30 October 19  |  Massages   |  

Relieving Stress Through Massages

Common sense may often tell us that massages are linked to stress relief — and at the Golden Ocala Spa, we have a scientific perspective to back that up just in time for pre-holiday massage therapy. This powerful tool and the stress-relieving knowledge that comes with it will give you so many reasons to turn to Spa Director Theresia Kelly and her seasoned staff for your health, well-being and a deep sense of relaxation.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy has been shown to reduce the overall effects of stress on the body and bring about a feeling of emotional well-being. It releases cortisol — the body’s main stress hormone — and removes the buildup of lactic acid. This is released through the liver, especially through deep tissue massages.

One can also achieve similar results through a lighter version of this massage or via lymphatic drainage massage, which encourages the movement of lymph fluids around the body. While the removal of lactic acid buildup can lead to muscle soreness, this can be combatted by drinking plenty of water throughout the day after a massage.

But regardless of the type of massage, any method serves to relieve stress and depends entirely on the preference of the individuals.

Music, Aromatherapy and More

There is compelling evidence from a scientific standpoint that proves that all your senses benefit from stress-reducing music, aromatherapy and meditation. According to the University of Nevada, Reno, music with a slow tempo — such as what people hear during massage therapy – can quiet the mind, relax the muscles and provide a soothing feeling, while releasing the stress of the day.

Meanwhile, the Cleveland Clinic indicates that scents released by essential oils act on a part of the brain that influences the hormonal systems. Ultimately, these scents can impact your mood, metabolism, stress levels and even libido. Specific impacts depend on the person and the scent itself.

And if you practice mindfulness during a massage, anxiety can easily be reduced, according to MassageBook.com. Try focusing your mind on the massage therapist’s touch, and fully experience the feeling of your tired, achy muscles as the therapist works on them. If an outside thought enters your mind, observe it loosely. Then label it as talk, body or image. If you find yourself focusing on an outside thought for a lengthy period of time, take a deep breath and focus on exhaling.

Trust us, all of this works, which is why cancer treatment centers, as well as hospice and assisted living facilities, utilize these methods to combat disease, dementia and much more.

Massage Therapy Positioning

As expected, lying down — such as during massage therapy — always results in relaxation. Not only is it conducive to deep breathing and the focus on that level of deep breathing, but it further allows people to remove themselves from the thoughts that go far beyond the Golden Ocala Spa and may trigger stress. Of course, not everyone has the option of laying on their stomach during a massage. So, if you have a condition or situation that prevents you from doing so, simply consult your massage therapist before your scheduled appointment.

 

The Golden Ocala Spa looks forward to letting our hands do the talking this holiday season, bringing you nothing but a sense of calmness and peace. For more information, call Theresia Kelly and her team at (352) 402-4350.