We ask a lot of our body, from daily activities and being constantly in motion to the literal strain of lifting heavy things and braving the elements. But it's not just our physical health that’s affected – it’s our mental health as well.
Remembering that the body is only as good as the mind shows us that it’s critical to make time for stress reduction and relief, soothing sore joints and muscles, and simply feeling better all around. While it can feel indulgent to break up the hustle and bustle with a massage, facial, yoga, meditation or other self-care treatment, research shows that there are important physical and mental aspects to them.
In a study of over 3,300 Japanese government workers, frequency of spa use was linked to better physical and mental health, including better quality sleep and fewer sick days. In a similar study in the United States, spa therapy reduced both absenteeism from work and hospitalizations.
Here are a few ways self-care treatments can benefit us:
Decrease stress level and improve mood
Because stress accumulates over time, it can hurt our physical and mental health more than we might think. Self-care treatments are shown to help decrease cortisol levels in our bodies, resulting in overall stress reduction. Spa environments are designed to be peaceful and calming, and many treatments focus on relaxation, clarity and stress relief. Massage, for example, can help reduce muscle tension and improve circulation, leading to relaxation. Massage also helps release endorphins in the body, which can induce feelings of relaxation and happiness.
Helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
Making time for self-care can help you decompress and the addition of aromatherapy helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Essential oils, such as lavender and chamomile, can improve a calming atmosphere even more, amplifying the benefits.
Reduce muscle tension
Of course one of the main goals of massage is to ease tension. Massage therapy helps to relax muscles and different techniques can target more precise body areas, helping reduce pain and stiffness. Another massage is reflexology which focuses on hands and feet.
Better quality sleep
Sleep is critical to our health and well-being. Massage helps to relax the body and reduce stress, relieve anxiety and making it easier to fall and stay asleep. Spa treatments can also be tailored to help with specific sleep issues like insomnia or restlessness. Aromatherapy and reflexology help the body decompress, which can also help with sleep quality. Hot stone massages help improve circulation and reduce muscle tension, spurring relaxation and facilitating sleep. Other treatments, such as yoga and meditation, can also help focus the mind and reduce stress.
Boost self-esteem
Designating time for relaxation and being pampered can help you feel good about yourself and remind you that you deserve some care too. Spa time can be also be a good chance to disconnect from technology and the outside world and focus within.
Don’t forget the face
A facial is also a facial massage – and now that we know how soothing, nourishing and replenishing a body massage is, we know the face is no different. Research has shown that facial massage has a marked positive effect on reducing anxiety and associated negative mood. And, just like a body massage, facials have also been shown to provide stress relief and psychological relaxation..
Bliss on Broadway is always ready to offer our full range of facials and massage services. Check out this month’s special Swedish Massage with Green Tea & Mint Scrub to help you care for your whole self. Call us at 562-439-4333 or visit www.blissonbroadway.com.