You already know cellulite is not something you want. But what exactly is it? Simply put, it occurs as a result of built-up deposits of fat cells between connective tissue under the skin, causing lumpy irregularities and a dimpled appearance most commonly in buttock, thigh and stomach areas.
It’s estimated that more than 85 percent of all women over 21 have cellulite. It occurs in men, too, but much less often. Most common risk factors for the development of cellulite are age, estrogen level, family history, tissue inflammation, weight gain, loss of collagen, poor circulation, poor lymphatic drainage and a thinning epidermis (outer layer of skin).
Although there is no miracle cure for cellulite, there are ways to help reduce it. Strengthening and hydrating your body's cells and the connective through massage therapy as well as improving your diet, exercise regime and water intake are all ways to help minimize cellulite.
Reducing the toxins you take in is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health and it helps get rid of cellulite. Eating more organic foods (which contain fewer toxins), and avoiding junk foods, sodas, processed foods, artificial colors and flavors, and saturated fats like butter as well as sugar and salt (which aggravate fluid retention) all help with cellulite. You should also avoid toxins like excessive alcohol and cigarettes, which put a burden on your body's lymphatic system.
Massage helps with cellulite by rolling and suctioning different parts of the body to restore circulation and the flow of nutrients to problem areas. This helps by breaking up fat deposits – alternatively pinching and squeezing them, rolling the fat away from connective tissue. Ultimately, this reduces the bulged surface of the skin and makes everything look smoother. While regular treatment cannot completely rid the body of cellulite, especially as it gets more advanced, it can help prevent further deterioration of the tissues and reduce both pain and swelling.
No matter which massage technique is applied, the main focus of cellulite massage is to spread these fat deposits out. Massage creams help achieve the same benefits, but the key component is the massaging process itself – and it will take more than one session to achieve results. Massage also helps by stimulating the tissues around cellulite formations, boosting blood circulation and lymphatic functions. Often, this type of massage will start from the feet and move up the body to increase blood flow through the peripheral veins and capillaries of your circulatory system.
You can also include certain leg and glute exercises to help tighten the skin around the thigh region. It may not get rid of cellulite on the thighs but stronger muscles and tighter skin may reduce its appearance. Try squats, jump squats, step-ups, glute/leg kickbacks, side lunges and then add progressions and aim for 2-3 sessions per week, 30 minutes at a time.
Rather than focus on one exercise, aim for a regular workout routine that combines aerobic exercises and strength training. Aerobic activities help you burn fat, while strength exercises build muscle and help with overall skin elasticity. Get out there and cycle, dance, hike, run, swim and walk to help reduce the appearance of cellulite.
We can't wait to help you care for your body and mind! Bliss on Broadway is closed again for now but you can purchase a gift certificate for services in the future. Call us at 562-439-4333. http://www.blissonbroadway.com/