Massages are not just about getting relaxed, they can also improve your posture, reduce muscle tension and even help you lose weight. It stimulates blood circulation, which makes it easier for the body to absorb nutrients and get rid of waste.
You can wear as much or as little clothing as you like during your massage, depending on the type of massage you are having.
Relaxation
A spa massage is designed to relax the body and mind. This type of massage is often included in spa package visits and is a great choice for someone who wants to treat themselves to some pampering while also reducing stress levels. During a relaxation massage, the focus is on relieving muscle tightness and tension while increasing circulation. This can help improve moods, decrease cortisol levels (a stress hormone), and promote better sleep habits.
The stroking, kneading, warming and rolling of the skin and muscles during a massage is what creates the feeling of relaxation. The physical touch stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which causes your heart rate to slow down, blood pressure to decrease, and production of stress hormones like cortisol to drop. As a result, feel good brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine are increased, promoting feelings of calmness and happiness.
It is important to have an open mind and clear expectations during a spa massage. You will want to prepare for a relaxing treatment by drinking plenty of water and not eating a large meal before your appointment. If possible, arrive at the spa a little early to allow time for you to unwind before your massage begins. You can also prepare by removing any restrictive clothing and allowing your therapist to work without restrictions.
Pain Relief
If you suffer from back pain, headaches or any other discomfort, massage can be very helpful. It reduces your body’s stress levels and encourages the flow of blood which brings nutrients to the tissues. It also helps the lymphatic system to move more efficiently. The removal of toxins and waste products from the lymph fluid increases the ability of the immune system to fight disease and fatigue.
The massage stimulates the release of the body’s natural painkillers called endorphins. These chemicals work to block the sensation of pain by reducing the activity in the nerve pathways that send signals to the brain about injury and pain.
Research has shown that massage decreases a neurotransmitter called substance P, which sends messages about pain throughout the nervous system and makes them more sensitive. These ‘gate control’ mechanisms in the brain are responsible for relaying the messages of pain to our conscious minds and they can become hypersensitive after chronic stress.
The increased blood flow during a massage also helps to reduce inflammation, which in turn can help with the relief of symptoms such as headaches and back pain. Massage has also been found to increase the elasticity of muscles and tissues. This can aid in improving flexibility, helping the body to move more efficiently and can be used as a treatment for sports injuries.
Stress Reduction
Stress is an unavoidable part of life, and it affects everyone in different ways. Some people experience it in the form of stomach ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome, while others struggle with high blood pressure and depression. Stress relievers can be found in a variety of different forms, and a spa massage is one of them. It helps reduce stress by stimulating the autonomic nervous system, causing an increase in positive hormones such as endorphins, serotonin and dopamine, which give you a sense of well-being, improve mood, and promote a healthy body and mind.
It also calms the sympathetic nervous system, which raises blood pressure. High blood pressure is a serious condition that can lead to heart disease, but a spa massage can help lower it by lowering your heart rate and relaxing your muscles.
The difference between a clinical massage and a spa massage is that the former is more medically focused and is often a recommendation by a doctor to ease pain on specific parts of the body, while a spa treatment is intended to relax the whole body. While a masseuse at the spa is not a healthcare professional, she still has training in helping the body to relax and de-stress, and she can make the difference between a stressful day and a happy one.
Skin Care
The skin is one of the largest organs in the body. It protects us from harmful UV rays, helps absorb nutrients and regulates temperature. A spa massage can be a great way to take care of your skin and improve its health. In addition, it can help relieve stress, which may cause blemishes like acne or rashes.
A face massage can help reduce puffy eyes and soothe a tired complexion. It also helps remove dead skin cells and stimulates circulation, which can lead to a healthy glow. Facial massages are usually combined with other treatments, such as facial cleansers and masks, to achieve the best results.
In the anti-ageing skin care market, it is important to provide consumers with solutions that meet their needs and fit into their life narrative. While technology – such as delivery or efficacy of ingredients – is an important component, consumers are motivated by the desire to look youthful. This is why the use of manual techniques such as massage is so important.
While a regular at-home routine can help your skin maintain its health and beauty, a spa treatment is the next level of pampering. Make sure you book your facial or body massage with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the experience. Also, make sure to take a shower and have some time to rest afterward.