Spa Massage
A study undertaken at the University of Alabama at Birmingham has found that massage can lower blood pressure, help prevent colds, and improve skin tone to mention just a few benefits. “Immediately following a massage, you can experience reduced tightness in the muscles, improved blood flow and breathing, plus reduced anxiety and stress,” said researchers. In the long-term, even more benefits can be enjoyed. These include a stronger immune system, enhanced sense of wellbeing, and greater range of motion.
Which Types of Massages Soothe Stress?
There are many different types of massages you can opt for, but if real pampering and stress relief are on your mind, it’s got to be the Swedish massage, says experts at Viva Day Spa. Scientists also recommend neuromuscular and trigger point therapy as universally beneficial choices. The key qualities a good relaxing and soothing massage include having the right focus (physical or mental) and the experience and skill of the therapist. Frequency is also key. Once a month is the minimum you should opt for a massage; if you have a specific problem or you are highly stressed, more frequent appointments may be required.
Couples Massages Are Calming
If you are at home right now with your partner, why not pamper each other with a couples massage? Researchers at Northumbria University found that receiving a massage from your loved one positively impacts stress and coping abilities. It also enhances physical and emotional wellbeing immediately. In fact, the lead researcher said, “These findings show that massage can be a simple and effective way for couples to improve their physical and mental wellbeing whilst showing affection for one another.”Massages are a highly appealing way to release tension from muscles and improve mental wellbeing. When you are ready to make your next spa appointment, ask your therapist what they suggest for stress relief. Swedish massage is highly effective, but adding other elements into the equation for instance, hot stones can make the experience even more pleasurable and calming. So can giving and receiving a massage from the special person in your life.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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